Planning to visit Ireland in 2019? Ireland travel tips you need to make your vacation a success.
CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen.
If you like what you hear, please give my podcast a 5-Star review at iTunes, Stitcher, or your favorite podcast host.
Stream our podcasts on Spotify, iTunes, Stitcher, and Subscribe on Android.
This podcast is sponsored by the award winning book, Planning the Ireland Vacation of Your Dreams.
Designed to guide you through every step of your Ireland vacation from when to go and what to see to what to pack and how to save money.
Planning the Ireland Vacation of Your Dreams answers all the questions you have about Ireland travel. Visit store.irelandfamilyvacations.com and click ebooks to buy for $14.99.
2019 Ireland Travel Tips You Need To Know
(2:05) Check Your Passport
Make sure your passport is valid for at least the duration of your trip, but preferably 6 months from the date of arrival.
While most visitors can stay in Ireland up to 90 days with no visa, there have been cases of visitors turned away if their passport expires during their travel period or shortly after.
Read: Paperwork & Passports: What You Need to Visit Ireland
(2:50) Book Your Accommodations in Advance
It used to be that you could land in Ireland and let the road lead you to your nightly lodging. That has become more difficult as Ireland's tourism numbers have increased dramatically (nearly 10 million visitors in 2018!!).
If you are traveling from June thru September be sure to book every night in advance.
If you want to stay in a castle or manor book in advance – some of these are almost filled for summer 2019!
All other times book at least your first and last night's accommodation in advance.
Read the Quick Guide to Ireland Vacation Lodging
(4:46) Reserve Your Car in Advance
Not only will you pay more to book your car the day you land- especially at an airport!- but if you need an automatic transmission you must book that in advance of your visit.
Even manual transmission vehicles can sell out during the busiest travel times. I have personally seen people turned away from multiple car rental counters as there were no cars available that day.
Read: Everything You Need to Know About Car Rental in Ireland
(6:30) Follow the Road Less Traveled
In episode 56 I shared the most, and least, popular destinations in Ireland. While many of the marquee sites are popular for a reason, those sites can get so busy and so crowded that you can be overwhelmed during your visit. And not in a good way.
Listen to the Most Popular Destinations in Ireland podcast episode to get tips on alternates to Ireland's most popular sites, as well as tips for visiting those ‘must see' sites.
(8:50) Use a Driver Guide
If you don't want to drive but want to explore more than the limited train service will allow, hire a driver guide.
I have used, and highly recommend Ireland Chauffeur Travel. Their guides are certified by Failte Ireland (that's the Irish tourism board), the vehicles are comfortable and well maintained, and the drivers are very personable and know their country.
It's the most relaxing way to travel through Ireland!
Contact my personal consultant Michelle Lee – [email protected] -to get a quote for your Ireland vacation. And be sure to use code IRFV2018 to save 5% and receive a hamper of picnic goodies to enjoy during your trip.
(10:50) Travel with Me
I am currently putting together a small group tour for September 2019. Duration of the tour would be 10 days and cost (TBD) would include accommodation, transportation, most entry fees, and some meals. Flights are not included.
Want to learn more or register your interest? Complete this survey.
(11:50) 3 Places to Add to Your Ireland Itinerary
As recommended by my family!
Murphy's Ice Cream – this was recommended by my youngest and I heartily agree! Ice cream made with fresh, local ingredients with tasty, and sometimes surprising, flavors. My favorite is the Caramelized Brown Bread. Founded in Dingle, County Kerry, but you'll find stores in Dublin, Kilkenny city, Killarney, and Galway city.
Lough Eske Castle Hotel – my eldest daughter recalls our stay here as ‘out of the way' and ‘really nice'. I remember it as one of the most relaxing hotel stays I've had in all of Ireland. Located just outside Donegal town, the castle was a shell just 10 years ago. Complete restoration of the public rooms resulted in a traditional feel, while the castle rooms are spacious and very welcoming.
Falconry at Adare Country Pursuits – though we have had a few great falconry experiences in Ireland, my husband chose our falconry experience at Adare Country Pursuits at Adare Manor as the most thorough. Not only did we fly Harris Hawks, but we also had a chance to learn about and handle owls, eagles, and falcons. Willie and Liam Forde and their team of falconers are outstanding.
(14:55) Thanks for Listening!
If you enjoyed this podcast please be sure to leave a 5* review on iTunes, Stitcher, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
Questions or comments? Email [email protected] and, as always, thanks for listening.
It's so easy to save or share this podcast!
Related Posts
