After much study and stewing, I have arrived at very tentative schedule for my first trip. As I do not like to drive and much prefer looking out the window while someone else drives, I am only renting a car the last couple of days and using well-researched (I hope) public transport the rest. I have checked Michelle's book for B and B recommendations. My main need is quiet as I am a light sleep, a clean room with bath and a good breakfast. Of course, extras as nice if I can afford them!
So here goes. Tell me what you think. And thank you so much!
May 22 - Arrive in Shannon at 6 a.m. Take the 7:55 bus to Galway. arrive at 9:45 and find a cab to a quiet B and B. (I would love your suggestions as to a quiet, out of the crowd B and B, perhaps in Salthill?, that is not exorbitant in price.) That same day I'm hoping to arrive in time to take the 11:30 Galway Tours to the Cliffs of Moher/Burren even though I know we'll be tired. Our time is so short, we're going to push through if we can.
May 23. Galway Tours to Connemara and another night in Galway area. Perhaps if we aren't exhausted, we might take in the Trad on the Prom dinner and show at the Galway Hotel. I LOVE Irish dance. LOVE IT!
May 24 Take the 9 a.m bus to Kilarney. Check into quiet B and B and see some of the sites, perhaps a jaunty through the Kilarney N. P.
May 25 - More of Kilarney, Ross Castle or a Dingle Tour.
May 26, Bus to Cork. Rent a car and be faery lead. Perhaps see Blarney Castle or drive to Rock of Cashel. We'll just wander this day and get off the beaten path. Unsure of B and B stay this night. Might drive to nearby Blackwater Castle Hotel this night since it is within my price range and my daughter longs to stay one night in a castle. But we're open to suggestions as to sites and lodging, especially if there are castle-type stays you know of that aren't too pricey.
May 27 - Drive to Adare for a brief stop and then on the Bunratty. Tour the castle and whatever else is there. Spend night in Bunratty.
May 28 - Return car to Shannon Airport and fly home to U.S.
You might also take a look at St Martin's in Galway. I enjoy staying there. It is a short walk to city centre, pubs and the sort. However, it is in a quiet area, has its own garden and borders the River.
Mary doesn't have a website but you can either call her or email her, tel. 091-568286, e-mail: stmartins@gmail.com, to check for availability.
CowboyCraic, can you give me a general idea of St. Martin's price? I really want out of city centers even if it means paying a cab. If I don't sleep well, I'm ruined. (translate that as grumpy old lady)
Sorry to hear that Mary is taking off the year... I hope that it will be just the year, mo chara. If not thenm I will haveto find a new hands down favorite
Thank you for all of these great suggestions. They all look terrific so I'm narrowing down by reading trip advisor. Marless seems to be within walking distance of lots of things, including the Trad on the Prom show I want to see. I dont even care about getting into Galway particularly but if I want to go there, I don't mind a walk either. Also, noticed on Trip Advisor that a bus into Galway is very close to Marless. At 35 Euros pp, the rates look good too. It might be the spot!
I truly appreciate the sage advice many of you so freely give. Blessings!
Anyone know anything about Coolin House B and B? It seems to be in the right location in Salthill just a few minutes walk to the Promenade and the bus runs right past. Also, the owner promises a quiet room in the back. Marliss, unfortunately is already booked. But I'm also looking at Prague House. Farther to walk to the Promenade but it is so highly recommended and Mary responded to my email so promptly and nicely... Opinions?
Booked Friar's Glen in Killarney. Very excited about that one! Now to find car rental in Killarney area for my fairy led trek....
Bob, thank you. That is perfect information and just what I need to know. Do you recommend one over the other? I know Michelle generally mentions Dooley which I will check. Thank you!!
Apparently Dan Doolin either will not open a service until 2014 or they do not have automatic transmission Vehicles in Kerry. anyone have advice on any of the other car services there at Kerry airport?
Automatic availability is often an issue. They are heavily taxed as 'Luxury' items and therefor are often in limited supply. All of the companies listed in my previous post are reputable, if you do 'Due Diligence', relative to the 'Fine Print' terms of hire. Dooley has received preferred status with many of us because of their enhanced transparency -- particularly on the issue of using a Credit Card to waive the Insurance fees.
Bob
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Bob
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