Want to visit Ireland without blowing your entire vacation budget on airfare?You don’t need insider connections or complicated travel hacks – just two easy-to-use (and totally free) tools: Kayak Explore and Google Flights. These platforms make it simple to find the best airfare, whether you’re ready to book or searching for the best deal. These…
If you’ve ever listened to the podcast and thought, “I wish you’d just take me to Ireland!” well, I’ve got good news. Next spring, from mid-April through early May, I’m hosting two small-group tours to Ireland. The first leads you along the rugged coastlines and through the rich history of the North – think dramatic…
“Do I need travel insurance for an Ireland vacation?” It’s a question I receive often, and one that doesn’t have the same answer for everyone as it has to do with risk, as well as figuring out the coverage you may already have. Since the question is on the table, lets delve into it piece…
If you’re wondering where to eat in Dublin, these three picks cover every craving and budget, each one recommended by Gráinne Lawlor of Flavor Trails, who knows this city’s food scene inside and out. Find Grainne’s full podcast interview & article here. Recommended Dublin Dining Spots For a Grab-and-Go Bite Try a spice bag from…
A guide to golf in Ireland. Includes descriptions of the 3 course types you’ll find plus the best golf courses in Ireland.
If you’re planning a summer trip to Ireland, you might be surprised to discover that air conditioning is not common in most accommodations. Whether you’re booking a hotel, a B&B, or a self-catering cottage, it’s likely the rooms won’t have A/C – and that’s not a mistake. It’s simply because Ireland hasn’t really needed it….
I received a question from a podcast listener with some questions about Christmas travel in Ireland. While her inquiry about car rental and things they could consider doing was an easy one for me to answer, it was the conversation that followed that prompted this episode… This article is also available as the Traveling in…
When planning a trip to Ireland, accommodation details matter—and one common source of confusion is hotel room descriptions that don’t actually match the bed size. While the terms may sound familiar, what you get can be very different from what you’re expecting. Learn more about accommodations in Ireland- from bed & breakfasts to luxury castles….
If Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol are on your Ireland itinerary, you’ll need more than interest to visit – you’ll need a timed ticket. These two OPW-managed sites are incredibly popular, and both strongly recommend advance booking. The good news? Even if you don’t have your OPW Heritage Card yet, you can still reserve your spot….
Don’t overpack for your Ireland vacation! Packing tips including what to take, what to leave home, and how to pack your suitcases.
Blarney Castle and Gardens is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations – and for good reason. But if you show up at the wrong time, your magical visit can quickly turn into a crowded, stressful experience. Here’s a quick planning tip that can make all the difference. How Cruise Ship Schedules Can Make or…
Slip off the motorway and into another era with a visit to Morrissey’s Pub in Abbeyleix, County Laois. Established in 1775, this isn’t just a place to grab a pint—it’s a deep dive into the kind of Irish hospitality and history that you just can’t fake. This article is based on podcast episode 168 featuring…
It happens all the time—you walk up to the rental counter in Ireland, share your reservation information, and the agent smiles and says, “We can upgrade you today!” But before you say yes, take a pause. While an upgrade might sound like a win, it’s not always the best choice for your trip – or…
From ancient monasteries to mighty castles, Ireland’s OPW Heritage Card offers unlimited entry to dozens of incredible sites for one flat fee – making it one of the best travel values on the island. When I travel through the republic of Ireland, whether it be with my family or hosting a tour group, it is…
Planning to rent a car and explore Ireland’s cities? While having your own transportation gives you flexibility, parking in cities like Dublin, Galway, or Belfast can be frustrating—unless you plan ahead. This quick guide (and the video below!) will help you avoid stress and find the best place to park, whether you’re staying overnight or…
Ready to tap your toes and soak up the sounds of Ireland? World Music Day (June 21) is the perfect time to do just that – and on the island of Ireland, where music is part of the heartbeat of daily life, the celebration hits a high note. Where Every Street Has a Soundtrack From…
With Ireland’s tourism numbers increasing annually it’s understandable that many travelers are looking outside the busy summer months to plan their vacation. Ireland Travel Tips for Off-Season Vacations In this article you’ll learn Ireland travel tips for off-season vacations plus my advice on taking your children out of school to visit Ireland. This article is…
Planning your Ireland vacation is a smart way to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience. While the idea of “winging it” might sound tempting, today’s travel landscape in Ireland is a bit different from what it used to be. With more visitors, limited accommodations, and higher demand for attractions, a little planning goes a long…
If you’re flying to Ireland from North America, chances are you’re looking at round-trip tickets into and out of Dublin. It’s the most popular route for good reason—direct flights, solid availability, and yes, it’s usually cheaper. But if your Irish adventure follows a classic path—landing in Dublin, heading down to Killarney or Dingle, touring the…
Booking flights can be a nerve-wracking game of ‘now or later.’ That anxiety often leads to early clicks — and higher prices. I use a simple flight monitoring process to take the edge off (outlined here), but timing – and a bit of patience – plays a crucial role. So, can you book flights too…