Suggestions anyone? We are planning a trip to Ireland in April/May 2005 with our 2 girls (ages 5 & 9). I am bedazzled and befuddled by the wealth of info out there. I would welcome insights from travelers on nice base locations (perhaps self-catering?) for exploring the area. Not sure even what locations are 'must sees' with kids. We have only 7 days there as we are splitting our time between England and Ireland (insights on London for kids are welcome too ! Regards, Carlene

Are you flying into Shannon or Dublin? What are your interests? More info would help everyone here help you.

I guess you can tell I am new to this! I'm thinking we will fly into Dublin - it seems to be an interesting place. My family enjoys the outdoors - bird watching, fishing and such. Would love to do some horseback riding. The thing is, living in the Pacific NW we have a lot of that available to us here. (don't really want to spend all my time doing what I can do here) Am personally fascinated by history, art and architecture -- not sure what sites would help young minds really catch on fire for the subject. It would be nice to be able to blend the outdoors and historic sites in a meaningful way.
Thank you for taking the time to respond to my inquiry in spite of its vagueness!
Regards, Carlene

Carlene, With only 7 days Dublin might put a big dent in your itinerary. It is possible to stay there and do day trips to many different places but it is also Ireland's most expensive city for accommodations. You might be better served by staying a couple of days in certain areas because you could see more.

Not too far afield from Dublin is Newgrange (a must for history), and County Wicklow "the garden of Ireland" with magnificent scenery and ruins at Glendalough and Powerscourt Gardens. Kilkenny is also a fine city with much history, architecture, a castle and scenic surroundings (outside the city).

Since you are just getting started I suggest calling Tourism Ireland 1-800-223-6470 (US & Canada) and ordering a free info package with a map, B&B & hotel books as well as self-catering book. That might help you to get organized. Also go to the library or bookstore and look at books about Ireland. The more you know the more you will enjoy the country. Once you find a guidebook that you like buy the latest edition.

Besides Fodors there are also a few Ireland only forums that will provide excellent help. Just do a Google search and input words such as "ireland travel forums". Look for forums that are easy to use, have lots of replies and a friendly tone.

Thanks a million -not sure why I didn't think about the tourist info agencies! I have the Frommers book, and as you've said- am just getting started. Another important element for us is experiencing the people and culture in Ireland. Will check out the suggested cities! Regards, Carlene

Carlene,

From what I understand in your post you will be spending time in London during this upcoming trip. May I suggest that you do not spend your 7 days in Dublin as well. Big cities are big cities and while Dublin does hold a special place in my heart it is the scenic West of Ireland that will capture more of the pace/life of Ireland. Not sure which country you are going to first but you can easily get flights between London and Dublin or Shannon or Cork. (Just take note of luggage restrictions if you are flying into/out of the same city.)

With only 7 days I would definitely do a self catering cottage for the family. No shortage of ones in Ireland (east or west) and April/May is the perfect time to go, too. Here's a couple of web sites to get you started:

www.irishlandmark.com -- amazing restored self catering places (mini castle!)

http://www.burrenselfcatering.com/home.html -- Burren; Ashgrove cottage (2) & Lisheen House (6)

http://www.rentacottage.ie/index.html -- cottages all over the West

www.Holiday-Rentals.com - just what it says

Be sure to do a Search here on the Frommer's web site too for places to go, visit and stay with children. (Put 'Children' into the Search box and highlight 'Ireland' on the Topic list.)

There certainly is an overwhelming amount of info out there but I think you have a good start. of course the gang here on Fodors is an excellent place to get info, too. We're all interested in your progress so I hope you come back lots!

Safe travels,

Wendy

Please feel free to email me with any questions you may have.

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