Hoteliers have stressed that the latest Northern Ireland travel advice issued by The Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) needs to be ‘put into perspective’.

Earlier this year, police announced that the danger from dissidents was at its worst since the 1998 Real IRA Omagh blast which killed 29 people.

DFAT has warned travellers to the UK to take into account the recent clashes between nationalist youth and the police.

 “Incidents of sectarian violence and dissident activity have escalated during 2009 and 2010,” the new advice read.

“There have been three bomb attacks in August 2010 aimed at police and military targets.

“Two bombs were defused in County Down on 4 and 8 August 2010, and a car bomb exploded outside a police station in Derry on 3 August 2010."

The warning also added, "Australians could inadvertently be caught up in violence directed at others."

Janice Gault, CEO of the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, said: "Until that dissident threat is contained it is of concern, however, these things have got to be put in perspective.

“There are other countries in the world where terrorism is very much higher-profile and much more prevalent. We are not really in that position."

The Northern Ireland Tourist Board told news.com.au that the majority of travellers consider Northern Ireland to be a "safe and secure destination."

"Those who come here enjoy our rich heritage and stunning scenery and they see for themselves a new and optimistic destination. This is by far the experience of the majority of our visitors," they added.