Halloween’s Historic Origins in Ireland
Discover the enchanting origins of Halloween in Ireland, where the festival of Samhain began over 3,000 years ago.
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Ireland’s Most Haunted Locations
Are you fascinated by the paranormal and keen to feel the presence of a wandering spirit? Head to Ireland where hauntings abound. Figures recently released about the fast-growing dark tourism market reveal that people are fascinated by horror, the macabre and the paranormal. Increasingly, travellers want to visit sites associated with tragic events or…
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Discover Dracula’s Dublin Roots
Ireland’s tales of the undead and Dublin’s Gothic architecture inspired the creation of the world’s most famous vampire. Transylvania may be thought of as Count Dracula’s home, but the fanged fiend began his life in Dublin. The legendary vampire is the creation of Irish writer Bram Stoker, who was born in Dublin in 1847 at…
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When to Rent a Car in Ireland (and Why You Don’t Need One in Dublin)
You’ve got your car rental quotes lined up, but before you hit “book,” let’s make sure you’re not renting a car for longer than you actually need it. Trimming even a couple of days off your rental can save you money, reduce stress, and make your time in Ireland smoother. Why You Don’t Need a…
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Lahinch & Beyond: Surfing in Ireland
When most people think of surfing, Ireland probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But along Clare’s Atlantic coast, rolling waves crash onto wide sandy beaches, drawing surfers from around the world. From the lively breaks at Lahinch to the wildest waves that draw pros from across the world, Clare has become one…
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Comparing Car Rental Quotes in Ireland: How to Read Them Fairly
Quotes can look wildly different at first glance; one bundles taxes and roadside, another separates fees until checkout. This guide walks through how I compare quotes fairly so you can see the real total before you book. Comparing Car Rental Quotes in Ireland What I compared Where prices really diverge Finding the missing pieces If…
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Solo Travel in Ireland: Tips for Female Travelers
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…
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Car Rental Insurance in Ireland Demystified
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…
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A Giant Adventure Small Group Tour, Spring 2026
In the podcast episode below I’m sharing highlights from A Giant Adventure, one of my small-group tours through Ireland north of Dublin. This journey included Belfast’s Titanic history, the legendary Giant’s Causeway, Derry’s resilience, and a deep dive into Ireland’s Celtic past. My tours are designed with balance in mind: iconic sights, unique hands-on experiences,…
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Car Rental in Ireland: Fees & Hidden Costs You Need to Know
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…
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Dublin to Kilkenny (and why to stay a while in the Medieval City)
The Medieval City of Kilkenny is an easy trip from Dublin – under 2 hours if you travel direct by car – and is a terrific day trip from Dublin by train. But too many travelers consider Kilkenny as a ‘stop through’ in route to another spot (usually Cork), which often leads to regret, as…
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Renting a Car in Ireland: Manual vs Automatic
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…
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Irishisms with Author Denise Deegan
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…
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Go Car-Free to the Cliffs of Moher & Doolin from Galway
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…
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Top 3 Dublin Experiences (So Many Tourists Miss These)
The 3 best things to do in Dublin – the museum everyone should visit, a tasty tour, and an amazing castle with fascinating history.
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How Long Should Your Ireland Vacation Last?
How long is the ‘perfect’ Ireland vacation? Everyone has an answer but the scientific study may surprise you.
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Travel Smart: Packing for a Safe Trip to Ireland
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…
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If Walls Could Talk: The Story of a Thatched Cottage in Cork
Step back into Irish history with modern comfort. If your ancestors emigrated from Ireland, you’ve probably wondered about the life they left behind. And if you’re planning your own trip, maybe you’ve dreamed of staying in a traditional thatched cottage. In Mitchelstown, County Cork, one family’s home tells a story that’s been unfolding for more…
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Travel Smart: Safety Tips for Getting Around Ireland
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…
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Ballynahinch Castle near Clifden – Loftus Family Ireland Vacation Report
Back in the fall of 2014 I received an email asking for a few Ireland trip tips. The fun twist to this was that the family asking for advice was from my own community in Iowa and had 2 daughters near my own daughters’ ages! (cue ‘It’s a Small World’) The family would be staying…
