The Enchanted Island of Ireland

Sis Mishou, CTC and Board-Certified Ireland Specialist, recently traveled to Ireland—an enchanting island so full of history and charm, that if you visit once you’ll probably return again, which makes it her pick for a travel destination. Imagine seeing those “earth moving under your feet” attractions such as a 5,000-year-old prehistoric passage grave of Newgrange and the Standing Stones on the Ring of Kerry. You’ll also find the geological awes the likes of the Cliffs of Moher, Giant’s Causeway, or the incredible Burren with it’s unique flora and fauna.

If you’re interested in sites not quite as old as prehistoric, plan a visit to Glendalough (“valley of two lakes”) and the site of the 6th century monastic city, St. Kevin’s Church and its 110-foot round tower. The natural beauty is so breathtaking you can almost feel the tranquility the monks must have felt. On the opposite coast you can take in the amazing clochans (beehive huts) and the Gallarus Oratory on the Dingle Peninsula.

Castles are numerous. Expect to see one around nearly every turn. Be sure to visit Kilkenny, Blarney or Bunratty, but don’t discount the Manor Houses, which have beautiful gardens.

Some Tips to Remember
When traveling in Ireland it is always helpful to anticipate the currency, accommodations, driving rules, and other amenities. Here are just a few.

• Currency differs between Northern Ireland (Pound Sterling) and the southern Republic of Ireland (Euro). Do not exchange too much currency if you intend to cross the border; you will pay another handling fee to re-exchange it into local currency.
  
• Not all payphones will accept coins. Many shops, gas stations and convenience stores sell calling cards (denominations vary). At present in the Republic of Ireland (the south) it is .40 Euro for a local call and .80 Euro for one-minute long distance call within Ireland.
  
• When staying in B&Bs, prearrange at least the first and the last night before departing from home. Once in Ireland, calling ahead for accommodations is wisest and most courteous to the homeowner. If traveling during the peak season of June, July, and August, it is necessary to be very flexible if you have not prearranged your accommodations.
  
• Most en-suite B&Bs have hairdryers in the room, but not all have soap in the shower.
  
• If you plan a driving trip through Ireland, as soon as you pickup your rental car, head for the first gas station and purchase an Irish road map. Mileage signs are in kilometers if followed by “km” and in miles if there is no notation.
  
• Each time you get behind the wheel remind yourself to drive on the left. When pulling out remember to check to your right! Allow time for narrow roads and missed turns. Directional road signs are inconsistent or often blocked from the driver’s view.
  
• Parking is confusing. The best remedy is to find a public parking lot, prepay and display the receipt on the dashboard. If you do park on the street ask someone if parking is allowed and where the closest shop selling parking disks can be found. Each disk is good for one hour and you must scratch off the time you arrived and display the disk on the dashboard.
  
• Plot your trip strategy before leaving home. It will be less stressful to base yourself for several nights and cover the surrounding area before moving on.

To learn more about traveling in Ireland and its most wonderful sites or to plan your trip to Ireland, please contact Sis or any of our agents.