revised itinerary

officer35 · Member

revised itinerary

Michele Erdvig · Host

Gary,

That is a lot saner. However, why stay in Castlemaine? Not much there. If you want to do Dingle stay in Dingle for two nights. Skip the Ring of Kerry in favor of enjoying Dingle. You can get a car ferry across the Shannon River from Killimer to Tarbert, which will save some time and add a bit of adventure to the drive.

If you wanted to skip Dingle you would find plenty to do with Connemara, Achill Island, Westport (lovely town). But I will leave that decision up to you.

Are you attending a castle banquet or Bunratty Irish Night when you stay in Bunratty? If so book well ahead as they are very popular.

While in Galway, do not drink the water! There is more about it on my "Hot News" page.

You can purchase a cell phone in Ireland or you can rent one (see my "Discounts" page). I usually just get a calling card on arrival in Ireland and use that.

Michele

-- Edited by Michele Erdvig at 02:26, 2007-06-09

officer35 · Member

We thought Castlemaine was kind of central if we were doing both Kerry and Dingle. I'm all for staying in one place and Dingle sounds nice. I did plan on the car ferry as it does sound neat and something the boys might like too. We'll skip the castle banquet at Bunratty, it's too expensive and some of the reviews were not that great. I'd rather have a nice meal somewhere else. Other than the Bunratty castle, are there any worthwhile castles along our route.

The one BIG concern I have right now is that we haven't received our passports back yet and I'm getting nervous. We applied for them March 28th. I did the e-mail request foir tracking today but not sure what that will do and will keep trying the passport info number also.

Thanks Michele, I really appreciate your's and others help. I wish I would have known some of what I know now when we booked this package. Sceptre tours and Dan Doolen are not sure what they are doing about a rental car. I got two cars with the package and will trade two for one, but I'm getting the run around there a bit as to who's responsible for the change. I would tried to fly out of a different ariport also. Oh well. Now if we can line up our B & B's and our passports arrive, we'll be less stressed. Thanks, Gary

CowboyCraic · Guru

Gary & Michele,

Whilst this itinerary is certainly more feasible, I too would suggest staying on Dingle. There is so much to do there! For the boys, there is a trip out to see the dolphins, for the family, as a whole, you could take the archeological tour.

I may sound like a broken record but leave Killarney & the Ring Of Kerry for another trip.

You might look into the Cliffs of Moher Cruise out of Doolin, as it is a phenomenal way to experience the cliffs. Whilst in Galway, make time for Fish & Chips at McDonagh's. They have large enough portions that two average eaters can split a meal. Order from the Take-Away side and eat on the picnic benches out front. It is a great place for people watching. Whilst up in Galway, there is a banquet at Dungairre Castle but it is more on the Literary side than musical and you boys might not enjoy it. If you want to stop at Bunratty enroute to Galway, then look into the Dinner at the Corn Barn, which is less expensive and geared toward familes.

Gary, as a former officer myself, I am of the less is more category when on vacation. I spent 8 1/2 years call to call and rushing around on days off to get all my errands run. When I am on vacation, SLOW is the operative word. There are so many ruins, castle & cottage, on every road that you might drive that you will not lack for memorable moments and an enjoyable FIRST trip. There will be others. I have yet to speak with anyone who has only been to Ireland once.

Wherever you go, the magic of Ireland will surround. Enjoy your adventure!

Slan Beo,

Bit

Michele Erdvig · Host

Gary,

There are a lot of people in the same boat with no passport. As a last resort you can travel to a passport issuing office to get yours expedited. You will have to find out where they are processing yours. Many people have called their congressman's office for help.

You should get the car sorted out ASAP. Since you booked a Sceptre Tour you obviously used a travel agent. Call them and get answers. You don't want to be stuck without one on arrival in Ireland.

I have many B&Bs listed on my "Lodgings" page as well as in my book. Take a look to see which ones will accept vouchers. If you are spending all your time waiting for emails and need answers soon, I suggest phoning Ireland instead as you will get instant availabilities. Check your long distance plan to avoid surprises and maybe use a dial-around service or calling card.

Castles around the areas you will be:

Bunratty Castle
King John's Castle (Limerick)
Knappogue Castle (near Quin)
Dunguaire Castle (Kinvara)
Aughnanure Castle (Oughterard)

Michele

officer35 · Member

Well we got our passports today by Fedex. Michele made some calls to Senators and congressman and they helped greatly. What a relief !!!! 5 days to go. If I don't add more before then, I post when we get back . Gary

Michele Erdvig · Host

Gary,

Congratulations on getting your passports just in time for the trip! Have a wonderful time in Ireland. We will anxiously await your return to see how it went.

Michele