Are you looking to take a quided tour or are you doing a self-drive?

Not every tour company offers the same things. It is always good to take a look at a few companies and make sure that they are going to give you what you want.  If in reading over the itineraries, you find yourself saying things like.. "well that will do" or "We only get X amount of time here", keep looking. As you said, it is a lot of money that you are spending. Make sure you are going to be happy not just settled.

I haven't worked with Collette.  I do have some Ireland based tour companies that I do recommend. They will take you to things off the tour bus route.

If you are looking to drive yourself, work out your own itinerary, book car rental and lodgings yourself. That is where this forum comes in handy. We can help you tweak your plans until you are a happy camper.

 

 

 

 

If you would consider driving, I think you would have a better opportunity to experience Ireland in a meaningful way.

Geno

Most of us here take a DIY approach to visiting Ireland. I have never taken a tour but I have had feedback from others who have.

All tour companies will have positive and negative reviews. A lot of the experience depends on the guide/driver and his/her personality. When analyzing a tour you need to look at what is included. You also have to understand the "lingo". If the description says "see" or take a photo of XYZ it probably means you will not be touring that site. Instead you will get a quick look at it as you drive by.

Look at:

Pacing
Accommodations
Sightseeing you actually tour and if the admission price is included
How many meals are included

Ask a lot of questions in advance. See how their customer service responds. If you are booking directly with the tour company you should know that they pay a commission to travel agents. When booking directly ask for a discount. 10% is realistic. If using a travel agent sometimes they will give you 5% off. If you are traveling off-season ask them if they can cancel the tour if it does not fill up. That could leave you scrambling at the last moment if it happens (and it sometimes does). Buy trip insurance.

I have heard good feedback on:

CIE Tours
Globus Tours
Driftwood/Vagabond Tours
Paddywagon Tours

Of course everyone is different, but I have relished my solo trips. Nobody to answer to but meself, nobody to please but meself, pure bliss!  Especially in Ireland, where most everyone is friendly and helpful, solo traveling is not at all scary.

That being said, if it is a tour you are wanting, please take a look at these companies:

Exploring Ireland

Cultural Heritage Tours

and, a US based company:

Inroads Ireland