My DH and I are planning a trip to Ireland May 2017. I'm concerned about crowds because of the 100 celebration and possibly having trouble booking rooms and car rental because of the celebration. How far in advance should I book rooms and car rental? We were planning on just booking the first 3 nights in Dublin and the last night before we leave and wing the rest of our time with B and B's. TIA for any advice for this trip. Wondering if I should put it off until 2018?
The Centenary is 2016 and I will be avoiding Dublin then as well at least from St Patrick's to the end of April..
As to 2017 and winging it in May. Shouldn't be a problem if you are One couple and no preconceived requirements. When to book your 1st and last nights? possibly 3 or 4 months in advance should be ample.. Get a rough itinerary together, sort out arrival and departure airports. I sometimes recommend to hit the ground running and save all the time for Dublin to the back end before departure if departing from Dublin rather than front and back end if using Dublin for arrival and departure.
Have a think about possible itineraries given however long you have on the ground. don't plan too much because Ireland is bigger on the ground than it is on a map and ask as many questions as you like.
Welcome to the forum.
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Two rules for Ireland, Take your time & bring a sense of humour
I will repeat Tony's "Welcome" and Second his advice!
As to 2016, I suspect that the busiest and most crowded months will be March/ April (St. Patrick's and Easter) plus ALL of the Summer Months -- although there will doubtless be numerous activities scheduled to 'Share the Wealth', as it were!
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Bob
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