My husband and I will be spending 10 days in the SW of Ireland the 1st week of August. We plan a coastal journey. Any suggestion regarding great places to stay? Any thoughts on advisability of moving to a new location each night vs. having a base camp and day tripping?

Dear Cynthia: I think there are more visitors in that part of Ireland in August than say in November (when I was last there). But by booking now you should be able to nail down at least ONE place. I recommend a delightful B&B on the outskirts of Kenmare (which is a reasonable driving distance from Cork, Killarney, Dingle--the great "sights" of the Southwest. The place is run by a Mrs. Hickey (who has been here to the States a number of times and who was most kind and helpful to my sister and me (two senior ladies, driving on our own), She made both recommendations (on the button each time) and reservations. We found her delightful--and we LOVED Kenmare which has a large selection of OUTSTANDING restaurants. It's smaller and quieter than Killarney. Have a wonderful trip! Joan

Cynthia - I am so envious! I spent a week along the Ring of Kerry in August of 93. Don't miss Dingle -please tell me if the famous Dingle Dolphin is still there! Also, while it may sound a bit "touristy" the tour at the Waterford Factory is truly amazing. My absolute favorite: Youghal (pronounced Yawl) This is where the orgininal Moby Dick was filmed and there is a pub that pays homage to it. It's a tiny fishing village with fabulous people, great food and plenty of B&Bs. I'd love to hear from you when you return!

Dear Cynthia,
Lucky you! I'm sure you'll love everyday in
Ireland. Like Joan, we were there in early Nov.
(the buses had all left). We stayed at a com-
bination of the gorgeous country inns along with
the friendly, warm reception of the B&B's. One
of our favorite half-days was our visit to Kobh,
formerly called Queenstown. The rail-port museum
there is so memorable, having been the primary
port of embarkation for the Irish coming to the U.S.
It also had visits from Titanic and Lusitania.
We also loved the Dingle peninsula. Have a great
trip. Bud & Jane

Dear Cynthia,
Lucky you! I'm sure you'll love everyday in
Ireland. Like Joan, we were there in early Nov.
(the buses had all left). We stayed at a com-
bination of the gorgeous country inns along with
the friendly, warm reception of the B&B's. One
of our favorite half-days was our visit to Kobh,
formerly called Queenstown. The rail-port museum
there is so memorable, having been the primary
port of embarkation for the Irish coming to the U.S.
It also had visits from Titanic and Lusitania.
We also loved the Dingle peninsula. Have a great
trip. Bud & Jane