Road Trip: Ireland
take The Road less traveled
May 12 - 26, 2024
“May the road rise to meet you,
may the wind be ever at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and the rains fall soft upon your fields...””
From breathtaking landscapes and enchanting castles, to other-worldly formations...
take the roads less traveled and explore the sights and secrets of Ireland.
May 12:
DEPARTURE
Today you embark on your journey to Ireland! Pack your jacket and a camera as you set off for the Emerald Isle!
Cleveland (CLE) - Newark (EWR)
United flight 676
Economy class
Confirmation #: H9P5P4
Departing CLE at 11:45am
Arriving EWR at 1:27pm
Newark (EWR)- Dublin (DUB)
United flight 23
Economy class
Departing EWR at 7:10pm
Arriving DUB at 7:05am (arriving on May 13)
May 13:
ARRIVE in Ireland
When you arrive in Ireland you will transfer to your hotel (self arranged).
Note (see video above): Upon arriving at Dublin Airport, the most straightforward method of transportation to your hotel is to utilize the taxi ranks located just outside the arrivals terminal. These taxis are available 24/7, offering a direct route to your destination. The pickup location for these services are clearly marked and located a short walk from the arrivals hall.
After settling into your hotel, grab a bite to eat in the famed Temple Bar area of downtown (make sure to stop by during daylight hours, it gets a little crazy at night).
Then, stroll through the cobblestone streets, taking in the sights and sounds of this bustling capital.
Lodging: Iveagh Garden Hotel, Dublin (2nts)
Iveagh Garden Hotel
May 13-15
Confirmation number: 285087
Deluxe Double Single Room
Daily breakfast included
Address: 72/74 Harcourt St, Saint Kevin's, Dublin 2, D02 Y282, Ireland
Phone: +35315685500
A modern take on traditional luxury, the four-star Iveagh Garden Hotel is an urban oasis just steps from Grafton Street. Opened in February 2018, this Dublin Hotel offers one of the lowest carbon footprints of any Irish Hotel and is Europe's first fully sustainable hotel. Located in the heart of this vibrant city, the Iveagh Garden Hotel offers one of the best Dublin hotels near all major attractions.
Retreat to one of our 145 luxurious rooms, unwind with a stroll through the Iveagh Gardens, enjoy delicious casual dining, craft cocktails and the freshest local ingredients in Elle’s bar and bistro prepared by award winning chefs and highly skilled mixologists.
Meet your guide for May 14th: Fergal
“Born and bred in Dublin, in recent years I've been lucky enough to work in my home town. I love to be able to stroll through the city and take in whatever that day's offerings are. I rarely take larger groups now as I guess I prefer a style of guiding that is more based on a chat rather than a lecture. No matter where you are from, I hope that to some extent I will be able to draw comparison between the way we do things here and the way it's done in your neck of the woods. Sometimes it's nice to see that no matter how far the distance, we're really quite alike in many ways.
It's incredibly important to me that my guests get an accurate and unbiased account of Ireland's history, culture and politics to name but a few, albeit given from a personal viewpoint. It's equally important to me that you enjoy your time in Dublin. A sense of fun, or 'craic' should be had by you and I throughout our time together, hopefully this comes across in some of the less serious photos I have uploaded.
I'm a bit of a generalist in terms of my tours. In a good days sight seeing we should cover a good amount of not only what's to see in Dublin, but also discuss many topics that will give you a strong insight into life here. However, if you have special areas of interest that that we absolutely must cover, even in great depth, let me know and I'll sort it. In fact that goes for each of my tour itineraries. Being inflexible is a most un-Irish characteristic, so lets not be too rigid.”
Contact info: +353868839492
Credentials:
Dublin City Ambassador - City of a Thousand Welcomes Project
MA International Relations, DCU
BA European Studies, Trinity College
Erasmus, Sciences Po Bordeaux
May 14:
Tour Dublin
10:00am- Tour of Dublin w/Fergal
1:30pm- Book of Kells exhibit (self lead)- please bring your tickets!
This morning, your local guide will meet you at your hotel and together you’ll check out the must see spots in Dublin.
Among the sites will be Ireland’s prestigious academic institution, Trinity College. The college sits in Dublin’s city center and boasts alumni including esteemed literary legends such as Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker, and Samuel Beckett. Founded by Queen Elizabeth I in 1592 for the exclusive use of Protestant men, the university now welcomes all religions and genders. Tourists from the world over come to wander the historic cobblestoned campus and see the Book of Kells, a prized medieval manuscript housed in the Trinity College Library.
The Book of Kells located within the walls of Trinity College Dublin was written around 800AD. This beautiful and fascinating masterpiece is considered the greatest example of medieval illumination for over 1,200 years.
Described in the Annals of Ulster in 1007 as ‘the most precious object in the western world,’ the historic and cultural significance of the Book of Kells has only increased over time.
You have timed entry tickets (above) for 1:30pm.
Please be sure to bring these tickets with you so that you can enter the exhibit.
Also, please note that tour guides are not allowed to guide through this exhibit, but that’s okay! This is a lovely interactive experience that doesn’t require your guide to accompany you. As such, your guide will bid you farewell for the day at the end of the tour and you will be free to enter the Book of Kells exhibit on your own (with your tickets in hand).
Rental car pickup
Vehicle is a, compact-sized SUV, automatic transmission
(Nissan Qashqai (Rogue Sport) or something similar)
Estimated amount due at pick-up: € 738.75
Sixt Rental Car
Reservation number: 9708736351
Security Code: eb4e41abc0
Picking up at Dublin Stephen's Green/Conrad
Address: Conrad Hotel, Earlsfort Terrace Dublin
May 15, 2024
Pickup time: 12:30pm
May 15:
Kilkenny
Rock of cashel
Cork
This morning, you'll check out of your Dublin hotel, pick up your rental car and hit the road!
On the way to Cork, stop by the town of Kilkenny and the Rock of Cashel.
Kilkenny is an awesome little city in Ireland.
Explore the town in the morning, have lunch, and then continue your road trip, heading to the Rock of Cashel next.
Overlooking the Plains of Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most historic sights. This was the seat of the ancient kings of Ireland. St. Patrick baptized King Aengus here in 450 AD. Now visitors arrive every day to tour this historic complex of buildings.
You can tour the Rock of Cashel in about an hour, but make sure you also walk downhill to the much less visited and just as awesome Hore Abbey.
When you arrive in Cork, check into your hotel and hit the streets!
Downtown Cork is a maze of bridges that span the River Lee and connect the marshlands and small island where the city center was built. It’s a city that’s best explored by foot, where sights like the towering St. Finnbarr’s Cathedral literally spring from the streets.
When visiting what locals call “the real Irish capital,” ring the famous Shandon Bells in the church looking over the city, or go deep into an Irish prison in the dungeon-like Cork City Gaol.
It’s also a city that’s often used as a base for visiting the Blarney Stone—the famous stone that’s believed to bring eloquence to anyone who gives it a kiss.
Lodging: Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork (2nt)
Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork
May 15-17
Confirmation number: 0D5Q4NCK
Standard Room (double and a single bed)
Daily breakfast included
Address: Ditchley House, Castleview, Little Island, Co. Cork, Ireland
Phone: +353214297000
Nestled in the bustling heart of the city, the Radisson Blu Hotel in Cork stands as a beacon of modern luxury and comfort. This elegant hotel, with its contemporary design and state-of-the-art amenities, promises guests an unparalleled stay experience. From the moment you step into the spacious lobby, you are greeted with a blend of warm hospitality and sleek sophistication. The Radisson Blu Cork features spacious rooms and suites, meticulously designed for both leisure and business travelers, offering stunning views of the surrounding cityscape or tranquil gardens. With an on-site fitness center, spa facilities, and a gourmet restaurant serving exquisite local and international cuisine, guests have everything they need at their fingertips for a truly relaxing and enjoyable visit. The Radisson Blu Hotel in Cork, with its prime location, allows easy access to the city's historic attractions, vibrant nightlife, and the scenic Cork countryside, making it an ideal base for exploring all that this charming region has to offer.
May 16:
Cobh
Titanic Experience
Kinsale
10:30am- Titanic Experience (see tickets above)
Where the River Lee flows out of Cork and into the Atlantic Sea, Cobh sits wrapped in the protective arms of its Cork Harbor surroundings. This picturesque port town was known as Queenstown until the late 1920s, and of the 6 million Irish citizens who immigrated to North America, it’s believed nearly half of them waved goodbye to their homeland here on the shores of Cobh. Even more infamous is the tale of the Titanic, which departed on its doomed North Atlantic crossing from right here in Cobh. Tours today still detail the time the Titanic spent in Cobh—including the original wooden dock that the Titanic’s passengers walked on.
Titanic Experience Cobh is located in the original White Star Line Ticket Office in the centre of Cobh, the departure point for the final 123 Passengers who boarded Titanic on the morning of April 11th 1912. The tour is presented in two parts, the first is an immersive audio visual tour retracing the footsteps of the 123 Passengers. With Fourth Officer Boxall as your virtual guide and with the use of innovative audio visual technology and replica set designs visitors will experience what life on board would have been like on board for those passengers.
The second part of the tour examines how it went wrong. Using computer generated graphics to recreate the collision and subsequent sinking, film analysis of Titanic on the seabed and expert interviews these interactive exhibits allow visitors to find out how and why the Titanic sank on that fateful night. Touchscreen computers allow you to look at personalities on board the ship and in particular the fate of our 123 Queenstown passengers.
Around lunchtime, travel to Kinsale, one of Ireland’s most picturesque towns. With colorful, winding lanes, fabulous restaurants, and a nearby golf course, Kinsale attracts a lot of visitors during the summer months. It’s also the starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way.
Other things to do near cork….
House of Waterford
(About a 2hr drive from Cork)
The House of Waterford is located in Waterford, Ireland, a Viking city built in 914 AD.
This esteemed factory is the beating heart of the world’s luxury crystal manufacture and is where our most intricate, authentic and masterful crystal pieces come to life. The factory is situated at the centre of the Viking Triangle in Waterford, a cluster of museums which detail the proud history of this great city.
Guided Tour (€17.50/pp):
On the tour you will witness how our crystal masterpieces are crafted, from initial design right up to the final engraving. Our tour is fully guided tour, taking approximately 50 minutes to complete
Jameson Whiskey: Midleton Distillery Experience
(Located just under 30 min from Cork)
Discover the Heart and Soul of Irish whiskey at Midleton Distillery Experience. Home of seven iconic brands – Jameson, Redbreast, Powers, Midleton Very Rare, The Spot Whiskeys, Method and Madness and Knappogue Castle. The passion behind every drop lives here. Immerse yourself in a world of rich heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable stories.
Midleton Distillery Experience is a one-of-a-kind whiskey experience that takes you beyond process and taste and brings you to the very essence of Irish whiskey. Taste, learn, shop, and take in the magic of Midleton. We look forward to welcoming you!
Multiple offerings for tours ranging from
€25-350/pp
https://www.jamesonwhiskey.com/en-us/visit-our-distilleries/midleton-distillery-cork/
Kiss the Blarney Stone
(Just outside of Cork, about 15 min drive)
‘There is a stone there, that whoever kisses, OH! He never misses, to grow eloquent’.
The term ‘blarney’, meaning beguiling but misleading talk, gained currency during the 16th century as the MacCarthy of the day attempted to fend off the demands of Queen Elizabeth I.
Legends about the Stone’s origin emerged, each as plausible as the next. It was said to have been the stone used by Jacob as a pillow when he dreamed of the ladder extending up to heaven with angels ascending and descending on it, and that it was brought from the Holy Land after the Crusades.
Want to know more? Click here for a video!
General admission is €22.00/pp
May 17:
The Wild Atlantic Way
Check out of your hotel this morning and embark on your 3.5hr roadtrip on the Wild Atlantic Way!
Your roadtrip will take you on/off parts of the Wild Atlantic Way throughout your journey. Consider taking part of this roadway up the coast to your hotel in Kilarney.
Driving the Wild Atlantic Way from Cork to Killarney is an unforgettable road trip that showcases the stunning beauty of Ireland's southwestern coast. Begin your journey in Cork, heading west towards the picturesque town of Kinsale, the starting point of the Wild Atlantic Way.
From Kinsale, continue on the R600 towards Clonakilty, savoring the coastal views and verdant landscapes. Proceed along the N71 through Skibbereen and Bantry, where you'll find the breathtaking Bantry Bay. The route twists and turns, offering glimpses of rugged coastlines and rolling hills.
After Bantry, the N71 weaves through the heart of West Cork, bringing you closer to the natural splendors awaiting in the Killarney National Park.
Approaching Kenmare, consider taking a detour along the R571 to explore the Beara Peninsula, or stay on the N71 to revel in the scenic mountain pass known as the Caha Pass. As you near Killarney, the landscapes transform, with the majestic lakes of Killarney and the McGillycuddy Reeks rising in the distance.
This drive, combining the wildness of the Atlantic with the serene beauty of Killarney, is truly a road less traveled, embodying the essence of Ireland's enchanting southwest.
Lodging: The Lake House, Kilarney (3nts)
The Lake Hotel
May 17-20
Confirmation number: 33890
Standard Woodland Family/ Triple
Daily breakfast included
Address: Lake Shore, Muckross Rd, Castlelough, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland
Phone: +353646631035
Staying at the Lake Hotel in Killarney offers an exceptional launchpad into the heart of one of Ireland's most treasured landscapes. The hotel's unique positioning on the shores of Lough Lein provides not only mesmerizing views but also an atmosphere of tranquility and inspiration, ideal for those setting out to explore the natural beauty of the Ring of Kerry.
Each morning, you can awaken to the stunning vista of the lake and mountains, invigorating your spirit before you embark on the day's adventure. The proximity to Killarney National Park and the starting point of the Ring of Kerry means that you're perfectly situated to maximize your time experiencing the breathtaking scenery and cultural heritage sites along this famous route. Additionally, after a day of exploration, the Lake Hotel's welcoming ambiance, along with its luxurious comforts, becomes a serene retreat where you can relax, reflecting on the day's discoveries while surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty.
May 18:
Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland's most popular tourist attractions. Its stunning views and iconic landmarks make it a must-see for any traveler.
Spend the day exploring this beautiful region and take in some of its most memorable sights.
Start by heading to the Killarney National Park and explore the landscape, including lakes and mountains, before taking the famous Ring of Kerry road route, with its rolling green hills and spectacular ocean views.
Stop off at quaint fishing villages or take a break in one of the small towns along the way, with plenty of pubs and restaurants to choose from.
Don't miss Muckross House & Gardens, Irelands oldest stately home that features an impressive Victorian mansion surrounded by lakes and gardens.
Finally end your day with a visit to the Gap of Dunloe, an incredible mountain pass surrounded by high cliffs and stunning views.
Insider Tip
As with many ring roads, there is little room to pass at some points. It’s good to note that all tour buses travel counterclockwise from Killarney and that self-driving travelers can head clockwise for less traffic.
May 19:
Skellig Michael
Ring of Kerry
Skellig Ring
8:30am- 1:30pm- Skellig Michael Landing Tour
Early in the morning, after a quick (early) breakfast, drive south on the Ring of Kerry to Portmagee where you will board a ferry to Skellig Michael.
Your boat tour will depart from Portmagee Marina.
Please check-in at the booking office on the Marina at least 15minutes before departure time.
There is a Restaurant - Skellig Seafront Restaurant - next door to the Skellig Michael Landing Tours booking office.
Food Served all day - Fresh sandwiches made to order, breakfast, hot and cold food available.
Coffee, tea and drinks available.
Open at 7:30am daily
Call in, email skelligseafrontltd@gmail.com or ring +353879010994 in advance to save time.
Departure times will vary as the landing tours are operated on a rotating basis to facilitate landing at Skellig Michael Pier.
Please note that weather conditions may also affect departure times.
Please check-in at the booking office on the Marina at least 15minutes before departure time.
Note: Skellig Michael Landing Tour departure times can vary due to weather conditions at Skellig Michael Landing Pier.
Passengers may receive an email asking them to come earlier for departure or later - tours can often begin at 7:30am or be delayed until 1pm. It is very difficult to give advance notice of this as landing conditions are reviewed on the morning of the tour.
There are also occassions where the conditions for landing at Skellig Michael Pier are not suitable but the conditions for the tour around Skellig Michael are suitable - in the event that the boat does not land at Skellig Michael you will receive a refund of €90 per pesron.
If all Skellig Michael tours are cancelled you will receive a refund.
Sail on a grand adventure to the majestic Skellig Islands, which lie 7 miles off the west coast or Ireland.
The first amazing sight is of the Small Skelligs and its snow covered-like appearance, when seen from a distance. Upon sailing closer you realize it is 75,000 nesting gannets that cover the Island.
Onwards to Skellig Michael to marvel the monks, who built the monastery on this remote island 600ft above sea level.
See locations where scenes from Episode VII and Episode VIII of the Star Wars franchise were shot.. You will quickly see why this incredible location was such an attractive inclusion for the production team in the Star Wars universe.
Skellig Michael also features birdlife in abundance - puffins, guillemots, kittiwakes to name a few all call these islands home throughout the year. You may also just encounter whales, dolphins, sunfish and even basking sharks roaming the surrounding waters.
After you return to the mainland, set off to explore more of the Ring of Kerry, or enjoy the day at leisure.
As you cruise along the Atlantic Coast on this spectacular mountain road through the towns of Kells, Derrynane, and Glenbeigh, you’ll find a number of impressive sights, with various stopping points and photo opportunities. From Ross Castle and Muckross House to Torc Waterfall, Bog Village, and the glacial valley of the Gap of Dunloe, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled and your camera out.
The ring also passes the golden beaches of Inch Beach, the Lakes of Killarney, the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks mountains, Ladies View, and Dingle Bay looking out to the Dingle Peninsula.
The coastal side of the loop offers a taste of the Wild Atlantic Way, and in County Kerry’s Waterville, visitors tend to stop for photos with the waterfront Charlie Chaplin statue.
At the bottom of the Ring of Kerry, you can take a detour onto the lesser known, Skellig Ring.
Skellig Ring is a predominantly coastal road that offers panoramic views of its namesake, the Skellig rocks. While it might be the Ring of Kerry’s lesser sister, it certainly is far more impressive.
From the highest point of the road you can climb the hill on the seaward side of the saddle in twenty minutes or so for the most magnificent views out to the Skellig Islands, across to the Dingle Peninsula and the Blaskets, and inland to the Iveragh Mountains.
May 20:
The Dingle Peninsula
Bunratty Castle Banquet
8:30pm-11pm: Bunratty Castle Banquet
This morning, you'll check out of your hotel and set off for the Dingle Peninsula.
Your 3.5hr road trip will take you the winding way through some of the most spectacular sights that are often skipped by tourists… but absolutely worth the effort.
(If you enjoy breakfast and meander through your drive today, you’ll still have plenty of time to check into your hotel around 3pm and relax a bit before dinner tonight)
Hidden away on Ireland’s southwestern coast, Dingle is at the heart of the Dingle Peninsula, and a popular starting point for both the Dingle Way long-distance hiking trail and the Slea Head driving route, which loops around the scenic headland, passing by Europe’s westernmost point at Slea Head.
The drive passes through the village of Ventry which is on the coast and has a good beach for swimming and water sports. Then the drive winds through cliffs and offers views of the Atlantic Ocean as it nears Slea Head. Scenes from Ryan's Daughter and Far and Away were filmed near here. The Slea Head Drive continues through wild landscapes and several villages. One of the highlights is the Gallarus Oratory, the best preserved early Christian church in Ireland. The drive also passes through fishing villages and mountainous regions, including Mount Brandon, the second highest mountain in Ireland.
The Connor Pass is an absolute highlight that cannot be missed. It starts just outside the town of Dingle and ends on the other side of the peninsula near the village Castlegregory. It is Ireland's highest mountain pass. It is a narrow, twisting road surrounded by sharp drops and lakes. As such, buses are prohibited from driving this road.
Just off the very westernmost point on the peninsula you will find the Blasket Islands. Until the 1950s these islands were inhabited and from Dunquin, on the mainland, you can still see the remains of the main village on the Great Blasket island. Many of the old inhabitants became famous writers and poets and the Blasket Centre has a fascinating exhibition on the literary heritage of the islands.
A large part of the peninsula is designated as a so called "Gaeltacht". This means the Irish language is the primary language spoken here. Road signs, for example, are all in Irish language.
Make your way to your hotel, check in and and get ready for your late dinner banquet at Bunratty Castle.
Arrive a little before the starting time of your banquet at Bunratty Castle in County Clare, so you won’t miss a thing.
Please note the characters you meet throughout the evening are playing a part of someone who might have existed during the medieval times.
This 2-hour banquet is being thrown by Earl of Thomond. Be greeted at the castle’s front entrance by a playing piper in a kilt, then cross over the drawbridge into the castle and be offered a ‘Bite of Friendship’ by your host.
During this experience, make a toast with honey mead, watch the crowning of the Earl and his lady, and be serenaded by Irish music. Enjoy a 4-course meal by candlelight in a traditional medieval banquet hall with long wooden tables and wooden benches. You're in store for a lovey night filled with food, friendship, music, and a few surprises.
Lodging: Doolin Inn (2nt)
Doolin Inn Country House
May 20-22
Confirmation number: 0261698177132
Courtyard Suites x2
Daily breakfast included
Address: 1 Fisher St, Ballyvara, Doolin, Co. Clare, V95 CC79, Ireland
Phone: +353657074421
The Doolin Inn offers a gateway to the charm and wonder of the country's west coast, marrying comfort with a touch of authenticity.
Nestled in the heart of Doolin, a small village famed for its traditional Irish music and proximal to the stunning Cliffs of Moher, The Doolin Inn presents itself as more than just a place to stay—it's a complete experience. Beyond its cozy, modern rooms and the warm, welcoming staff, the inn's location makes it an unparalleled choice for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Burren National Park or take a ferry to the Aran Islands.
Each morning begins with a hearty breakfast made from locally sourced ingredients, fueling you for a day of adventure.
The Doolin Inn embodies the spirit of Irish hospitality, offering a peaceful yet invigorating retreat for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Ireland’s west coast.
May 21:
Aran Islands- Inis Oirr
10:00am-4:45pm: Inis Oirr (Inisheer) Ferry
The Aran Islands are one of Ireland’s most unique destinations, but most visitors only admire them from afar. Today, you'll take a round-trip ferry from Doolin to Inis Oirr to give you the whole day to explore independently and visit sights that others only dream about...
Make your way to Doolin Pier in time for a 10am departure. Set sail on the around 1-hour and 15-minute journey to Inis Oirr, the closest and smallest of the Aran Islands, and enjoy spectacular views of Galway Bay and the Cliffs of Moher as you cruise out across the Atlantic.
From the moment you step aboard the gangway, you are treated to a feast of maritime activity, including dolphins following our wake! There is an air of anticipation as the ship sails ever closer to the island. Inis Oírr is just 30 minutes away, and reassuringly visible from Doolin pier.
The voyage to the island pier passes some of its famous landmarks en route – the iconic Plassy shipwreck, O’Brien’s Castle and the Dun Formna stoneage fort on the hill, the white sandy beach with its crystal turquoise waters and possibly the most beautifully located graveyard in Ireland. Coming down the gangway is almost like stepping back in time, where it is easy to picture life in times gone by.
On this island, you can (for example) visit an authentic cottage, where you can learn about the traditions, customs and clothing of the Aran Islands. Take a guided tour on a pony and trap, and enjoy the sensation of being transported at a leisurely pace along tiny roads, surrounded by an impossible vista of stone walls stretching in every direction.
Rent a bicycle and explore the nooks and crannies in your own time.
Choose to return at 2pm or 4:45pm, arriving back to Doolin pier with a treasure trove of memories of an unforgettable day.
Before heading back to your hotel, grab dinner and some live music at one of the many local pubs in Doolin.
You may want to enjoy dinner at one of the village’s three historic pubs, Gus O’Connor’s, Mcdermott’s and Mcgann’s, all host nightly music sessions, where you can hear Gaelic poetry set to music and admire the soulful timbre of traditional instruments like Celtic harps, tin whistles, fiddles and Irish flutes.
Musicians from all over the globe visit Doolin in search of the genre’s roots, and a number of events throughout the year bring together local and international musicians for impromptu jam sessions.
Note: Doolin produces more Irish musicians than any other part of the country- so you’re bound to enjoy some wonderful and truly authentic music here.
May 22:
The Burren
Doolin
Cliffs of Moher
This morning, you’ll check out of your hotel and explore a bit more of Co. Clare before driving north to Galway. .
Start your day by exploring The Burren, one of Ireland’s most unique and photogenic landscapes.
Stretching over 160 square km, the Burren, derived from the Gaelic word Boireann meaning ‘rocky place’, is one of the most visited attractions in the Shannon region.
Aptly named, the karst topography is characterized by its unusual limestone formations, naturally sculpted through acidic erosion over thousands of years. The natural landscape is an otherworldly terrain - a giant jigsaw of rocks, made up of grikes (fissures) and clints (isolated rocks jutting from the surface), with pockets of lush greenery poking between the expanses of bare rock.
Before heading to the Cliffs of Moher, stop by Fitzpatrick's Pub (if you haven’t already) in Doolin.
The local seafood is particularly good here, and the cliffs can become especially crowded between 11am and 4pm. This will be a great way to dodge the masses, fill your bellies and see more of the village of Doolin.
After lunch, drive the short distance to the Cliffs of Moher.
Note: Admission is €7.00/pp and includes secure car parking, wi-fi, access to all areas including O'Brien's Tower and the interactive Cliffs exhibition. In addition, there are two cafes, a craft & gift store and a craft and retail street on the left as you walk out of the visitor centre, toilets, first aid centre, water refill stations, information points, baggage storage, and a free to download app and audio guide. Binoculars and picnic blankets are available on request as well as a "lifts of Moher" mobility vehicle.
Admission price contributes to conservation of the area.)
Towering 702 feet above the Atlantic Ocean at their highest point and stretching for five miles along the water, the world-famous Cliffs of Moher define the rugged west coast of Ireland. They are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland.
Once at the cliffs, you can wander a number of winding coastal trails and pathways, capture photos of the dramatic scenery, and walk out to peer over cliff edges at the waves below. The onsite underground Visitor Centre features educational exhibits and a number of arts and crafts gift shops, while the viewing platform atop the historical O’Brien’s Tower provides stellar views stretching west to the Aran Islands, north to Galway, and out along the Atlantic Coast.
When you've finished watching the sun set from the Cliffs of Moher, drive north to your hotel in Galway.
Lodging: Leonardo Hotel Galway (4nts)
Leonardo Hotel Galway
May 22-26
Confirmation: 378023569
Superior Double and Single Room
Daily Breakfast included
Address: Quay St, Galway, H91 E8D7, Ireland
Phone: +35391566444
Tucked away in the heart of Galway, a city known for its vibrant culture and historical treasures, the Leonardo Hotel emerges as a sanctuary of comfort and style for travelers. Reflecting the dynamic spirit of Galway, this hotel blends contemporary design with the warmth of traditional Irish hospitality. The Leonardo Hotel in Galway boasts elegantly appointed rooms, offering guests a serene retreat with modern amenities and plush bedding, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Many rooms feature breathtaking views of Galway Bay or the bustling city streets, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of Galway from the comfort of their room.
The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves a variety of mouthwatering dishes, crafted from the finest local ingredients, giving guests a taste of authentic Irish cuisine. With its strategic location, the Leonardo Hotel provides easy access to Galway's main attractions, including the Spanish Arch, Eyre Square, and the scenic Salthill Promenade, making it an ideal base for those eager to explore the rich heritage and natural beauty of the West of Ireland.
May 23:
Explore Galway
Galway is a city of extraordinary beauty and charm,
Start your morning by taking a stroll along Galway's iconic Latin Quarter. Walk through winding streets lined with brightly colored buildings, stopping off to explore the many quirky shops, cafes and restaurants that line the way. Make sure you take some time to appreciate the stunning architecture of St Nicholas' Collegiate Church - Ireland's largest medieval church still in daily use!
After lunch, why not venture out on a boat trip? There are plenty of opportunities to see dolphins or whales out in the Atlantic Ocean. Alternatively, if you'd prefer to stay on land, there are several beautiful beaches close by such as Salthill Promenade and Silverstrand. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the sandy shores, taking in the stunning views of Galway Bay.
For dinner, explore one of Galway's many traditional pubs for some delicious Irish cuisine and a lively atmosphere. Soak up the sounds and sights of live traditional music from local musicians while enjoying a pint of Guinness.
End your day at Eyre Square to marvel at the famous Galway skyline lit up by twinkling streetlights. For an extra special experience, take a trip on one of the horse-drawn carriages that line the square -the perfect way to end your day in Ireland’s most vibrant city!
Fun history: The Claddagh ring is a traditional Irish symbol that dates back even further, thought to have originated in the fishing village of Claddagh near Galway in the early 17th century.
The design consists of two hands holding a heart with a crown on top – symbolizing friendship, loyalty, and love. It has since become one of the most popular symbols for couples looking to show their everlasting bond. Today, visitors can find these rings adorning many jewelry stores throughout Galway and beyond!
We recommend visiting Claddagh Jewelers in Galway for a wonderful Claddagh ring shopping experience.
http://www.thecladdagh.com/
Address: 25 Mainguard St, Galway, Ireland
May 24:
Connemara
Sky Road
Kylemore Abbey
This morning you will head west along the southern shores of Connemara, looking out across beautiful Galway Bay. As you pass through the picturesque villages of Barna, Furbo, Spiddal and Inverin, you will see thatched cottages, dry stone walls, mountains, woodlands, rivers and streams, lakes, Connemara ponies, amazing beaches and unspoilt bogs and deserted islands.
Your first scheduled stop of the day could be Pearse’s Cottage. Patrick Pearse was one of the leaders of Irish Nationalism and a signatory to the Irish Proclamation of Irish Independence, read out by him outside the GPO in Dublin during the Easter Rising 1916.
Then it’s on through Connemara’s hidden jewel, Bothar na Scragoige. View the wilderness bog landscape and experience the tranquility and isolation of Connemara.
Head out along the Wild Atlantic Way. To your left will open up the iconic Dog’s Bay Beach stretching a mile out into the Atlantic.
Next is Derrygimlagh Bog (Wild Atlantic Way – Signature Point). This remote site was the centre of the communications (Marconi) and aviation world (Alcok & Brown) in the beginning of the 20th century. After travelling through Clifden, the capital of Connemara, you head skyward.
Renowned worldwide for its heart stopping twists and turns, the Sky Road (Wild Atlantic Way – Discovery Point) swoops and soars above the Atlantic Ocean. The views and photo opportunities from this ‘Discovery Point’ have to be seen to be believed.
Next stop to explore and hike in the Connemara National Park.
Your final stop of the day is at the magical 19th century limestone and marble Kylemore Abbey.
Note: The entry tickets for Kylemore Abbey are €17.00/pp
You can purchase tickets in advance here: https://kylemore.retailint-tickets.com/Home
Tickets include:
- Full day entry to the estate including:
- Restored rooms and multi-media Abbey experience
- Victorian Walled Garden,
- Neo-Gothic Church & Mausoleum,
- Kylemore Woodlands Trails & Tales
Tucked in the shadows of the mighty Seven Pins Mountain range, Kylemore Abbey cuts a striking figure against its majestic backdrop. A Benedictine monastery founded in 1853, the Abbey took seven years to build and remains in use today as an all girls’ school governed by Benedictine Nuns - the only Benedictine Community in Ireland - as well as opening its grounds to tourists. With its idyllic surroundings encircled by woodlands and postcard-worthy façade fronted by a glistening lake that perfectly reflects the grand building, Kylemore Abbey has fast become one of County Galway’s most popular iconic sights.
While parts of the 1000-acre estate remain closed to the public, visitors can tour many of the most impressive sights, including the magnificent Gothic Chapel and the Abbey’s beautifully restored main hall. The 6-acre walled Victorian Gardens are another highlight, where pretty walkways, 19th-century flowerbeds and a series of greenhouses are divided by a gurgling stream and enclosed by a brick and limestone wall. The onsite crafts shop and café, where the nuns serve up home-cooked food, are also popular, with the teahouse terrace offering wonderful views over the nearby Connemara National Park.
Directions to the Hawk Walk on the Ashford Castle grounds:
You can reach the check in for the Hawk Walk by one of two ways as follows:
You can either drive in through the main entrance for Ashford Castle, (spectacular views!), and park in the castle visitor car park which is signposted at the bottom of the golf course. (The check in area for this experience is approximately a 15 minute walk from there and the route is signposted (on foot only) from the far side of the castle.
Alternatively, you can enter the Eircode (F31 YF90) into Google maps and that will direct you closer to the check in location, via a different entrance, where you can park close by.
No tickets are required, we have you booked and confirmed so there shouldn’t be any stress!
Attire for the day:
With regards to attire, you need to wear long sleeved tops and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking through woodlands and forest trails in whatever weather the day has in store for you.
Special Notes:
Uneven Terrain: The Hawk Walk is a very hands-on & interactive experience which entails a moderate walk along woodland paths over uneven terrain.
Suitable Clothing: With regard to clothing, it is advisable to wear long sleeves and closed-toe footwear that is suitable for walking in the countryside through forestry.
No Wheels!: The hawks are not wheelchair friendly unfortunately, they are mistrustful of anything with wheels so it is not possible to bring a wheelchair or a mobility aid to the Falconry School, apologies.
Arriving on time: Please arrive at Ashford Castle car park at least 20 minutes before your Hawk Walk start time. This will give you time to park the car and walk to us as we are a 15 minute walk through the Castle grounds.
Can't be late!: Lastly, please note that it is very important to arrive at the correct time for your Hawk Walk, not too early but it is especially important not to be late. Correct timing is for the benefit of the hawks and is due to their strict feeding times. At 15 minutes past your Hawk Walk time the hawks will be fed and the Hawk Walk will be cancelled with payment not refundable. Thank you in advance for your understanding on this important consideration for the hawks.
May 25:
Ashford Castle
Lunch
(inside Ashford Castle)
Hawk Walk
10:00am- 11:00am- Hawk Walk at Ashford Castle
(no tickets needed)
12:00pm- lunch reservations in the Drawing Room at Ashford Castle
Ireland’s School of Falconry is the oldest established falconry school in Ireland. During your one hour private Hawk Walk, YOU fly their Harris hawks.
Your instructor will introduce you to your hawk and, within minutes, you will be setting off around the magnificent woodlands to fly your hawk free. As you fly the hawks, your instructor will explain about the hawks’ exceptional eyesight, their speed and agility and how the hawks were trained. The hawks will follow you from tree to tree through the woods before swooping down to land on your gloved fist. This is truly a one of a kind, lifelong memory.
After flying your hawk, head inside the castle to enjoy lunch (at your own expense) in the Drawing Room at Ashford Castle.
Massive, flamboyantly turreted, Ashford is the very picture of a romantic Irish castle. This famed mock-Gothic baronial showpiece, dating from the 13th century, and rebuilt in 1870 for the Guinness family, has been wowing visitors like President Reagan, John Travolta, Brad Pitt, and Pierce Brosnan—who got married here—ever since.
Nearly bigger than the entire neighboring village of Cong, it is strong on luxury and service, yet maintains a relaxed atmosphere in which guests of all ages feel totally at ease. Kids immediately associate the castle with Hogwarts... and better yet, you don't have to stay here to see the grounds!
While a small fee will allow you entrance to the grounds and gardens, lunch reservations will allow you a sneak peak inside the castle (closed to guests not staying the night).
After your meal, enjoy the evening back in Galway before your early departure and flight out in the morning.
May 26:
Depart for CLE
Today you will bid farewell to Ireland.
You will need to leave Galway by 5:00-5:30am for your 1hr drive to the Shannon airport this morning.
You'll return your rental car at the SNN airport and board your flight home.
Shannon (SNN) - Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
United flight 289
Economy class
Confirmation #: H9P5P4
Departing SNN at 9:30am
Arriving ORD at 11:40am
Chicago O’Hare (ORD)- Cleveland (CLE)
United flight 2226
Economy class
Departing ORD at 2:22pm
Arriving CLE at 4:47pm
“...and until we meet again,
may God hold you in the palm of His hand.””
TRAVEL DETAILS
FLIGHTS
Confirmation Number: H9P5P4
May 12:
Cleveland (CLE) - Newark (EWR)
United flight 676
Economy class
Confirmation #: H9P5P4
Departing CLE at 11:45am
Arriving EWR at 1:27pm
Newark (EWR)- Dublin (DUB)
United flight 23
Economy class
Departing EWR at 7:10pm
Arriving DUB at 7:05am (arriving on May 13)
May 26:
Shannon (SNN) - Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
United flight 289
Economy class
Confirmation #: H9P5P4
Departing SNN at 9:30am
Arriving ORD at 11:40am
Chicago O’Hare (ORD)- Cleveland (CLE)
United flight 2226
Economy class
Departing ORD at 2:22pm
Arriving CLE at 4:47pm
CAR RENTAL
Vehicle is a, mid-size car, automatic transmission
(Nissan Qashqai or something similar)
Estimated amount due at pick-up: € 738.75
Sixt Rental Car
Reservation number: 9708736351
Security Code: eb4e41abc0
Picking up at Dublin Stephen's Green/Conrad
Address: Conrad Hotel, Earlsfort Terrace Dublin
May 15, 2024
Pickup time: 12:30pm
Dropping off at SNN (Shannon Airport):
May 25, 2024
Drop off time: 10:30am
HOTELS
May 13-15
Dublin
Inveagh Garden Hotel
Address: 72/74 Harcourt St, Saint Kevin's, Dublin 2, D02 Y282, Ireland
Phone: +35315685500
Confirmation number: 285087
Deluxe Double Single Room
Daily breakfast included
May 15-17
Cork
Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Cork
Address: Ditchley House, Castleview, Little Island, Co. Cork, Ireland
Phone: +353214297000
Confirmation number: 0D5Q4NCK
Standard Room (double and a single bed)
Daily breakfast included
May 17-20
Kilarney
The Lake Hotel
Address: Lake Shore, Muckross Rd, Castlelough, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland
Phone: +353646631035
Confirmation number: 33890
Standard Woodland Family/ Triple
Daily breakfast included
May 20-22
Doolin
Doolin Inn Country House
Address: 1 Fisher St, Ballyvara, Doolin, Co. Clare, V95 CC79, Ireland
Phone: +353657074421
Confirmation number: 0261698177132
Courtyard Suites x2
Daily breakfast included
May 22-26
Galway
Leonardo Hotel Galway
Address: Quay St, Galway, H91 E8D7, Ireland
Phone: +35391566444
Confirmation: 378023569
Superior Double and Single Room
Daily Breakfast included
F.A.Q.
What time does the Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet start?
This is a 2hr event and your tickets are set for 8;30pm.
We do suggest that you arrive early so that you can park, and get settled in before the banquet begins.
What is included in the Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet?
Inclusions
Entrance fees
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Beverages
Dinner
Unlimited wine
Live entertainment
2-hour medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle in County Clare, Ireland
Be greeted by the music of a kilted piper before watching a crowning
Enjoy a 4-course meal with wine and honey mead in a traditional medieval-themed banquet hall
Vegetarian options are available upon request at the time of booking
Listen to beautiful melodies played on an Irish harp and fiddle
Exclusions
No beer available
Money
The Euro (€) is the official currency of the Republic of Ireland. In Northern Ireland (U.K.), the British Sterling Pound (£) is the official currency. U.S. dollars are not accepted.
Want to check the current exchange rates? Here's a foreign currency converter: http://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/
In Northern Ireland, you will need British Pound Sterling.
ATMs are readily available in Northern Ireland.
Our recommendation is to use ATMs, credit cards, and avoid travelers checks. Banks have odd opening and closing times and smaller towns may not have the capability to exchange foreign currency. Some banks in Ireland don't cash travelers checks any more.
ATMs are available in the Dublin airport and all across Ireland.
Check the back of your debit/ATM card to verify it is a Cirrus or PLUS account. If you don't see Cirrus or PLUS and the debit card is a MasterCard or Visa, look for an ATM with your card's logo (MasterCard or Visa) and your debit card should work there.
MasterCard offers a global ATM locator: http://www.mastercard.com/global/atmlocations/
Visa offers a global ATM locator: http://www.visa.com/atmlocator/
If you have any questions about using your debit card abroad, please check with your bank.
Also, it is a good idea to let your bank know when and where you're traveling to and to ask if there are foreign transaction charges.
For credit and debit cards, Visa and MasterCard are commonly accepted.
** For U.S. credit cards when doing a transaction in Ireland, you may be asked if you'd like the amount processed in US dollars or the local currency, Euros (Republic of Ireland) or Pound Sterling (Northern Ireland). We recommend choosing the local currency so you will get the best exchange rate. If you choose US dollars, typically a 3.5% additional fee is added to your total.
Should I take money (Euros or Pound Sterling) to Ireland with me?
We recommend obtaining about €100 in cash (denominations of 20s or smaller) from your home bank prior to your arrival in Ireland. You can then take out more money from an ATM as needed during your trip.
When traveling in Ireland, one strategy is to use cash for smaller purchases and your credit card elsewhere.
Chip and Pin Credit Cards
Ireland has "Chip and Pin" technology for their credit cards. Irish people enter a PIN with all their credit card transactions. If you have a "Chip and Pin" credit card, you will be asked to enter your PIN with a transaction.
American credit cards typically have "Chip and Signature" technology. Your credit card can be inserted into the slot for chip cards and a receipt will print out for you to sign.
WiFi
Ireland is a very connected country! WiFi is available in the majority of your accommodations and at bars, coffee shops, etc.
Mobile / Cell / Smart Phones
Check with your current carrier to see if an International plan is available.
Check if your phone can be unlocked and is compatible with different SIM cards. You can then buy a SIM card and a calling/data/text plan in Ireland
Hair Dryers
Most of the accommodations have hair dryers but the Irish don't usually keep them in the bathroom.
Look for the hair dryer in a dressing table drawer, bedside table, or a closet.
Electrical Items
Q: What do you need to run a U.S. or Canadian electrical device in Ireland?
A: There are two parts to the electrical equation: Voltage and the Electrical Plug Adapter.
The first part - Voltage. Ireland and the U.K. has 240 volt currency and the U.S./Canada has 110 volt.
Check the electrical device's power supply and see if it accepts voltage from 100 to 240.
If YES, you do NOT need anything to convert the voltage.
If NO, you need to buy an electrical transformer to convert the voltage. This can be purchased at most hardware or home stores.
Please Note: Many computers, tablets, phone chargers, and camera battery chargers have power supplies that accept 100 - 240 volts so you would NOT need a transformer (also known as voltage converter). For example, this camera battery charger accepts 100 - 240 volts.
The second part - Electrical Plug Adapter
The Ireland and United Kingdom electrical plug has three large prongs.
To plug in your device, you need an electrical plug adapter. The technical name is Type G. This can be purchased at a hardware or home store.
Here's a picture of an Irish electrical outlet. Notice how there's an On/Off switch with each plug. When you see the red, that means On.
Here are a couple of electrical charging examples:
Charging your cell phone and the power supply accepts 100 - 240, you only need the electrical plug adapter.
Cell Phone Charger plugged into ---> Plug Adapter plugged into -----> Electrical socket
Charging an item that needs the voltage transformer, you need the transformer and the plug adapter.
Electrical Item plugged into ----> Voltage transformer plugged into ---> Plug Adapter plugged into -----> Electrical socket
CAN I PAY BY ZELLE?
Yes!
We started taking Zelle payments last month and we found this to be a fast and FREE way to pay!
For those who don’t know what Zelle is… it is very much like a wire transfer (but it is not a wire transfer).
Everyone’s bank is different, though, so you may want to call/go in to your local bank and ask to have the maximum amount available to transfer every day.
Example: Some banks only allow $500/day transfer. Other banks will allow $1200/day.
Always be careful when making payments through Zelle to people that you do not know. There is no protection guarantee provided and you cannot reverse the fee.
The Pros for using Zelle:
It is FREE (no processing fees)!
It is instantaneous (funds will go directly to Zone Travel- so this is the absolute fastest way to make a payment)
The Cons for using Zelle:
Every bank is different when it comes to maximum amount available to be transferred every day. So, this may mean that you need to make multiple payments to Zone Travel, multiple days in a row.
It does require an app download onto your phone, and you need to set up your account with your bank information.
CAN I PAY BY CHECK?
Yes!
If you would like to avoid the 4%processing fees, you may pay by check.
It is very important that you pay in advance of the deadlines and allow ample time for delivery.
Payments received after the deadline could result in cancelation of your reservation or increased fees.
packing list
The temperature in Ireland between May and September tends to be in the 60s -- sometimes a bit warmer (into the 70s) and sometimes a bit cooler (high 50s). Planning to wear layers is key to smart packing for Ireland. Also, Irish weather is quite changeable - it can be windy, sunny, and rainy all in one day!
We recommend you bring one medium-sized suitcase (smaller is fine!) and a day bag (example: small back pack or purse). A medium-sized suitcase is about 28 in. (height) x 17 in. (width). You can keep the day bag with you on the mini-coach (there's a nice overhead area above your seat) and your other suitcase will go in the back of the mini-coach which you can access during the day if needed.
A few reminders...
Pack lightly!
You will need to carry your bags from your car into the hotel and possibly up steps. Many local guest houses do not have elevators.
Remember, Ireland is a modern country. If you forget something, you can probably buy it there
Here is a suggested packing list:
Passport and travel documents such as airline tickets (with photocopies)
Shoes:
1 pair waterproof hiking shoes. You will be doing easy hikes in valleys and trails, which may be wet and/or muddy.
1 other pair of shoes of your choice
Tops - long sleeve and short sleeves that you can layer
Fleece top and / or 1 warmer sweater
Long pants:
One pair of jeans
One pair of lighter weight pants
Pajamas
Socks and underwear
Personal effects such as a watch/alarm clock, jewelry, medications, and bathroom items
Windproof/waterproof jacket
Hats - we like to bring a baseball style cap (for those sunny days) and a warmer hat (for those windy/cooler days)
Scarf
Waterproof jacket. Optional: rain pants
Lightweight umbrella
Sunglasses and sun block
Camera with battery charger. Please see the section "Electrical Items, WiFi, Mobile - Cell - Smart Phones" for additional information.
Optional Items:
Swimsuit
Wash cloth. Irish bathrooms do not typically include wash clothes/face clothes.
Small flashlight
Electrical items such as cell phones, tablets, e-book readers, laptops, power cords, plug adapters, electrical transformers, etc. Please see the section "Electrical Items, WiFi, Mobile - Cell - Smart Phones" for additional information.
Hair Dryers
Most of the accommodations have hair dryers but the Irish don't usually keep them in the bathroom. Look for the hair dryer in a dressing table drawer, bedside table, or a closet.
Irish Dress Code
The Irish tend to dress quite casually so you won't need any fancy clothes for dining out.
Laundry
There are opportunities to have laundry done on the free day of each tour.
Self-serve laundromats are not common. You will drop off your clothes the night before or in the morning and then pick them up later in the day.
REGISTRATION FORM
PLEASE TYPE CAREFULLY! INACCURATE INFORMATION WILL RESULT IN TRAVEL DELAYS AND/OR CHANGE FEES.
(PLEASE SUBMIT ONE REGISTRATION FORM PER HOUSEHOLD -MAX 2 PEOPLE PER REGISTRATION FORM)
Pricing details
package price:
2 People Traveling
$11,180*
(without airfare: $8,180)
3 People Traveling
$17,820*
(without airfare: $13,320)
(without airfare + sharing a room: $9,720)
*All pricing & availability is subject to change until completed through the booking process. If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport, as well as 2 blank visa pages. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable. If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense
PLEASE NOTE: 2024 Pricing has not yet been released- this is our best estimate. As such, we may have to flex the total amount if we are not able to get the same pricing for 2024.
If your vacation package includes airfare, baggage fees may be an additional cost. For international travel, a passport book is required. Most locations require at least 6 months before expiration on your passport. Please make sure to have the correct and updated documents if applicable.If you have a criminal background, you are responsible for knowing the travel restrictions pertaining to the offense.
INCLUDED IN THE QUOTE
Round trip airfare from CMH
Economy class
Rental Car
Hotel accommodations
As described above
Some Meals
Breakfast daily
Tours
As described above
Most taxes and fees
Service fees and commissions (NON REFUNDABLE)
Current VAT- if this fee changes, we will need to collect additional charges.
NOT INCLUDED
Incidental charges
Local Tax
4% processing fee per payment (only if paying w/debit or credit card)
Local taxis
Most meals/beverages (unless included in the itinerary)
Add-on tours/excursions
Optional Travel Insurance *DUE AT TIME OF BOOKING- PLEASE REVIEW THE DETAILS OF EACH PLAN THOROUGHLY
Worldwide Trip Protector Edge ‘Basic’ (average price of $113/pp)
Please Note: This plan does NOT include epidemic or pandemic-related illness, individually-ordered quarantine, and denied boarding.
Worldwide Trip Protector ‘Premium’ (average price of $154/pp)
Please Note: Under certain conditions, covered reasons for some benefits of this plan include epidemic or pandemic-related illness, individually-ordered quarantine, and denied boarding.
Other insurance options are available, if you have questions or want more coverage options, please let us know at time of booking.
SUGGESTED PAYMENT SCHEDULE
There are three payment options available to you.
*Payment schedule does not include insurance costs. Insurance is due with initial payment.
Option 1: Full Payment
(Most affordable overall)
Full payment (plus insurance)- due upon receipt.
*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)
Option 2: Two Payments
One payment will be due immediately and the second payment will be due no later than 120 days prior to your trip.
(There will be a one time $50 fee per person, for this delayed payment option)
(More than 2 payments are not allowed without a $50/pp fee per payment)
NOTE: Not all insurance policy will allow you to purchase coverage after the initial deposit. It is illegal to purchase insurance with the knowledge and intent that you will be changing or canceling your trip.)
*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee will be charged at time of payment if paying with credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)
TWO-PAYMENT PLAN:
(price per person)
Due now: $250 + Insurance (suggested)
120 days prior: Remainder due
Option 3: Monthly Payments
Payments will be split into the remaining months prior to your trip (ending at 120 days prior to departure)
(A $50/pp fee per payment is applicable for this delayed payment option.)
*Please keep in mind, a 4% processing fee may be charged at time of paymentif choosing to pay with a credit card. (this has not been included in the costs.)
Split amount due into monthly payments.
The first payment must be a minimum of $250 + insurance (per person), due upon receipt.
The remaining payments will be divided by the months- with final payment due 120 days prior to your trip.
REGISTRATION
A completed registration form (one per household -max 2 people per registration form)
If you have more than 2 people from the same household going on this trip, please fill out multiple forms, as the maximum per form is 2 people.
FINAL PAYMENT
PAYMENTS NOT RECEIVED ON TIME WILL RESULT IN RESERVATION CANCELLATION WITHOUT REFUND.
Additional bookings after the final payment deadline may result in higher prices, less availability and additional administrative fees.
Fee amounts imposed are at the discretion of Zone Travel.
CANCELLATION
Cancellation in writing must be received by Zone Travel 60 days prior to departure for appropriate refund on the land tour cost minus the following fees:
Commissions and Travel insurance are non-refundable.
Zone Travel LLC and its cooperative destination incur unrecoverable charges preparing for your trip therefore, no refunds if cancellations occur less than 60 days before departure. Cancellations more than 60 days prior to departure are based on individual group bookings per the outlined confirmation document you receive.
We sell a variety of travel related products from different suppliers and service providers ("Suppliers"). Each Supplier has its own terms and condition that are applicable to your particular arrangements in addition to our general terms and conditions, and you should make sure you understand them.
Zone Travel is acting as intermediary or a "Booking Agent" for products and services that are not directly supplied by us (e.g., air carriage and ground transportation, hotel accommodations, meals, tours, cruises, etc.). We are not a co-vendor of such products and services. You will be entering into a separate contract with such Suppliers in connection with such products and services.
By making payments to Zone Travel for this trip you are agreeing to all Terms and Conditions listed on the Zone Travel website.
Vendor Cancel policy: Each vendor has their own policies, which we have to apply. This information may vary and is listed in full detail on the contract signed for each vendor.
WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel Insurance
TRAVEL INSURANCE - AVAILABLE FOR ALL USA CITIZENS - DUE WITH INITIAL PAYMENT
Zone Travel LLC strongly suggests purchasing Trip Cancellation insurance. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider as most U.S. medical coverage will not cover you outside of the country.
Insurance costs are based on the total package cost, including air taxes and charges listed under "Included."
Approximate amounts can be given at time of reservation in order to purchase the appropriate amount of insurance.
EDGE PLAN:
(BASIC PROTECTION)
Extensive coverage for everyone; designed with families in mind.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 14 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)
Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption
Trip Delay and Missed Tour or Cruise Connection coverage
Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection
Medical and Evacuation coverage
TRIP CANCELLATION
Up to 100% trip cost
Trip Cancellation
Up to $250
Frequent Traveler Reward
TRIP INTERRUPTION / DELAY
Up to 100% trip cost
Trip Interruption
Reimburses up to 100% of your trip costs if you must start your trip late or are unable to complete your trip due to a covered reason. This reimburses the non-refundable cost of unused travel arrangements and added transportation costs.
$300 (up to $100/day - 12 hours)
Trip Delay
Reimburses up to $100 per day for a reasonable hotel and meal costs (among others) when you are delayed 12 hours or more due to a covered reason, up to a maximum benefit amount of $300.
Up to $250
Change Fees
Reimburses up to $250 for fees associated with a change to your air itinerary or fees assessed by your travel supplier for changing your original travel arrangements due to a covered reason. Coverage begins when you depart on the first travel arrangement of your trip.
Up to $300 (12 hours)
Missed Tour or Cruise Connection
Reimburses up to $300 in certain unplanned losses and expenses, including the additional transportation cost to join your trip, when a 12-hour or more delay due to a covered reason causes you to miss your trip departure.
MEDICAL PROTECTION
Up to $100,000
Medical Evacuation and Repatriation of Remains
Provides up to $100,000 to transport you to the nearest medical facility capable of providing you adequate medical treatment if needed to treat an unforeseen sickness or injury determined to be acute, severe or life threatening, transport you back to your point of origin (with a medical escort if recommended by a physician), and transport your remains back t0 your origination point in case of an unexpected tragedy.
Up to $10,000
Accident and Sickness Medical Expense
Medical expense benefits for up to $10,000 to cover treatment costs when an accident or illness strikes during your trip.
BAGGAGE PROTECTION
$750
Baggage and Personal Effects
Provides up to $750 when bags or personal effects are lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed during your trip.
Up to $200 (12 hours)
Baggage Delay
Reimburses up to $200 for necessary personal items (such a clothing) when your bags are delayed 12 hours or more after you arrival at a destination other than your return destination.
RENTAL CAR PROTECTION
Up to $25,000
Optional Rental Car Damage
Provides up to $25,000 if your rental car is damaged or stolen.
OTHER
Included
Single Supplement
Reimburses additional costs incurred as a result of a change in the per person occupancy rates if a person booked to share accommodations with you cancels or interrupts his/her trip due to a covered reason.
WORLDWIDE TRIP PROTECTOR:
(PREMIUM PROTECTION)
Extensive coverage for everyone; designed with families in mind.
Pre-existing Medical Conditions coverage if purchased within 21 days of deposit (other eligibility conditions must also be met)
Wide range of reasons for trip cancellation or interruption
Trip Delay and Missed Tour or Cruise Connection coverage
Baggage Protection and Travel Accident Protection
Medical and Evacuation coverage
TRIP CANCELLATION
Up to 100% Trip cost
Trip Cancellation
Up to $250
Frequent Traveler Reward
TRIP INTERRUPTION / DELAY
Up to 150% Tip cost
Trip Interruption
Reimburses up to 150% of your trip costs if you must start your trip late or are unable to complete your trip due to a covered reason. This reimburses the non-refundable cost of unused travel arrangements and added transportation costs.
$1,500 (up to $200/day - 3 hours)
Trip Delay
Reimburses up to $200 per day for a reasonable hotel and meal costs (among others) when you are delayed 3 hours or more due to a covered reason, up to a maximum benefit amount of $1,500.
Up to $250
Change Fees
Reimburses up to $250 for fees associated with a change to your air itinerary or fees assessed by your travel supplier for changing your original travel arrangements due to a covered reason. Coverage begins when you depart on the first travel arrangement of your trip.
Up to $500
Itinerary Chance
Reimburses up to $500 for non-refundable event/activity expenses paid by you for activities missed due to a supplier’s itinerary chance.
Up to $500 (3 hours)
Missed Tour or Cruise Connection
Reimburses up to $500 in certain unplanned losses and expenses, including the additional transportation cost to join your trip, when a 3-hour or more delay due to a covered reason causes you to miss your trip departure.
MEDICAL PROTECTION
Up to $1,000,000
Medical Evacuation and Repatriation of Remains
Provides up to $1 million to transport you to the nearest medical facility capable of providing you adequate medical treatment if needed to treat an unforeseen sickness or injury determined to be acute, severe or life threatening, transport you back to your point of origin (with a medical escort if recommended by a physician), and transport your remains back t0 your origination point in case of an unexpected tragedy.
Up to $100,000
Accident and Sickness Medical Expense
Medical expense benefits for up to $100,000 to cover treatment costs when an accident or illness strikes during your trip.
BAGGAGE PROTECTION
$1,000
Baggage and Personal Effects
Provides up to $1,000 when bags or personal effects are lost, stolen, damaged or destroyed during your trip.
Up to $500 (3 hours)
Baggage Delay
Reimburses up to $500 for necessary personal items (such a clothing) when your bags are delayed 3 hours or more after you arrival at a destination other than your return destination.
RENTAL CAR PROTECTION
Up to $50,000
Optional Rental Car Damage
Provides up to $50,000 if your rental car is damaged or stolen.
OTHER
Included
Single Supplement
Reimburses additional costs incurred as a result of a change in the per person occupancy rates if a person booked to share accommodations with you cancels or interrupts his/her trip due to a covered reason.
$150,000
Political/Security Evac and Natural Disaster Evac
If you require evacuation for a political/security event or national disaster while traveling outside of your home country, this provides up to $150,000 for reasonable expenses incurred to transport you to the nearest place of safety or your point of origin.
Up to $10,000
Accidental death and Dismemberment - 24 hours
Provides a benefit when you suffer loss of life, limb or sight resulting from an accident during your trip (other than while covered for air flight only benefits)