Traveling in Ireland

Discover the enchanting origins of Halloween at the Hill of Ward in Athboy, Ireland, where the festival of Samhain began over 3,000 years ago. Hill_of_Ward_Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Hill-of-Ward.jpg]Hill of Ward This article is based on Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 235. Join Tlachtga, the guardian goddess of this mystical place, as she shares her captivating story from the heart of Athboy in County Meath. Listen using the player below or continue reading for information & links. HOW SAMHAIN BECAME HALLOWEEN With roots in ancient Celtic traditions, Halloween, or Samhain, marked the end of the Celtic year on October 31st. The night was believed to be when the veil between worlds was thinnest, allowing spirits to roam freely. To protect themselves, people would dress in disguises, a practice that evolved into today's Halloween costumes. Tlachtga's hill, known as the Hill of Ward, was the epicenter of these celebrations, where bonfires were lit to honor nature and connect with the spiritual realm. This sacred site, along with the Hill of Tara, Hill of Uisneach, and Tailteann, formed the cornerstone of ancient Celtic culture. These hills were places of worship, trade, and even sporting events, predating the Olympics [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/the-tailteann-games-irelands-ancient-olympics/random-bits/]. Fiona_Dalton_Tlachtga_Halloween_Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Tlachtga-Abhaile-768x1024.jpg]Tlachtga – the goddess on her hill CULTURAL AND RELIGIOUS SIGNIFICANCE Tlachtga's hill was a religious center for Pagan Ireland, akin to a church or place of worship. The site was associated with Christian All Souls' Day or All Hallows' Eve, coinciding with the Celtic end-of-year festivities. The tradition of dressing up and leaving out food and drink for spirits is the origin of modern trick-or-treating. HISTORICAL EVENTS AND SITES The Hill of Ward is one of the four most important Celtic sites in Ireland, alongside the Hill of Tara, the Hill of Uisneach, and Tailtenn. The site witnessed significant historical events, including Viking battles and gatherings of Irish chieftains. The town of Athboy, meaning town of the yellow ford, has a rich history, including a royal charter in 1497 and involvement in Ireland's fight for independence. Fiona_Dalton_Tlachtga_Ireland_Halloween [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Tlachtga-Puca-786x1024.jpg] FOLKLORE AND TRADITIONS The phrase knock on wood originates from ancient beliefs that trees were alive, and knocking on them would awaken spirits to bring good fortune. The area is considered a fairy fort, believed to be an entrance to the underworld, home to banshees and fairies. The tradition of disguising oneself during Samhain was to avoid being taken by spirits. FIONA DALTON The rich history of Athboy is brought to life by Fiona Dalton through the Tlachtga Abhaile tour, offering a unique glimpse into Ireland's past. Fiona, a talented performer, feels a deep connection to Tlachtga, making each tour a personal and spiritual journey. Visitors can explore the fairy forts, hear tales of ancient battles, and learn about the traditions that shaped Halloween. Learn more about Tlachtga Abhaile on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057151882002]and Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/tlachtgaabhaile/]. Fiona is also a tour guide in Dublin. Learn more about her Musical History Tour of Dublin here. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/musical-history-tour-of-dublin-ireland-podcast/podcasts/] Music by Melody Ayres-Griffiths [https://pixabay.com/users/melodyayresgriffiths-27269767/?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=256230] from Pixabay [https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=music&utm_content=256230] The post Halloween’s Historic Origins in Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/halloween-origins-ireland/regions-and-counties/eastern-ireland/meath/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

You’ve got your car rental quotes lined up, but before you hit “book,” let’s make sure you’re not renting a car for longer than you actually need it. Trimming even a couple of days off your rental can save you money, reduce stress, and make your time in Ireland smoother. WHY YOU DON’T NEED A CAR IN DUBLIN Dublin is a wonderful city to explore – on foot, by bus, or on the Luas tram – but it’s a headache to navigate by car. One-way streets twist through the city center, lanes narrow down to the size of alleys, and buses and taxis dominate the roads. Parking is both inconvenient and expensive. The truth is, a car will spend more time sitting in a paid car park than being useful. It’s often faster to walk between attractions, and public transport is easy to use, reliable, and well connected. Between Dublin Bus, the Luas, the DART coastal train, and even hop-on hop-off sightseeing routes, you’ll have no trouble getting around without a rental. SMARTER WAYS TO PLAN YOUR TRIP One of the best tricks is to plan your Dublin stay at the beginning or end of your itinerary. That way you can pick up the car only when you’re leaving the city or return it before heading back in. You’ll save on the rental, on insurance, and on fuel. If your journey starts outside Dublin – Galway, Cork, Killarney, or elsewhere – and you don't want to drive around the city, it’s very easy to take an express bus from the airport or train from the city directly to your first destination and rent a car there. Another option is to fly into Shannon Airport, where it’s much simpler to pick up a car without the hassle of Dublin driving. THINGS TO DOUBLE-CHECK BEFORE BOOKING If you do decide to take a car into Dublin, collect or drop off a car in the city, be sure to check: * Does your hotel have parking, and what will it cost? * What are the rental office hours? Airport desks are usually open long hours, but city offices may have limited weekend hours or not open on Sundays. RENT ONLY WHEN YOU NEED TO The bottom line: don’t pay for a rental car you don’t need. Skipping just a day or two in Dublin can save hundreds of euros over the course of your trip. Rent the car when you need it – and don't waste money on when you don't. Next in this series: booking smart. I’ll cover how car size, age limits, and timing can all affect the cost of your rental. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 301 The post When to Rent a Car in Ireland (and Why You Don’t Need One in Dublin) [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/when-to-rent-a-car-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

When most people think of surfing, Ireland probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But along Clare’s Atlantic coast, rolling waves crash onto wide sandy beaches, drawing surfers from around the world. From the lively breaks at Lahinch to the wildest waves that draw pros from across the world, Clare has become one of Ireland’s top spots to grab a board and ride the Wild Atlantic waves. Surfers in Lahinch, County Clare, in January [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/Lahinch-surfers-1024x768.jpg]Adventure activities don't stop in the winter! These surfers were braving the waves in January! This article is based on podcast episode 72 featuring Ben Bennett, owner of Ben's Surf Clinic in Lahinch, County Clare. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. SURFING IN IRELAND Recorded live at Randaddy's [http://www.randaddys.ie/] on the promenade in Lahinch, on the west coast of Ireland! As I was recording this with Ben we were watching people surf the January waves! ISN'T IT TOO COLD TO SURF IN IRELAND? Water temperatures in Ireland are about 16°C (60°F) in the summer, and surfers would normally still wear a light wet suit. On the nicest days surfers will wear a board short or swimsuit. Winter water temperatures are about 7°C or 8°C (46°F). It's actually the air temperature that is the problem. The windchill factor makes it feel much colder. ABOUT BEN BENNETT AND BEN'S SURF CLINIC Ben's Surf Clinic [https://www.benssurfclinic.com/]has been on the promenade in Lahinch for 14 years. Lahinch has great learner waves as well as advanced waves. Ben's Surf Clinic was the first hardboard surf school in Ireland. WHAT MAKES IRELAND A GREAT PLACE TO SURF * Location. Being on the edge of Europe, Ireland is the first thing the Atlantic Ocean hits, bringing consistent, big waves. * The jagged, diverse coastline. This offers many choices for swell and wind direction. A difference of just a few miles changes the conditions. * A good mix of sandy and rocky beaches. Beginners tend toward sandy beaches while more advanced surfers prefer rock and reef. IRELAND'S LEGENDARY WAVES Aileen's Wave [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2xf4rFsL-a8](video) off the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. It has been described as the ‘perfect wave' and can be 35-40 feet. Riley's Wave [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmHsF2V4Fc0] (video) south of Lahinch, also in County Clare. It doesn't break as big, but is a powerful, barreling wave. TAKE YOUR TIME IN IRELAND- ESPECIALLY IF YOU WANT TO SURF Ben's Surf Clinic shares local surf conditions daily on the website, Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/benssurfclinic/], and Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/BensSurfClinicLahinch/]. See how much there is to do in west Clare and the Burren! [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/respend-a-few-days-the-burren-in-county-clare/attractions/] LEARN TO SURF IN IRELAND AT BEN'S SURF CLINIC Ben's Surf Clinic offers lessons for those just beginning to more advanced surfers. Beginners will learn to manage their board, enter the water correctly, and the proper way to lie on the board to catch a wave. Lessons are 2 hours in the water. All equipment is included, and groups are small, no more than 6 people. Ben's Surf Clinic is the only surf school in Lahinch with hot showers available after your lesson. 3 PLACES TO ADD TO YOUR IRELAND ITINERARY If you are an experienced surfer explore the coastline from Sligo town to Bundoran for a vast range of breaks. Find secret beaches near Clifden, County Galway. Explore from Leenane, County Galway to Louisburgh, County Mayo for a stunning drive. Be sure to visit The Lost Valley. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/discovering-lost-valley/attractions/] The post Lahinch & Beyond: Surfing in Ireland [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/surfing-in-ireland-county-clare-beyond/attractions/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

Quotes can look wildly different at first glance; one bundles taxes and roadside, another separates fees until checkout. This guide walks through how I compare quotes fairly so you can see the real total before you book. COMPARING CAR RENTAL QUOTES IN IRELAND WHAT I COMPARED * Five quotes from Irish Car Rentals, Enterprise.ie, Sixt.ie, New Way, and My Irish Cousin. * Same dates and pickup/drop at Dublin Airport. * Same class of vehicle (similar to a Hyundai Tucson, automatic). * Tip from experience: for international brands, use the .ie site to see Irish coverage options during booking. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/quotes-1024x374.jpg] WHERE PRICES REALLY DIVERGE * Excess coverage and roadside assistance: sometimes bundled, sometimes add-ons. * Additional driver and cross-border fee: often shown late in the process; I had to hunt these down on a few sites. * Taxes and surcharges: included in some quotes, added later in others. * Deductible differences: one example had a €250 deductible even with excess. * Tires and windscreen: included in some quotes with excess coverage, on others it appeared under roadside. * Mileage: most quotes showed unlimited mileage; still worth confirming in the terms. FINDING THE MISSING PIECES If you can’t add a fee during booking, check the terms. * Example: Irish Car Rentals lists the Northern Ireland fee in the terms (per rental). * Terms also clarify rules like not taking the car off the island, what counts as a covered tire issue, and payment methods accepted. INCLUSIVE PROVIDERS VS BUILD-YOUR-OWN * New Way and My Irish Cousin include excess coverage and other extras in a single price for a ‘no hassle' experience * Others let you toggle items on screen; a few require you to read terms to find the fee. THE TAKEAWAY FROM MY SAMPLE * In my spreadsheet, Irish Car Rentals came out least expensive once everything I needed was added. * New Way landed next; My Irish Cousin and Enterprise were close together; Sixt was highest in this run. * Quotes change – sometimes by the hour. I lock in when my dates are set; booking earlier usually wins. HOW TO COMPARE FAIRLY WHEN QUOTES AREN’T IDENTICAL * Match basics first: same dates, pickup/drop, vehicle class, transmission. * Add what you actually need: excess coverage, an additional driver, cross-border if applicable, roadside. * Look for what isn’t shown: taxes, surcharges, out-of-hours fees, and any deductible left on excess. * Confirm small but important items: tires and windscreen coverage; mileage; where cross-border is permitted and priced. * Total everything; then decide which full quote fits your trip, not just which looks cheapest at first glance. CHOOSING THE QUOTE THAT FITS YOUR TRIP Pick the offer that covers what you need, shows a clear total, and doesn’t hide essentials in the fine print. Once you know your dates, get a number you’re happy with and book; you’ll avoid the last-minute scramble and the price creep that follows it. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 300 The post Comparing Car Rental Quotes in Ireland: How to Read Them Fairly [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/comparing-car-rental-quotes-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].

For many women, the idea of traveling solo in Ireland can feel both exciting and a little daunting. The good news is that Ireland is widely considered one of the safest countries in the world for female travelers. I’ve been exploring Ireland on my own for more than two decades – including trips when my daughters were very young – and I have never once felt unsafe. That experience reinforces what many women find: Ireland is not only safe but also incredibly rewarding to discover on your own. When in Dublin... with Molly Malone. A guide to enjoying Dublin with Kids. Ireland travel tips. [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/When-in-Dublin...-with-Molly-Malone-1024x791.jpg] This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 299. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. ESSENTIAL SAFETY, PACKING, AND PLANNING ADVICE From safety habits to packing light and choosing the accommodation, a little planning goes a long way. These practical tips will help female travelers feel confident as they set out to discover Ireland on their own. SAFETY COMES FIRST Ireland’s reputation as a safe destination is well earned, but using good judgment is always essential. Trusting your instincts is the most important tool – if a place or situation feels uncomfortable, it’s better to walk away or take a taxi. Sharing an itinerary with a trusted friend or family member at home provides peace of mind, especially if paired with a regular check-in time. It’s also smart to keep both printed and digital copies of important documents, such as a passport, driver’s license, and credit cards. Having a backup stored with someone at home can make emergencies easier to manage. On the ground, be cautious with social media – share travel updates after leaving a location rather than in real time. Keep Ireland’s emergency number (999) handy, along with tourist support services like touristsos.ie [https://touristsos.ie]. Staying connected makes solo travel more comfortable. An international phone plan, eSIM, or portable Wi-Fi device ensures reliable communication. WhatsApp is the most common messaging app used in Ireland, making it easy to reach accommodations, tour providers, or new contacts. LEARN HOW TO USE YOUR MOBILE PHONE IN IRELAND [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/tips-using-mobile-phone-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/] PACKING LIGHT AND PRACTICAL Carrying everything yourself means packing smart. A capsule wardrobe with layers keeps luggage manageable and outfits versatile. Comfortable, practical shoes are essential, while expensive jewelry and high heels are best left at home. A small, secure day bag – preferably crossbody with cut-proof straps and RFID protection – keeps daily necessities safe. Backpacks with lockable zippers or hidden pockets add an extra layer of security. For valuables like cash, credit cards, and a passport, consider a money belt or bra pouch. And remember: medications, electronics, cash, and power banks should always travel in carry-on luggage, never checked bags. SEE MY ‘TRAVEL SMART' SERIES [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/?s=travel+smart] FOR TIPS ON HOTEL & STREET SAFETY, TRANSPORTATION & PACKING PLANNING FOR FLEXIBILITY AND CONFIDENCE A well-structured plan helps a trip run smoothly, but leaving space for spontaneity makes solo travel more rewarding. Choosing centrally located accommodations means easier access to attractions, dining, and public transport. When booking rentals such as Airbnb, reviews and clear communication with hosts can help gauge safety and reliability. Transportation should also be considered in advance. Rental cars are best booked before arrival and taxis in rural areas may need to be pre-arranged. Apps like Free Now (in the Republic of Ireland) and Uber (in Northern Ireland) make getting around cities easier. Train tickets can be booked online at irishrail.ie, keeping in mind that popular routes can sell out at peak times. Guided tours, walking experiences, and day trips also benefit from advance booking. Finally, budgeting helps avoid stress and post-vacation debt. Planning for both daily expenses and occasional splurges – like a handmade tweed jacket or a memorable meal – means enjoying the moment without worry. WHY TRAVEL INSURANCE MATTERS Travel insurance [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/travel-insurance-for-an-ireland-vacation/ireland-travel-tips/] provides an important safety net, covering delays, cancellations, or emergencies. Keeping a copy of the policy handy, and sharing one with a contact at home, ensures help is available if needed. TRAVELING SOLO WITH CONFIDENCE Solo travel in Ireland offers the chance to move at your own pace, make spontaneous discoveries, and enjoy moments of independence while surrounded by Ireland’s legendary hospitality. With careful planning and a few safety precautions, female travelers can feel confident embarking on an unforgettable Irish journey. BEGIN PLANNING YOUR DREAM VACATION IN IRELAND WITH THIS STEP-BY-STEP IRELAND VACATION PLANNING SERIES! [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/plan-your-ireland-vacation/] The post Solo Travel in Ireland: Tips for Female Travelers [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/solo-travel-ireland-female-travelers/ireland-travel-tips/] appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations [https://irelandfamilyvacations.com].