Join me in Ireland October 1–9, 2027, for a small group adventure through my favorite part of the country, Ireland’s Northwest! This isn’t your typical Ireland tour. We’ll explore spectacular coastal landscapes, ancient sites, charming towns, and local traditions, with experiences that go beyond the usual sightseeing stops. A few highlights of our Ireland Northwest…
Southwest Ireland is one of the most popular regions for visitors, with Killarney National Park, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula drawing travelers to this corner of the country. But with so much to see and do, where you stay can make a big difference in how much time you spend exploring –…
An island filled with ancient ruins, fascinating history, and peaceful surroundings—just a short ferry ride from County Clare! Join Jody Halsted as she chats with Irene Hamilton of Scattery Island Tours about exploring this remarkable island in the Shannon Estuary, just off Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way. From its early monastic settlement and distinctive round tower…
Galway is a popular base for exploring Ireland’s west coast, and for good reason. Stay in or around Galway City and you have Connemara to the west, the Burren to the south, Athlone to the east, and the Aran Islands just offshore. But just because you can reach somewhere from Galway doesn’t necessarily mean it…
Booking flights to Ireland is the moment your vacation starts to feel real. But when you’re comparing itineraries, the choices aren’t always straightforward. One flight connects through Chicago, Boston, or another US airport before flying overnight to Ireland. Another flies overnight to London, Amsterdam, or Paris, where you’ll catch a second flight to Dublin. If…
Dublin is one of the most popular bases for an Ireland vacation. But if you’re staying in Dublin, how far should you travel for a day trip without spending most of your day getting there and back? I like to use a 90-minute radius. Three hours of round-trip travel still leaves plenty of time for…
Kinsale may sit at the beginning or the end of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, depending on how you travel it, but this colorful County Cork town deserves more than a quick stop.Fáilte Ireland certified guide Clodagh FitzGerald shares a local’s perspective on Kinsale, from the history of Charles Fort and James Fort to harbour adventures,…
One question I’m asked more and more often is whether you can stay in one central location and take day trips around Ireland. It sounds very logical. Unpack once, stay someplace central, drive out each day, then return to your home away from home. The problem is that Ireland doesn’t really have one location that…
At a Glance Traveling to Ireland in the fall and winter comes with real perks: cheaper flights, smaller crowds, and a slower pace at sites that get packed all summer. This guide covers why the off-season is worth considering, plus what to expect month to month from October through February, practical tips for your trip,…
Advice for using public transportation with a Leap card in Dublin and around the country.
Limitations of the Visitor Leap Card.
How to purchase a Leap Card for your Ireland vacation.
What’s the best way to get around Ireland? It depends on your itinerary, budget, travel style, and how much flexibility you want. In this video, I break down the pros and cons of traveling around Ireland by train, bus, rental car, private driver guide, and even boat. We’ll look at where each option works well,…
At a Glance The Global Irish Famine Way uses a simple but powerful symbol – a pair of bronze children’s shoes – to connect Ireland with communities shaped by Famine-era emigration. For travelers interested in Irish history, ancestry, and the diaspora, it offers a new way to understand where those journeys began, where they led,…
Did you know that Halloween has its roots in the island of Ireland and the Celtic festival of Samhain? Autumn’s favourite festival is actually thousands of years old and many of the customs associated with it are based on Irish folklore and ancient beliefs. Read on to discover 10 fascinating facts about Halloween. 1. Halloween…
At a Glance Dark tourism in Ireland covers more ground than most travelers expect, from famine memorials and workhouses to ghost tours, ancient beliefs, and haunted castles. For travelers interested in Irish history, genealogy, folklore, or the stories that don’t fit neatly into the usual castles-and-cliffs itinerary, these places can add another layer of understanding…
Credit card coverage can be a good option for a car rental in Ireland, but simply having rental car protection on your card doesn’t mean you’re covered. Some cards exclude Ireland entirely, while others have limits on the vehicles they cover, the length of the rental, or the amount they’ll pay. Before you decline the…
At a Glance The Beara Peninsula, also known as the Ring of Beara, sits in southwest Ireland, just south of its more famous neighbor, the Ring of Kerry. It’s a good fit for travelers who want scenic coastal roads and conversations with locals without the tour buses. This guide covers where to base yourself, what…
If you’re planning to rent a car in Ireland and you’re over 75, don’t assume every rental company has the same requirements. In this quick Ireland travel tip, I explain how to find each company’s senior driver policy, show you where to look on rental websites, and summarize which companies only require a valid driver’s…
At a Glance Motorhome and campervan travel in Ireland has grown a lot in recent years, and this guide covers what first-timers actually need to know: vehicle size, where you can legally park overnight, and the apps that make it easier. Whether you’re weighing a motorhome trip against a rental car or already sold on…
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,…
Abbeyleix at a Glance If your ideal Ireland itinerary includes historic towns, memorable meals, scenic walks, and time to truly experience a place instead of simply passing through, Abbeyleix deserves a closer look. Nestled in the heart of County Laois, this Georgian market town is perfectly positioned for exploring Ireland’s Ancient East while offering plenty…