Derry Walking Tour

Dude · Guru

Derry Walking Tour

Michele Erdvig · Host

Dude,

It sounds like all is falling into place for your trip. You will want an early start so you can fit in a tour of Belleek. As I recall it takes about 30-40 minutes. You will be amazed when you see them making the tiny flowers and weaving those baskets. I still have a tiny piece of "raw" Belleek china that they handed out to tour participants the last time I was there. There is also an excellent self-service restaurant there.

Michele

Dude · Guru

Yep, we'll be standing outside the doors shouting, "Open, open" like that commercial. I have had the tour but my sisters haven't so that will be their call. Didn't get the raw china bit when I toured in '97 so now I want one!

I still remember eating lasagna in the restaurant, and we also walked down the street and found some lovely little gift shops with items we didn't find in the Republic. I think that's where I got my bogwood crosses and harp; they are made in NI by Island Turf Crafts if I'm not mistaken.

122 days!

Dude · Guru

Now I have another question. Michael's e-mail states that Tommy's tour costs " 6 per adult and 5 concessionary." What is concessionary? I envision a sort of walking and eating!

Edited: Seem to have lost my pounds sterling character. It should read "six pounds sterling per adult and 5 pounds sterling concessionary."

-- Edited by Dude at 23:44, 2007-05-17

Michele Erdvig · Host

Dude,

I don't have a clue. Why not email him to clarify the term?

Michele

Dude · Guru

I guess I'll have to. I thought sure there would be someone on the forum who would know. Now my hopes are crushed. (Big grin). When I find out, I'll be happy to be the resident Concessionary Expert!

Itallian Chauffeur · Moderator

I suspect that the tour fee is paid to the guide, and the concession fee is paid for entrance to the establishments that charge a fee, since, presumably, the walking tour includes multiple sites both with and without admission fees.

Notice that I did NOT say that I know, nor did I say that I assume ... cry

And, yes, I'm sure that the old adage is equally true of all those qualifiers --- hmm

"When you assume, you make an ass of u and me....

Bob

Michele Erdvig · Host

Bob,

You would make a good detective. I think you are right. Dude will have to let us know once the email comes through clarifying things.

Michele

Dude · Guru

Here's Michael's response:

Hello Judy
Concessionary refers to special reduced rates which usually covers students and senior citizens (over 65 for men and over 60 for women)-basically the more often you refer to yourself as a senior (even if you're not but nobody usually challenges you!) when using attractions or taking tours the more money you'll save-cant be bad!
All the best
Michael

So not only do I get to be the Concessionary Expert on IrelandYes, but I get a whole pound sterling off the cost of my tour! I knew this white hair would come in handy sooner or later. And no, I won't have to fib, because I am definitely over 60.

Itallian Chauffeur · Moderator

So much for my skills as a detective.... biggrin

This is precisely what I love about the Irish --

--- the slightly skewed, different view of the world and our (mostly) shared language.

Werein, we suppose that "concession" refers to a fee charged and they view it as a discount given! smile

Bob

-- Edited by Itallian Chauffeur at 17:59, 2007-05-19

Dude · Guru

Apparently they are making a "concession" to my advanced age (or young age were I a student). And here it thought it had to do with food--concession stand at the baseball park, etc. We were both wrong, but the correct answer makes me happy. I'm sure I can find a use for that extra pound.

Michele Erdvig · Host

Dude,

So you are getting the concession! Being old or young has its benefits.

Bob, It sounded good!!

Michele

suzinfla · Member

Pardon me for coming in late on this thread, but as our trip will also include Derry I had a question about the walking tour. I thought the tours were given daiily? Would you mind directing me to the discussion concerning booking in advance?

Dude · Guru

It is a thread entitled "Question for TC, last post 5/12 so it may be pretty far back. I believe that most of the tours are daily, but the one day that we were to be in Derry, the guide that Bit recommended was not to be available. He recommends the tours from the Tourist Office that go daily at 2:30 (in September when we will be there; I think there are more frequent tours during the high season. Check out http://www.derryvisitor.com ). No need for reservations; they go with whoever shows up.

I had e-mailed Bit's recommendation to make sure he would be available that day and I'm glad I did.

I just re-read through this thread and realized that women are seniors at 60 and men at 65! One of those mixed blessings for us gals.