Traveling in Ireland

When you rent a car in Ireland, one of the first choices you’ll face is manual vs automatic. For North American travelers, it’s a question you might not even think to ask – but the difference in price is bigger than you imagine. WHY CHOOSING A TRANSMISSION IS A RENTAL CHOICE IN IRELAND In North America it’s nearly impossible to rent a manual transmission car – everything is automatic. In Ireland, it’s the reverse. Manuals are the standard, so when you book your rental you’ll have to decide between the two. Renting a Car & Driving in Ireland The One-Stop Resource for EVERYTHING You Need to Know [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-car-rental-driving-guide/] WHY MANUALS ARE STANDARD IN IRELAND In Ireland, manual transmission cars aren’t the budget option – they’re the default. Manuals are cheaper to buy, easier to maintain, and more fuel efficient, so rental companies fill their fleets with them. Most Irish drivers also learn on a manual. If you pass your test in a manual, you’re licensed to drive both manual and automatic. But if you test in an automatic, you can only drive automatics. That flexibility keeps manuals in demand. There’s also a bit of tradition at play: many locals feel manuals handle Ireland’s narrow roads, sharp curves, and hills better. THE SHOCKING COST DIFFERENCE Here’s where the surprise comes in: automatics can cost two to three times more than manuals. For example, when I checked rates with my preferred rental company, Irish Car Rentals, a week in a small manual car came in at just $100. The same size car with an automatic transmission? Over $360. That’s a massive difference – and it’s average. During peak travel season, the gap can be even larger because automatics are in short supply and sell out quickly. If you know you’ll need an automatic, book as far in advance as possible to secure one and avoid last-minute sticker shock. WHICH SHOULD YOU CHOOSE? * Choose a manual if: You’re already comfortable driving stick and don’t mind shifting with your left hand. It doesn’t take long to adjust, and you’ll save a significant amount of money. * Choose an automatic if: You’d rather keep your focus on driving on the left side of the road and navigating Ireland’s narrow lanes. If a manual makes you nervous, the extra cost of an automatic is absolutely worth it for peace of mind. CHOOSING THE CAR THAT FITS YOUR TRIP Manuals are standard in Ireland, while automatics are limited and cost more. The right choice is the one that makes your trip enjoyable and stress-free. 👉 Once you’ve decided between manual and automatic, the next big thing to understand is insurance and hidden fees. That’s where car rental costs can really add up. Stay tuned for the next article and video in this series, where I’ll walk you through exactly what to expect. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 294 The post Renting a Car in Ireland: Manual vs Automatic [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/renting-a-car-in-ireland-manual-vs-automatic/ireland-travel-tips/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

Ireland is a terrific introduction to Europe for Americans because the Irish speak English. Kind of. But you're likely to hear quite a few words you won't recognize – or maybe words you recognize, but not in the way they are used. The tips below will help you avoid a scaldy sambo, navigate your morning fry, and give you a few tips for phrases so you don't make a clanger as you chat with the lads at the evening sesh. little_book_of_Irishisms_cover [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/The-Little-Book-of-Irishisms-683x1024.jpg]https://www.amazon.com/dp/1914437004?ascsubtag=amzn1.infl.us.product&linkCode=ll1&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=5cb76d81260d09f642c4886a1020c93e&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl Ireland Family Vacations is programmatic ad-free, supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands I personally work with and recommend. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. See why this is important. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/jody-halsted-ireland-travel/disclosure/] This article is based on podcast episode 109 featuring Irish author Denise Deegan. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. IRISHISMS When you visit Ireland you're likely to hear a few words that you recognize – but they are used differently than at home. A few American to Irish examples… * Biscuit is a cookie, not a fluffy baked good.- * Chips are fries while crisps are chips. * Boot is the trunk of your vehicle. * And craic, well, that's the news, gossip, or good fun, not an illicit substance. But there are far more ‘Irishisms' that may leave you baffled. Or just confused as to the actual meaning of a phrase. Author Denise Deegan has written a charming wee book of ‘Irishisms [https://www.amazon.com/dp/1914437004?ascsubtag=amzn1.infl.us.product&linkCode=ll1&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=5cb76d81260d09f642c4886a1020c93e&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl]‘ – words that almost seem to elevate the Irish above the English language. Irishisms_book_page21 [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Irishisms-page21-681x1024.jpg] Irishisms is written under Denise's pen name of Aimee Alexander. This book a very different direction from the novels she usually writes. A chance conversation with an American friend led Denise to take note of all the different ‘Irishisms' that she used, and heard, daily. And it really just built from there. As Denise was writing the book she shared the progress with her readers and fans who requested other topics to include in the book – like information on Irish names. Chapters in the book are short and sweet – but really useful. It's perfect for a fun evening in a pub or even as a primer for your trip to Ireland! Irishisms_book_page [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Irishisms-page-681x1024.jpg] The chapter titled ‘Avoid these like the Plague' is especially fun. It's filled with words and phrases you will never hear spoken by the Irish. Another chapter to dig into is ‘Tricks to Make Your Sentences More Irish'.  The use of a single word in just the right way instantly makes you sound more Irish. Often this is a string of past tense verbs or repeating what you've just said. Learn more about Denise at her author sites Denise Deegan [https://www.denisedeegan.com/] and Aimee Alexander. [https://www.aimeealexander.com/] Or connect with her on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/denise.deegan.3] or Twitter [https://twitter.com/denisedeegan]. Buy Irishisms on Amazon. [https://www.amazon.com/dp/1914437004?ascsubtag=amzn1.infl.us.product&linkCode=ll1&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=5cb76d81260d09f642c4886a1020c93e&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl] Irishisms_book_page_47 [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Irishisms-page47-680x1024.jpg] The post Irishisms with Author Denise Deegan [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/irishisms-denise-deegan-2/ireland-travel-tips/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

It would be very easy to spend most of your vacation in Dublin – Ireland's capital has so very much to see, do and experience. Most visitors, however, plan one full day in the city – maybe a bit more depending on flights. So how do you get the most out of a short visit? These are the 3 things I always recommend when asked about the best Dublin experiences. THE 3 BEST THINGS TO DO IN DUBLIN Visit the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology Cross of Cong at the National Museum of Ireland Archaeology in Dublin. Ireland vacation. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/cross-of-cong-657x1024.jpg]Cletic metalwork – the Cross of Cong Dublin has a number of terrific museums but the one I think every visitor should experience is the Museum of Archaeology. [https://www.museum.ie/en-IE/Museums/Archaeology/Exhibitions/Kingship-and-Sacrifice] It covers the known history of Ireland – from the first Neolithic farmers, through the Bronze and Iron Age Celts, Viking invasions and the ‘Dark Ages', and through Ireland's Monastic splendor. Bonus: it's free. The first two floors of stunning Leinster House are devoted to these collections. The two exhibits I think everyone should explore are Kingship and Sacrifice to view the bog bodies and learn their stories and The Treasury, which is where Celtic metalwork and monastic treasures- including the Tara Brooch and the Cross of Cong – are on display. Ireland Family Vacations is programmatic ad-free, supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands I personally work with and recommend. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. See why this is important. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/jody-halsted-ireland-travel/disclosure/] Take a Guided Food Tour Boxty Platter at the Boxty House, Temple Bar, Dublin [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Boxty-Platter-at-the-Boxty-House-1.jpg]A stop on my tour: Boxty Platter at The Boxty House in Dublin I think you can learn a lot about a place from its food. And when you pair food with a terrific tour guide you are going to have a terrific experience. I love Flavour Trails [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/flavour-trails-dublin-food-whiskey-tours/regions-and-counties/dublin/]. All 3 of their tours – the Irish Food Trail [https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=11018&awinaffid=2168721&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.viator.com%2Ftours%2FDublin%2FIrish-Food-Walking-Tour-in-Dublin%2Fd503-26444P12], The Whiskey Trail [https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=11018&awinaffid=2168721&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.viator.com%2Ftours%2FDublin%2FThe-Whiskey-Trail-Dublin%2Fd503-26444P13], and the Storytelling Trail [https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=11018&awinaffid=2168721&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.viator.com%2Ftours%2FDublin%2FThe-Irish-Storytelling-Trail%2Fd503-26444P17] – include delicious food & drink at 3 stops, and along the way you learn about Dublin's history and legends. It's great fun. Another food tour that I adore is Vintage Tea Trips [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/VintageTeaTrips], an afternoon tea experience on a vintage double-decker bus. While it's not exactly a guided tour you'll hear fun personal narration from your local hosts and get to see the city from a unique vantage point. Visit Malahide Castle By Aoife for Flytographer; Dublin, Ireland. Ireland travel tips | Ireland vacation | IrelandFamilyVacations.com [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/IMG_5043-600px.jpg]Family photos in front of Malahide Castle It's about a 30 minute journey from the city centre to the village of Malahide via DART or bus. But Malahide Castle and Gardens [https://malahidecastleandgardens.ie/] are worth the journey. The castle was in the same family for 800 years which means the history is fully recorded. And what a history it is! The docents are wonderful storytellers who are terrific at keeping everyone engaged. And you may just encounter one of the resident ghosts. Beyond the castle, the gardens are truly spectacular. The west lawn is 20 acres of trees, ornamental sculptures, and a charming fairy trail. It's also a perfect place to have photos taken. The Walled Garden is filled with winding stone pathways where you can discover a rose garden, a pond, and the Victorian Conservatory. It is also home to the only Butterfly House in the Republic of Ireland. It's also a perfect spot to have photos taken! I recommend Flytographer. [https://flytog.co/TII/ta/tii/] I shared our experience here. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/family-vacation-portraits-lasting-memories/ireland-travel-tips/] YOUR GUIDE TO DUBLIN There is obviously so much more to see, do, taste, and experience in Dublin. To help you make the most of your time in the capital, I've created a County Dublin Travel Guide [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-vacation-planning/dublin-lodging-attractions/]with my Top 5 things to do, terrific tours and accommodations I recommend, as well as top tips for transportation, travel insights, family tips, and festival highlights. Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 293 The post Top 3 Dublin Experiences (So Many Tourists Miss These) [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-top-3-experiences/attractions/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

How long is the ‘perfect' Ireland vacation? Everyone has an opinion, but the scientific study may surprise you. Researchers say that the sweet spot is “not too long, where experiences begin to feel normalized, and not too short, where you don't have enough time to disconnect.” [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Dunbrody-Abbey-e1750268602760-1024x452.jpg] This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 292. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. HOW LONG IS THE PERFECT IRELAND VACATION? I'm a member of quite a few Ireland vacation advice groups on various websites and one of my biggest pet peeves is when people respond to a question with “That isn't enough time,” or “You should stay longer.” Not everyone has unlimited time to spend on vacation. We all have a life to live, and vacation is just a part of that. So let me begin with this statement – however long you have in Ireland is ‘enough time' for your vacation. Is it enough time to do ‘everything'? No. But you could stay for years and not ‘see it all'. So let's lose the ‘not enough time' mindset before we begin. IrelandFamilyVacations.com [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/woodview-farmhouse-breakfast-1024x526.jpg]How many mornings can you begin with a full Irish breakfast? PERFECT IRELAND VACATION LENGTH – MY OPINION My opinion is based on 23 years of travel from North America – US and Canada. If traveling from Australia or New Zealand this might be too short; if traveling from Europe it could be too long. I think a 10 day vacation is almost ideal. Day 1 & day 9 are spent traveling. Days 2 thru 8 are spent exploring, relaxing, and enjoying Ireland. And day 10 is your day to regroup before returning to your ‘real life'. If you can stay longer… great! But 10 days offers a full week in Ireland, travel days that don't have to include anything else, and a day to reset before ‘real life' resumes. Lough Eske Castle, Dnegal, Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Lough-Eske-hero-min-1024x483.jpg] Ready to start planning your Ireland vacation? Begin at the beginning and follow my expert step-by-step tips! Bookmark this free guide to plan your dream vacation to Ireland. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/plan-your-ireland-vacation/] SCIENCE SAYS THIS IS THE PERFECT VACATION LENGTH According to the Journal of Happiness Studies [https://rdcu.be/cUEoA] eight days in the minimum length a vacation should be. The first few days are spent unwinding and disconnecting, with peak happiness and feelings of personal wellbeing around days 7 and 8. The study also showed that, by day 11, vacation enjoyment tends to drop and people begin to miss their home and regular routines. So don't worry if you don't have weeks or months to spend in Ireland – enjoy your vacation fully while you are there, bring home amazing memories, and maybe think about planning a return – according to studies trip anticipation boost happiness. The post How Long Should Your Ireland Vacation Last? [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/how-long-should-an-ireland-vacation-last/podcasts/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

When planning a trip to Ireland you’re probably focused on castles, coastlines, and creamy pints – but don’t overlook something far less exciting (yet super important): keeping your valuables safe. This is part 3 of my Travel Smart series, and we’re talking about packing intentionally, choosing the right bag, and making sure you’re not carrying more than you can keep secure. In this final installment, we're focusing on packing smart, because what you bring and how you carry it can make your whole trip more relaxed. Ireland is generally a safe country, but like any popular travel destination, petty theft can happen – especially in touristy areas, crowded city centers, or when you’re distracted by your surroundings (which, in Ireland, is basically all the time). These are the tricks & tools I rely on to keep my valuables secure. Most are pretty low-key – but a few feel just a little bit spy-worthy. Hawk_Walk_AIlweeBurrenExperience_CountyClare_Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Ailwee-Hawk-Walk-1024x771.jpg] SMART IRELAND PACKING TIPS You don’t have to stick to carry-on only, but you do need to think intentionally about what shouldn't go into your checked bag: jewelry, cash, lithium-ion batteries, electronics, and medications should always stay with you. If you are considering going carry-on only – either to avoid lost luggage or reduce your risk of theft – I highly recommend SCOTTeVEST travel clothing [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/sev]. The coats, in particular, are spy-worthy. With all those pockets, it’s like sneaking an extra carry-on onto the plane. I’ve also put together a guide on what to pack in your carry-on [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/carry-necessities-flight-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/]to help you keep your belongings safe and make the most of your flight. And remember: skip the flashy jewelry, extra electronics, and additional credit cards. The less you bring, the less you have to protect. CHOOSE THE RIGHT BAG (AND DON’T KEEP EVERYTHING IN ONE PLACE) One of my best travel investments is a theft-proof day bag. I use the Travelon compact crossbody [https://www.amazon.com/Travelon-Crossbody-Bag-Peacock-Compact/dp/B07ZZQ5DKG?content-id=amzn1.sym.3afbfb03-37f9-433d-812b-5618f5fce9ff%3Aamzn1.sym.3afbfb03-37f9-433d-812b-5618f5fce9ff&crid=1S2XPWV5RRDBY&cv_ct_cx=travelon&keywords=travelon&pd_rd_i=B07ZZQ5DKG&pd_rd_r=288068a9-1851-4440-be15-1a2e368689e0&pd_rd_w=Kr1UD&pd_rd_wg=nTpC5&pf_rd_p=3afbfb03-37f9-433d-812b-5618f5fce9ff&pf_rd_r=9WBSYKCWKCCBF655RDNM&qid=1754926450&sbo=RZvfv%2F%2FHxDF%2BO5021pAnSA%3D%3D&sprefix=travelon%2Cspecialty-aps%2C134&sr=1-2-6024b2a3-78e4-4fed-8fed-e1613be3bcce-spons&srs=18682278011&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9zZWFyY2hfdGhlbWF0aWM&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=6257e63d95259d3c64e23a52162bbca5&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl] – it has locking zippers and slash-proof straps, making it perfect for days in the city. Travelon [https://www.amazon.com/stores/Travelon/page/286128D9-64AA-4439-B8BE-050A88BFC161?is_byline_deeplink=true&deeplink=586D3139-D6D9-4642-A425-0A7F4EADB2BB&redirect_store_id=286128D9-64AA-4439-B8BE-050A88BFC161&lp_asin=B07ZZQ5DKG&store_ref=bl_ast_dp_brandLogo_sto&linkCode=ll2&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=aee274c5d9b3e2f28c09d146ad770177&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl]makes larger bags too, if you need more space. Prefer a backpack? The first thing I look for is a hidden compartment that can only be accessed when the bag is off. My current go-to is the ORI London Travel Backpack [https://www.amazon.com/ORI-LONDON-Rolltop-Backpack-Women/dp/B0CQCKBM5G?crid=1VQF36Q534CI5&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.kt1IvKUzrRuJOno_0RKLvDSTigIZNsSFYYAwxBGjbyow3bMSNt8nDMyvUFgUcSpeXpDhkgJl8oa22nuQgaN1SKlgZIxzI94EfhVQqOCDxXvRebCGScFeDGDpxVvZmfxAmRVUzTFE8DIUcrTRUw9d43nk3sphG7cldLqvhtp2fH6KTvkp5i0_1ETJIKubf_nAV6p7VTSGbRR1MeupoPhWmiOn0b5A6vK3grRkJw6VsWktOds7Q-NjZ-HHR9cIz_VULAVzKTP3IEdcV9zphlqjScaMePTvVA3bQu5wYEkgSmw.OMXYB6LPK67ynbkULn9HYkTuTo4LElsgi0jvN0OgCVs&dib_tag=se&keywords=ori%2Blondon%2Btravel&qid=1754926520&sprefix=ori%2Blondon%2Bt%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-3-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=trustedvacationitems-20&linkId=62c26120021357a6061a38d96d85a8a6&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl]. While it doesn’t have built-in locks, I use a locking carabiner clip to secure the rolltop. What sold me on it is the zippered pocket on the back – completely hidden while I’m wearing it. That’s where I’ll tuck my wallet if it’s not in my jacket or pants. It’s accessible enough for me, but out of sight and secure from everyone else. SPREAD OUT YOUR VALUABLES This is one of the simplest but most important rules: don’t keep everything in one place. Keep a small amount of cash and a credit card on your person, ideally in a zippered or concealed pocket. Split the rest between your day bag and your hotel safe. If something gets misplaced or stolen, you’re not left completely stranded. Packing smart ties it all together. Combine these habits with the tips from Parts 1 and 2, and you’ll be ready to explore Ireland with confidence. Part 1: Hotel, Tech & Street Safety [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/travel-smart-hotel-tech-street-safety-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/] Part 2: Tips for Getting Around Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/travel-smart-getting-around-ireland-safel/ireland-travel-tips/] Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 291 The post Travel Smart: Packing for a Safe Trip to Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-packing-safety-tips/ireland-travel-tips/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].