misha2

It seems that Ireland may be a lovely and relatively economical way to enjoy 7 nights in the middle of July (next month!) with my husband and 2 teens.

I know I have to book quickly, but, I'm used to doing so much more research. Sceptre Tours has a luxury package that includes a car and stays at 4-5* hotels that is about $1600 per person including air, hotel stays and car. If I book only air through Aer Lingus it ends up being about $1100.

I hate to commit to only staying at these places or going to a set itinerary (Dublin, Killarney, Galway), but do you think I should give up my idealism and just get it done? Could I get a car and lodging for 6-7 nights for less than $2000? A friend has suggested that we stay at one set place towards Western Ireland and take day trips to reduce the stress of checking out of hotels every two days.

Thoughts? Has anyone used a travel agent specializing in Ireland that you have loved? How about an amazing, but reasonably priced driver? Any suggestions are highly welcome!

Thanks

qwovadis

Prefer self guiding

carrentals.com for me Avis out of Dublin very cheap

cheap lodgings along your route as you go or personally

good luck with betterbidding.com otel.com booking.com

affordabletours.com for deals on Sceptre others

have done them not my cup of tea too crowded structured

early AM bus calls are a vacay killer for me.

But when I was a newbie did them they were ok I learned lots

Fodors Gold Guidesmy fav footloose and fancy free...

Usually get er done way cheaper than tour cost.

kayak.com/buzz cheapoair.com good deals for air

Tony2phones

I think you will find Dooley's cheaper than Avis but consider or look for Fly/Drive packages without using the Accommodation voucher option as these are not as widely accepted as many travel agents would have you believe. Fly into Dublin drive across to Galway down to Killarney then fly back from Shannon (or vice-versa) Accommodation will cost about €70--80 per night B&B per double/twin room and plan on about €120/100miles fuel Pub grub from €10 per person.

sparky

A week in a self catering cottage would be cheaper than B & B , you cook your own meals

misha2

Thanks for all the responses, I spent more time searching and it looks like the Sceptre deal may just be the best bet. We are not part of a group escorted tour they just have a great package that includes air and hotel and our own car.

They have one package for 6 nights in which you stay at assorted lodgings. The other is at Adare manor. I'm inclined to stay put and make day trips, but add on a night in Dublin.

Thoughts?

Tony2phones

Adare would not be top of my list of Touring Bases. Nothing wrong with the place but a couple of hours drive from significant tourist spots in any direction, and hardly a big enough town to amuse me for more than half a day.