Frazzled Planning, Having Trouble.
 

I'm looking to plan a trip for my family to Ireland (specifically the Galway Bay area) in mid April and I was wondering if anyone could help me out with tips/ ideas. We're flying into Shannon, but from there I am essentially lost. I am looking to visit some relatives around that area, but doubt it will take more than 1-2 days. Was also wondering about B&B's. Would you suggest reservations (if they are even possible) or spontaneous? I think spontaneous sounds a bit better, but I don't want to find when I get there that we have no place to stay, although I hear that April is an "off- season" for Ireland.

I agree that planning a trip to Ireland can be frazzling... I had information overload before we went this summer. Depending on what your interests are, concentrate on one area and then plan one thing, maybe two per day and "wing" the rest because you will see things that you want to stop and investigate that aren't on the itinerary. There were SO MANY B&B's, at least in the southwest area, that I think you could go without reservations for every night, but might want to reserve rooms for some of them. There have been postings here that list the B&B sites, might try them.

Hi Dan<BR><BR>Spent a week on the West Coast in August with my wife--- had a great time!!!!!!<BR><BR>In particular, we enjoyed the dramatic coastline of Clare. Walk along the cliffs at Spanish point--- beautiful! There are a couple of smallish towns called Lahinch and Miltown Malbay--- great watersports, but too cold in April. If you want to see some authentic Irish trad music, though, that's the place for you.<BR><BR>On your way out to Connemarra--- stop by Aughnanure Castle. It's a real historical find. Details: http://www.heritageireland.com/<BR><BR>I would recommend B & B reservations, but you may not need to make them until you land. The tourist office has boks and books and books of recommended B & Bs---- let them help you out.<BR><BR>More info on Ireland in general is on my website.<BR><BR>Best regards<BR><BR>Mick<BR>www.dfaguide.com

Hi Dan:<BR><BR>Goodness, no! Planning Ireland has been a blast for me. I'm working on my second trip now. What I learned the first time:<BR><BR>In most small towns, two days is sufficient. Spending only one night is a mistake, as your drive time-to stay time is high. Linger and get acquainted with the locals.<BR><BR>The West coast has lots of great places to stay within a few hours drive of each other. From our last trip on the West, I can recommend:<BR><BR>Cong, Co. Mayo north of Galway. At least visit, if not stay at Ashford Castle ($$$$$$). See if Mr. Stephen Lydon is still taking folks out in his handmade boat out on Lough Corrib. He had a bit part in John Wayne's "The Quiet Man".<BR><BR>Heading back south from Cong, you'll drive through the Burren (cool), and some gorgeous coastline - maybe even see racing ponies practicing on the beach. Lots of ancient cemeteries, celtic crosses, and photo ops.<BR><BR>Farther south, do DOOLIN! Teeny town, more pubs than population, two castles, and Trad. music - the best. Stay at the Aran View House. Theresa Linnane 353 65 74061/74420 | Fax: (Ireland) 353 65 74540 www.iol.ie/~visitirl/html/aran_view_hotel.html<BR><BR>Less than a half hour south is the Cliffs of Moher. If you have more days in Ireland, you might make your next two nights' stay in Dingle. Probably more like four hours' drive, but worth it.<BR><BR>Happy Planning - have a great trip!

Thanks all for your help and time. ANYTHING helps =o). Hoping I'll have it all ready and planned soon. Can't wait until I can go and start giving advice to others myself (while planning another trip, naturally).<BR><BR>Thanks all. ~ Dan

Bite the bullet and contact a Shamrock Club member, an Ireland Specialist certified through the Irish Tourist Board. It will save you time and money. Contact the ITB for the one nearest you. <BR><BR>

Dan these 2 sites will defrazzle your trip irelandexpert.com & irelandyes.com

Topping for Sharik...

How old are your children? Mine were 8 and 13 when we went the first time, so I might be able to offer some suggestions.<BR><BR>Also, speaking from experience, I would STRONGLY encourage reservations for at least the first and last nights of your trip, and at any place in between that you particularly want to stay. On our first trip, I had pinned much of the trip around Kilkenny but didn't make a res there - then discovered that there was a huge football match the night we meant to be there and couldn't find a room within 50 miles. Otherwise, you'll probably have plenty of options. <BR><BR>I would also agree with the poster who said it's better to spend more than one night in a place - you'll get a much better sense of what the country is like, and any family members will be less likely to groan at the thought of getting back in the car another day!