For reservations call 1-800-788-7885
or contact your local travel agent
The Best of Ireland
Tauck Partners' Savings – Deduct $260 per person May – June and $190 per person July – September. Certain restrictions apply; ask at booking for details. 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 Factory. Experience the sophistication of Dublin and the peaceful ambiance of small villages. Have a pint with friendly locals at a lively pub. All that is best about this island nation is yours to enjoy during Tauck's ultimate Ireland tour.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
2009 Itinerary
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.
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
As your Ireland tour continues, journey through emerald countryside and along the coast to the mighty Cliffs of Moher, towering over the Atlantic shoreline. Travel 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 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.
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.
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.
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
Watch as gifted artisans create treasures in glass at the Waterford Crystal factory. 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.
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 and lunch with Irish farmers at their working dairy farm and discover the role of farming in the west of Ireland. Then, it’s off to Dromoland Castle to stay for the night. 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 festive farewell reception and dinner tonight as your wonderful 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 – slaínte!
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
Don’t miss the chance to be beguiled by
this memorable Ireland tour in 2009!
Prices
13 Days from $5,190 plus airfare
| Double | Single | Triple | |
| 2009 Price per Person |
$5190 | $6618 | $4921 |
13 Days from $5,790 plus airfare - Small Group Departures
Small Group Departures with no more than 26 Tauck guests are available on May 17, June 14, July 12, August 4 and September 1 & 15; they are specially priced from $5790 per person double. Specific dates apply – see below or inquire at time of booking for additional dates and information.
| Double | Single | Triple | |
| 2009 Price per Person |
$5790 |
$7218 |
$5521 |
28 meals included.
Tauck Partners' Savings – Deduct $260 per person May – June and $190 per person July – September. Certain restrictions apply; ask at booking for details.
International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).
Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Guest Protection Plan.
Need to Know
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. A representative of Tauck will meet you at Shannon Airport and provide transportation to the Old Ground Hotel, 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. Tauck will also provide you with transportation from the Dromoland Castle to Shannon Airport regardless of the day and time of your departure.
Hotel Accommodations – The tour price includes all hotel accommodations with private baths. The Tauck standard is to provide the best available hotels without sacrificing value. Although the quality may differ slightly from place to place, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels. Triples are two-bedded rooms with a rollaway cot where available 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 – 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 gratuities for restaurant and hotel 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 Tauck 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, Tauck will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through Tauck. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult the Extend This Journey section on this website and discuss it with the reservations 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 the Tauck Protection Plan for more information.
Personal Expenses - Phone calls, room service, alcoholic and bar beverages, laundry, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, visa fees and services, individual airport transfers and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.
Tauck Director and Driver Gratuities - The customary gratuities to the Tauck Director and driver are not included. Gratuities should be extended on a voluntary, individual basis and not as a group.
Additional Information
Airline Security Measures - In the U.S., you must provide identification in the form of a passport at the time of airport check-in for travel to international destinations. Your passport name must match the name on your tour reservation and airline ticket or you may be denied boarding.
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, pocket knife, 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.
You may also wish to visit the Transportation Security Administration website at www.tsa.gov to obtain more information on acceptable identity documentation and prohibited luggage items by clicking here.
Air Services – Airfare may be purchased through Tauck for travel originating in the United States. By using Tauck's air services, you agree that Tauck, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, is acting only as your agent and is 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 Tauck. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline (and not Tauck), even if purchased through Tauck. Tauck is not liable for, and does 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). Tauck must handle ticketing for Tauck's special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Special fares cannot be combined with any other promotional offer. Tauck's air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a Tauck tour. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air 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 religious, state and local holidays locally observed.
Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility – Tauck pledges to make every effort to operate your tour as advertised. Tauck reserves 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 Tauck. 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 at check-out time at the Dromoland Castle, Newmarket-on-Fergus on the last day of the tour. We suggest you allow at least 2½ hours for check-in.
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 taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for promotional purposes. If you prefer that your photo not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
Holiday and Museum Closures – Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many religious, state and local holidays locally observed.
Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility – Tauck pledges to make every effort to operate your tour as advertised. Tauck reserves 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 Tauck. 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 at check-out time at the Dromoland Castle, Newmarket-on-Fergus on the last day of the tour. We suggest you allow at least 2½ hours for check-in.
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 taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for promotional purposes. If you prefer that your photo not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
Preparing To Go
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 for 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 recommends 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. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A light sweater or jacket will provide warmth on a chilly early morning walk or a late night stroll. 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:
- Sports jacket and tie for men
- Casually-elegant outfits for women
- Short and long sleeve shirts
- Shorts, slacks and jeans
- Tee shirts
- Socks
- Light sweater
- Light-weight jacket
- Comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
- Raincoat and rain hat
- Collapsible umbrella
- Swimwear
- Gym wear
- Sunglasses, sunscreen and hat
- Insect repellent
- Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and plenty of film
- 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 – Best of Ireland involves a considerable amount of walking. You should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances over uneven terrain, as some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The visits to the Cliffs of Moher, Kylemore Abbey, Blarney Castle, and Muckross House are challenging due to the steep climbs and long walk involved in the sightseeing. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your discretion.
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.
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, Aghadoe Heights Hotel and the Sandhouse 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 Tauck as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.
If you are a U.S. citizen, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Ireland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour, pre-recorded "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 877-394-8747 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on on to the CDC Internet website at www.cdc.gov.
If you are a citizen 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
Health – Best of Ireland involves a considerable amount of walking. You should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances over uneven terrain, as some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The visits to the Cliffs of Moher, Kylemore Abbey, Blarney Castle, and Muckross House are challenging due to the steep climbs and long walk involved in the sightseeing. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do at the various sites and towns is at your discretion.
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.
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, Aghadoe Heights Hotel and the Sandhouse 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 Tauck as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.
If you are a U.S. citizen, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Ireland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour, pre-recorded "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 877-394-8747 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on on to the CDC Internet website at www.cdc.gov.
If you are a citizen 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 that airlines 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.
In addition, airlines have adopted more strict policies in enforcing 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 checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, Tauck cannot be held liable to the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage size and weight 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.
Tauck World Discovery cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage size, piece or weight policies.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home.
Carry-on Luggage – General
In addition, airlines have adopted more strict policies in enforcing 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 checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, Tauck cannot be held liable to the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage size and weight 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.
Tauck World Discovery cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage size, piece or weight 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 only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may not be accessible during daytime travel.
Travel Document Requirements – If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a valid passport to enter 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 strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. We also 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, for each itinerary we have a minimum recommended age 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 – Tauck journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. However, our guests have occasionally inquired about babysitting services. If you are interested, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements, to ensure your precise needs are met. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer babysitting services that may be arranged on site; however, babysitting services are not guaranteed 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. For safety and security purposes, children under 18 years of age must be booked into a room with at least one accompanying adult. 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 Tauck, 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
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 only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may not be accessible during daytime travel.
Travel Document Requirements – If you are a U.S. citizen, you will need a valid passport to enter 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 strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. We also 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, for each itinerary we have a minimum recommended age 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 – Tauck journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. However, our guests have occasionally inquired about babysitting services. If you are interested, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements, to ensure your precise needs are met. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer babysitting services that may be arranged on site; however, babysitting services are not guaranteed 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. For safety and security purposes, children under 18 years of age must be booked into a room with at least one accompanying adult. 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 Tauck, 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 (deceased, sole custody, etc.) any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., would be useful.
All children who are U.S. citizens should also have a certified copy of their birth certificate or baptism record for ID. Children over the age of 14 are also required to have a photo ID.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, Tauck requires all guests to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information is available from each country’s consulate.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
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 (deceased, sole custody, etc.) any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., would be useful.
All children who are U.S. citizens should also have a certified copy of their birth certificate or baptism record for ID. Children over the age of 14 are also required to have a photo ID.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, Tauck requires all guests to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information is available from each country’s consulate.
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 authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
Tauck is not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for any travelers, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard for these letters, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
Tauck is not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for any travelers, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard for these letters, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
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 during motor coach travel, during group functions, when sightseeing and when the Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There are usually many opportunities to make or 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 up-to-date currency exchange rates, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to the Internet website www.oanda.com.
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, current regulations permit bringing back $800 worth of items duty-free, 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 United States. 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.
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:
Ashford Castle - Complimentary access in rooms and the first 15 minutes are free in the business center
Harvey's Point Country Hotel- Complimentary wireless internet access in rooms and computers are available in the lobby
Four Seasons Dublin- Wireless and wired high-speed internet access is available
Mount Juliet Conrad - Complimentary broadband internet access in rooms and throughout hotel
Hayfield Manor - Complimentary high speed internet access in rooms and in public areas
Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa - Complimentary internet access in rooms and in the media room
Dromoland Castle - Complimentary internet 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 Internet website www.timeanddate.com.
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.
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:
Ashford Castle - Complimentary access in rooms and the first 15 minutes are free in the business center
Harvey's Point Country Hotel- Complimentary wireless internet access in rooms and computers are available in the lobby
Four Seasons Dublin- Wireless and wired high-speed internet access is available
Mount Juliet Conrad - Complimentary broadband internet access in rooms and throughout hotel
Hayfield Manor - Complimentary high speed internet access in rooms and in public areas
Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa - Complimentary internet access in rooms and in the media room
Dromoland Castle - Complimentary internet 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 Internet website www.timeanddate.com.
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.
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|
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, www.weather.com, by clicking here.
If You Have to Cancel
Cancellation Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations of confirmed bookings result in Tauck incurring costly penalties and cancellation fees from our travel and hotel providers. Therefore, if you have to cancel a confirmed booking, Tauck will charge you a cancellation fee according to when your cancellation notice is received in its Norwalk, CT office. To help limit your liability, Tauck offers a Tauck Protection Plan.
If you choose to purchase Tauck’s Guest Protection or Cancellation Fee Waiver, you will have your cancellation penalties waived.Click here for more details.
If you choose not to purchase the Tauck Protection Plan, 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
$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