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ireland tour, european tour, ireland travel, ireland vacation, tauck
2010 – 13 Days from $4,990
The Emerald Isle bids you a hundred thousand welcomes on Tauck's comprehensive Ireland tour. Splendid scenery, fascinating history, a vibrant culture and warm, hospitable people all contribute to the great charm of Ireland. Enjoy stays in two castle hotels, have lunch with a farm family at a working dairy farm, visit Blarney Castle and the Waterford Crystal visitors center. Experience the sophistication of Dublin and the peaceful ambiance of small villages. Have a memorable night at The Irish House Party, and find out what it's like to stay in a castle... two castles! Tauck's comprehensive Ireland tour is certain to be one of your most memorable travel experiences.

2010 Itinerary


Day 1 - Welcome to Ireland
Tauck's Best of Ireland tour begins at 6:00 PM at the Old Ground Hotel.  A transfer is included from Shannon Airport to the Old Ground Hotel, set in the charming village of Ennis. Meet your Tauck Director and your fellow travelers at our welcome reception and dinner this evening.
Meals: Dinner
Lodging: Old Ground Hotel, Ennis, Ireland

Day 2 - The Cliffs of Moher, the Burren and Loch Corrib
Your Ireland tour continues with travels through emerald countryside and along the coast to the mighty Cliffs of Moher, towering over the Atlantic shoreline. Journey along the Yellow Roads through the eerie landscapes of the Burren en route to legendary Ashford Castle on the shores of Loch Corrib; it's continually ranked as one of the finest hotels in the world.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Ashford Castle, Cong, Ireland

Day 3 - Discover Connemara
Connemara is one of the more scenically diverse regions seen on any Ireland tour, with glistening lakes, bogs, mountain vistas and the craggy Atlantic coastline. At Kylemore Lough, see Kylemore Abbey, a splendid Gothic-Revival castle. Return to Ashford Castle, where the remainder of the day is free; dine à la carte tonight in one of the castle's celebrated restaurants.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Ashford Castle, Cong, Ireland

Day 4 - Sligo to Donegal Bay
Noted poet, W. B. Yeats, described Sligo as the Land of Heart's Desire. While in Sligo, visit Yeats' resting place at Drumcliffe, beneath Ben Bulben. Continue on to Donegal for a two-night stay at a lakeside hotel in the serene Irish countryside, voted AA Ireland's 2007-2008 "Hotel of the Year."
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Harvey's Point Country Hotel, Donegal Town, Ireland

Day 5 - Explore County Donegal
Tauck's northwest Ireland tour enchants visitors with the beauty of its scenery and the warmth of its people. A lovely drive today encompasses both the coast of Ireland along Donegal Bay, through ports like Killybegs, and her lush farms and meadows.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Harvey's Point Country Hotel, Donegal Town, Ireland

Day 6 - Journey across Ireland en route to Dublin
Your Ireland tour takes you through the picture-perfect scenery for which the Emerald Isle is known across the Republic of Ireland en route to a two-night stay in the heart of Dublin, in one of the city's finest hotels. View verdant green hills dotted with grazing sheep, ruined castles and abandoned abbeys along the way. Arrive in Dublin, where the afternoon is free to explore. Tonight you'll experience one of Ireland's enduring traditions - an evening of traditional Irish music and Irish dancing. The Irish House Party takes place in the private parlor room of a family-owned Georgian building in the literary quarter. You'll be treated to dinner and an evening that will both entertain and educate with stories about Dublin's unique characters, traditional music by leading musicians, and dance.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: The Westin Dublin, Ireland

Day 7 - Dublin's "Fair City," an Ireland tour highlight
Ireland's capital and largest city, Dublin is known for its rich literary history, the intricate glass lace found on the doors of its Georgian townhouses, and its lively pubs proudly serving locally made Guinness Stout. Read a page from the Book of Kells at ancient Trinity College, and visit Dublin Castle before spending the rest of the day experiencing Dublin life as you please.Your hotel, The Westin Dublin, is located in the heart of the city, close to Grafton Street and Nassau Street.
Meals: Breakfast
Lodging: The Westin Dublin, Ireland

Day 8 - Through the Wicklow Mountains to Kilkenny
Today's adventures are a highlight of any Ireland tour. The 19th-century Powerscourt Gardens, in the beautiful Wicklow Mountains, are a treat for the senses. The medieval town of Kilkenny is as well known for the quality and variety its crafts as for its rich history.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Mount Juliet Conrad, Thomastown, Ireland

Day 9 - Waterford Crystal and historic Cobh
Stop at the Waterford Crystal visitors center for a look at Ireland's famed glassware before a visit to the Old Jameson Distillery for a guided tour and tasting. On to Cobh, the last port of call for the ill-fated Titanic. Cobh also saw the sailing of the first steamship to cross the Atlantic; discover the role that Cobh has played in maritime history at the Cobh Heritage Center. Continue on to Cork, where you'll spend the night in an elegant country manor house.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Hayfield Manor Hotel, Cork, Ireland

Day 10 - From Blarney to Killarney
Few visitors to 15th-century Blarney Castle can resist the opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone in the hope of being gifted with legendary Irish eloquence. Journey into County Kerry, stopping at the historic town of Kenmare en route to Killarney where you'll visit Muckross House. Tour this Elizabethan-style mansion, with time to enjoy its lovely gardens. Spend the night at Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa; overlooking the Lakes of Killarney, the five-star hotel exudes the warmth of a country home - every Tauck room looks out upon the beautiful landscapes of Killarney.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa, Killarney, Ireland

Day 11 - Explore the Ring of Kerry
One of the most famous drives in the world, the 100-mile route around the Ring of Kerry reveals some of Ireland's most splendid scenery. Wind your way through charming towns including Cahirciveen and Waterville, and features such as Mols Gap and Ladies View. Return to Killarney for time at leisure, adding more enjoyment of the countryside's rich cultural heritage to this Ireland tour. Dine à la carte at your leisure in your hotel's acclaimed restaurant tonight.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa, Killarney, Ireland

Day 12 - From a farm to a castle
Enjoy a visit with Irish farmers at their working dairy farm, which has been in the same family for generations; enjoy a light lunch at the farm as you discover the important role of farming in the west of Ireland. Then, it's off to Dromoland Castle; prior to becoming a world-renowned hotel, this magnificent baronial manor was home to the O'Brian family for over 500 years. Join your new friends at a farewell cocktail reception and dinner as Tauck's Ireland tour approaches its end.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Dromoland Castle, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Ireland

Day 13 - Your Ireland tour draws to a close - slainte!
Tauck's Ireland tour ends: Dromoland Castle. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Dromoland Castle to Shannon Airport. Please allow a minimum of 2 1/2 hours for check-in.
Meals: Breakfast

Select departures of The Best of Ireland tour feature three days in Northern Ireland (days 4, 5 & 6) instead of County Donegal; click here for Northern Ireland tour itinerary.

Tauck's 13-day Ireland tour is certain to put a sparkle in your eyes and warmth in your heart; book now for perferred departure dates!


Inclusive Prices

Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel accommodations, motor coach transportation, special dinners, sightseeing, admissions, luggage handling and the services of local guides, drivers, and the Tauck Director are included. Transportation from Shannon Airport to the Old Ground Hotel is included, regardless of the day and time of your arrival, provided you have given Tauck accurate flight information at least two weeks prior to the start of the tour. Transportation from Dromoland Castle to Shannon Airport  is also included whenever you choose to depart. Transportation to and from airports and train stations may be shared with other Tauck guests.

Hotel Accommodations – The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. Our standard is to provide the best available accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality of accommodations may differ slightly from one hotel to another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are usually two-bedded rooms plus a rollaway cot and are not recommended for comfort. King beds are not available in most hotels; a king-type bed usually consists of two single beds pushed together which are made up separately with one headboard. Some two-bedded rooms may have two single – not full or queen - beds.

Meals – Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.

Tauck Director – The Best of Ireland is conducted by a Tauck Director who remains with the group throughout the tour. Your Tauck Director is a professional, fully trained employee of Tauck.

Gratuities Included – All customary gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff and local guides are included.

No Options Sold – Your Tauck Director will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance but will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.

Not Included


Airfare to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included. Airfare may be purchased from us for travel originating in the United States.

Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours – To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, we will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through us. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. Airport transfers are included for these bookings. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult the Extend This Journey section on this webpage and discuss it with our your reservations sales consultant or travel agent when you book your tour.

Luggage Responsibility – Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to Tauck Travel Protection on this webpage for more information.

Lost luggage is an unfortunate possibility in today's world of airline travel. We suggest that you:
  • Pack at least one change of clothing in your carry-on bag
  • Split your items between your suitcase and a traveling companion's suitcase
  • Do not pack any vital medications or valuables in your checked luggage
  • Confirm that your luggage is checked and tagged to your final destination at airport check-in
  • Place your luggage claim tags in a secure place for your flight
  • File a claim for any missing luggage immediately before leaving the baggage claim area
  • Secure a case number and contact information for follow-up communications
  • Make certain that the airline has your onward itinerary
Your Tauck Director will assist you with airline and other carrier communications, but has no inside contacts to guarantee or expedite recovery of lost luggage. All recovery costs, including the communication costs, are your responsibility. Check your travel protection details for covered expenses.

Personal Expenses such as phone calls, room service, alcoholic and other beverages not specifically included, laundry, dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, airport arrival and departure taxes, individual airport transfers (when applicable), and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.

Tauck Director Gratuities - The customary gratuities for the Tauck Director and local drivers are not included. We ask that gratuities be extended on a voluntary, individual basis and not as a group.

Additional Information


Airline Security Measures – 

If you are traveling from the U.S., the U.S. Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Secure Flight program requires that your name, as it appears on your domestic or international airline ticket, must precisely match your name as it appears on the government-issued photo ID (i.e., passport or driver’s license) that you present during security screening. The ID name must also match any additional airline data, such as frequent-flyer information. For example, if you present your driver's license to security and it says John T. Smith, your ticket must also say John T. Smith, not John Thomas Smith, Jack Smith, or any other variant. Your date-of-birth and gender information provided to the airline must also match your passport.

If you make your air travel arrangements through us, please ensure that the name you provide us precisely matches your name as shown on the identification you will use while traveling. If you make your own airline reservations, please ensure that the airline has the correct information.

For more information on the Secure Flight program, please visit the TSA web site by clicking here.

If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S, you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.

Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items and recommended airport check-in times.

Air Services – Airfare may be purchased through us for travel originating in the United States. By using our air services, you agree that we, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, are acting only as your agent and are not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by us. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline only, even if purchased through us. We are not liable for, and do not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). We must handle ticketing for our special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Our air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a one of our tours. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air booking before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.

Holiday and Museum Closures – Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many state, religious and civic holidays locally observed.You may wish to log on to Wikipedia to view a list of holidays by country by clicking here.

Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility – We pledge to make every effort to operate all tours as advertised. We reserve the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by us. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecast at the time of publication.

Journey Start and End Times are provided at the time of booking. The tour begins at 6:00 PM at the Old Ground Hotel in Ennis on the first day of the tour. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, allow sufficient time to claim luggage and clear customs in order to join the tour on time. The tour ends when you check out of Dromoland Castle, Newmarket-on-Fergus on the last day of the tour. We suggest you allow sufficient time for check-in.Each carrier and each airport has different rules regarding how early you must arrive for flight check in. Please contact your individual carrier for this information.

Membership will be granted to all persons. We reserve the right to terminate the tour of any person who is abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.

Photography on Tour – Occasionally, we will use photographs and/or video taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for print, Internet and other media promotional purposes. If you prefer that your image not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
 

Preparing To Go


Travel Document Requirements –

If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Ireland; however, you do not need a visa for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

If you are a citizen of another country, you should contact an embassy or consulate of Ireland to determine what travel documentation is required.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship, as well as both sides of your driver’s license. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

Travel with Children

Age Recommendations
― Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, we have a minimum recommended age for each journey to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.

Babysitting ― Our journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. If you require babysitting services, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer on-site babysitting services; however, babysitting services may not be available at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.

Safety and Welfare Responsibility
― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with us, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.

Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel

If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so. CBP also suggests that this note be notarized. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.

If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (parent deceased, sole custody, etc.), other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, or a death certificate, will be useful.

Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, we require you to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information may be obtained from a country’s consulate or embassy.

Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment

In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents (including other pertinent documents as cited above) authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
 
Children who are U.S. citizens must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the completion of the journey.

We are not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by the improper documentation of any guest, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.

Air Conditioning – The motor coaches are air-conditioned for your comfort. Only The Westin Dublin, the Hayfield Manor Hotel in Cork, and the Aghadoe Heights Hotel in Killarney provide air-conditioning.
European air conditioning should be considered as a climate-control system; most have three settings for the fan, plus a "cool" setting. Very few of the European systems actually have a temperature setting. In general, the amount of cool air that is produced from a European air conditioning system may be less than what you may have in your own home.

ATM and Credit Cards - We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing on this tour to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be "suspicious" charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back sides of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.

Clothing and Packing – The weather in Ireland is moderate. Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. The Emerald Isle owes its name to its precipitation, so rain is to be expected anytime.

In Europe, especially in finer restaurants, it is generally customary to dress somewhat formally. Slacks or a dress for women and a jacket and tie for men are acceptable dining attire. It is advisable to avoid wearing jeans, sneakers or shorts for dinner. You may also wish to dress up a bit for the welcome reception and the farewell dinner, but by all means be comfortable.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor’s prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your trip to Ireland:
  • Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
  • An optional jacket and tie for men
  • Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
  • Swimwear
  • Gym wear
  • A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
  • Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and/or plenty of film
  • Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
  • Battery-operated travel alarm clock
  • Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
  • Zipper-lock bags
  • Daypack for camera equipment
  • Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
  • Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

Elevation - The maximum elevation on this tour is approximately 1,500 ft (457 m).

Health – The Best of Ireland  involves a considerable amount of walking. To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.  The visits to the Cliffs of Moher, Kylemore Abbey, Blarney Castle, and Muckross House are challenging due to the steep climbs and long walks involved in the sightseeing.

Most hotels do not have special handicap access rooms. Mount Juliet Conrad and Dromoland Castle do not have elevators but there are guest rooms at ground level. Dromoland Castle has a handicap lift to the floor where the farewell reception will be held; the floor is also accessible by climbing 20 to 30 stairs depending on the actual room assignment.

We regret that we cannot provide you with individual assistance for walking, dining or other personal needs. If you need such assistance, you must be accompanied by an able companion who will help you.

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

If you are interested in sporting activities, many opportunities await you on this particular journey. Golfing is available at Mount Juliet Conrad, Ashford Castle and Dromoland Castle. You may rent clubs and purchase golf balls but you will have to bring your own footwear. If you would like to fully enjoy the exceptional courses at Ashford Castle or Dromoland Castle, you may wish to schedule additional nights either before or after your tour. In any case, experience has taught us that the earlier you book your tee time the better – even ahead of your departure! If you decide you would like to play once you have arrived, your Tauck Director will endeavor to honor your request. Tennis facilities are available at several hotels including Mount Juliet Conrad, Ashford Castle, Dromoland Castle and Aghadoe Heights Hotel. Fishing is possible at Ashford Castle, Dromoland Castle and Mount Juliet Conrad. Horseback riding is available at Mount Juliet Conrad, Ashford Castle and Dromoland Castle. You will have the opportunity to swim in the pool at several of the hotels used on this tour. Any expenses incurred in conjunction with these optional activities are at your own expense.

Ireland has introduced a ban on smoking in all enclosed places of work in Ireland. This includes all bars, night clubs, restaurants and hotels. Although the public spaces within the hotel are non-smoking, you may request a smoking guest room at your hotel.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition which might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

If you are a resident of the U.S., no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Ireland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information please contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations that may be required for your journey. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here.

If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of Ireland to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

Luggage -

Checked Luggage – General

While it is common for airlines to allow passengers to check more than one piece of luggage per person, space constraints during your Tauck journey make it difficult to accommodate extra luggage. We ask that you limit your checked luggage to one average size suitcase per person.

Recently, airlines have adopted policies enforcing strict number, size and weight limits. Luggage exceeding maximum restrictions may require expensive overage fees, frustrating and hurried re-packing at the ticket counter, or even risk being left behind.

Many carriers require that checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, we cannot be held liable for the accuracy of the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current number, weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage number, weight and size may vary with the same airline based on the class of service you select. First and Business Class ticket holders may have different restrictions than Coach Class travelers. You may wish to consult the website, luggagelimits.com, by clicking here,

We cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage number, weight and size policies.

Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

 

Destination Information


Cell Phones - We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone while on the motor coach, during group functions, when sightseeing and when your Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There will be many opportunities to make and receive calls at times when it does not affect others.

Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine whether your service extends to Ireland.

Currency and Exchange Rates - The currency in Ireland is the Euro (EUR) which is divided into 100 cents. Currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange bureaus and all the hotels used on this tour. ATMs are widely available. Credit and debit cards and travelers’ checks are also widely accepted.

To obtain the most current exchange rates for all national currencies, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to the website, oanda.com, by clicking here.

Customs and Tax-Free Shopping – You should familiarize yourself with Ireland’s specific required customs declarations before you travel. In general, you are not permitted to bring live plants, fresh fruits and other produce items into most countries.
 
            Ireland – Revenue: Irish Tax & Customs
 
If you are a U.S resident who will be returning to the U.S. at the end of the tour, you are entitled to a duty-free exemption based on the total value of merchandise purchase abroad, as long as you physically bring them with you. There are limits to the amount of alcohol that can be a part of this exemption. Certain restrictions apply to unaccompanied goods mailed from abroad to the U.S. Please call your local customs office or consult the U.S. government's customs regulations as contained in their publication entitled Know Before You Go.

If you are a resident of another country, please refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.

Currently, Ireland levies a 21% Value Added Tax (VAT) on most consumer goods and services. (The tax may be higher on luxury items and lower on basic goods.) As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country in which the purchase is made (or of the country’s intergovernmental economic community, e.g., the European Union), you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.

Electrical Current – The electrical current in Ireland is 230 V, 50 Hz, AC. The plug type is “G” and uses three rectangular blades – the same plug that is used in Great Britain. If your electrical devices do not conform to this standard, you will need to bring the appropriate converters and adapters.

Internet Access - Internet access is available at each of the hotels, as indicated below:

Old Ground Hotel - Complimentary access in guest rooms
Ashford Castle - Complimentary access in rooms and the first 15 minutes are free in the business center
Harvey's Point Country Hotel- Complimentary wireless access in rooms and computers are available in the lobby
The Westin Dublin
- Wireless and wired high-speed  access is available for a fee
Mount Juliet Conrad
- Complimentary broadband access in rooms and throughout hotel
Hayfield Manor
- Complimentary high speed  access in rooms and in public areas
Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa
- Complimentary access in rooms and in the media room
Dromoland Castle
- Complimentary access in rooms and the first 15 minutes are free in the business center

Time Zones
Ireland is located in the same time zone as Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). From late March through October, Ireland switches to Daylight Savings Time and is 1 hour ahead. To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the website, timeanddate.com, by clicking here.

Weather The weather in Ireland can be variable, alternating between wet and cool days, and sunny and mild days. The climate is generally moderate throughout the country, tempered by the Atlantic Ocean Gulf Stream. Average high temperatures from April through October range from 55 to 65˚F (13 to 18˚C) and the average low temperatures range from 40 to 55˚F (4 to 13˚C). Ireland, like other European countries, has experienced unusually warm spells in recent summers. Ireland’s greenery owes its notoriety to the frequent rainfall. Generally, the western coast of Ireland receives the most rain as can be noted in the fact that Cork and Sligo both have 50% more rain per year than Dublin.

 

 
Average Temperature
 
Dublin, Ireland
Cork, Ireland
Month
Hi/Lo ºF
Hi/Lo ºC
Hi/Lo ºF
Hi/Lo ºC
January
46 / 37
8 / 3
46 / 37
8 / 3
February
46 / 37
8 / 3
46 / 37
8 / 3
March
49 / 38
9 / 3
49 / 38
9 / 3
April
53 / 40
12 / 4
53 / 40
12 / 4
May
58 / 44
14 / 7
57 / 44
14 / 7
June
63 / 49
17 / 9
62 / 49
17 / 9
July
66 / 53
19 / 12
65 / 52
18 / 11
August
66 / 52
19 / 11
65 / 52
18 / 11
September
62 / 49
17 / 9
61 / 49
16 / 9
October
57 / 46
14 / 8
56 / 46
13 / 8
November
50 / 40
10 / 4
50 / 40
10 / 4
December
47 / 38
8 / 3
47 / 38
8 / 3
 
 
 
Connemara, Ireland
Sligo, Ireland
Month
Hi/Lo ºF
Hi/Lo ºC
Hi/Lo ºF
Hi/Lo ºC
January
45 / 37
7 / 3
47 / 40
8 / 4
February
46 / 36
8 / 2
47 / 40
8 / 4
March
50 / 38
10 / 3
51 / 41
11 / 5
April
54 / 40
12 / 4
53 / 42
12 / 6
May
59 / 44
15 / 7
58 / 47
14 / 8
June
63 / 49
17 / 9
61 / 51
16 / 11
July
66 / 52
19 / 11
64 / 53
18 / 12
August
66 / 52
19 / 11
65 / 54
18 / 12
September
62 / 48
17 / 9
62 / 52
17 / 11
October
55 / 44
13 / 7
56 / 47
13 / 8
November
50 / 40
10 / 4
51 / 44
11 / 7
December
46 / 38
8 / 3
46 / 39
8 / 4

 

 

 

 
Rainfall
 
Dublin, Ireland
Cork, Ireland
Month
Inches
Millimeters
Inches
Millimeters
January
2.7
69
5.8
147
February
2.0
51
4.5
114
March
2.1
53
3.8
97
April
2.0
51
2.8
71
May
2.2
56
3.3
84
June
2.2
56
2.7
69
July
2.0
51
2.6
66
August
2.8
71
3.5
89
September
2.6
66
3.8
97
October
2.8
71
5.0
127
November
2.5
64
4.3
109
December
3.0
76
5.4
137
 
 
 
Connemara, Ireland
Sligo, Ireland
Month
Inches
Millimeters
Inches
Millimeters
January
3.6
92
4.9
124
February
3.1
80
3.1
80
March
2.7
70
3.8
96
April
2.3
58
2.3
58
May
1.9
47
2.7
68
June
1.9
49
2.6
67
July
1.9
49
2.7
68
August
2.5
64
3.7
94
September
2.5
63
4.3
108
October
3.6
90
5.2
133
November
3.0
77
5.0
128
December
3.4
87
4.7
120

 

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov, by clicking here.

 

If You Have to Cancel


Cancellation Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations of confirmed bookings result in our incurring costly penalties and cancellation fees from our travel and hotel providers. Therefore, if you have to cancel a confirmed booking, we will charge you a cancellation fee according to when your cancellation notice is received in our Norwalk, CT office. To help limit your liability, please refer to Tauck Travel Protection on this webpage for more information.

If you choose not to purchase Tauck Travel Protection or Cancellation Fee Waiver, you will incur cancellation penalties per person  as follows:
 
60 days or more before departure
$600 per person (the amount of the deposit)

59-8 days before departure
$900 per person

7-1 days before departure
$1,500 per person

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