Traveling in Ireland Podcast Archives - Ireland Family Vacations

Choosing an Ireland vacation package seems simple enough. You find a deal you like- be it self-drive or guided- and make the purchase. Done. Ireland vacation booked and ready.

But it may not be so simple. Airline transfers, car rental, accommodations… they all play a role in the success of your vacation to Ireland.

This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 324. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

Ireland vacation deals are designed to be attractive – but what looks good at first glance may not be the vacation of your dreams.

Use the tips below to help you avoid Ireland vacation package purchase regret.

Vacation packages are often marketed as ‘all or mostly inclusive' – but there are always additional costs.

Were you attracted by the price? Cheap Ireland vacations may not be the best deal. You will be able to spot this as you break down the package.

Were you attracted by the accommodations? A bit of research into the vacation package will reveal more about your lodging.

Were you attracted by the images or description? Dig into the details and see if those places are included in the package or are just ‘suggestions'.

Keep in mind what appealed to you as you dig into the deal.

As you review the vacation package you'll easily see if it is as great a deal as it first appeared or if the tour is the right fit for you.

The post Ireland Vacation Packages: How to Tell a Great Deal from a Costly Mistake appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Dublin didn’t earn its UNESCO City of Literature designation by accident. This is a city shaped – physically, culturally, and emotionally – by writers. Their words echo through streets, pubs, libraries, and public spaces, forming part of everyday life rather than sitting quietly on a shelf.

One of the best places to understand how writers shaped Dublin – and why literature still matters here – is the Museum of Literature Ireland, known simply as MoLI.

This article is based on podcast episode 3220featuring David Cleary, CEO and Director of the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI).
Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

In Dublin, writers aren’t treated as distant historical figures. They’re part of the city’s identity. As MoLI director David Cleary explains, Irish literature captures people first – their voices, humor, contradictions, and daily lives – and that human focus is what gives Irish writing its global reach.

The rhythm and cadence of Irish writing are shaped by history, by language, and by place. Even when written in English, the influence of Irish language and speech patterns gives Irish literature a distinct flow that feels different on the page.

MoLI focuses on writers as people, not just their most famous works.

Visitors see:

A highlight for many visitors is the first printed copy of Ulysses, paired with James Joyce’s handwritten preparation notes – a reminder that even the most celebrated writers wrestled with their work.

Rather than focusing only on literary “greats,” MoLI shows the range of Irish writing:

Rotating exhibitions explore different genres and themes, reinforcing the idea that Irish literature is living, evolving, and accessible.

MoLI is housed in Newman House, a set of Georgian buildings dating to the 1730s. Writers didn’t just pass through here – they studied here.

Figures like James Joyce, Maeve Binchy, and Flann O’Brien walked these same floors. That connection between place and writing is intentional, the building itself reinforces how closely literature and location are intertwined in Dublin.

Behind the museum is MoLI’s reader’s garden, with access to the Iveagh Gardens – a quiet, green space that encourages slowing down and engaging with words rather than rushing on to the next sight.

Visit the Museum of Literature Ireland website for more information and follow on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for more inspiration.

MoLI works especially well as a flexible stop – something that adds depth to a Dublin day without feeling overwhelming.

To continue exploring Dublin through its writers, consider adding:

MoLI makes it clear that Dublin isn’t just a city with famous books – it’s a city shaped by the people who wrote them. Visiting the Museum of Literature Ireland adds context to everything else you see in Dublin, from street names to pub conversations, and helps explain why words still matter so much here.

The post Dublin – A City Shaped by Writers appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Avoid the worst Dublin crowds by planning your trip around these dates when prices will rise, accommodations will fill, and streets will be swarming with people.

Get all the tips you need to plan your Ireland vacation in 2026.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 321

The post Dublin Dates to Avoid in 2026 appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

If you're planning a trip to Ireland in 2026 these tips will make planning smoother, help you avoid crowds, and maybe even save you a bit of money.

Probably the most important tips are when NOT to be in Dublin, but there are some updates to European entry & exit systems that you need to know, as well as really important advice for 2027.

In case you're wondering why you would want to get your Ireland travel advice from me…

My name is Jody Halsted, and I am an Ireland travel advisor. I have been traveling to and through Ireland for over 23 years (!!), publish Ireland Family Vacations, host the Traveling in Ireland podcast, assist hundreds of travelers with their Ireland vacations each year and, occasionally, I also host small group tours through Ireland (I have 2 this spring so you can look forward to some live from Ireland episodes in April and May).

That's a lot! But Ireland travel is my passion; and my goal -100% – is to help you have an amazing Ireland vacation. And I have quite a few ways to do that.

My website, Ireland Family Vacations, is a complete resource for Ireland vacation planning – filled with information on what to do & see as well as handy tips for planning your trip and free itineraries to get your plans in motion quickly. (Don't let the name fool you! I travel through Ireland solo, with my husband, with my family, and hosting small group tours. Whatever your group size or dynamic I am able to assist!)

My itinerary personalization, vacation coaching, and custom itinerary creation services help you maximize your Ireland experience, and my small group guided tours are designed to not only deliver the ‘authentic' Ireland of your dreams but also introduce you to the people and hidden places that make the country so very magical.

If you love the process of planning your trip the Ireland Travel Compass walks you step-by-step through my expert process, from when to visit and how long the perfect vacation lasts, to what to see, where to stay, and even what to eat. It's basically my entire Ireland vacation planning brain laid out.

On a more personal note, I have 2 daughters, now in college, who have been traveling through Ireland with me since before they could toddle and one very supportive husband (who loves it when I plan other people's vacations because it means I'm not planning my own).

Now that you know all about me, let's jump into what you need to know as you consider planning an Ireland vacation in 2026!

This article is based on Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 320. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links.

There are currently no restrictions in place for North Americans traveling to Ireland.
Ireland travel restrictions and other requirement are found here.

Read and understand cancellation policies on everything from flights and transportation to tours and accommodations before booking.

If booking with a credit card be aware of the cancellation coverage you may have with that card.

I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance if you book tickets our tours that don't allow 100% refund if cancelled. And always if you are booking a tour package (and not necessarily the one the company offers).

Irish tourism numbers showed that tourism from Europe into Ireland was down, but numbers from North America remained steady.

From my perspective things are already looking busy, especially in the months of May, late August, and September. (The shoulder season is the new high season.)

Aer Lingus, Ireland's flagship airline is adding 2 new US routes in 2026, bringing the total to 18 routes from Dublin!
This is important because Aer Lingus is considered a ‘budget' carrier. And when budget carriers enter a market, US based airlines will drop rates to compete.

🔴 New Routes: Raleigh/ Durham (beginning April 13) and Pittsburgh beginning at the end of May.
🟢 Existing Routes: New York JFK, Boston, Chicago O'Hare, Washington Dulles, Cleveland, Hartford, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Newark, Orlando, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, Indianapolis, and Nashville.

Dublin is always busy – especially in the summer months – but busy events are beginning early this year and continuing through the end of September.

The Aer Lingus Football Classic has become an end-of-August tradition, marking the opening of the NCAA season.
2026 brings teams from Texas Christian University and the University of North Carolina into Ireland's capital.
The game is scheduled for Saturday, August 29.
The Aer Lingus Football Classic brings over 50,000 football fans to Dublin annually.
My advice: if you are not coming for the game, avoid Dublin from Thursday, August 27 – Sunday, August 30.
Prices rise, hotel rooms sell out, and the city is busier than normal.

UPDATE: The NFL commissioner announced that there will be no NFL game in Dublin in 2026 on February 2, 2026.
While the date of the NFL Week 4 Game in Dublin hasn't been announced yet, the logical assumption is that it will take place on September 27.
It's a good bet that the Steelers will again be playing – they have a 4-year partnership with Aer Lingus (hence that new 2026 route) – but nothing is confirmed yet, and won't be until the 2026 schedule is announced.
This game brough 73,000 football fans to Dublin last September, driving up prices in the city at a time when they are usually going down.
My advice: if you aren't visiting for the game avoid from Thursday, September 24 – Monday, September 28.

Something else to keep in mind is concerts. The Oasis Reunion tour and Taylor Swift shows definitely caused a rise in prices and thousands of extra people in Dublin these past years . A few tours to make sure you don't clash with in 2026:

The Dublin marathon will be run the Sunday of October Bank Holiday weekend – which falls on October 25. You can expect crowds, street closures, and accommodation to be booked out months in advance.

If you are considering travel in September 2027 you'll want to keep a few things in mind.

The first two being the college football game at the end of August and the NFL game, which is likely to be held at the end of Septemver.

But in between those will be the Ryder Cup, which will be held at Adare Manor September 17-19.

Now here's the thing – Adare is a tiny, tiny village. And, according to my friends in Ireland, accommodations there are already booked. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if locals will be spiffing up their homes and renting them out for crazy amounts of money to help provide accommodation.

We are seeing tournament packages that include accommodation and transfers from as far away as Cork and Galway, and some hotels in those cities and areas between are already sold out. Though I haven't heard specifically, I imagine accommodations in Killarney, Tralee, and Limerick city are also filling rooms, as well.

The UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) began in 2025 but, as many people noted, it was not widely enforced.
The UK government has stated that is was to ‘allow travelers time to adjust to new rules'. From February 2026 visitors can expect ETAs to be checked by transport into the UK.

This will definitely apply to ferries and flights into Northern Ireland, but if you are flying into Dublin or Shannon, it should not be an issue (even if passing through London). At this time, it is still unclear if buses that run from the Republic into Northern Ireland will be checking for compliance.

If Northern Ireland, Scotland, or England are part of your 2026 travel plans, apply for your ETA before traveling. More info in this article.

This applies only to the Schengen Region of the EU – not Ireland – but I want to mention it in case you are planning to visit another European country or two.
The new EU Entry-Exit System is causing backups as long as 3 hours at some airports. Do your research if you have another EU country in your 2026 travel plans.

Accommodations for 2026 are beginning to fill, especially for more budget friendly options like 3-star hotels and hostels. Ireland continues to host nearly 100,000 displaced people across the country, so accommodations are at a premium, especially in the cities and popular areas.
Book early – especially if traveling May – September.

You will also want to do a bit of research before booking AirBnB properties as new legislation could force many to close to help with the housing crisis. Unfortunately nothing is clear yet, but this is set to take effect at the end of May so I recommend messaging the hosts to verify that your accommodation will not be affected before booking.

If you want to try to ‘wing it' (which I definitely don't recommend during the busy season) be prepared to stay away from town centres in more rural areas.
Any ‘special' accommodations – like castles or manor houses – as well as any popular locations (Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Dingle) should always be booked in advance.

Just plug in your dates to this handy map to find available accommodations.

Book your rental car early for the best prices. Large vehicles – minivans and up – are in high demand and can get scarce and costly if you wait to book closer to your travel dates.
Use the Renting a Car & Driving in Ireland resource page to answer all the questions you have on this topic.
When you are comparing car rentals don't forget to use my exclusive link to save 10% at Irish Car Rentals.
Petrol costs in Ireland are currently USD$6.55 per gallon.

Train and bus travel was very popular last year along the main tourist routes, and I don't see that changing. Book tickets for public transportation in advance, especially if traveling with a group.

If you have a group of 6 or larger hiring a licensed driver guide may be the best money you spend. Not only will everyone comfortably fit in their touring vehicle (with plenty of room for luggage) but everyone can enjoy the journey.

You can hire drivers for the entirety of your trip, for point to point travel, or for day trips.

For groups of 12 or more plan to book early as minibuses and touring coaches are in high demand.

Hiring a Driver in Ireland 2026 Guide

Book tours and popular ‘must see' attractions (like Book of Kells, Guinness Storehouse, Kilmainham Gaol, and Newgrange) in advance to avoid disappointment.

OPW spots like Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol both offer online booking (30 days in advance for Newgrange; 28 for Kilmainham) prior to your visit. You will want to log on at that 28/30 day mark – at midnight Irish time if possible- to secure your tickets. Here's how to book tickets.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is operating on timed tickets for both the bridge and the car park and, according to the National Trust website, pre-booking is essential for rope bridge crossing. The booking window is 60 days.

If Blarney Castle is on your itinerary check to see if your planned day to visit corresponds with a day a cruise ship is in Cork or Cobh. If they match you may want to switch your date if possible or plan to arrive the minute the site opens. Here's how to figure that out.

To avoid the worst of the crowds in popular spots like the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, the Rock of Cashel, Kylemore Abbey, and similar spots try to time your visit before 10 am or in the mid-to-late afternoon (or evening if available!) to miss the majority of large tour buses.

Do your homework. Book early. And for answers to more of your Ireland travel questions visit the Frequently Asked Questions page .

The post Handy Travel Tips for Your Ireland Trip in 2026 appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

It's almost the end of 2025 – and you know what that means!

2026 trip planning is getting underway and the Ireland Travel Compass is available for presale! Learn more here and get on the presale list at IrelandFamilyVacations.com/compass

I also have so many amazing podcast episodes lined up for the new year, including

• 2026 travel tips – my annual New Year episode with up-to-date advice, plus dates you might want to avoid
• Live “from Ireland” episodes – in April & May
• Skellig Michael with archaeologist Neil Jackman
• Cliffs of Moher cliff walk updates with Ollie Gleeson
• What’s new at Westport Estate with Biddy Hughes
• Why Abbeyleix, County Laois, makes a brilliant base with Ross McDonald
• Dark Tourism in Ireland with Lusia Golz

Join me at the DIY Trip Summit January 13-15, 2026.

The DIY Trip Summit is a free 3-day event and this year's topic is ‘Europe Beyond the Crowds'.

Register at : https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/DIYTRIP

I will, of course, be sharing Ireland tips including

But you'll also hear from 30+ trusted travel pros sharing their insider knowledge about Europe beyond the crowds, as well as real-world strategies for finding better flights, stays, and experiences – without overpaying or relying on package tours.

Your completely free access includes

Free tickets include 48-hour viewing access for each session. If you want to rewatch later – or catch every presentation at your own pace – there’s an optional First Class Pass upgrade with lifetime access and $700 + in bonuses. Look for the special offer after you register.

Check it out and register today at https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/DIYTRIP

I hope you'll join me there – and I'll be back next week to kick off the new year with the advice you need to keep in mind when planning an Ireland trip in 2026!

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 319

The post Europe Beyond the Crowds (2026 Travel Tips) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

This Quick Tip shares where to find the Family Travel Resource Page on my website — a hub packed with practical articles, kid-friendly recommendations, and free itineraries designed to help families of all ages plan a smoother, happier Ireland trip. If you’re traveling with little ones, teens, or a full multigenerational crew, this page saves time and gets you straight to the information that matters.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 317

The post Family Travel in Ireland: Your Essential Resource Page appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I’m showing you exactly where to find answers to the most common Ireland travel questions. Over 20 years of traveler questions — and my own “learned the hard way” experiences — are organized on my FAQ page to help you plan with confidence. From safety and seasons to flights, packing, car rental, lodging, and food… this is the single best place to start your trip planning.

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 316

[powerpoint]

The post Ireland Travel Questions? Here’s Where to Find the Answers. appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Several of my travel partners rolled out special offers that run well into the new year — and a few stretch all the way through 2026. From tours and tastings to stays and savings, these are the deals worth grabbing while they last.

📍 See everything mentioned here + more gift ideas: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/gifts

From driver-guide discounts and upgraded stays to tour savings and gift cards, these Ireland-based experiences are perfect for anyone planning their next trip. Each one adds a special touch – and a bit of savings – to a future Ireland adventure.

If places like Guinness Storehouse, EPIC, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Jameson's, Teelings, or The Liberties Distilleries, and the Hop-on Hop-off bus are on your ‘must do' list, the GoCity Dublin Pass is a great option!
Save 5% with code AFFGOALL

🌐 Order online

Enjoy an authentic whiskey experience in County Kerry with Kingdom Whiskey Tastings. Receive 10% off the standard rate on all Signature Tasting Experiences when you request your booking before St. Brigit’s Day, 1 February 2026.

When completing the booking form on the website, add the code JODY10 in the comment section to claim your discount.

🌐 Book online 🔊Kingdom Whiskey on the Traveling in Ireland podcast

Buy one Classic Guided Tour ticket and get a second completely FREE!
This exclusive 2-for-1 offer is valid Monday to Friday from 2 March – 30 November, 2026(some T&Cs apply for Easter and select holiday periods).

To access this offer, email [email protected] with the subject line: 2 for 1 Guided Tour at Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre – Ireland Family Vacations Special

📧 email to book 🔊 Belleek Pottery on the Traveling in Ireland podcast

Book a 2-night B&B stay in a standard room at Barnahown and receive a free upgrade to our new Galtee Mountain View courtyard rooms – just mention Ireland Family Vacations when booking. Available throughout the year from April 2026, subject to availability – please enquire when booking.

🌐 Book online 🔊 Barnahown on the Traveling in Ireland podcast

Travel in comfort with Brendan or Richard in their luxurious vehicles and experience Ireland without the peak-season crowds. Tours are available for groups from 1 to 12 people.

Receive 15% off your custom tour when you mention the code IFV. Tours must be completed before April 1, 2026.

📧 [email protected]📱 +353 87 223 1690 🌐 bronzeandboru.com

Complimentary Admission Offer
Receive free entry to the Cliffs of Moher or Sheepdog Trials when you book any 3-day (or longer) private tour. Valid through 31 December 2026 – mention ‘Emerald Irish Tours Promotion 26‘ when booking.

€300 Tour Discount Offer
Save €300 on any 7-day tour booked before 15 March 2026. Full payment required at time of booking. Mention “We heard it from Jody” to claim your discount.

📧 [email protected] 🌐 Contact via the website using the green ‘Inquire' button 🔊 Traveling in Ireland Podcasts featuring Emerald Irish Tours
Kilkee – Loop Head Peninsula

Book any two tours with Killarney Tour & Taxi and receive 10% off the lower-priced tour when you use code IFV.
This offer runs through 31 December 2026.

Choose from unforgettable local tours tailored to your interests – offered privately or for groups:
• Ring of Kerry, including a visit to Valentia Island where the big buses don’t go
• Dingle & Slea Head
• Beara Peninsula
• Blarney Castle & Cork City
• Cliffs of Moher (with optional onward transfer to Galway)

🌐 Book online

For those ready to turn inspiration into action, my personalized travel services and small-group tours make it easy to give (or receive) the gift of a truly unforgettable trip to Ireland.

Ireland Vacation Coaching

If you have a general itinerary but want to customize it to fit your personal interests and vacation goals, Ireland vacation coaching is the perfect ‘boost'.

During this 60-minute session (can be 1 session or split into two) we talk through the trip you've planned. I'll ask questions about your travel companions, hobbies, and any ‘must see' attractions, and offer suggestions on how you can personalize your trip to make it truly unique.

After the call you'll receive a detailed outline of our call and a link to the recording.

Through December 24, 2025 you can save 20% on vacation coaching with code coach20.

🌐 Purchase online

Custom Ireland Itinerary

Your ‘once in a lifetime' vacation shouldn't be left to AI or a generic itinerary you downloaded from the internet (even if it is a very good one).

If you want to plan a trip to remember that takes into account your group dynamics, budget, and travel desires, Custom Itinerary Creation is the best investment you can make.

We work together as much as you like until you depart for Ireland. As I get to know you and your travel companions I will be able to recommend activities, attractions, and accommodations that fit your vacation goals and Ireland travel dreams.

Your custom itinerary includes accommodations, attractions, and transportation advice (including links to custom Google maps), as well as personal tips on where to eat, nearby sites and activities that may also be of interest, and answers to all the Ireland travel questions you have.

Purchase Custom Itinerary Creation and save 20% – no code required – through December 24, 2025.

🌐 Purchase online

Exclusive Small-Group Tours of Ireland

Looking for a gift that can’t be wrapped? Join me for one of my exclusive small-group tours of Ireland in spring 2026.

My tours aren’t big bus trips – they’re personal journeys crafted for connection, comfort, and discovery. Each itinerary blends iconic sights with authentic Irish experiences and just the right amount of flexibility, so you can truly enjoy Ireland at your own pace (without worrying about driving or planning a thing).

Whether you’d love a scenic adventure across the island or a women-only journey filled with creativity and craic, you’ll find both on my 2026 itineraries.

🌐 See the tours

Traveling in Ireland Podcast episode 315

The post Don’t Miss These Travel Deals & Discounts for 2026 appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Have you ever wished you could access all the information in my brain to create your Ireland travel plans?

You’re not alone – every year I hear from so many travelers who want help planning their trip, and last year I was busier than ever. I simply couldn’t support everyone who reached out, and that never sits well with me.

So, for 2026, I’m building something new: a resource that gives more travelers the guidance they need without waiting for space on my calendar. Think of it as the closest thing to downloading everything in my brain straight into your Ireland itinerary.

To help more travelers plan with confidence, I’m creating The Ireland Travel Compass, a DIY planning course that walks you through every step of building a trip that fits you. It’s the same system I use when I design custom itineraries – only now, you get to use it yourself. Whether this is your first visit or your fifth, the goal is simple: clear guidance, less stress, and the confidence to get excited about your adventure.

The Ireland Travel Compass officially launches on January 5 for $97, but you can grab it early for $59 during the pre-sale from December 29–January 4. If you want that early-bird price, join the interest list at IrelandFamilyVacations.com/Compass.

The course follows a straightforward planning path designed to help you move from dream to itinerary:

And you won’t be doing it alone – the course includes location guides, worksheets, templates, a detailed planning map, and short videos to help explain the trickier bits of planning. You can binge it in a weekend or work through it step-by-step as your trip takes shape.

Alongside the course, I’m also launching a new Itinerary Review service. There’s no appointment needed – you simply send me your itinerary, and I send back a detailed video review. I’ll highlight any red flags (like tight timelines or long drives), offer alternatives and ideas, and suggest timing fixes to help your trip flow smoothly. It’s a fantastic option if you want reassurance before you start booking.

To celebrate the launch — and to give my podcast listeners first access — The Ireland Travel Compass will be available for $59 during the pre-sale window. After January 4, the price returns to $97.

Visit IrelandFamilyVacations.com/Compass to join the interest list and get the early-bird price.

The post Introducing the Ireland Travel Compass appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode…
I’m breaking down the three main types of driver services in Ireland so you can choose the one that fits your style, budget, and itinerary. From full-service, white-glove driver-guided tours to flexible private drivers to simple point-to-point transfers, you’ll learn what each option includes and when they make the most sense. I also share red flags, common booking mistakes, and where to find my trusted driver recommendations.

👉 Find my updated driver guide list, rates, and recommendations:
IrelandFamilyVacations.com/driver

Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 313

The post Hiring a Driver in Ireland: 3 Driver Options Explained appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.