Hello!
My brother and his wife will be in Ireland for New Year's. I was hoping to get them an Ireland-themed gift for Christmas. (Things they can take with them.) But, all I can think to get them is a travel book on Ireland! Never having been there, is there anything special/important you should have while in Ireland? I am hoping to keep their gift around $50.

Thank you!

ttt

A nice warm woolen shawl or jacket!

most Ireland themed travel gifts are more readily available IN Ireland. If it were me I'd give them some € cash in a card, plus maybe a guide book and/or some lined gloves or a nice wool scarf that will be useful during the trip.

How about some Irish traditional music CDs to get them in the mood? They can listen to them in the rental car as they drive over the emerald hills

an Irish Sim card for their cell phone maybe? (I've been finding it REALLY difficult to find pay phonoes any more in Ireland! I was actually LAUGHED at a few years ago when I was trying to find one) A great map? (if they are driving) Some books about Irish history (instead of travel) - to have something to read on the plane. Some traditional irish music on CD to play in the rental car (or mp3 player)? nice travel rain-gear?

Try this catalog:

www.magellans.com

They have wonderful travel supplies. Maybe something nice for the plane, such as travel blankets or pillows. Or they have a great digital scale measurerer for you luggage.

If they are renting a car, a good sprial bound comprehensive road map is a necessity.

Oh, I know. I love my camera memory card holder. It is shock proof and waterproof. Maybe this with some extra memory cards?

http://tinyurl.com/ywmasy

Or perhaps a little travel tripod? Or this tripod allows them to take pictures of themselves:

http://tinyurl.com/23pq3q

Don't buy them woolen things since they will find those in every shop!

an umbrella?

Oh yeah, the book "Around Ireland with a Fridge" is a great read. It is a funny travel account of making a bet.

The SIM card which Cigala mentioned is a great idea. Does not take up any space, and will save your folks a lot of money. But you got to check if their cell phones work with the 900/1800 GSM networks (usually labeled "tri-band" phones).

As usual, you are all amazing! Thanks for the great ideas! I've got lots to pick from- thanks so much!