Traveling in Ireland

Use my recent tour through the 'Heart of Ireland' to inspire your own Ireland itinerary. https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-tours/2024-friends-family-tour-of-ireland/

Is corned beef Irish? Frank Corbett, host of Corbett's Traditional Irish Food Experience shares the facts behind this popular dish.

Dalton's Musical History Tour This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Fiona Dalton, the founder of Dalton's Musical History Tours. If you prefer to listen to the podcast, you can find the player at the bottom of the page . Visiting Dublin? Learn about the Dublin Pass Here Dalton's Musical History Tour of Dublin Learn about the history of Dublin through song! Dalton's Musical History T...

In this episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast, we delve into the history of the Great Irish Famine with guest Caroilin Callery, a director of the Irish National Trust. Listen as Jody & Caroilin discuss the origins and impact of the famine, the preservation of historical documents by Caroilin's father, Jim Callery, and the development of the National Famine Museum in Strokestown Park. This ep...

We all make mistakes when planning a vacation, but these are the top 5 mistakes I see first time travelers to Ireland make. Learn about these common mistakes - and get the tips to avoid them. Full show notes with links for more information at https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/mistakes

When you think of eating in Ireland you probably think about fish & chips, a hearty stew, potatoes (in many forms), and a pint of Guinness. And all of these are so, so good. But Irish food goes beyond the traditional items you see on St. Patrick's Day menus or featured in Irish pubs across the world. According to Irish Food Champion, chef Padraic Og Gallagher, Irish cuisine is simply food made wit...

Are you considering a visit to Ireland in the off-season? It's a terrific time to explore the Emerald Isle! In addition to Ireland's well-known attractions you'll also find unique festivals, smaller crowds, and plenty of extraordinary experiences. Jody and her guest Orla Kelly, sales & marketing director at Ireland Chauffeur Travel, share all the reasons you should consider Ireland in the 'off-sea...

Irish mythology is rich with stories that have been passed down through generations, featuring a mix of heroic tales, tragic love stories, and epic battles. These stories are deeply rooted in Irish culture and have influenced literature, art, and even modern popular culture. They are celebrated for their richness, complexity, and the way they reflect the ancient beliefs and values of Ireland. This...

How to collect your Ireland VAT refund if you aren't traveling directly home from Ireland. Plus: Is it worth the trouble?

Known as the medieval capital of Ireland, Kilkenny offers visitors a unique blend of ancient stories, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. As you wander through the narrow alleyways, you can't help but feel transported to another time, where each street corner holds a door to a new tale waiting to be discovered. Kilkenny Castle was built at a fording point of the River Nore in 1159AD by William...

Choosing a rental car in Ireland for a group of 5 or more can be tough. Not only do you have to make sure everyone will fit - but you also have to think about how much luggage the vehicle can carry. Breaking down the 'math' of Irish car size and how many people they will hold. If you are nervous about driving in Ireland be sure to check out Tripiamo's Driving in Ireland Guide & save $5 with code I...

Enjoy this fun chat with the insanely talented Byrne Brothers. This family act, originally from County Donegal, has quite a story to tell! Plus- they share their favorite spots in Ireland.

Singer and songwriter Enda Reilly joins Jody for a chat live from the Iowa Irish Fest. Irish poetry, the Sullivan Brothers, and Irish geology.

Davy Holden joins Jody live at the Iowa Irish Fest to talk about Irish rebel songs.

Michael Londra, celebrated Irish Tenor and host of Ireland with Michael on PBS, sits down with Jody at Iowa Irish Fest to chat about his show, tours, and favorite spots in County Wexford.

Known as the Garden of Ireland, County Wicklow offers an array of stunning landscapes and attractions, but the crown jewel is undoubtedly the Powerscourt Estate. Powerscourt Estate ticks so many boxes for visitors to Ireland. - For those staying in Dublin it is a perfect day trip from the city. - I love the Powerscourt Hotel as a first night's stay - after a long international flight there is noth...

Irish festivals are filled with music, banter, tasty food, and plenty of fun. It's a great way to experience Irish culture without a passport!

Want to learn an Irish jig during your Ireland vacation? Siobhan Manson, former lead dancer with Riverdance has created The Irish Dance Experience in Galway where you can learn some traditional Irish dancing as well as some fancy footwork!

If you're planning a family visit to Dublin these tips will guide you to the best places to take the kids. Whether you have toddlers or teens, you'll learn about the best attractions, activities & tasty meals in the capital city. Full show notes with links to all locations at Ireland Family Vacations: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-with-kids-family-friendly-attractions-activities-eateri...

If your Ireland vacation is longer than 10 days you'll probably need to do laundry. These are the best ways to do laundry in Ireland so you don't miss too much touring time.

Before traveling to Ireland the most important documents to verify are your passport, driver's license, and travel insurance coverages. Listen to get the tips on what you MUST check before leaving home.

Tips & tricks to blend in with the locals during your Ireland vacation. Tourist mistakes to avoid & how to immerse yourself in the Irish experience. Full show notes & links at:

One of the first things you'll notice in Ireland is that there is  always  a hot water kettle available for a cup of tea. Every hotel, and most B&Bs, provide a kettle, tea bags and instant coffee, and often a biscuit, for an easy afternoon pick-me-up or evening refresher. As a tea drinker I much prefer this over the coffee makers you find in hotel rooms across the US. A memorable afterno...

Of all the islands off the shores of Ireland, the Aran Islands may be the most well known. About the Aran Islands Located off the west coast of Ireland, the Aran Islands are accessible by ferry from County Galway, Rossaveel year-round or Galway City from March thru September, and Doolin from March thru mid-September. There are 3 Aran Islands: Inis Oírr (Inisheer), the smallest island and closest t...

When planning an Ireland vacation there are a few things that MUST be booked in advance of your trip and not left to chance. From accommodations to attractions and experiences to tours, these are the things you need to arrange prior to arriving in Ireland.