mpug

We are planning a trip next August and are thinking of using Celtic Tours. Has anyone had any experiences with them good or bad? I will be travelling with my mother(64) who really wants to do the escorted coach bus tour.

ellen

Celtic Tours is a long-established privately owned comapny, mainly known for budget tours.

Kate Galle

I have heard both good and bad things about Celtic Tours. However, I would suggest using Conway Hammond Tours. (800) 684-5413. They specialize in trips to Ireland and I have had great experience taking two of their guided coach tours. Their tour guides are quite knowledgable. Let them know if your mother has any special needs and they will do their best to accomodate. Good luck!

Kate

Cathy

I personally would advise using CIE tours - the national state run company. Due to the economic boom in Ireland at the moment a lot of Irish people are moving away from low paid jobs in the tourist industry and hotels and as a result you might find that your tour guide is not a ntaive Irish person. But with CIE becuase it is a state run organisation its staff tend to be Irish. On a recent trip to Rome with my parents I took a tour with my parents and our tour guide was a non-native who did not have the same experience that a native guide would have, but that is just my opinion. Enjoy yourself

mpug

Thanks to all who responded. Mom received a bunch of brochures since I posted, and we are taking closer looks at them all. I have heard about CIE's good reputation from other posts but always good to hear more. Brian Moore is another one we are leaning towards -- good price and the places we want to go. Any feedback?

Doc

When comparing prices be sure what is included. CIE tour prices cover everything except lunch, unless otherwise noted. It's nice to be on vacation and sightseeing without constantly reaching into your pocket for admission fees, tips, etc.

Brad

Suggest you give Grand Circle Travel a call and request their brochure. I have traveled with them all over Europe and have been more than pleased. Most of their tours are all inclusive; Air,Hotel,Tours,food and open bar. They can be reached by calling: 1-800-225-2525. Glad to provide more specifics if desired. Enjoy.

scully

My husband & I enjoyed a 9-day tour of Ireland the end of Sept. with Celtic Tours and thought we had gotten excellent value for the money spent. There were only 20 in our group, we had a Killarney native as our driver/guide. We stayed 2 nights each in Dublin, Galway & Killarney, and also stayed at a castle and a farm home. We never felt rushed. Our accommodations and meals were consistently first-rate. The medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle was a memorable experience. We also saw the cabaret show at the Burlington Hotel in Dublin. I can't say enough good things about this company and would recommend them highly.

janis

scully: Since mpug was seeking advice FIVE years ago I sorta doubt she is still interested . . . . . . .

lizard

Hi:
I am 68 years old and just returned (oct) from a 23 day self drive trip in Ireland - tell your mom if i am 68 and can drive she can ride at63/4 - of course you have to put it in better terms than that - but really if you have a capable driver in the group i think you could have a really great time on your own - lodging - auto rebntal - where to go etc.. just ask on this ne and you will get plenty of h
elpful advise
anyway have a great trip

lizard

Janis - guess my advise wouldn't be helpful either at this point - your right 1999 is a little past - who woulda though that would still be on the board