My husband and I, and his parents are planning a trip for april 2012. We will be in Ireland 14 days. I was wondering which base cities/areas would be best to stay in for 2 to 3 nights at a time while visiting the best places and must see highlights of ireland? We plan on renting a car and planning day trips, or half days, boat rides, trains? I am at the beginning stages of planning this trip for my family :) thanks for any input! I would love any advice from anyone! I have rec'd michele's ireland dream trip book and have just started looking through it!
14 days gives you quite a few options but I would recommend you concentrate on 1/2 the Island as trying to do the full Island of Ireland in under 3 weeks is a rush.
Consider which airport for Arrival and departure the Shannon in Dublin out option if possible would be an option. Then the type/class of accommodation. What are your interests and what do you and the rest of the family consider must see places. If you are planning on any family ties then do the research before you come over.
The main advice is not to try and fit too much into your Holiday. Best places and must see highlights are based on personal perception and some guidance would need to be given as to your own before others can critique the options.
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Two rules for Ireland, Take your time & bring a sense of humour
I will add my welcome to the forum too. Since you have my book, I suggest reading through it first. As you go make a "must see" list. Also take into consideration what your husband and his parents want to see. Once you do that you can start the planning. Don't worry. You have plenty of time and we are here to help.
MrsMJ: I've been to Ireland twice...and I can't get enough of County Clare! Spent some time in County Clare on both trips. County Clare has scenery, music, The Burren, the Cliffs of Moher, and lots more! Don't miss! (I recommend 4 nights in County clare for first-timers.)
Enjoy Michele's book! I've been posting my trip report in the trip reports section and have just added 2 videos of great pub music sessions onto the bottom of the report, using the reply button. (will be adding photos soon.)