Traveling in Ireland Podcast Archives - Ireland Family Vacations

Planning to rent a car and explore Ireland’s cities? While having your own transportation gives you flexibility, parking in cities like Dublin, Galway, or Belfast can be frustrating—unless you plan ahead.

This quick guide (and the video below!) will help you avoid stress and find the best place to park, whether you’re staying overnight or just passing through.

to renting a car & driving
in Ireland

Before arriving in any city, open Google Maps (or your favorite mapping app) and search for “parking” near where you’ll be staying or visiting. Look at reviews, see if locations are open 24/7, and check if there’s a booking option.

Many hotels offer discounted parking rates in nearby garages. You’ll usually find this information on their website under directions or parking. And don’t forget to ask the front desk about ticket validation when you check in.

Self-catering listings will often include a note about street parking or local lots, but you can always reach out to your host to confirm. They’ll know the best nearby options and can tell you if parking is limited during busy times or events.

If you’re using on-street parking, look for pay-and-display signs. You’ll pay at a nearby kiosk or via a mobile app and leave the printed slip on your dashboard. These spots are common in city centers and near popular attractions.

You can also find this information on the Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 269.

The post Parking in Irish Cities: What You Need to Know Before You Drive In appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you've ever longed for a corner of Ireland that feels untouched, authentic, and refreshingly uncrowded, set your sights on the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare.

Tucked away from the tourist-heavy paths of the Wild Atlantic Way, Loop Head offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and heartfelt hospitality that rewards those who take the time to explore.

This article is based on podcast episode 268 featuring Carmel Hough, co-owner of Emerald Irish Tours.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Kilkee acts as the gateway to this often-overlooked region. A charming Victorian seaside town, Kilkee offers a great starting point with its cliff walk, cozy accommodations, and excellent food. From here, the road leads west into some of the most jaw-dropping scenery County Clare has to offer.

Whether you're driving, walking, or hiring an e-bike from Loop Head E-Bikes, the route hugs rugged cliffs and peaceful countryside roads. The absence of tour buses makes the experience even more immersive, giving visitors a glimpse of an Ireland most travelers miss.

Outdoor lovers are spoiled for choice. There’s the cliff walk in Kilkee, a beautiful loop that takes you right along the Atlantic edge. For something more adventurous, head out with Nevsail for paddleboarding, kayaking, or surfing. Fishing excursions are available with local guides like Sean Maguire and Luke Aston, while horseback rides and walking tours give different perspectives of the land.

If you’re more into slow travel, a picnic, a pint, or a meandering cycle will do just fine. Small towns along the way offer cafes, galleries, and friendly faces happy to share local stories. It’s also the perfect region for sea views and solitude, whether you're on two wheels or four.

Doolin is a Terrific Base for Exploring Loop Head Peninsula!

One of the most emotionally powerful stops is the Church of the Little Ark near the peninsula’s tip. Born from the hardships of Ireland’s Penal Laws in the 1850s, this small structure tells a massive story. At a time when Catholicism was banned and Irish culture was under siege, locals wheeled a tiny wooden ‘ark’ to the foreshore—no man’s land between high and low tide—to hold Mass without persecution.

Today, the preserved ark rests in a quiet room of the Church of the Little Ark, a poignant reminder of resistance and resilience. The Harry Clarke stained glass window above the door captures the ark’s legacy, illuminating a powerful chapter of Irish history.

The Loop Head Lighthouse Experience

A visit to the Loop Head Lighthouse is a must when exploring the peninsula. One of the few lighthouses in Ireland open to the public, you can climb to the top and walk out onto the balcony—if the wind doesn’t blow you away first!

The 360-degree views span the Shannon Estuary to the left and the vast Atlantic Ocean to the right. It’s also a prime dolphin-watching spot and one of the filming locations for Star Wars (though that’s been kept fairly quiet).

Near the lighthouse, don’t miss the WWII-era “EIRE 43” sign—huge white letters made from stone, signaling Ireland’s neutral status to airborne pilots. These signs were part of a subtle yet critical aid to Allied navigation, reminding us how even the quietest places have stories to tell.

If you’re looking to explore with expert guidance, Emerald Irish Tours—run by sisters Carmel and Martina Haugh—offers private driver-guided experiences tailored to your interests. Whether you’re into food, folklore, family heritage, or simply soaking up the scenery, they’ll help you build a custom itinerary and see Ireland beyond the brochure.

They don’t just offer driver guides; they connect you to local stories, suggest authentic stops, and offer the kind of honest advice that only comes from living and guiding in the region. Their Mercedes V-Class vehicles offer comfort, while their insights provide depth. Want to spend a night in a castle? Meet a local artist? Find the best place for a seaweed bath? They’ve got you covered.

Contact Emerald Irish Tours

Website – email: [email protected] – Facebook – Instagram

Loop Head isn’t a quick detour—it’s a destination worth your time.

Plan to stay locally for a couple nights to really soak it in.

Start in Kilkee, hike the cliffs, climb the lighthouse, stand in the Church of the Little Ark, and treat yourself to dinner at the Long Dock or a pint at Keating’s near the sea.

For travelers who value authenticity, history, and natural beauty without the tour bus crowds, Loop Head Peninsula is calling. Just don’t try to rush it—this is the kind of place that reveals itself slowly, and that’s exactly the point.

The post Discovering Loop Head Peninsula: Ireland’s Rugged Beauty Without the Crowds appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

With Ireland's tourism numbers increasing annually it's understandable that many travelers are looking outside the busy summer months to plan their vacation.

In this article you'll learn Ireland travel tips for off-season vacations plus my advice on taking your children out of school to visit Ireland.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 267. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

UPDATE PODCAST LINK

Ireland travel falls into 3 distinct seasons:

High Season: the busiest time for tourism; May thru mid-to-late September

Shoulder Season: not as busy as high season, but still quite a lovely time to visit; mid-March thru April (after St. Patrick's Day) and mid-to-late September thru the end of October

Low Season: the slowest tourism period with shorter days, longer nights, and the possibility of more temperamental weather; November thru mid-March, excluding Christmas, New Year, and St. Patrick's Day

You'll find great travel deals, fewer crowds, and lively evening in the pubs. Check out Cool Facts About Ireland Winter Vacations.

Ireland is the birthplace of Halloween! Not only will you find plenty of family friendly activities at places like Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, but two terrific festivals take place for Samhain; Puca Festival in County Meath and Derry Halloween, the largest Halloween festival in Europe.

Christmas markets are a great reason to travel to Ireland! Markets begin in mid-November and run until just before Christmas. Most markets take place at the weekends, but be sure to check schedules as some may have bonus dates.

While my answer isn't the right one for everyone, I do believe that it is ok to take your children out of school to travel, especially when they are young. It does become more complicated as children hit upper middle school and high school.

With our connect-from-anywhere world it is easier than ever to travel during the school year, though I understand that not all schools are as flexible or as understanding as ours was.

A few tips to help you plan to take your children out of school for Ireland travel:

In December, January and February visit Dublin. Tourist attractions in Dublin don't close seasonally. And you can easily plan day trips to Wicklow, Kilkenny, and the Boyne Valley on fine days.

In fall plan to explore Connemara. The westernmost region of County Galway is especially enchanting as the days shorten.

In spring head follow a route along the Celtic Coast. Beginning in Dublin travel south through Wicklow, Wexford, and Waterford, before turning north into Tipperary and Kilkenny on your way back to Dublin.

The post Tips for Ireland Vacations in the Off-Season appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Step aboard the Jeanie Johnston in Dublin's Docklands and learn the stories of those who left Ireland for a better life across the ocean.

This article is based on podcast episode 112 featuring David Cleary, (former) Head of Sales at EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum and The Jeanie Johnston, an Irish Famine Story.
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

If you've been listening to the podcast a fair amount of time you've heard about EPIC in podcast episode 31. 

Since its opening in 2016 EPIC has been named the top visitor attraction in Europe 3 years in a row (2019, 20, 21). It's an astounding experience and one I think every visitor to Dublin should make time for (2 hours at the minimum).

Jeanie Johnston is an authentic replica of an Irish-owned famine ship that sailed from Dublin during some of the worst years in Irish history, 1845 thru 1852 – the Irish potato famine.

The ship is located on the harbour in the River Liffey, directly across from EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum.

The Jeanie Johnston stands out above other so-named ‘coffin ships' as it had a reputation for looking after its passengers. The ship was not overloaded and even had a qualified medical doctor on board. In all its 16 transatlantic voyages not one person perished.

Conditions on the ship were cramped, but passengers were provided with daily rations and a bit of time on deck each day for fresh air.

When you tour the Jeanie Johnston you will hear the stories of the passengers. You will learn why they left Ireland, where they left from, what life was like onboard the ship, and even their experiences after arriving in North America.

Climbing belowdecks of the Jeanie Johnston is an emotional experience. You can easily put yourself in the shoes of the people fleeing Ireland. The feelings of worry, fear, and hopelessness surround you in the dark, cramped space.

Above decks you'll have beautiful views of the Dublin skyline, as well as the Samuel Beckett Bridge, a cable bridge inspired by the Irish harp.

40+ attractions & activities – including the Jeanie Johnston & EPIC

The Docklands Area, in the center of the city, is built around the docks and Port of Dublin. In the past few years the area has changed. It used to be filled with warehouses and industrial buildings. Now new buildings housing technology companies sit next to historical sites. Pubs and restaurants fill the area and it's a really vibrant place to explore.

The Docklands are a 10 minute walk from O'Connell Street. Walking along the river allows you to feel the history of Dublin while seeing the future of the city.

The Famine Sculptures in the Docklands stand at the end of the National Famine Way. The 165 km walk begins at Strokestown House in County Roscommon and recreates the route of 1490 emigrants that were evicted from Strokestown Estate during the famine.

Learn more about the National Famine Museum, Strokestown House and the National Famine Way.

Within EPIC you can visit the Irish Family History Centre. You can learn more about your own family history by booking genealogy services, in person or virtually.

Learn more in my chat with historian and genealogist Declan Bready in podcast episode 88.

Book tickets at JeanieJohnston.ie or combo tickets with EPIC at EPICchq.com

Both the Jeanie Johnston and EPIC are included in the Dublin Pass.

Just walk around the city. Dublin is a small, compact city and you can walk everywhere. It is truly like walking through history. Let the sights, sounds, and vibrancy of the city surround you.

Enjoy the local pubs and restaurants. As you stroll follow your gut. If you like the look of a place go in. Bonus: restaurants post their menus outside so you can see what's on offer. Check out the Long Hall pub.

Visit Phoenix Park. Take the Luas (surface level light rail) and explore. Dublin Zoo is located here and there is also a heard of deer.

Take the train (DART) to Howth. It's a beautiful fishing village. Enjoy the walk around the peninsula and reward yourself with fish & chips.

The post The Jeanie Johnston Famine Ship in Dublin appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Planning your Ireland vacation is a smart way to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

While the idea of “winging it” might sound tempting, today’s travel landscape in Ireland is a bit different from what it used to be. With more visitors, limited accommodations, and higher demand for attractions, a little planning goes a long way.

Here’s a look at the key things to pay attention to when planning your Ireland itinerary—accommodations, transportation, and attractions—so you can focus on the fun while the essentials are sorted.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 266. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “failure to plan is planning to fail.” While it might sound a bit intense, there’s some truth to it. Sure, the idea of showing up and figuring things out as you go seems like a great way to travel, but the reality is, Ireland can be a lot busier than you might expect, especially during the high season. It’s no longer as easy to just show up and find a place to stay.

All the tips you need – IN ORDER – to plan your dream vacation to Ireland

If you’re flying in from North America or elsewhere, having your first and last nights booked in advance is a good idea. This way, you won’t have to scramble for accommodations right when you arrive or deal with the stress of finding a place to stay on your last night—especially if your departure is early in the morning.

Accommodation availability in Ireland can be a bit tricky these days. The number of bed and breakfasts has dropped, and popular accommodations like castles or manor houses can be hard to book last-minute. If you have your heart set on staying in a certain place or a special kind of accommodation, it’s best to plan ahead—sometimes as much as a year in advance.

During peak times (late May to September), it’s even more important to book early, especially in busy areas like Dublin, Galway, Killarney, and Doolin. Even if you're feeling spontaneous, it’s a good idea to at least check availability ahead of time to avoid the possibility of ending up far from the action, or in a place without the amenities you were hoping for.

When it comes to transportation in Ireland, renting a car is one of the most popular options for exploring the country.

While rental cars are generally available, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Manual transmissions are the standard in Ireland, so if you need an automatic, it’s strongly recommended to reserve ahead of time. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a larger group or need a vehicle that fits all your luggage, book early to ensure you get the right size.

Vehicles with eight or nine passenger seats are especially hard to find and typically only available at Dublin Airport. If you need one of these larger cars, don’t leave it to chance—secure it well in advance.

Even if you're using public transportation like trains or buses, booking tickets ahead of time is a good idea, especially if you're traveling with a group or during a busy bank holiday weekend. These services can fill up quickly, leaving you with fewer options if you're not prepared.

As for attractions, some of Ireland’s most iconic spots require advance reservations, particularly during peak season. The Book of Kells, Kilmainham Gaol, and Newgrange are some of the most popular, and you’ll want to book tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Similarly, attractions like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Titanic Belfast often require pre-booking, especially if you plan to visit during busy months.

For unique experiences, such as afternoon tea or certain guided tours, it's always best to reserve in advance. These activities can fill up quickly, and many require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice to ensure everything is prepared for your visit.

While it’s important to lock in your accommodations, transportation, and major attractions, you don’t have to plan every single detail of your trip. Ireland still offers plenty of opportunities for spontaneous exploration. Once you have the essentials sorted, you’ll have the freedom to venture off the beaten path, try new activities, and shift your plans if something else catches your eye.

The key is finding the right balance—secure the main components of your trip and leave room for flexibility. If you’re visiting during the off-season (late September through October or after St. Patrick’s Day through April), it’s a little easier to “wing it,” though be aware that last-minute bookings may be pricier due to availability.

In the end, how much you plan depends on your travel style and the time of year you’re visiting. During peak season, a little preparation is a great way to avoid missing out on your first-choice accommodations or activities. But if you’re traveling during the off-season, you can certainly embrace more spontaneity.

The bottom line? Your Ireland vacation can be the perfect blend of thoughtful planning and flexibility. By taking care of the big-ticket items—like accommodations, transportation, and must-visit attractions—you’ll ensure that your trip goes smoothly, with plenty of room for spontaneous adventures as you explore this beautiful country.

The post Why ‘Winging It’ Might Not Be the Best Plan for Your Ireland Vacation appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you're flying to Ireland from North America, chances are you're looking at round-trip tickets into and out of Dublin. It's the most popular route for good reason—direct flights, solid availability, and yes, it’s usually cheaper.

But if your Irish adventure follows a classic path—landing in Dublin, heading down to Killarney or Dingle, touring the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula, and working your way up the west coast toward the Cliffs of Moher and Galway—there’s another way to plan your flights.

Here’s a pro tip: fly into Dublin, but fly out of Shannon.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 265. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Shannon Airport sits on the west coast of Ireland, in a town that was essentially built around the airport. It’s ideally located if you’re wrapping up your trip in the west, and there are a few good reasons to consider it over looping all the way back to Dublin.

1. More Time to Explore the West
Sure, technically you have the same number of days in Ireland no matter how you fly. But if you’re finishing in Galway or the Burren and need to get back to Dublin for your flight, you’re looking at a three-hour drive—minimum. That’s half a touring day lost to driving a motorway with few worthwhile stops unless you go out of your way. If you fly out of Shannon instead, you could spend that time enjoying more of Ireland’s west coast instead of rushing to get to your gate.

2. A Far More Relaxed Departure
Dublin Airport is busy. Very busy. You’re told to arrive three hours ahead of your flight, and while sometimes you might breeze through in under an hour, other times you won’t. A random security check, a baggage issue, or just plain volume can all throw a wrench in your departure. It’s crowded, chaotic, and kind of stressful.

Shannon Airport, by contrast, is a dream. It’s small, quiet, and efficient. One time, I got from the rental car drop-off to my gate—via security and U.S. customs—in 27 minutes. I don’t recommend cutting it that close, but even with a 90-minute to two-hour cushion, it’s a much smoother experience. Fewer people, shorter lines, and far less tension.

Frequently asked Ireland travel questions – and the answers you seek!

Of course, there’s a tradeoff. Flying into Dublin and out of Shannon (known as a multi-city ticket) is often more expensive. And depending on when you’re traveling—especially late fall or winter—it may not even be available, as airlines sometimes cut the Shannon route due to low demand.

So, is it worth it? That depends on a few things:
– What could you do with the time you'd save by not driving back to Dublin? If you’d rather spend it exploring a quiet village, hiking a cliffside trail, or lingering over a pint in a cozy pub, that might be worth something to you.
– What are you paying to stay near Dublin Airport vs. the west coast? Accommodations near Dublin often cost more—sometimes €150–€200 more per night—than a similar stay in the west.

For me, if the flight out of Shannon costs no more than $200 more per person than a round-trip out of Dublin, it’s worth it. The extra time on the ground and the calm departure experience balance out the added cost. Of course, your priorities and budget may differ.

The post Arrive in Dublin, Depart from Shannon: Why to Consider this Itinerary Tweak appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

The drive from Dublin to Killarney is one of the most popular point-to-point routes in Ireland. It takes about four hours if you're going straight through—but where’s the fun in that? These routes offer plenty of chances to turn the journey into a full day of exploration, with castles, gardens, and charming towns along the way.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 264. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

When planning your drive, most navigation apps will show you two main options: the M7, which routes through Limerick, and the M8, which takes you through Tipperary. Both are roughly equal in drive time, but the stops you choose will shape the experience. Here’s a breakdown of each route with recommended stops along the way.

This route offers a great balance of history, scenery, and charming towns. Perfect if you’ve got a bit of flexibility in your schedule.

Stop 1: Irish National Stud & Gardens – Kildare

This is a gem for both horse lovers and garden enthusiasts. The stud farm trains some of Ireland’s top racehorses, but even if horses aren’t your thing, the gardens are worth the visit. The Japanese Gardens, in particular, are beautifully designed to represent the journey of life, while the Irish garden has its own quiet charm. Give yourself at least two hours here to really enjoy it.

Learn more about visiting the Irish National Stud & Gardens

Stop 2: Rock of Dunamase – County Laois

An atmospheric castle ruin with panoramic views over the countryside. There’s no visitor center or ticket booth—just wide open access to explore a site that once had serious strategic importance. It's rugged, raw, and peaceful. A perfect quick stop for history and photo ops.

Stop 3: King John’s Castle – Limerick City

This beautifully restored Norman castle sits right on the River Shannon and is one of the most visitor-friendly castles in Ireland. Expect hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. Plan to spend 90 minutes to two hours here.

Optional Stops:

– Lough Gur – South of Limerick, this site offers Ireland’s largest stone circle and a rich archaeological history.
– Adare Village – Often dubbed one of Ireland’s prettiest villages, Adare is full of thatched cottages and small-town charm. Ideal for a short walk and a meal.

Choose Your Adventure Here

This route is packed with historical highlights and dramatic ruins, perfect for travelers who want to dive into Ireland’s medieval past.

Optional Early Stop: Rock of Dunamase

If you missed it on the M7 route, you can still swing by here—it’s not far from the M8 and makes for a great early stop.

Stop 1: Rock of Cashel – County Tipperary

One of the most iconic sites in Ireland. Perched on a limestone outcrop, the Rock of Cashel features medieval buildings, a stunning cathedral, and deep ties to Irish legend—St. Patrick is said to have preached here. Don’t miss the guided tour, and if you’ve got extra time, walk down to Hore Abbey, a beautiful ruined monastery nearby. Give this stop at least two hours.

Learn more about visiting the Rock of Cashel

Stop 2 Option 1: Cahir Castle – County Tipperary

This is one of the most complete and impressive Norman castles in Ireland. Explore its towers, dungeons, and battlements—it's incredibly atmospheric. Across the road, The River House café makes excellent sandwiches. You can picnic in the riverside park just behind the castle. Total time: about 90 minutes.

Learn more about visiting Cahir Castle

Stop 2 Option 2: Blarney Castle – County Cork

If kissing the Blarney Stone is on your list, this is the place. But be warned: the climb to the top can involve long waits (up to 45 minutes), especially in summer. The castle grounds are extensive and beautifully maintained, so even if the stone isn’t a must for you, the gardens alone are worth exploring. Allow 2.5 hours minimum.

Learn more about visiting Blarney Castle & Gardens

These are fantastic places, but they’re better suited to their own dedicated day trips rather than trying to squeeze them into the drive to Killarney.

– Wicklow (including Powerscourt and Glendalough) is a full-day experience from Dublin. Including it on your Killarney travel day would mean skipping some of the great stops in Tipperary or Limerick.
– Kilkenny city is slightly more manageable, but most tours only spend two hours there—just enough time to see the castle and grab lunch. This city deserves more time to explore the Medieval Mile and soak in the atmosphere. If you want to really experience Kilkenny, consider staying overnight or planning a separate day.

Whether you choose the Limerick route or the Tipperary one, you’re in for a memorable day. This isn’t just a drive—it’s a chance to experience Ireland’s history, landscape, and culture at a relaxed pace. Whichever path you choose, take your time and enjoy the journey.

The post Driving from Dublin to Killarney: Two Scenic Routes, One Incredible Day appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

County Laois (pronounced leash) may not be on your radar when planning your Ireland itinerary, but if you are traveling between Dublin and Kilkenny, Cork, Kerry, or Clare, you're likely to pass through this often overlooked county.

Ready to start planning your Ireland vacation?
Begin at the beginning and follow my expert step-by-step tips!
Bookmark this free guide to plan your dream vacation to Ireland.

This article is based on the Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 149, featuring Aubrey Hutchinson, owner of Abbeyleix Chauffeur Services.
Continue reading the article or get the links below the podcast player.

County Laois is officially part of Ireland's Ancient East, the most midland county of Ireland, midway between Dublin and Shannon.

The Rock of Dunamase – A huge rock outcropping topped by castle ruins that date back to the 12th century. This is an ‘open' OPW managed site. No visitors centre, no tickets. One of my very favorite spots to take my tours.

Emo Court – Another OPW managed site, this was once the largest country estate in Ireland. The extensive parklands and gardens are a wonderful place to spend an afternoon, followed by tea in the former dower house.

Slieve Bloom Mountains – Wonderful hiking and mountain bike trails. The waterfall loop is a 4.5 km hike perfect for a morning or afternoon outing.

Ballykilcavan Farm & Brewery -13 generation farm that grows barley and brews a variety of beers,. Brewery tours are available on select dates.

Timahoe Village – Home to a magnificent round tower, the monastic settlement was raided in 919 by Vikings. Unless you visit during the annual Timahoe Heritage Festival you may have the tower and heritage centre to yourself.

Abbeyleix – a lovely heritage town that used to be on the main road between Dublin and Cork before it was bypassed by the motorway.

Aubrey Hutchinson, owner of Abbeyleix Chauffeur Services is one of my recommended private drivers in Ireland.

Based in Abbeyleix, Aubrey is perfectly located to provide day tours from Dublin, but also offers private guided tours across the whole of Ireland.

Fully licensed and insured, Abbeyleix Chauffeur Service operates as a customer led model and can work from your own planned itinerary or help you create a tour to fit your vacation goals.

Contact Aubrey via the Abbeyleix Chauffeur Services website, connect on Facebook, or check them out on Instagram.

Read More: Ireland's Most Visited Heritage Sites

Morrissey's Pub in Abbeyleix – traditional, authentic Irish pub experience

The Rock of Dunamase

Emo Court

The post Lovely Laois appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Booking flights can be a nerve-wracking game of ‘now or later.’ That anxiety often leads to early clicks — and higher prices.

I use a simple flight monitoring process to take the edge off (outlined here), but timing – and a bit of patience – plays a crucial role. So, can you book flights too early? Let’s break that down.

While tracking flight prices can help you predict what may happen, it is not a fool proof indicator of what flight prices may do.

Airlines use dynamic pricing algorithms to adjust prices based on demand, competition for other airlines, and market conditions. Due to these constant changes, booking too early can result in paying higher prices for flights than if you had waited.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 263. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

1. Airline tickets are released in phases.
   The first batch of tickets are released 10-12 months prior to the flight, targeting business travelers and those willing to pay extra to secure a seat early. Each bath of tickets that follows has a different pricing tier that is based on how well the route is selling and the seats that remain available.

There is no exact perfect time to book a flight to Ireland, though experts say the best time to book an international flight is 2-6 months in advance.

I begin monitoring my flight routes when I decide on my travel dates and note them in my planning documents. I usually find the best prices from my airport (Chicago on Aer Lingus) between 6 – 8 weeks prior to departure.

Get my insight here!

The post Can You Book Flights too Early? appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

I am thrilled to welcome author Felicity Hayes-McCoy back to the podcast. It wasn't that long ago when Felicity first joined me on the podcast to talk about her book The Library at the Edge of the World, her first book to publish in the US.

Felicity lives at the very end of the Dingle Peninsula, a Gealtacht, or Irish speaking, area where many old traditions are still a way of daily life.

Felicity's books House on an Irish Hillside and Enough is Plenty have deep ties into traditions and customs of Ireland.

Find Felicity's Books on Amazon – Connect with Felicity on Facebook.

While St. Patrick is known as the Patron Saint of Ireland, St. Brigid (Bridget) is on par with, and actually an ‘older' saint.

St. Brigid is celebrated on the eve of February 1. The St. Bridget's Cross is still a popular tradition to be made- and a very popular Irish souvenir.

You'll find ‘Pattern Days' across Ireland for different Saints of each region.

Not all Holy Wells look like charming stone wells with wee buckets. Find a very complete list of Holy Wells in Ireland on this site.

A lone tree or bush has traditionally been associated with the fairies, spirits, gods, or ‘otherworldly' people.

You will see this in other cultures, too. Tibetan prayer flags or American Indian prayer trees, for example. Or like lighting a candle when you pray.

Certain parts of the landscape where it is possible to reach through to a supernatural dimension more easily than in other places.

Sacred places; places that bring you closer to something outside yourself, places that are both revered and feared.

Irish fairies are not like English fairies. Irish fairies are spirits that are often times dangerous.

Farmers would intentionally work around fairy mounds, which is why Ireland has such amazing archaeological sites today.

In fact, you'll still find that today when roadways are built!

Imbolc- the spring season, immediately follows St. Brigid's Day

Beltane- May eve, May Day

Lughnasa- the arrival of autumn

Samhain- now known as Halloween. A thin time when the world is entering darkness.

Rituals at turning points of the season with dancing and bonfires.

Also known as Woman's Christmas is celebrated on January 6th, the traditional '12th day of Christmas'. It's a day when women leave their houses (ideally the men take over) and have their own celebration.

Most people have heard of Newgrange, the large portal tomb that is aligned with the winter solstice.

Stone circles are fascinating because we can only guess by where and how they are placed what they might have been used for.

We know these were special places, partly because they would have taken so much effort to build.

Lough Gur and the Grange Stone Circle in County Limerick

Loughcrew portal tomb in County Meath

Ogham stones, carved with early writing. Learn more at the Ogham in 3D project.

Sheela-na-gig are ancient carvings of a woman, often a grotesque, believed to portray a woman's ‘triple aspect' of maiden, mother and crone.

Ask your hosts. B&Bs whose owners have lived in the area their entire lives are going to have personal experiences and information to share.

Look at place names on a map, oftentimes those will hold clues.
The map I use and recommend for traveling in Ireland

Irish You Will See on Road Signs

Visit the Irish Museum of Country Life in Castlebar, County Mayo

The post Old Irish Traditions That Survive in Modern Ireland with Felicity Hayes-McCoy appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.