Tips for Ireland Vacations in the Off-Season
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
Below you'll learn Ireland travel tips for off-season vacations plus my advice on taking your children out of school to visit Ireland.
The Seasons of Ireland Travel
Ireland travel falls into 3 distinct seasons:
High Season: the busiest time for tourism; mid-May thru mid-September
Shoulder Season: not as busy as high season, but still quite a lovely time to visit; mid-March thru mid- May and mid-September thru late October
Low Season: the slowest tourism period with shorter days, longer nights, and the possibility of more temperamental weather; November thru mid-March
Why Travel to Ireland in the Off Season?
You'll find great travel deals, fewer crowds, and lively evening in the pubs. Check out Cool Facts About Ireland Winter Vacations.
Halloween is amazing in Ireland!
Christmas markets are a great reason to travel to Ireland!
Should You Take Your Children Out of School to Travel to Ireland?
While my answer isn't the right one for everyone, I do believe that it is ok to take your children out of school to travel.
With a few caveats.
I do believe that if you are taking your children out of school for travel it should be educational. And your kids will learn a lot while in Ireland!
And I understand that not all schools are as flexible as ours, or understanding of travel during the academic year.
A few tips to help you plan to take your children out of school for Ireland travel:
- Check with the school administration on their policies for missed school days and travel.
- It's easier for younger children to miss school- it just isn't difficult to ‘make up' work when kids are young.
- Look closely at school schedules: in-service days or short breaks that you can use, extracurricular activities, and testing schedules.
- Speak with your school principal, your child's guidance counselor, or their individual teachers. If you can, schedule an in-person meeting to discuss your plans.
- Plan how school work will be done- in advance, while traveling, or after the trip.
- Consider how travel during school will impact your child.
- Leave a day or two after your trip for everyone to readjust to life at home (especially the time change!) before jumping back into school.
Three Terrific Places to Visit During the Off Season in Ireland
In December, January and February visit Dublin. Tourist attractions in Dublin don't close seasonally. And you can easily plan day trips to Wicklow, Kilkenny, and the Boyne Valley on fine days.
In fall plan to explore Connemara. The westernmost region of County Galway is especially enchanting as the days shorten.
In spring head to the ‘sunny southwest'. My personal recommendation is West Cork for it's abundance of outdoor activities and beauty.
Traveling in Ireland Podcast episode 80
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