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active 8 hours ago

Dean Garrison

My role as a Sales executive is to help my clients achieve what they are looking for in a holiday to Ireland. Whether that would be offering places to stay, providing a detail Itinerary outlining specific walks or hikes to participate in or to suggest unique and interesting places to visit. My aim is to get as much information out of people as possible so I can provide a trip that they will remember for years to come.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

""Saying that "I" specialize in Hiking and cycling would be to deny the amazing team that I work with at Ireland Walk Hike Bike. Our company was set up with one purpose in mind – to show guests the real Ireland that we know and love. Having watched many visitors “flash” through Ireland – my business partner and founder of the company Linda Woods decided back in 1994 to find a better way to see the country. As Linda says “My aim was to slow people down, so they really get their feet into the soul of the country, meet the locals & discover what makes Ireland & the Irish tick………” and 24 years later – this is exactly what Ireland Walk Hike Bike is still doing today….
We specialise in hiking and cycling holidays both Guided or Self Guided and take great pride in designing bespoke holidays in line with the needs of our guests."
"

How did you get involved in travel?

"I have been involved in the travel industry for over 12 years. Starting off by studying a International Travel and Tourism degree learning the in and out of the industry. I then undertook 1 year trip around the world visiting over 30 countries across 6 continents. Since then I have spent the last 8 years continuing to travel to different countries as well as working in different roles within the industry expanding my knowledge and passing this information on to others. "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"I have been on many hiking holidays but the one that will have a special place in my heart was my trip to Peru and participating on the Inca Trail. 4 days of breath taking views and exploring old Inca ruins. The main event of the trip however was towards the end where you approach The Sun Gates and watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu (the lost Inca City) without a doubt one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had."

Dean is part of the following groups: Ireland Travel Agents
Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Dean

They Listen. Everything was great! Dean was Awesome!
Ireland | Mar 25 - Apr 2, 2024

Carl
Carl M.
Richmond, VA | Reviewed on Oct 01, 2024
The most important thing to say is that from KimKim's initial intake representative to our local specialist Dean who handled our planning and trip, they listened to what WE said we liked, did not like, and wanted. We have never used a travel agent or planner before, because we had never found that before. I kept waiting for the shoe to drop, as they say. Probably had a bit of an edge in the beginning because I was just 'Waiting for it'. We knew Ireland would be wonderful; we didn't know we... Read more

The most important thing to say is that from KimKim's initial intake representative to our local specialist Dean who handled our planning and trip, they listened to what WE said we liked, did not like, and wanted. We have never used a travel agent or planner before, because we had never found that before. I kept waiting for the shoe to drop, as they say. Probably had a bit of an edge in the beginning because I was just 'Waiting for it'. We knew Ireland would be wonderful; we didn't know we would meet a travel planner that was great as well.

Will mention one more thing. We tested the offer of 'Call or chat me any time' a few times during the trip, often from the middle of nowhere (our favorite places). Dean knocked it out of the park each time. Whether it was helping us find an obscure place, sleuthing some history for us, or locating where we could purchase a hard to find electronic device.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Oct 03, 2024

Hi Carl

Thank you for taking the time to write a wonderful review on your trip.

We are delighted that you had a great time and that everything went perfectly for you.

Everyone within the company hopes to welcome you back to Ireland in the future.

All the best.

Dean

Our visit to Ireland went off without a hitch. Car rental is tricky, meaning the insurance is very one sided even using my credit card’s insurance feature.
Ireland | Sep 17 - Sep 24, 2024

K
Ken T.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Sep 29, 2024
Hi Kimkim, I received your text and my apologies for not being as punctual as I should have been but we were having too much of a good time. The itinerary your team put together was perfect for seeing County Mayo. We met some of my wife’s relation that live in Mayo. We also saw the family homestead which was just as my wife’s grandfather always said, you could sit on the front porch and gaze out at Clew Bay. We had no idea that Mayo was so large, the counties in Ireland are much... Read more

Hi Kimkim, I received your text and my apologies for not being as punctual as I should have been but we were having too much of a good time. The itinerary your team put together was perfect for seeing County Mayo. We met some of my wife’s relation that live in Mayo. We also saw the family homestead which was just as my wife’s grandfather always said, you could sit on the front porch and gaze out at Clew Bay.

We had no idea that Mayo was so large, the counties in Ireland are much bigger than in Ohio. As Dean assured us, driving was no problem but getting used to the narrow roads was a bit of a challenge. The Hertz car we rented was the perfect size. We went to several beautiful beaches (Silver Strand in the Lost Valley, Keem and Keel beaches.). Croagh Patrick proved too much of a challenge but we did walk part of it. Gorgeous views!

Clew Bay Hotel was great but it was unseasonably hot, no air conditioning or fans in the room which may have helped. Westport was a fun city and Westport House was very interesting. We didn’t make Clare Island because of illness (a bad head cold.) Achill Island is beautiful, Stella Maris was good. We had dinner at Brevie which was exceptional. We went to the Deserted Village, interesting. Went to Ceide Fields, again beautiful views and very interesting. Down Patrick was closed for road repairs. Ballina was also a nice city, Ballina Manor Hotel was good. They gave us a fan for our room which helped with the unseasonable hotter weather.

Our kudos to Dean Garrison, he planned a wonderful trip for us.

Overall a very enjoyable experience.

Ken & Chris Tabellion

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Oct 03, 2024

Hi Ken and Chris

Thank you for taking the time to write a wonderful review on your trip.

We are delighted that you had a great time and that everything went perfectly for you.

Everyone within the company hopes to welcome you back to Ireland in the future.

All the best.

Dean

Doug/Angela 1st Anniversary: Ireland - Dublin to Galway for 10 days
Ireland | Sep 12 - Sep 21, 2024

Douglas
Douglas O.
Wauwatosa, WI | Reviewed on Sep 24, 2024
Enjoyed the private tour with Linda via Walk/Hike/Bike - very knowledgable including historically. Great day with her and taking in the various sights. Some things about the trip were a bit confusing via the site we downloaded to the phone versus what came over via email including tickets for various excursions via boat. Linda helped us with one of them which helped it make better sense. We used Kim Kim in the past for our honeymoon to Italy and it was an awesome experience where they... Read more

Enjoyed the private tour with Linda via Walk/Hike/Bike - very knowledgable including historically. Great day with her and taking in the various sights. Some things about the trip were a bit confusing via the site we downloaded to the phone versus what came over via email including tickets for various excursions via boat. Linda helped us with one of them which helped it make better sense. We used Kim Kim in the past for our honeymoon to Italy and it was an awesome experience where they truly tailored the trip, had rooms with champagne upon arrival and spoke with her as we set up the travels. In this instance the same attention to detail was not there and we did not even know our resource was going to be away during our travels if we had questions so it was a bit of a scramble to send notes via kim kim site to commuincate. With that said, the trip was beautiful but would spend at least 2 days in Dublin in retrospect. We lost the day due to a delayed flight so did not get to a few places we intended to see in Dublin. Did like the way we traveled via car and driving from Kenmare to Killarney was absolutely beautiful (but this drive was via word of mouth and not recommended from the agency). We happened to talk to locals who made recommendations on the suggested routes for the drive. I still enjoy using Kim Kim and would likely do it again but be sure to be more active with questions about what to do or see when traveling to Ireland. Finally - would say to anyone driving do not be shy. I was nervous at first driving opposite side of the road but you get used to it quickly. There are some very narrow streets but go at your own pace - it is not too bad. This trip was for our 1st anniversary so thought there would have been something more on the day but maybe this was missed by the agent?

Hotel Reviews
The Galmont Hotel & Spa
Galway

Very nice hotel and spa, can use all facilities. The breakfast was buffet style so not as good as some other places but the location was perfect. It was a 5-6 minute walk to downtown Galway and the shops/pubs. This hotel was very convenient and the room was very nice as well.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very close to downtown pubs/shops
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Doolin Inn
doolin

Enjoyed the small town charm of the hotel. I thought they had the best restaurant and menu with some very different things to try. The room however was extremely HOT and the bathroom was extra hot. There is no A/C, they had an occilating fan in the room. We were a bit uncomfortable. Also in the evening ensure you have everything you need because there will be nothing open and the front desk closes.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Really need A/C in the room. It was HOT and the bathroom - extra hot
The Brehon Hotel
Killarney

This hotel was a bit out of the way so need a car to get to Killarney. We had a large room which was nice and the breakfast was very nice, can order from menu. Ross Castle and Muckross House are nearby via short drive. Town of Killarney was very nice. Walk would be a bit long.

Authenticity & Character
Location
I think it just requires a car ride to downtown Killarney - bit of a longer walk but nice hotel.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The River Lee Hotel
Cork

Location of this hotel was perfect. Breakfast was fantastic each morning. Walking distance to few of the local pubs. Enjoyed the hotel bar as well, very nice hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ashling Hotel Dublin
Dublin

Nice hotel, great breakfast located in walking distance to Nancy Hands pub and the Guinness tour.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Cliffs of Moher Cruise
Cliffs of Moher Cruise
Ireland

Cliffs were amazing, but I would say the trip to the island of Inis Mor was even better. Best pictures and views were from Inis Mor where you literally can look over the edge (dangerous but incredible). Added Dublin, Doolin, Galway pics here as well.

Quality of Experience
Dingle and Slea Head Guided Drive
Dingle and Slea Head Guided Drive
Ireland

We had a private tour for this part of the trip and certainly recommend it. We had Linda who was the former owner of the Walk/Hike/Bike and she was very versed in Ireland history so the conversation and lessons were fantastic. There are many spots we would not have known about without some big time research, and it was nice to not have to drive for a day and sit back and take in the scenery.

Quality of Experience
The places to see - Sleighead was nice and the wife loved the town of Dingle
Food
The food was great in Sleighead at the little bar at the end talking with Sean (bartender) and Rocky (his buddy).
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Walk/Hike/Bike and Linda our guide was fantastic and very versed in Irish history
Transport
Mini-van guided tour was great to sit back and relax vs. drive for a day.
Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Oct 03, 2024

Hi Douglas

Thank you for taking the time to provide some useful feedback on your trip.

I am sorry to hear that you were not completely satisfied with elements of your trip. I do apologise about not informing you about my absence during your time in Ireland.

We will definitely take your points you have made on board which will help prevent us making any mistakes in the future.

I will certainly pass your kind words on to Linda she will be delighted to hear you had a great day on tour with her.

Kind Regards

Dean

A Fairytale Irish Elopement
Ireland | Jul 21 - Jul 27, 2024

stephanie
stephanie m.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Aug 02, 2024
Planning our trip to Ireland was a breeze. Our specialist, Dean, included all of the aspects we were looking for in this trip. He made sure we understood our itinerary and readily responded to any questioned we had. We scheduled an elopement ceremony after we booked our trip and Dean made it very easy to make changes to our itinerary so we could squeeze this special day in. I would definitely book with KimKim again. Read more

Planning our trip to Ireland was a breeze. Our specialist, Dean, included all of the aspects we were looking for in this trip. He made sure we understood our itinerary and readily responded to any questioned we had. We scheduled an elopement ceremony after we booked our trip and Dean made it very easy to make changes to our itinerary so we could squeeze this special day in. I would definitely book with KimKim again.

Hotel Review
Ballyseede Castle
Tralee

Staying here was a night of luxury. We got dinner at the bar and it was one of the best meals we had in Ireland. I would love to stay here again if I am ever back in the country.

Authenticity & Character
There is a long walking trail connected to the property and there are friendly animals roaming the property.
Location
Secluded oasis with dogs!
Staff
Staff was very friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Large rooms and comfortable bed/pillows.
Activity Review
Ring of Kerry Guided Bus tour
Ring of Kerry Guided Bus tour
Ireland

Informative and a great way to see a lot in a little amount of time.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Aug 02, 2024

Hi Stephanie

Thank you for your kind words.

We were delighted to make your dream trip to Ireland come true and hope to welcome back in the near future.

Kind Regards

Dean

Ireland driving trip
Ireland | Jun 30 - Jul 7, 2024

J
Jennifer M.
Raleigh, NC | Reviewed on Aug 01, 2024

The hotels, car rental and planned activities were great. On the other hand, we received a very long document before our trip that just listed *all* of the options of things to do at each place - there was no priority or added information about timing, booking in advance, or attempts to tailor recommendations to our preferences. This document was generally not useful and we ended up having to use a travel book to figure out what to do in each place.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Aug 07, 2024

Hi Jennifer

Thank you for taking your time to give us some feedback on your trip.

We are glad to hear you enjoyed most elements of your trip.

I am sorry to hear you were not happy with your route note document. I will certainly pass this information along to our team that deals with the route notes, this is certainly the first time we have heard concerns regarding them but we are always looking at way to improve things so we will definitely take your feedback on board.

Kind Regards

Dean

The best! We planned our hiking trip in Ireland using K...
Ireland | Jun 10 - Jun 18, 2024

Fred
Fred H.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Jun 19, 2024
We planned our hiking trip in Ireland using KimKim and the local representative, Dean from Ireland Walk Hike Bike, arranged a terrific self-guided trip for us in the Southwest of Ireland. Every day was memorable. We particularly appreciated their responsiveness when there were questions. Twice we needed to change plans and they responded in minutes, updating our itinerary info and GPS. Loved the accommodations they arranged at Ashling Hotel, the Old Weir Lodge and Tower View B&B and the... Read more

We planned our hiking trip in Ireland using KimKim and the local representative, Dean from Ireland Walk Hike Bike, arranged a terrific self-guided trip for us in the Southwest of Ireland. Every day was memorable. We particularly appreciated their responsiveness when there were questions. Twice we needed to change plans and they responded in minutes, updating our itinerary info and GPS. Loved the accommodations they arranged at Ashling Hotel, the Old Weir Lodge and Tower View B&B and the people at all of them. Had wonderful drivers too. Cannot recommend highly enough!

Hotel Reviews
Old Weir Lodge
Killarney

Felt so welcomed by the O’Donoghue family at the Old Weir Lodge! Small hotel/Inn with the feel of a B&B. Felt so welcomed. It was a plus that father and son run the boat tour we took in the park as well. Excellent breakfast and service. Highly recommend!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tower View
Dingle

Loved the Tower View B&B! Aiden, Helen and the staff made us feel so welcome. Very friendly and welcoming. Breakfasts were terrific. A big part of why we had such a wonderful trip to Southwestern Ireland!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ashling Hotel Dublin
Dublin

Terrific hotel. Great location, particularly if you are taking the train, as the station is across the street. Most restaurants an easy 15-20 minute walk, but some close as well. Three blocks from one of the largest parks in Europe. Also close to Guinness brewery if you are going there. Very good breakfast and super friendly host, who spontaneously started leading us in traditional Irish song! Loved it!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
FALCONRY KERRY
FALCONRY KERRY
Ireland

Had some time on our last day in Killarney before getting our train and this was a perfect way to spend the morning. Highly recommend!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Jun 20, 2024

Hi Fred

Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review and for your kind words.

We are delighted you enjoyed your time along the Kerry and Dingle Way. We will certainly pass on your great feedback to our Accommodation suppliers as well.

We look forward to hopefully welcoming back to Ireland in the future.

Kind Regards

Dean

Great Itinerary and Excellent Local Guide
Ireland | Jun 1 - Jun 8, 2024

James
James M.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 15, 2024

We had a really great itinerary. Our local guide, Joe O'Donnell was very knowledgeable in both historical and current sights to see. He filled us in as we travelled on current, recent, and ancient events in Ireland. He also had a knack for finding good establishments for eating. It was very interactive and Joe always made sure we were happy with the activities we engaged in.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Jun 19, 2024

Hi James

Thank you for your kind words.

We are delighted to hear you had a great time with us in Ireland.

I will be sure to send on your positive review to Joe as well, he will be extremely happy to hear you had a great time on tour with him.

We hope to welcome you back to Ireland in the future.

Kind Regards

Dean

Perfect Vacation
Ireland | Jun 1 - Jun 8, 2024

T
Theresa C.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jun 13, 2024

Dean with KimKim laid out the perfect vacation for us. He asked us what we wanted to do, and then made it happen. Our guide Joe was personable and just an all around great guy. Knowledgeable about the areas and history, and got us where we needed to be on time. Will defiinitely use KimKim again.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Jun 13, 2024

Hi Theresa

Thank you for your kind words.

We are delighted to hear you had a great time with us in Ireland. I will pass on your kind words to Joe as well.

We hope to have the chance to welcome you back to Ireland in the future.

Kind Regards

Dean

Really great suggestions for our driving trip...
Ireland | Apr 22 - Apr 28, 2024

R
Rebecca D.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on May 18, 2024

Really great suggestions for our driving trip and great locations for all of our hotels. Thank you to Dean for helping create a great trip! The restaurant recommendations were all very good too!

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on May 23, 2024

Hi Rebecca

Thank you for your kind words. We are delighted to here that you had a great trip with us in Ireland.

We hope to welcome you back in the near future.

Kind Regards

Dean

Self-driving tour of Ireland's coast
Ireland | Sep 26 - Oct 10, 2023

Donald
Donald G.
Okolona, KY | Reviewed on Apr 21, 2024

We booked a self-guided driving tour of the coast of Ireland. Dean put together a great itinerary for us and the whole experience was amazing.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Apr 22, 2024

Hi Donald

Thank you for your kind word regarding your trip with us to Ireland. I am glad you had a great time.

We hope to welcome you back to Ireland in the future.

Kind Regards

Dean