Goway Expert Returns From Ireland

Allow clients to take the time to discover the beautiful Emerald Isle. Though it may seem small compared to North America, this diverse country is full of history that was built on legends and battles. The Irish today are known for their charm and craic (good time), making visitors feel welcome. From charming cities like Dublin or Galway, to its beautiful drives like the Ring of Kerry to the Northern Causeway and Coastal route, it’s easy to see why Ireland is seeing a record number of visitors.

Goway recommends booking a trip early for Ireland to avoid missing out on suitable accommodation. Castles and Manor houses sound vast and grand, but they still tend to feel intimate. They can also book out first, so early booking and flexibility allows our experts to offer good alternatives. If your clients are considering staying somewhere similar to the famous Ashford Castle where Pierce Brosnan (actor) and Rory Mcilroy (golfer) had their wedding receptions, they need to let us know early, as these places are extremely popular with tourist and locals alike. It could be the only hiccup in making the trip perfect if someone hasn’t planned far enough in advance.

Our Goway Expert Josie has returned from a trip to Ireland and would like to share a bit of her insider knowledge to help you feel confident in making recommendations.

1. What cities did you visit in Ireland?

I was fortunate enough to spend time in many parts of Ireland, including Dublin, Kildare, Ennis, Killarney, Kenmare, Kinsale, Cork, Cobh, and Kilkenny. I travelled on a small group tour, which made it possible to see so much and learn so much in the limited time that I had. Though to be honest, it has only left me wanting to go back and explore the rest.

2. What was your highlight and why?

There were so many parts that I loved and thought were gorgeous. However, if I had to pick one, The Ring of Kerry was the highlight of my trip. I had heard the Ring of Kerry was beautiful, so I was a bit sceptical of all the hype. How good can a drive be? It completely surpassed my expectation. From its stunning topography and the beautiful Atlantic lapping at its shores, it is a striking attraction.

3. What was your favourite property and why?

I found that all of the accommodation that we stayed in, whether it was old or new, really gave us a local feel and a sense of pride in ownership. All of the accommodations were lovely, but the Royal Hotel Killarney stood out. Not only was the location great, the rooms were spacious with comfortable beds, the décor was nice, and the breakfast was tasty. The hotel is old but well maintained and very beautiful.

4. What are some interesting excursions, or itineraries that you would recommend?

This is where I could go on for hours. I fell in love with this country. I’d have no hesitation going back. Someone could make me an itinerary that I had no input on, and I feel confident that I would end up loving it. The passion of all of my guides was tangible, and the meals from all the chefs were delicious.

To actually answer your question, one of the many highlights was the stop at Molly Gallivan’s cottage on our way to the town of Kinsale. We got to walk around the grounds, learn some interesting history about Molly and how she supported her seven children brewing illicit whiskey and enjoyed a hearty bowl of authentic Irish stew. The owner is lovely and made the experience interesting and fun!

5. Top tip for agents selling Ireland?

If your clients are willing to drive, advise them to rent a car and give more time to the itinerary. For some reason, North Americans are afraid of driving in a foreign country, on the opposite side of the road. But if you are a good driver, you will be able to handle driving in Ireland. A car rental gives you the flexibility of going at your own pace and not having to depend on other parties as you would if you were on a coach tour.

6. Did you learn anything new, or did anything surprise you?

Every time I travel somewhere new I try not to have any expectations and always come home feeling pleasantly surprised. People always rave about Ireland and how beautiful it is, but I do have to say that it’s the Irish people themselves that make the country such a wonderful place. They are the friendliest, warmest, and most outgoing people I have ever met. The locals make you feel like you’re at home.

7. If you can go back, what would you like to see/do?

When I go back to Ireland, I’ll be taking my own advice and renting a car for the drives, and using local tours in cities for the history. The best of both worlds. I will be sure to visit Northern Ireland and what is known as the sunny South East, Wexford and Waterford. I didn’t have a chance to visit this time around but heard from locals and other travellers alike that both should be on my list of must-see destinations.

Josie is a Globetrotter at heart. Having visited various countries in Europe, she came to Goway to join our team of Europe experts, to ask her more about her trip, she can be reached at [email protected] or 1 877 469 2934 ext 5942.