Make sure that you have at least one credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees for Ireland. If you don't have one yet, you have time to receive one. Most travel credit cards don't charge - but you'll need to check with your card company. When paying by credit card, it's better to pay in local currency (Euros) instead of USD when they give you the option. Also you will want your debit card with you to withdraw Euros from the ATM for cash. You don't need to exchange money in advance, it's easy enough to hit the bank on day one and make a withdrawal.
You don't need anything fancy for Ireland. * For the Anniversary/Birthday party, we would prefer that people not wear jeans * For everything else, plan on layering: jeans for most things - it could be warm enough for a pair of shorts. Tank tops, short & long sleeve shirts, sweaters, etc. You can mix and match depending on the day. You will want at least 1 pair of good walking shoes that can get wet along with a pair of tennis shoes, and then whatever else you are comfortable in. Definitely make sure you have a good rain coat/windbreaker! bring athletic wear if you plan on hiking/cycling. It's up to you if you want to bring a bathing suit - you might have the opportunity to swim in the ocean or if you are going to a spa.
While Erin is doing everything possible to help prepare you for your trip, please make sure that you read ALL of the information provided beforehand and if you have any questions during your trip, ask one of the kids! (did I really write that? - haha)
No way to know exactly. It can be rainy, windy, warm & cold, all on the same day! The weather changes quickly. A sunny morning can turn into a windy, misty afternoon. Layering is key.
It's possible to take a train/bus directly from Dublin to Killarney, however getting around Kerry and traveling to Bunratty, you will want a car. You will not want a car in Dublin. If you are staying there before/after. You will want to pick up/drop off your car at a city center location. Insurance: Insurance for car rentals in Ireland can be complex: Third-party liability insurance is legally required and usually included in the rental price. The Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) is often offered but can be confusing. It's important to check the excess fee and whether your credit card provides coverage specifically for Ireland What I recommend to my clients is to get FULL coverage including the deductible waiver, to make it easier to walk away from the rental, even if there is damage. Even if you include the CDW, the deductibles are VERY high so then you would add a Damage waiver to reduce the deductible. Based on the vehicle type and insurance coverage, they will charge your credit card a large deposit. Make sure that you have enough credit on your account or a separate card with enough credit. You do NOT need an international drivers license
Ireland looks small on a map, but the roads (especially in rural areas) are narrow, winding, and often slower than expected. Google Maps might say a drive takes two hours, but in reality, it could be longer due to traffic, tractors, or sheep crossings.
A pint of Guinness needs time to settle before being topped off—never rush the bartender, and never take a sip before it’s fully settled. If you're not sure you want to commit to a full pint, you can order a "glass" of Guinness, or whatever beer you are drinking. This is a 1/2 pint and perfectly suitable for small portion.
A travel adapter is used for you to plug your items into the Irish/UK plug. This will be used for your phone charger / laptop etc. An adapter DOES NOT CONVERT POWER. This is the one that I bought on Amazon - but there are several options. (EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter, European Travel Plug Adapter - International Power Adapter Worldwide Charger with USB-C & 4 USB Ports) Max Power: 1100W at 110V, 2400W at 240V. If you are bringing a hair dryer/curling iron etc, you will need to convert the power so will need to purchase a CONVERTER instead.
Yes, anyone interested in going to Daithi's family farm is welcome. However you will want to make sure you have sturdy shoes that can get dirty/muddy - depending on how much you want to walk around the farm
If anyone will be traveling to the United Kingdom before or after, you will need an ETA (electronic travel authorization). This applies even if you are changing planes in London. It's very easy to do - I just did mine on the app and I was approved in a couple of minutes - it only costs $12. Once approved it is just linked to your passport - nothing you need to carry with you.
Ireland has a laid-back approach to service. Don’t expect overly formal or fast service, but do expect friendliness.
Irish people love self-deprecating humor, storytelling, and sarcasm. The accents can be strong, especially in rural areas, so be patient when listening.
The Manor House & Cottages have self-service laundry facilities available during our stay
First off, Please email Erin with any dietary restrictions/allergies so they can be conveyed to the group dining events. Ireland is ahead of the US in identifying food allergies on their menus - every menu has food allergans/vegan/dairy etc listed for all of their food, so it's very easy to know what you are ordering. There are many restaurants now in Ireland that even cater to vegan or gluten free.
Beaufort (BO-fort) - the village where we are staying Galway (Gawl-way) Smithwicks (Smittix) - Local Irish Ale
Things in Ireland move at a relaxed pace. Whether it’s waiting for food at a pub or a casual conversation with a stranger, rushing is not part of the culture.
I took this off of a website: 4 Tipping Mistakes Tourists Make in Ireland 1️⃣ Thinking tipping is mandatory – Unlike in the U.S., tipping in Ireland is optional. If you’ve received great service, go ahead and tip, but it’s more of a gesture than an obligation. 2️⃣ Tipping on top of a service charge – Many restaurants add a service charge for larger groups. If you see this on the bill, no extra tip is expected (though you’re welcome to if the service was exceptional!). 3️⃣ Leaving a big tip unnecessarily – 10% is the standard for great service here. No need to go overboard unless the experience truly wowed you. 4️⃣ Tipping where it’s not expected – You don’t need to tip in coffee shops, fast food places, or on public transport. However, a little extra for tour guides or exceptional hotel staff is always a nice gesture.