We have gotten flights into Dublin for our family of five over Christmas 08. Do you have any advice? We have two weeks before we have to come home. Do we stay in Ireland or try to go to Scotland for Christmas? The websites seem to suggest Ireland shuts down quite a bit, while Scotland seems to be more lively.

How much time do you have?

Why did you choose to fly into Dublin? Any particular interests?

New Years Eve in Edinburgh is the stuff of legend, it's hard to beat there.

Outside of that, you:

a: probably need a post title that states something more clear (Scotland vs Ireland Christmas 08)
b: need to give us more information ... along the lines of what jamikins asked.

We'd be glad to help if you can help us out a bit more.

Bill

Haven't been to Scotland, but, my sisters in laws are all Scottish, and New Years is like their national holiday there, ( and here of course) , I mean it is a big deal to them still .
Personally I would do a few days in Dublin and then get me to Scotland in time for the party.

You need to decide your plans fairly early and make firm bookings for hotels and flights. Irish and Scottish people go home for these holidays. Flights get booked early and there are few discounts.

Given Edinburgh is one of THE places for New Years Eve you are competing with lots of other people so book early.

We have two weeks. We are flying into Dublin simply because we got cheap flights. We'll be traveling with two teens and three adults. I like Bozama's idea of seeing some of Ireland then getting to the party in Scotland.

Since we've never been, I don't really have any ideas. My daughter wants to see a(any) castle and my husband and brother want to visit the pubs. I'm happy doing anything historical, educational or just getting to know people. I'm personally not into the true touristy type things.

Thanks, Bill, I will start a separate post.