My only trip to Ireland was in the summer of 1997 and I vowed to return. It has taken a while but the return trip is in the planning stages. Our travel dates are Sept. 30 through October 11. We will leave for home on October 12. In '97 we booked our B&B's, as we went along and had no trouble finding places to stay. Is it necessary to book far in advance of our travel or are we safe to find lodging as we go. Three adults traveling -my spouse, daughter, and me.
Welcome to the forum. Glad to hear you are returning to Ireland again after such a long time. At the time of year you are traveling you are fine with finding B&Bs as you go. Generally, we recommend booking your first and last night simply because you know where you need to be then. Also, arriving with jet-lag and having to search is not fun. Otherwise just "wing it".
Be sure to take a look at my Lodgings Page for some recommendations on lodgings.
Let us know if you have any other questions as you begin your planning.
Thank you for your quick reply and it does put my mind at ease a bit. The plans revolve around a family wedding in Westport, County Mayo and trying to squeeze in a visit with some second cousins who are also the parents of the groom. They live near Gortahork in Donegal. I do want to show my daughter her ancestral home near Gortahork-still standing!
I have put together a couple of itineraries and may come back with questions about what to keep and what to save for the next time. I will be sure to check out your lodgings page.
You are likely to hear from me again. Thank you! Mary
Since you are attending a wedding you should definitely have reservations for those nights. Irish weddings last long into the night so be prepared to pace yourself.