July

boomer · Veteran Member

July

Michele Erdvig · Host

boomer,

Tourism to Ireland is down this year. There will be more tourists in July than in September. I suppose it depends on where you plan to drive and on which roads. Some roads are virtually empty while others are busy.

Only 1% of Europeans are traveling to Ireland this year because they will probably head for sunny climes instead.

Michele

boomer · Veteran Member

Hi Thank you so much.

I have decided to fly out of Shannon. We are debating July or early Sept.

My husband is a little concerned about driving a stick on the other side of the road.

Car rentals for automatics are about $200 more per week.

Did you ever rent an automatic? Do they have diesels?

You had mentioned that Shannon was easier to navigate.

We will be spending most of our time in the West and South area. If time permits going to Northern Ireland.

How many weeks would you suggest?

Marie · Guru

Hi "Boomer":

I rent an automatic in Ireland. It is just easier...too much to think about with a manual and the other side of the road, other side of the car in a strange country thing. That said, many have told me that it is really not that different once you are on the road for a day or so....Yes, it's expensive. My rental through Kemwel was $250.00 for 4 days.

The gas is extremely expensive over there. But since the emissions regulations are not as strict and since you don't tend to drive as fast as here at home, it's not TOO painful. hmm

I found some of the roads in the west to be fabulous! I think there must have been improvements since I was there in 2007. Really good roads to be found from Castlebar to Donegal.

Have a great trip whenever you decide to go!

boomer · Veteran Member

Thanks so much.

We are still deciding if and when we will be going this year. The airfares right now are really high- so i am just waiting to see what happens.

Michele Erdvig · Host

boomer,

Diesels are available in Ireland and provide excellent mileage but usually they are manuals. Automatics always cost more (there are fewer of them) but it can make driving easier. You have to decide whether price or convenience is more important to you.

I am of the opinion that if you are paying for airfare and traveling thousands of miles, you might as well stay as long as you can (vacation time and money will determine that).

Shannon is always easier than Dublin. I just flew into and out of Shannon. Piece of cake! If you are not interested in seeing Dublin, then try for Shannon Airport.

Michele

boomer · Veteran Member

Hi Thank you so much. We are still not sure whether to go in late July or Sept. I realize that early Sept will have less crowds but weather- perhaps not as good.

What type of car did you rent and which rental? I will probably go with Hertz because i am a gold member and they give me an upgrade.

What is your opinion of the Ring of Kerry- some of the reviews on Trip Advisor were not so great. They said that the Berrea pennisula and parts of Northern Ireland were nicer. I realize that it is an opinion.