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Trip Planning

Planning our trip and packing was a key part of the trip. We will get into the details of different parts of trip planning below, but the one thing we recommend is to get your Rick Steves travel book and study it! The travel books, along with a fanny pack/money belt are sent for all members of your booking. 

 

*Key Takeaway: The Rick Steves Tour highly recommends packing lightly (no matter which tour you take!).

Navigating Travel in Ireland

  • Expect the Unexpected: Always be prepared for unforeseen travel hiccups.

  • Early Arrival: Arrived 36 hours early and booked an AirBnB in Galway before starting our tour in Ennis.

  • Accommodation Challenges: Last-minute bookings were difficult due to unexpected demand, partly from Ukrainian refugees finding refuge in hotels.

  • Embracing Adventure: From staying in a 12th-century castle to lodging with a local, each night was a unique experience.

  • Car Rental Tips: If renting a car, be ready to drive on the left side of the road.

  • Public Transport: Trains and buses are convenient alternatives in populous areas, reducing the need for a car rental

Money Matters: Navigating Finances in Ireland

  • Meals and Shopping: Account for extra meals and shopping outside of tour-provided meals.

  • Payment Methods: Most vendors accept credit cards; small shops may prefer cash or charge a credit card fee.

    • Note: Some vendors do not accept all credit cards (such as American Express) so either have a few credit card options or make sure you have enough cash.​

  • Currency Exchange Tip: Choose the local exchange rate (Irish) when using credit cards or ATMs to avoid higher fees.

  • Ireland vs. Northern Ireland Currencies: Ireland uses the Euro; Northern Ireland uses the Pound. Carry both if visiting both areas.

  • Crossing Borders: Even if not visiting Northern Ireland, you might pass through; be prepared with the correct currency.

  • Tipping Practices: Tipping has become more common but isn’t as expected as in the U.S. Inform your server if you wish to tip on a card, typically around 20%, but varies by establishment.

Extra Essential Tips for Touring Ireland

  • Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance covering COVID-related issues and cancellations.

  • Pack Versatile Clothing: Weather can be unpredictable; layering is key. Include waterproof and windproof options.

  • Stay Connected: Invest in a local SIM card or ensure your mobile plan covers Ireland for easy navigation and communication.

  • Footwear Matters: Bring comfortable, waterproof walking shoes for exploring cities and countryside.

  • Public Transport Savvy: Familiarize yourself with Ireland's public transport options for times outside the tour itinerary.

  • Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle; tap water is drinkable and free in most places.

  • Emergency Info: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency services and your embassy's contact information.

  • Enjoy Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on trying traditional Irish dishes and local produce; food is an integral part of the experience.

Packing Smart

  • Light Packing: Rick Steves Tour advises minimal luggage for ease of travel.

  • Weather-Ready Gear: Prepared for typical fall conditions in Ireland—40s/50s and rainy—with wool items to stay warm and dry.

  • Extra Luggage Strategy: For our extended stay, we packed a regular suitcase stored at Dublin airport during the tour, accommodating additional items.

  • Unexpected Heatwave: Arrived to unseasonably warm weather (75 and sunny), leading to a quick wardrobe adjustment.

  • Local Shopping: Our guide directed us to Dunne for lighter clothing, despite the store's fall/winter inventory.

  • Weather Planning Tip: Base your packing on current projected forecasts, not long-term projections, though our warm gear came in handy eventually.

  • Health: If your tour has COVID protocols, pack a test or two in case you might need it.

Extracurriculars

  • Extra Days: Opted for additional exploration with one day pre-tour and five days post-tour.

  • Tour Downtime: Limited free time during the tour encouraged us to plan for extra days.

  • Early Arrival in Galway: Flew into Dublin, then trained to Galway for our first night to experience a different part of Ireland.

  • Unique Accommodations: Stayed in an AirBnB above a pub in Galway, offering stunning bay views.

  • Post-Tour Adventure: Amy, Nate, and Kevin explored Northern Ireland, tracing family roots and visiting remote regions.

  • Car Rental: Opted for a rental car for flexibility in exploring Donegal county, the Giant's Causeway, and Limerick.

  • Heritage Journey: We aimed to connect with the regions and spend time where Amy’s great grandparents originated before emigrating to the U.S.

Navigating COVID Protocol Challenges

  • COVID Impact: Amanda tested positive for COVID upon arrival in Ireland, affecting our family tour plans.

  • Tour Protocols: Due to tour guidelines, Amanda couldn't participate and had to quarantine in Dublin.

  • Family Dilemma: Nathan faced a tough decision between caring for Amanda and continuing the tour.

  • Supportive Solution: Christine, Amanda's mother, traveled to Dublin to care for her, allowing Nathan to join the family tour.

  • Testing: If you are symptomatic prior to traveling, make sure to test early so you don't have to quarantine in a foreign country!

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