janisj

xyz123: Just to clear things up a bit --

>><i>somebody resurrected the thread right or wrong and asked the same question</i><<

It was actually topped by someone else posting a personal ad asking the OP if she wanted a traveling companion. That post was deleted, but before it was, apparently vickih9 saw the thread and added her question.

I wasn't 'policing' anything - just trying to help in case folks were responding to the OP.

latedaytraveler

Kristine, there are so many excellent tours, especially those run by Insight, CEI, Brendan etc. Yet most of the clientele on these excursions are older. Given your age, I would suggest Contiki. In any case, good for you to go it alone.

Kristine5575

Thank you all for your advice - I really appreciate it. I haven't posted since June due to a health problem with my mom which has taken all of my time the past few months so I'm sorry if I caused an issue. As a result, I wasn't able to take my trip and postponed it until next Aug/Sep. Vicki, xyz123 - I'm looking at Trafalgar but you both recommended CIE so I will look at them as well b/c it sounds like it might be a better tour. I like that most was included in the tour itself and not having to pay for extras - that is great information since I'm planning this trip on a budget and you both and ladytraveler have both recommended it. From what you've mentioned, it sounds like the kind of tour I'm looking for. The more information I have before booking the better. Junkgalore thanks for the new info as I haven't heard of them before so I will check them out too. I'm including England in the trip with Irelalnd and Scotland so still searching but have received great advice from you all so far. Vicki - If you take your tour before mine, maybe you could let me know who you used and how it was? Thanks again, I really do appreciate everyone's advice. It's a year out so I'll be looking into it further but will let you know what I chose and how it goes and any further info is appreciated! Assuming all goes well, I should be able to comment more often!

sheila

Can I really seriously suggest you look at Classique and Prestige? They're smaller and more niche (I haven't compared prices) and they both get a really good name

Kristine5575

Thanks Sheila - I haven't heard of them but wouldn't mind something smaller. As it's still months off, I will have time to look at them. Thanks again!

norrisken

Loved CIE. We did a trip with them in 2003.

camay

Thanks Sheila, I'm going to check out Classique and Prestige. I'm looking for a Scotland tour out of Edinburgh or Glasgow for about 5-7 days that's a small group (8-14 people).

camay

Oh, I think Prestige is out of business.

AlessandraZoe

Kristine--How is your mother?

sheila

Sorry, camay. I fear you're right

SusieQQ

I had a very enjoyable tour with this company in Edinburgh:

http://www.rabbies.com/

Kristine5575

I looked into both Clasique and Prestige but couldn't find a website. And thanks SusieQQ - it looks like there are a few different tours offered by them that might be good. I'm trying to do this as price efficient as possible but get a great tour as well. AlessandraZoe - thank you for asking - she is ok for now (heart issue) but I'm hoping all will be well and I appreciate you asking. Still many months off so any other suggestions are welcome and thanks again for all the great advice!

sheila

Link for Classique

http://www.classiquetours.co.uk/

camay

I just signed up for a Rabbie's tour for 3 days in Skye and the Scottish Highlands for next year. It seems that they have consistently rave reviews on various websites, including Tripadvisor. I'll let you know!

otto

I agree with CIE, or Brendan Tours out of Los Angeles. Sceptre is a wholesaler of Aer Lingus.
enjoy your trip.

dancoyle1

I'm a bit late in posting. I see you have already made your decision, but for small tours of both countries, I would recommend www.lynotttours.com