Winging it in Ireland?
 

We'll be leaving Dublin on Sept. 7 and driving along the coast in a sort of loop in Ireland (not northern Ireland) until about Sept. 23. We usually plan in detail and reserve accommodations months ahead of time. This time we'd like to wing it, calling a B&B a day ahead or even when we reach a likely town. Does anyone know if this is doable during September? We'd like to pay about £50, if possible, for a twin room.

It's generally workable in September. It might be difficult in Dublin and in Galway, or anywhere if there is a local festival or event such as horse-racing.

Thanks, Padraig. We do have reservations in Dublin, but nowhere else.

I have done it even in summer without reservations, either stopping at a likely B&B sign in town or by the roadside. Tourist offices in towns are also very helpful about helping you find a place suitable. Some will even call ahead to your next stopping point. I haven't slept in the car yet.

Just noticed that you said 50 pounds. Was that for a room or per serson? The Republic of Ireland uses euros. When I was last there two years ago, I paid between 25 and 50 euros a night for a single room. The lower end was with shared bath down the hall. I'm afraid I am spoiled these days and prefer "en suite" (private bath). singles are fewer and more expensive than doubles so I am sure you will be ok, unless, as Padraig mentioned you want Galway or Dublin, or run into a festival.

I always go with a rough intinerary in my head, and a list of activities and sights by area, but allow for luck, etc. Sometimes I end up longer than I planned, sometimes less in any given location.

Have a great trip! I loved your sister's tales from your trip to Denmark, etc.

There will be two of us. Presumably we can get a decent en suite room for 75 or 120 euros, since I see some listed in my Rick Steves Guide.

You would be all right at 75 euros unless you want something out of the ordinary.