Hi again. I was checking on the airfares for May. I am planning on spending a week in Ireland. I was hoping to depart from SNA (Orange county, CA), arriving Dublin and depart from Shannon airport back to Orange county. I prefer OC airport (SNA) because it is much easier to get to and less choatic than LAX (Los Angeles airport) To my surprise, the flight cost to Dublin looks reasonable but leaving from Shannon to OC is at least twice the cost and with multiple stops involving varies airport changes. I am wondering if I can do it for a less expensive way and in a shorter flight time?
My other question is, I would like to spend say a couple days in Dublin and I am debating on if I should visit Galway or Killarney areas since I only have less than a week's time there? I do hope to visit the famous castles in Shannon area. Any suggestion on deciding Galway or Kilarney? Kilarney seems to be a bigger town (?) with more happening. Am I right? Also, can you please tell me if I should bring warm clothing for May? I am from a warm area and we don't usually get rain. I wonder if a light down jacket will work? Or should I get serious rain repellent clothing and shoes for the trip?
Sorry about so many questions. I am getting more confused about what to do. This is supposed to be a relaxing trip but it seems to me that the more I research, the more I don't know how to approach everything.
I can't help with the air part but as to the Ireland part.
Staying in Dublin for a couple of days will help clear the jet lag. Galway and Killarney are comparative in size and infrastructure. They both have surrounding areas of outstanding beauty, and I would be hard pressed to decide which would be better suited. Galway is a 2 1/2 hour straight drive from Dublin whilst Killarney would be getting on for 5 or 6 plus stops along the way. I am biased towards Galway, the Connamara and the west Clare coast, Burren areas. Killarney has the Ring of Kerry and access to another of my favourite places Bearra and Sheeps Head. Also Dingle which for some reason which consistently baffles me draws visitors blindly like flies to a honey pot.
With only a week you could scratch the surface by spending 2 days in Dublin, 2 in Galway and 2 in Killarney on a loop, or just pick one of the two for a more involved experience.
Weather should be mild and fair in May but yes a good light, waterproof and sensible footwear are essentials. Not much help I don't suppose but if the flights can be worked out I would definitely suggest a 2 airport strategy.
__________________
Two rules for Ireland, Take your time & bring a sense of humour
For your flight question, I'd first research the most efficient route to and from Shannon. I'm not up on SNA flights, but New York tends to be a likely hub from most parts of the US. Once you figure out which airlines can fulfill your Shannon needs, it's usually pretty easy to figure out the Dublin side of things.
Sadly, routes in and out of Shannon have dropped dramatically in recent years.
You've got a win-win with Killarney or Galway. I too would suggest spending more time exploring one or the other rather than trying to tackle both. Since you're eying the castles in the Shannon Region, I'd probably lean toward an efficient Dublin/Galway/Connemara/County Clare/Shannon Region itinerary, but you'll be pleased with either.
Since the flight INTO Snannon is good, and you want to spend some time in Dublin, you might check for a Multi-city or open-jawed flight -- IN at SNN and OUT of DUB. Shouldn't cost any more and it will save you a travel day, not having to drive/train/bus or fly, BACK to Shannon ...
As to Galway/Killarney -- what Tony and Corey said ...
Bob
-- Edited by Itallian Chauffeur on Wednesday 8th of December 2010 08:28:14 PM
__________________
Bob
Help Us to Help You. The more you tell us about your plans (dates, interests, budget), the better we can tailor our advice to suit!
Many thanks for your help. Really appreciate it. I am still working on the itinerary. After much research, I found Yesisee has a great point in using New York as the main hub in connecting the flights. A travel agent suggested that I should arrive in Dublin and depart from Shannon. Unfortunately I don't think she was giving me the most direct and efficient itinerary. That was why I am here asking for your help. Truly appreciate your responses. I really hope something will pan out.
Excellent advice from everyone! You are on the right track. Fly into Shannon and out of Dublin, or vice versa.
You asked about clothes. Layer, layer, layer. A down jacket might be too much. You need a light waterproof windbreaker with attached hood. I like ones that have a zip front and closures around the wrists to keep out the wind. If you are feeling cold add a fleece or sweater underneath. For more: Packing page.