If you’re planning to rely on credit card or third-party rental car insurance in Ireland, I want to tell you about the one time I actually had to use mine. The insurance paid the claim. That wasn’t the problem. The problem was everything that happened over the next two months. This happened back in 2015,…
Landing in Dublin but beginning your vacation elsewhere – options to get to your first destination safely – without driving. Why driving long distances after an overnight flight isn’t safe Where Does Your Ireland Vacation Begin? So what do you do if your vacation begins in another location – like Galway, Killarney, Clare, or Cork?…
The warmth of an Irish welcome is legendary and Booking.com travelers have named their stand-out friendly destinations. Booking.com’s 2026 Traveller Review Awards feature 13 towns and villages on the island of Ireland that have been recognized for exceptional hospitality, warmth, and guest experience. The awards are based on more than 370 million verified traveler reviews,…
Five weeks on the road across Ireland brings plenty of unforgettable moments — and a few lessons learned the hard way. From airport advice and overlooked historic sites to island adventures and incredible local experiences, this trip delivered a little bit of everything. For travelers planning their own Ireland itinerary, these are the stops, stays,…
A chance meeting in Dublin led to a lively catch-up about how travel in Ireland is changing – and how visitors can experience so much more than the usual highlights. Custom Food and Whiskey Tours in Ireland What started as a Dublin food tour has grown into something much bigger. Gráinne, owner of Flavour Trails,…
Ireland’s world-famous golf courses may top the bucket list, but some of the most memorable experiences happen well beyond the marquee names – especially when you pair great golf with Irish whiskey and local connection. This article is based on podcast episode 336 featuring David Hayes, owner of Dunes & Drams, a bespoke tour company…
Just after Easter, Jody is heading back to Ireland—and this trip is filled with experiences, stays, and a few surprises that might inspire your own plans. Ireland trip preview: tours, experiences, and places to stay This upcoming visit blends guided tours, hands-on experiences, and independent exploring across Ireland—from the Causeway Coast to the southeast, with…
Cruise stops in Ireland can feel like a whirlwind – but with the right plan, even a few hours can turn into an unforgettable experience. With more cruise ships arriving at Irish ports each year, travelers have more options than ever when it comes to shore excursions. But not all tours, or tour providers, are…
Ireland and castles go hand in hand. With thousands scattered across the island, it can feel like there’s one around every bend in the road. The real challenge isn’t finding castles in Ireland — it’s deciding which ones to add to your itinerary. This article is based on the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 331….
Landing at Dublin Airport is often the first stop in your Ireland journey, but one of the first questions many travelers have is how to get into the city centre. A lot of people immediately look for the cheapest option. That makes sense, but the cheapest option may not always be the best choice depending…
Group tours are one of the most popular ways to experience Ireland – especially for travelers who want to see a lot without worrying about driving, directions, or logistics. Nearly half of overseas visitors explore Ireland this way, which means coaches crisscross the island daily, bringing travelers to castles, coastlines, and charming towns. But what…
This article is part of my Planning Your Ireland Vacation series — a step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire planning process, answers common questions, and helps you move forward with clarity. If you’d like to follow the full series in order, you’ll find it at:IrelandFamilyVacations.com/planning During your Ireland vacation you’ll have dozens of…
Planning an Ireland vacation can feel overwhelming when you start adding up the numbers -but a memorable trip doesn’t have to be out of reach. With smart choices and a few intentional trade-offs, travelers can enjoy Ireland fully without overspending. This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 324. Use the…
If you’ve spent any time researching Ireland trips online, you may have noticed a strange pattern: different companies, different websites… and yet the itineraries feel almost identical. There’s a reason for that, and it goes back much further than modern travel trends. Why Ireland itineraries follow the same routes Ireland’s most familiar travel routes weren’t…
Choosing an Ireland vacation package seems simple enough. You find a deal you like- be it self-drive or guided- and make the purchase. Done. Ireland vacation booked and ready. But it may not be so simple. Airline transfers, car rental, accommodations… they all play a role in the success of your vacation to Ireland. This article…
Avoid the worst Dublin crowds by planning your trip around these dates when prices will rise, accommodations will fill, and streets will be swarming with people. Get all the tips you need to plan your Ireland vacation in 2026. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 321
If you’re planning a trip to Ireland in 2026 these tips will make planning smoother, help you avoid crowds, and maybe even save you a bit of money. Probably the most important tips are when NOT to be in Dublin, but there are some updates to European entry & exit systems that you need to…
This Quick Tip shares where to find the Family Travel Resource Page on my website — a hub packed with practical articles, kid-friendly recommendations, and free itineraries designed to help families of all ages plan a smoother, happier Ireland trip. If you’re traveling with little ones, teens, or a full multigenerational crew, this page saves…
In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I’m showing you exactly where to find answers to the most common Ireland travel questions. Over 20 years of traveler questions — and my own “learned the hard way” experiences — are organized on my FAQ page to help you plan with confidence. From safety and seasons…
In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode…I’m breaking down the three main types of driver services in Ireland so you can choose the one that fits your style, budget, and itinerary. From full-service, white-glove driver-guided tours to flexible private drivers to simple point-to-point transfers, you’ll learn what each option includes and when they make…