2nd trip questions

Richard · Member

2nd trip questions

Michele Erdvig · Host

Richard,

Welcome to the forum. I have done it both ways and I don't think it matters where you start. You will still be covering the same territory. If you plan on staying a couple of days in Dublin you might want to do it at the start of your trip. Then you could get your car and head north. If you don't want any time in Dublin, I would suggest starting in Shannon and then just spend your last night near Dublin Airport north of the city.

June or September would be good months for traveling to Ireland. However, the farther you get into June the busier it gets with other tourists. Usually by mid-September the airfares go down and the tourists thin out.

Two weeks sounds perfect.

Michele

yesiree · Guru

There's a tiny benefit to starting in Shannon and heading in a clockwise direction...you'll be on the left side of the road...ten feet closer to the coast and the coastal views.

This would not be a factor I would base an itinerary on, but there might be a few scenic turnouts that will be easier to get in and out, and your passenger will get to press their nose against the window looking for scenes worth pulling of the road to enjoy.

Richard · Member

Thank you for the prompt replies.

Are there any negatives to going in September,weather,holidays,or seasonal closings?

-- Edited by Richard at 15:20, 2007-01-09

Michele Erdvig · Host

Richard,

In June there is a long bank holiday weekend: June 1 to 4.

In September there are none. However, in Northern Ireland some (not all) historic houses or gardens cut back their hours to weekends.

Michele

Richard · Member

Michele

I think we could work around that. My wife would really prefer September so it looks like a go.

I will nail her down on dates and let you know for itinerary.

I Guess with the later trip would you put our order in for a copy of the new guide in March?

Thanks,Dick & Linda

Michele Erdvig · Host

Dick,

I always enjoy September in Ireland. The tourist season starts winding down then. I will put you on my "wait list" for the book. Let me know when you have your dates.

Michele

Richard · Member

Michele,

Will do, are there preferable travel days? weekdays as opposed to weekends? We have to be home labor day weekend for grandsons birthday but after that we should be ready anytime.

We will probably be flying out of Boston

Michele Erdvig · Host

Dick,

When searching for your airfares (since you are flexible) do a search to see which days (if any) are cheaper. It may depend on the airline and if they have any specials. Otherwise, just choose what is most convenient for you.

Michele

shashie50 · Veteran Member

If you do plan to spend any time in Dublin, I have found rates to be less expensive and rooms to be much quieter on weeknights.

We had good luck with weather this year in October, but I think September would be wonderful. Have fun!

Marsha

Richard · Member

Thanks Michele & Marsha,

When should I be shopping for fares? is it too early now?

Michele,I will try to set dates with my wife over the weekend and forward them to you.

"Let the planning begin" Our first trip I had a ball planning & making reservations and now that I`m retired I`m really looking forward to the task.

Thanks to all for your help. Dick

CowboyCraic · Guru

Richard,

There is no harm in starting to check now. The earlier you book, the better fares you can find. Aer Lingus usually has some great fares, especially if your dates are sort of flexible. I also would recommend the arrival in Shannon and a clockwise route up the coast and into Dublin. Its no good if only the passenger gets to "OoH" & "ahhhh" over the scenery.

You will love September in Ireland. Things start to slow down, crowd wise.

Have fun planning and enjoy your adventures!

Slan Agus Beannacht,

Bit Devine

Cowboy Craic

Michele Erdvig · Host

Dick,

I suggest you moniter the fares and also sign up for airline newsletters. They will alert you of any specials right away. Also find out if the fares go down if you can change to the lower fare without penalty.

Michele