I am reading as much as I can as quickly as I can to plan for a recently booked getaway in March with my mother (77) and daughter (19). We fly into Dublin and have 5 days and 5 nights to explore.
For the ease of my mother, I need to keep our hotel changes and hours on the road to a minimum, but the more I read about Kilkenny, the more I'm interested in seeing it.
If feasible, I wondered if it would be better to go straight from the airport upon arrival, spending 2 nights (possibly) there before heading back to Dublin for 3 nights, or staying in Dublin the 5 nights, taking day trips to say Glendough and Newgrange and just concentrating on the sights and sounds of Dublin.
I know there are many other places to consider, however a more active trip will have to follow at a later date. I basically wanted to show my mom a small taste of Ireland! Thanks for any input! Jane
(Michele, I think I sent you an email and if so sorry to repeat. I had a hard time trying to post!)
Welcome to my forum! I'm glad you got your post to go through. It will get easier as you get accustomed to the forum.
In your private message you said that you will not have a car. Because of that and your mother's age I suggest that you spend your entire time based in Dublin. Choose a cozy hotel that is centrally located and enjoy being settled in. There is plenty to see and do in the city. Also there are many day tours that depart from Dublin. Perhaps you could also get the train to Kilkenny for the day, see the castle, city and cathedral and then return in the evening. Some other tours to consider:
I so appreciate your feedback Michele. That is what I'll do and I look forward to reading all the posts on your site. It is certainly well organized and very informational! Ireland will be a wonderful adventure for us!
Enjoy your trip and a relaxing time in Dublin. Hopefully you will return again for a longer time. Then you can explore more of the countryside. Do look at my Lodgings page for suggestions on where to stay or just ask me if you have something specific you are looking for in a hotel.
I am considering the Brooks Hotel and noticed it was on your list.
It is a bit expensive but looked to have the most central location. Also, staying in one location for 5 days made me think we might appreciate it's nice environment.
I thought the bed and breakfasts would be fun to experience but so far I couldn't find one that didn't require my mom walking up so many stairs.
My clients love Brooks Hotel because it is very central and yet quiet. Noise can be a big problem in Dublin. Send them an email to see if they have any specials for a 5-night stay. For that long they should be giving a discount and throwing in a couple of dinners too. If you don't mind taking a bus into the heart of Dublin (just a couple minutes ride) you could consider the Ballsbridge area and Bewley's Ballsbridge Hotel at 89 euro per room. But I really think you will be better paying the extra for city center convenience.
I agree that stairs are a problem at many B&Bs. A nice comfy hotel seems to be what is needed for your situation.