Another itinerary question

Christy · Member

Another itinerary question

Andi · Senior Member

When I visited Ireland last year, I needed to find triple rooms. I used the website www.townandcountry.ie. You get to see a picture and get quiet a bit of info on the places. This is if you're looking for B&B, not hotel. Although you may need to inquire about the triple, at least you can do it quickly by e-mail. I found it was easier than I thought to find them, because B&B's are used to accommodating a family with a child. It's a little harder to find 3 beds than a double with a single, but I was able to do so. Be apprised though, that the price is usually per person, so you will pay more. I've never stayed in hotels, so I don't know about them.

I've been to Ireland 3 times, and also never been to the SE or SW areas. Many people think that's crazy, and I'm sure they're beautiful. But so are many areas less visited!

I don't know how you've chosen the areas you plan to visit, but if you've chosen them just because they are less visited, I can tell you that counties Mayo, Sligo and Donegal are also uncrowded and very beautiful and interesting. They are all north of Shannon airport, but adjacent to each other and therefore quicker to get to and around. If you want rural, scenic areas I think car rental is your best bet. Busses are also available, and if you plan carefully, a good option. There have been posts on here from expert bus travellers, and Michele can probably help you find them. Have a great trip!

Michele Erdvig · Host

Christy,

Welcome to the forum! Since you are traveling in July you will want to get your itinerary and room reservations made very soon. July is high season and there is a lot of competition for lodgings. Andi's recommendation of the Town & Country site is excellent. You can also take a look at my "Lodgings" page (just click on IrelandYes Index & Lodgings). My book is a good guide too since I describe the exact configurations of the rooms. Since you will need a triple family room - and there are fewer of them available - that makes it even more important to get your plans started ASAP.

You can take a train or bus from Limerick to Dublin but there are also flights. Check into that as they are not as expensive as you might think. Also check this link: http://www.buseireann.ie/site/airport_services/shannon_airport.asp

A word about renting a car in Northern Ireland and dropping it off in The Republic of Ireland: there will be a hefty drop-off fee. Check into the fee with your car rental company. To avoid the fee, rent the car in Dublin and there is usually no fee for dropping in Shannon.

That should get you started.

Michele

Christy · Member

Thank you both for your replies. Now I'm considering renting a car at Shannon airport and either braving the drive into Dublin (maybe easier Sunday midday?) or staying out west of the city on the highway in one of the sterile, new places, and taking the LUAS in to city. I know I need to make a reservation ASAP, so any advice on a hotel/B&B with parking or whether out of town would be best would be appreciated. Thanks, again.

Christy

Michele Erdvig · Host

Christy,

I highly recommend Beechwood Country House in Malahide (north Dublin suburbs). There is a link on my "Lodgings" page. You can take DART into Dublin from Malahide Village.

Michele