Unique Food in Ireland

Through the years, the Irish flag has been waved by world-class rugby players. Aside from producing exceptional athletes, Ireland is also known for its famous international musicians like The Corrs, The Cranberries, U2, Boyzone and Ronan Keating, amongst others. For this, people tend to create a certain impression of Ireland, an impression which might be merely about sports and music. Unknown to many, however, a vacation to Ireland reveals they actually has a very rich and unique culture which even extends to food.

The Irish cuisine may seem to be one of the most unknown cuisines in the world for people often tend to neglect it and count it under the normal English cuisine. However, this is not the case.

In Ireland, high-quality beef, which is export quality, and large potatoes are majorly used in traditional dishes. The most known of these dishes are the Irish Stew and Boxty, a potato pancake.

The Irish Stew is made from beef and mutton, the meat of domestic sheep. Carrots, onions and potatoes are added into the dish for more flavor and color. It is cooked by first cleansing the meat through boiling, and eliminating the fat through draining it afterwards. All ingredients are then simmered with stock until everything gets cooked. The process is just mainly boiling which is why the Irish stew is often called "not browned."

Boxty, an easier dish, is made by combining grated raw potatoes, flour, buttermilk, baking soda and egg. The mixture is then fried on a griddle pan like a traditional pancake.

Ireland Has Something for Everyone!

Everyone wants to come in Ireland not only for a beach adventure and nature trips but to experience golf in its finest courses as well. Like to strike a club? It is definitely worth an experience to try the most famous golf courses in Ireland. At a leisurely pace or an intense level, the scenery in these courses is not to be missed.

Do you ever have an inclination for history? Then, an Ireland vacation is a unquestionably paramount destination to visit. The National Museum of Ireland has its door always opened for a blast from the past experience with bygone century's relics and remains. This Ireland's remnants exhibition may be seen in three places in Dublin: Collins Barracks, Kildare Street and Merrion Street. One branch of the museum lies in Co. Mayo. Relive the glory that was Ireland in these museums.

The most inviting factor that Ireland is proud of is the warmth of its welcome and the hospitality its people extends to its guests. Where else in the world can you see a pretty charming smile from everyone you meet? It is a hallmark unique to Ireland.

Why still look very far for an idyllic haven to set your course on? An Ireland vacation meets you openhandedly.

Why You Need to Visit Ireland

Ireland has an embarrassment of riches and beauty - blue beaches, nature resurrections, amusing golf courses, history loaded settings and warm hospitable smiles from its people. Truly, an Irish vacation experience is something that will be hard to beat.

Since Ireland is known globally to be the ideal and ultimate vacation getaway, more visitors are coming over to revel in a spectacular escapade in this country. As this maybe the case, rest assured this dazzling adventure spot still has enough room for you and your friends to stay.

Indulge in a water escapade as you plunge your way into remarkable beaches in Ireland. Catch the tide in famous beaches like Mullaghmore Blue Flag Beach in Co. Mayo or the equally inviting Laytown beach in Co. Meath. Bring the waves closer to you as you splurge a day or two for an aquatic adventure of surf fishing in Portstewart Derry. The experiences you will have in these beaches are guaranteed to be one of a kind.

Establish a closer relationship to nature in Ireland. Sure, the beauty of nature abides everywhere, but when you get right down to a vacation in Ireland, what better compliment could a destination have? Ireland holds a great number of wonders worth a visit. Get hold of the rarest breed of plants adorned by the sweet calls of cuckoos at Brookend Nature Reserve in Cookstown, Tyrone. Where would everybody go for woodland so perfectly preserved? Nowhere else but in Inishfendra in Newtownbutler, Fermanagh. This house of hundred aged oaks also reveals its deep secret of nursing rare species of yellow cress and flowering rush. Imagine the unimaginable in these nature preserves lurking right in Ireland.

Shamrock Country

Every country has a symbol that its citizens cherish and love. Some countries chose eagles as their national symbol, others preferred land animals. Emblematic animals are usually the preference.

Ireland's most famous national symbol, however, is the shamrock. A shamrock is a three-leaf clover, not an animal. There are proofs, though, that as early as the 1500s, the shamrock has been very popular in Ireland. So, what exactly is a shamrock? It seems that Irish exerts are not in agreement as to what specie of clover a shamrock is. The only constant factor is that a shamrock is a three-leaf clover, but as for a really definite definition, the debates are still raging.

There is a story that goes that when St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, set foot in Ireland, he looked for a way to spread the word of God more effectively. He preached the concept of the Holy Trinity using the shamrock. He stated that the Holy Trinity is much like the three-leaf clover: the leaves appear to be independent of each, but upon closer inspection, they converge on a single stem. He thought it was a good idea since clovers are everywhere in Ireland. Now, St. Patrick is a holy man. When he used the shamrock in his teachings, inevitably, the shamrock rose in stature and acquired a certain level of holiness, too.

Given the popularity of the shamrock and the relevance that the Irish accord it, it's a surprise the shamrock didn't make it to the design of the Irish flag. Visit Ireland and see the beautiful shamrocks for yourself!

Shorter Tours of Ireland

The shorter Ireland tours typically allow you to spend at least two nights in each of the major cities, so that you have some free time to venture out on your own. You can always add a few nights before or after your tour begins as well. Tour accommodations range from budget hotels and inns, to five star hotels and overnight castle stays. Of course the better the accomodations, the higher the price. Another thing to consider when selecting a tour is how much sightseeing is included, versus what is going to be offered as optional and cost additional while you are on your trip. Also, how many meals are included, as this can be a considerable savings to you in Europe. Are there any special trips or highlights included? All of these factors can affect the price of a tour, but you may find that spending a little more up front, is a better value in the end to ensure you are getting the most from your visit.

In 8 to 10 days, you can take a Southern Ireland tours and spend time in Dublin, Shannon, Killarney and Waterford, which will include highlights and visits to such places as the Old Jameson Distillery, Bunratty, Ring of Kerry, Kenmare, the Blarney kissing stone and Waterford Crystal Factory.

On an 8 to 10 day trip to Northern Ireland, you would stay in places such as Galway, Derry, Shannon and Dublin. The drive from the west cost over to the east coast incorporates natural beauty as well as historical sites. Visit the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren and the Connemara region. Some of the trip highlights may include Kylemore Abbey, Glenveagh National Park, Giant's Causeway, Trinity College and St. Stephen's Green.

You can take an Ireland tour year round, but the best weather is found May through October. Weather can always get chilly, so pack warm clothing for the evenings. If you don't mind the cold weather, then in the winter there are far less crowds and prices are about 40% lower than traveling during peak season.

You can find great shopping in Ireland for hand-cut crystal, Irish Whiskey, jewelry, handmade sweaters and more.

Tours Just for You in Ireland!

A tour of all the major cities in Ireland would take 12 to 14 days, however keep in mind that this is just an overview of the sites. You will find that these itineraries typically spend only one or two nights in the larger cities, and are on the move the rest of the time getting from place to place. This is why many travelers choose to focus on a specific region of Ireland, to ensure they can take everything in.

The larger cities of Galway, Limerick, Killarney, Cork, Belfast and Dublin offer their own unique style with central locations that are perfect for exploring the countryside.

Dublin, which is the capital of Ireland, is a favorite of travelers. Visit pubs, museums, restaurants and shops. Popular sites include St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin Castle, Malahide Castle, Guinness Storehouse and the Garden of Remembrance. Take time to stroll through Dublin's beautiful Georgian squares. Enjoy entertainment at a theatre, club or pub with traditional Irish music.

Killarney is considered the tourist capital of Ireland due to its natural beauty and the world-renowned Ring of Kerry. Other popular sites are Ross Castle, Dingle and Tralee, Ladies View and the McGillicuddy Reeks. Golfers can enjoy some of the world's best championship golf courses nearby.

Belfast is a thriving city in Northern Ireland, rich in history and culture. It is said to have some of the best nightlife in Ireland. Wonderful restaurants, shops, pubs and old markets offer plenty to do.

The city of Limerick, off of the River Shannon, is ideally located for a visit to the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Village and King John's Castle. Durty Nelly's is one of the most famous pubs in the area. Located in South West Ireland, Cork boasts beautiful scenery of river valleys as well as the sandstone hills of the west. From here you can visit the Blarney Stone, Blarney Castle, Woollen Mills and the affluent town of Kinsale. Walking through Cork, you can see the Opera House, St. Ann Shandon Church, St. Finbarr's Cathedral.

Galway is full of narrow streets and medieval buildings which make you feel like you have gone back in time. See the Spanish Arch, the Church of St. Nicholas and Lynch's castle.

The Beautiful Spots in Ireland

Have you ever been to the different golf courses and seen professional golfers playing? As you plan to travel to different places and witness the events you do not have to worry about the places for you to go. You plan to travel to different countries that you want to enjoy and relax. Doing this, include Ireland travel on your list and be amazed with the beautiful places together with the different golf courses you want to explore and take some time playing golf if you want to. Stay cool as we tour the brilliant spots of Ireland the way you want to travel the place.

Ireland travel aids in giving out fun and enjoyment to individual who loves to see outdoor games like golf. In this place it has a fantastic nature that provides raw materials for golf architects in the whole world. They launch the place as one of the admired destination for golfing and design it into the finest world golfing challenges. The awesome nature that surrounds the place made it more fabulous and the scenic view that gives you refreshing feeling as the wind blows. Now, witness every distinct golfing region of Ireland that you will appreciate and enjoy.

To start with prepare yourself as you will see the natural course ever at Ballyliffin which is considered the most highly rated in the Northern region. To continue traveling the island going right you can see the world's best link the trio which includes the Duncle, Royal Portrush course, Portstewart and the Royal Country Down which is the course of premier links. You should not miss Royal Belfast and Castlerock in this region having your Ireland island vacation. Going south you can enjoy playing golf in County Kerry with the world's famous Cashen and Ballybunion Old, Waterville Golf links that are located at the tip of the lovely ring of Kerry.

Ireland is the Emerald Isle!

Ireland is the third largest island in Europe and the twentieth biggest island in the world. It is located in the North Western part of continental Europe and has hundreds of islets and islands. It is a preferred tourist destination for many visitors across the globe; there are very many reasons of its immense popularity as an Ireland vacation destination. These include various attractions like castles located in the Republic of Ireland including County Clare Bunratty Castle Dysert O'Dea Castle Knappogue Castle Leamaneagh Castle, notable Irish buildings and much more. You will be astounded with the hospitality offered here. In addition to this, here you will find ample venues for accommodation, food or anything that can make it a perfect vacation, so book cheap flights to Ireland today.

Ireland has temperate climate with much of the year as cold and damp. May to September is the warmest months and the driest season. Summers are the best time to visit this country, while it is most visited in July and August. Winters are short, foggy and wet with long nights. However, the temperature hardly falls below the freezing point. It has been said regarding Ireland that 'there are fifty shades of green and none of them are jaded'. Ireland boasts of innumerable religious sites, which has been its meat and drink since ages. Apart from plenty of sacred sites there are castles, forts, churches, mansions, museums and stunning gardens, as well as countryside. Some of the most notable sites that you should never miss are Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Mother, Giant's Causeway, Kilkebby Castle, Leap Castle, Mt Brandon and many more. Book cheap flights to Ireland and get ready to explore such awesome destinations in your next Ireland vacation package.

Ireland with so much to do and explore is a year round destination. But still as far as weather is concerned, summers are the best time to visit Ireland in the months of May to September. Winters can be chilly but temperature does not fall below freezing point. In addition to this, visitors can take note of the calendars of events and plan their vacation according to the events and festivities, as per their interest.

Ireland for Spring Break!

What do you think of when you think of Ireland? Guinness? Green scenery? Irish music? Traditional pubs? Castles? Make Ireland your Spring Break destination, and you'll find all these and much, much, more!

For much too long, Spring Break has consisted of nothing more than a beach resort and a lot of alcohol. But all that is changing now, as travel becomes cheaper and more and more college students decide that they want to actually see something of the world and different cultures, rather than just prop up the bar at the same resort every single day of their vacation. Trips abroad for Spring Break are becoming much more popular - and Ireland vacations are emerging as the Spring Break destination of choice.

So what does the Emerald Isle have to offer for Spring Break? Well, it certainly doesn't have the beach resort weather of the traditional tropical destinations, of course! But it does offer a unique and exciting opportunity to explore a small and fascinating country with a long history and lots of traditions. By visiting Ireland, you won't be sacrificing the nightlife and partying of the beach resorts by any means. One night spent bar-hopping in Dublin's crazy Temple Bar district will reassure you that the Irish sure know how to party!

The larger towns and cities of Ireland have no shortage of modern nightclubs, classy wine bars, packed dance floors, and music venues, all filled with energetic crowds of local and international students. Not only that, but you can also easily find the sort of sleepy Irish pub you'll probably imagine when you think of traditional Ireland vacations - the kind where a few old men sit at the dimly-lit bar nursing a pint of Guinness, with a faithful old dog at their feet. Ireland's pub culture is very much alive and an essential part of daily life, whether it's the non-stop party atmosphere in university parts of Dublin and Galway, or the quiet meeting place of local villagers at the end of a hard day's work in rural Ireland.

Festivals in Ireland

6. Festivals in Ireland. Nobody enjoys a party better than the Irish! The St.Patrick's Day Festival in Ireland is a stunning annual event, and most towns and cities have their own Festival that commemorates Ireland's patron Saint. There are plenty of summer festivals that are well worth checking out, including the Puck Fair Killorglin. There are also a number of food festivals held in the country. The Galway International Oyster Festival is held in September every year, and shortly after Kinsale hosts the Gourmet Food Festival.

7. Ireland's History and Strong Heritage. Ireland has a wide and varied heritage. The magnificent Book Of Kells, which was drafted by Celtic Monks in the ninth century AD, is located at Trinity College, Dublin. Other marvellous places to visit include Newgrange in County Meath, a burial chamber and tomb, which predate Stonehenge and the Egyptian Pyramids at Giza. The Burren Area of North County Clare is well worth visiting, not only for the strange rocky landscape, but also for the prehistoric dolmen burial tombs.

8. Sports and Leisure. It is estimated that Ireland has the highest golf course per capita in Europe. 2007 saw the Ryder Cup hosted at the K Club in Kildare, and golf courses at Lahinch, Doonbeg, Portmarnock and the Island Golf Course at Donabate are well worth exploring for a few rounds with a stunning backdrop of scenery. You can also try your hand at some of the outdoor pursuits in Ireland, such as horse riding, walking, mountain climbing to name but a few! The National Games of Ireland, Gaelic Football and Hurling are played with passion and pride, and the Gaelic Athletics Association (The Body for Administrating and Promoting Our Games) is celebrating its 125th Anniversary this year. All 32 counties of Ireland have county and club teams, and the atmosphere at these games is just scintillating with great excitement. Croke Park, the home of the GAA is one of the largest stadiums in Europe. Make sure to try and catch a GAA match.

9. Culture - Irish Music and Dance. Wherever you are on vacation in Ireland, traditional foot tapping music will be played at informal sessions in original Irish pubs. You will be enthralled by the wonderful skill of the Irish dancer! The passion of Irish music passes from generation to generation, and its high esteem in the hearts of Irish people and the visitor will never die.

10. Modern Cities. Another reason to plan a visit to Ireland for a vacation is its modern cities. Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Galway and Limerick are all home to stylish shopping malls and boutiques, chic nightclubs, tourist attractions and excellent restaurants.

5 More Reasons to Visit Ireland!

1. The clean fresh air of Ireland! Ireland doesn't have the warmest climate of Europe - with temperatures in the summer months rarely averaging above 22°C. Getting off the beaten track in Ireland, to the rural areas of the country is the best way to enjoy the fresh air and enjoy beautiful scenic drives and walking routes. West Cork and Kerry, the Connemara region of Galway and North West Clare (around Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher) are some of the best places you can go to enjoy the open air on your Ireland Vacation Package!

2. The Warmth and Friendliness of the People. It is often said that you should never forget to bring a smile to Ireland vacations, as it will be returned a hundred times to you. Irish people are generally very friendly and helpful, and will have the time always to give you directions, and advice as how to get to your destination and help you on your way.

3. Ease of access to Ireland. Ireland is no longer an expensive place to get to - you have great options to get to Ireland, whether by air or sea carriers. Ryanair and Aer Lingus offer competitive rates to get to Ireland and you have plenty of choice when selecting a travel method/route to Ireland. Today Ireland is easy to get to and get around. So book that car rental and get exploring the Emerald Isle!

4. Irish Food and Drink. It's fair to say that Ireland is not blessed with the culinary delights of France, Spain or Italy, but you have a huge selection of international dineries in most large towns, with Chinese restaurants prominent for example. If dining in an Irish restaurant, you will certainly enjoy by the taste of Irish cuisine, Irish stew made with lamb or beef is one dish, another is bacon and cabbage. These are the traditional foods enjoyed by the people! Seafood such as Oysters and Irish Salmon are dishes that are well worth tasting. Why not wash them down with a pint of one of Ireland's famous exports, a pint of the black stuff, Guinness.

5. Stunning Irish Scenery. If its stunning views and scenic drives you are looking for, then you are spoilt for choice in Ireland vacation pacakges. From the Giants Causeway in County Antrim to the Cliffs of Moher to Connemara and the Lakes of Killarney there is so much to see and do in Ireland.

The Fun in Ireland With Family

Ireland is a great family vacation spot. With many areas from which to choose for staying in while you are visiting, some people opt to rent one of the area's farmhouses. Many choose Dublin though since this is the capital. This is often a destination for honeymoons. The cities of Cork, Belfast and Emerald Isle are also popular spots. There are many self-catering rentals available which are sometimes preferred over the typical hotel stay.

Belfast is another city that many choose. Should you decide this is one of the places you want to see while on vacation in Ireland, Donegall Square should be a stop. The Ulster Museum is also located here and has many interesting things to view. What remains of the shipwreck of the Armada is housed here.

The Grand Opera House is known for the musical programs there. If you want to see original and gorgeous mosaics, you should visit St. Anne's Cathedral, which is an Anglican church. Ireland vacations have much in the way of entertainment with the galleries, restaurants, pubs and fabulous murals painted on the buildings in the districts.

Golf is another pastime in Ireland with over 400 golf courses available here. This is another reason why Ireland is a big family vacation spot. With beautiful courses that are designed with the golfer in mind, many of the courses are 'pay and play'.

On the other hand, fishing is a big draw for many as well. The keen fisherman is in his element here. The coast line is vast; extending over 3,000 miles. There are lakes and bogs galore. This area is not saturated with pollution which is one of the reasons fishermen like Ireland as a fishing spot.

Guided Tours of Ireland

A Guided tour of Ireland is very important for traveling buffs for cherishing the beauties of the serene land of Ireland in a tension-free manner. There are many places in Ireland to visit and chill out from the stressful life. Ireland is regarded as a land of legends, beauty and myths. Thus, it is a mystical place of folklore and fairytale stories. Traveling to such a place is really unique. Thus, it needs professional help and a guided tour of Ireland to make the trip worthwhile and memorable.

The most unique part of Ireland is the presence of numerous holy places. That's why the spiritual vacations to Ireland are a unique ingredient of guided tour of Ireland. There are many mystical and spiritual places and the names of some of these places include Croagh Patrick Pilgrimage, Knock Shrine, Saint Brigid's Shrine & Well Faughart, Mount Melleray Abbey, Croagh Patrick, Dzogchen Beara Retreat, Duiske Abbey, Ard Nahoo, Doon Well and many more.

There are many places in the world where you will find lots and lots of temples and historical places. But in most of these places you will not find the essence of spirituality. The oneness with the nature is the unique selling proposition of Ireland. That's why vacations in Ireland are not restricted to visiting shrines and historical places only. You will feel the beauty of nature in every nook and corner of the country and consequently you will come to feel the spiritual pleasure of the place.

Travel to Ireland in the Spring and Fall

Prices and crowds of tourists proportionally decrease the farther you travel from the warm summer months. Savings on airfares can be 50 percent or more in low season; hotels and guest houses offer off-season packages to help keep the costs reasonable. Over and above the potential savings, however, the best reasons to travel to Ireland in the "shoulder" or "low" seasons are the fantastic experiences. It is so much easier to absorb the haunting scenery, wander through the historic sites, stroll along the many woodland paths and streams - and find a seat in the local pub! - without crowds of tourists and long lines. You may even find yourself dawdling in shops, hotels and pubs as people will be more relaxed and have more time.

What to do on your Ireland Vacation in Winter, Spring and Fall

The possibilities for new discoveries are unlimited on Ireland vacations. You may think the country seems small, you'll discover that each turn of the road uncovers new scenes or small villages to explore. Discovering myriad Celtic ruins and architecture, and countless castles and museums could take forever - especially as frequent stops in local pubs and shops are necessary for chatting with the locals, warming your spirits and engaging in Ireland's uniqueness.

Bundle up in an assortment of layers - be sure to include a waterproof jacket, heavy Irish sweater, cap, gloves and a bit of thermal underwear to chase away the chill - and head off into the countryside. You will discover that many of the best known attractions are outdoors: the brightly colored buildings, shores and cliffs, castles, cathedrals and pre-historic ruins are accessible throughout the year.

Best Time for Ireland Vacations

Vacationing in Ireland for several days, a week, several weeks or more is a trip everyone will enjoy. And why not? The overnight flight to either Dublin or Shannon Airports will take you to a Mystical Island where you'll be enchanted with warm and friendly people, untraveled roads, and hauntingly beautiful natural scenery - you'll wonder why you didn't travel there sooner.

When is the Best Time to Vacation in Ireland ?

While most people choose the warm, sunny days of summer for their Ireland vacations, fall, spring and winter have their own special charms and are bargain times to travel. The scenery in varying shades of emerald green, rust and mustard is still stunning; the people are still friendly (and possibly more so, now that the hassle of the tourist deluge is gone); and few things are more rewarding than the camaraderie found in a welcoming Irish pub, especially to chase away the chill of a winter's night.

The most popular season, from mid-June through mid-September, is the busiest time for Irish vacations. Temperatures are warm without being miserably sticky and hot, skies are sunny and tourists converge on the small country from continental Europe, the UK, the US and afar. Prices are highest, both for airfare and accommodations. As the weather starts to change, with cooler temperatures and more overcast days, most of the vacationers return to their homes and the prices go down.

The "shoulder season" for Ireland vacations is mid-September through October, April, May and early June. "Low season," when the weather has a distinct chill and some shops, small hotels and B&Bs close, is the winter months from November through March.

Because the Atlantic Ocean's Gulf Stream passes along the coast of Ireland, winter temperatures are more moderate than other countries at a similar latitude. Ireland's winter weather is much more temperate than in the northern regions of the United States, and even more temperate than in much of continental Europe. Ireland's average winter temperature rarely decreases to freezing and usually hovers around a relatively mild 45 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the wind in winter is frequently quite strong, and rainfall - necessary to keep the Emerald Island a breathtaking and vivid green - is more prevalent in fall and winter.

Luxurious Vacations to Ireland

Maybe you want to sit back in a luxury coach or Ireland car hire and take a day tour of Wicklow. The Sally Gap, Glendalough, The Meeting of The Waters, Avoca and the Wicklow Mountains at Glencree. A beautiful trip in the Irish countryside giving you a glimpse of life in the county. St. Michan's Church has been the highlight of many visitors to Dublin and a lesser known treasure of the city.

How about a Rural Pub Tours. Visit many traditional country pubs on this one of a kind tour, I hope you remember it, people tell me it is a cool thing to do while in Dublin. A night of magic and mystery is available in the Secret Castle of Magic a great night out to say the least. And don't forget about a round of golf in Ireland.

Plan ahead and make sure you get a Dublin airport hotel the night before your flight from Ireland to USA, because most of these flights leave very early in the morning and require you to be nearby. Enjoy your holiday in Ireland and take advantage of the many travel deals to Ireland that are now available.

If you are in need of a rental car in Ireland please keep in mind that they drive on the other side of the road in Ireland and if you are not familiar with driving on the opposite side of the road it can take some getting used to. Also do not drink and drive in Ireland, the laws have gotten very tough in the last few years and DUI roadblocks are a common site all around Ireland.

Having Fun in Dublin!

While these things to do in Dublin are going to vary according to your personal tastes and needs, all of these Dublin attractions have entertained and educated travelers and Irish natives for many years. While bus tours of Ireland are a very popular way to see the Irish countryside and visit Irish castles and cottages, but without a doubt the most popular thing to do in Dublin is to take the walking tour of downtown Dublin and get a great overview of Ireland's rich history. It is extremely interesting and a good value and a good foundation for understanding the culture in Ireland.

A lot of these suggestions will be determined by the weather in Ireland, understand what time of year you are traveling and check the Weather Channel before you depart. Plenty of travel deals and airfare deals and vacations to Ireland exist, especially if you are flexible with your vacation plans. Well one thing you can do rain or shine is enjoy a night of Irish pub singing and dancing then visit the world renowned Merry Ploughboy Irish Music Pub and enjoy a great night of Irish entertainment as performed by the owners of the bar, which just happens to be the band.

Looking for something a little different in Dublin. Over the Top Tours is known for displaying Dublin in a different light. If you want to explore Dublin from a unique perspective. Many travelers to Ireland tend to participate in the singing and dancing once they have enjoyed a few Guinness, so if this sounds more your speed check out the Irish House Party. You will learn about Irish music and get to perform if you are brave.

More Fun Stuff to do in Ireland

6. Play A Round Of Golf

There are over 360 golf courses in Ireland, so if you enjoy playing golf, you'll be able to fit in a game on your trip to Ireland. South-west Ireland boasts beautiful parkway golf courses and you can also play links golf on the coast.

7. Go Cycling

Ireland is a beautiful country to cycle through. The roads are flat, the distances between villages are short compared to other countries and there are plenty of bike stores dotted around the country. You can take your bike on the ferry, bus or train. For a memorable experience, why not go on a biking tour of Ireland and cycle the length and breadth of the country?

8. Visit The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher in Country Clare tower over the ocean and are a very popular tourist attraction. It can be wild and windy at The Cliffs, so make sure you're prepared for the weather and don't get too close to the edge as you can literally be blown over!

9. St Patrick's Cathedral

If you enjoy visiting churches, then you're going to love St Patrick's Cathedral, which was built centuries ago. Anglican services are held on a daily basis, and there is a part of the church that features famous writers' tombs. North of St Patrick's Cathedral there is a park that boasts statues dedicated to famous Irish writers.

Take this list with you the next time you take a trip to Ireland and you'll have plenty of things to see and do once you're there. It will definitely be a trip to remember!

5 Things to Do in Ireland

If you're visiting Ireland, you may want to find out what are some of the best things to do there, in order to make the most of your trip. So here's a list of nine favorite things to do in Ireland!

1. Go On A Walking Vacation

If you love being in the outdoors and you're reasonably fit, then a walking tour of Ireland may be just right for you. Walking tours can be short or long, from one day up to one week or more! Some walking tours include accommodation and may even have a van to pick up the stragglers in the group, while other tours can be a complete do-it-yourself options.

2. Visit The Blarney Stone

The Blarney Stone is world famous and is part of Blarney Castle which is five miles from Cork. Legend has it that if you kiss this piece of bluestone, you will magically be possessed with the gift of the gab.

3. Visit Castles And Stately Homes

If you enjoy touring stately homes and castles, you'll be spoiled for choice in Ireland. Take your pick from Blarney Castle, Dublin Castle, Ross Castle and Muckross House & Gardens, just to name a few.

4. Tour The Ring Of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is perhaps Ireland's most famous tourist attraction. This is a 110 mile trip covering some of the most breathtaking scenery Ireland has to offer. Starting out from Killarney, it is an all day trip that encompasses the Atlantic coast, small fishing villages, stone forts and many more local beauty spots that you may remember for the rest of your life.

5. Visit The Guinness Brewery In Dublin

If you love beer, then why not sample a drop of Guinness at the Guinness Brewery in Dublin? You can tour the brewery and discover just how they make this famous stout.

Touring Ireland by Walking and/or Biking

There's no truer way to experience an area than to delve right into it and walking and/or biking in Ireland will grant you this. Riding in a car, bus, or train seems to be more like watching the country through a glass window until you step out into it during stops. However, walking and biking gives you a true sense of everything from the atmosphere around you to the bumps and turns of the the landscaping beneath you. Along with meeting people and stopping and starting at your own pace as well as getting some serious exercise, touring Ireland in these ways can be great fun.

Whether you opt for one way of touring Ireland or mix and match several options, there are many great companies and businesses that can plan out tours for you. They can assist in tours that are focused on sightseeing, dining, adventure, history, and much more or they can assist in many other ways to give you the ultimate touring Ireland experience.

Touring the Beauties of Ireland

When touring Ireland, you have several options to choose from: tour via walking, cycling, paying a taxi or a driver, taking a bus, boarding the train, or renting a car and driving. Here are some ways to tour Ireland:

Touring Ireland by Driving

Should renting a car and doing your own driving strike your fancy. Here are a few things to know. The drivers in Ireland are typically polite and the traffic is more on the lighter side than being heavy. Like the rest of Britain, you drive on the left side of the road. The Irish roads tend to be very narrow but well maintained. They're stonewalled lined or lined by hedges and with slower speed limits, you'll feel like you're zooming by everything. Many times, you'll have to stop to let the traffic that's oncoming pass you. Be sure to check for convex mirrors that have been placed in the bushes and hedges so that you can check for cross traffic. Do keep in mind that sometimes taking a car is slower than you would think as many highways run directly through the middle of towns.

Touring Ireland by Train

Traveling by train is a good way to see the major villages including Waterford, Galway, and Cork. Those who backpack and bike may find taking the train useful. If you're trying to go from the west side of Ireland to Dublin, then traveling by train by be your quickest bet as even divided highways run smack dab in center of towns. However, taking the train around Ireland will limit you as their are many places such as Newgrange, Ring of Dingle, The Giants Causeway, and many rural areas in Ireland that the train cannot get you to. Many people combine train travel with bus and/or ferry. Touring Ireland by Bus

Touring by bus is very affordable. There is a huge variety of escorted bus tours with different themes and locations. Here are just a few: a "taste of Ireland" type tour where you get a tidbit of this area and that area including the foods of that location, an Irish heritage type of tour where you get to experience the deep traditions of Ireland the way it was, and a bus tour that focuses on the Irish legends and traditions.

Popular Ireland Venues

Ireland is a country that has become a popular destination for exhibitions in recent years, particularly with improvements over the last 10 years in infrastructure such as the with LUAS Light Rail system. There are several exhibition venues across the country and below we take a look at 5 of our favourites:

1. Royal Dublin Society, Dublin - No guide on exhibition venues in Ireland would be complete without a mention of the RDS in Dublin. This exhibition venue is up there with the best in the world and with a number of conference halls and exhibition areas it is suitable for a variety of events. The RDS is located in Ballsbridge in the heart of central Dublin; am area which is a very convenient for visitors given its closeness to many of the main hotels and transportation links. The venue is also used to hosting major events including the Dublin Horse Show and the Allianz Pet Expo, in addition to concerts and international based conferences. Also able to offer state-of-the-art audio and visual systems, this is a great option for exhibitions in Ireland.

2. Lagan Valley Island Conference Centre - This exhibition centre is located in Northern Ireland and is one of the best in the region. It is located in Lisburn and is especially suitable for small to medium sized exhibitions.

3. Guinness Storehouse - This location is one of the best known locations in all of Dublin. The facility at the Guinness Storehouse allows for exhibitions for up to 1000 people and is a great place for corporate events, exhibitions and product launches. It is not able to cope with shows which are too large but as a small to medium sized option this venue is in a great location and is always popular.

Luxury Ireland Accomodations!

After you have decided on your mode of transportation around Ireland, you must decide on your accommodations while on holiday in Ireland. Many hotel discounts and deals are available for every level of comfort from self service cottage rentals in Ireland to full service all inclusive Ireland resorts and everything in between. You can stay in an Irish castle that has been renovated into a four or five star hotel or you can rent an Irish bed and breakfast, the choices are as varied as your imagination. Castle tours, cathedrals, pub crawls, Ireland golf packages and more are on sale and great deals are available from the rental car companies like NationalCar and discounted bus tours from Dublin to Killarney offer travelers all kinds of travel and housing options.

You will need an adapter for electrical outlets in Ireland. Get one of those multi prong adapters at Walmart or Target for about $10 and it will work with everything from your razor to your laptop. Ireland offers history buffs an endless array of options for quenching their quest for knowledge. Walking tours of Ireland are some of the most popular tours in the cities of Ireland and allow visitors to get a real feel for what life was like many centuries ago. The tour guides are usually very knowledgeable and love to answer your questions, so don't be afraid to ask your guide.

The National University of Ireland Galway is a hot spot for young adults on the west coast of Ireland. Be sure to check the campus events when your in town to see what's going on at that time. Ferries are also a great way to see the coast line of Ireland a a great way to spend a day. Don't forget to try some Guinness in Ireland and take the tour in Dublin if you find yourself anywhere near the brewery, you'll love it!

Ireland Travel Deals Everywhere!

Ireland golf travel packages are available for those of you who want to try your swing at one of the over 400 registered golf courses in Ireland. If you find yourself in Western Ireland while on vacation try to visit the Galway Bay Golf Resort where golf packages start at around $150 USD.

One of the common concerns on vacation is where should I exchange money in Ireland, or where do I get the best exchange rate? While exchange rates change all the time, it is safe to deal with the Bank of Ireland as they are the largest bank in the country and well respected.

USAToday just named Ireland as one of the top 5 travel bargains in 2010 making this the perfect time to take the whole family on a trip of a lifetime to Ireland. Great airfare deals to Ireland from Boston and Newark, NJ are available and non-stop to boot. Various airlines service Ireland including Ireland's airline AerLingus and Air Ireland. Whichever airport in Ireland you fly in to, you should make reservations at the particular airport for getaway day. Travel back to the USA is mostly early in the AM and you'll want to be close to the airport for many reasons. Remember to have your travel documents in order and at hand while traveling to Ireland.