For many women, the idea of traveling solo in Ireland can feel both exciting and a little daunting. The good news is that Ireland is widely considered one of the safest countries in the world for female travelers. I’ve been exploring Ireland on my own for more than two decades – including trips when my…
Car rental insurance can feel overwhelming, and I know it’s not the most exciting topic. But stick with me — I’m going to make this as simple and painless as possible, so by the end you’ll know exactly what coverage you need, what you can skip, and how to avoid those costly surprises at the…
Welcome back to my Car Rental in Ireland series. This is Episode 2, where I’m diving into the fees and hidden costs that can really add up when you rent a car. Some of these are predictable, others may catch you by surprise – but after this installment, you’ll know what to watch for and…
When you rent a car in Ireland, one of the first choices you’ll face is manual vs automatic. For North American travelers, it’s a question you might not even think to ask – but the difference in price is bigger than you imagine. Why Choosing a Transmission Is a Rental Choice in Ireland In North…
Ireland is a terrific introduction to Europe for Americans because the Irish speak English. Kind of. But you’re likely to hear quite a few words you won’t recognize – or maybe words you recognize, but not in the way they are used. The tips below will help you avoid a scaldy sambo, navigate your morning…
If you’ve been dreaming of exploring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way without getting behind the wheel, good news: it just got a whole lot easier. The brand-new Route 351 now runs from Galway City to Doolin Pier, stopping at Kinvara, Ballyvaughan, and the dramatic Cliffs of Moher along the way. Think of it as your ticket…
How long is the ‘perfect’ Ireland vacation? Everyone has an answer but the scientific study may surprise you.
When planning a trip to Ireland you’re probably focused on castles, coastlines, and creamy pints – but don’t overlook something far less exciting (yet super important): keeping your valuables safe. This is part 3 of my Travel Smart series, and we’re talking about packing intentionally, choosing the right bag, and making sure you’re not carrying…
Travel days are busy, a little chaotic, and exactly when people tend to misplace things. Whether I’m driving myself or taking the train across the country, I have a few go-to habits to make sure everything stays where it’s supposed to. This is part 2 of my Travel Smart series, and we’re focusing on how…
When you arrive in Ireland, your focus should be on enjoying the trip – not worrying about your stuff. But once you’re on the ground, the small, everyday decisions you make can go a long way toward keeping your belongings secure. This is part 1 of my Travel Smart series, where I share the simple…
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.