Ready for another 30 years

Ireland | May 27 - Jun 3, 2025

This was an amazing trip with my husband to celebrate our 30th wedding anniversary, and it did not disappoint. After raising children for 28 years, this was the first true vacation that we had taken together that was more than a long weekend. We had a delay in our arrival flight to Dublin which affected our scheduled time at the Guinness Storehouse. As soon as we landed, we had a message telling us that our schedule had been adjusted to accommodate everything we had planned for our first day. It took away all the stress and worry over the possibility of missing something.

That was the overarching theme for the whole trip, which was a dream, truly. Of course there were some hiccups along the way, but you learn to anticipate that when travelling internationally. Having our transportation arranged for all of our major events made each day a breeze. We simply had to show up!

Highly recommend Galway in a day! Phil, our tour guide, was so much fun and he provided a lot of historical context for what we were seeing and doing. The Cliffs of Moher were stunning, and I loved the experience from the water.

Tea at Dromoland Castle made us feel like we were part of the “upstairs” people at Downton Abbey! It was a lovely experience! Blarney Castle and kissing the stone was another wonderful day. Highly encourage allowing at least two hours to explore the grounds at the castle as they were absolutely gorgeous. So many blooming flowers!! Live music at Sin é was worth the crowded space!

Also highly recommend the 10 Tastings of Dublin Tour with Ruairi. He was such an engaging host and guide, sharing so many historical tidbits and stories. I think we found the best falafel in the world on this tour, not to mention the fish at chips at Leo’s!

Michael with Elegant Irish Tours to see the Giant’s Causeway was such a lovely man. He told us so many stories and facts about the Causeway, Northern Ireland, “the Troubles”, and the landscape. As part of this day, we took part in the Black Taxi Tour which took us into the part of the city where you can see the political murals, memorials, and the wall erected as a peacekeeping measure during “the Troubles”. Definitely a tour worth taking.

All in all, this trip only served to kindle our desire to one day return to the Emerald Isle. It truly was an amazing trip that celebrated our 30 years! Thank you, kimkim!

Hotel Reviews

Randles Hotel Killarney

Co. Kerry

Such a beautiful hotel with a top notch breakfast. By far my favorite hotel from all our travels!

Authenticity & Character

Wonderful renovation and use of an established home in Killarney.

Location

Close to everything!

Staff

Very welcoming, helpful, courteous.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The room was beautiful, attention to detail amazing. Even had a plug that was compatible for American travelers! The bed was so comfortable! The bath and amenities were exactly what we needed.

Clayton Hotel Cork City

cork

Our stay at the Clayton Hotel Cork City was really pleasant. They allowed an early check-in, which was a huge relief, especially after our travel schedule. Emma at the front desk was absolutely lovely and helpful, making us feel welcome right away.

Castle Hotel

Dublin

The Castle Hotel in Dublin was not as welcoming as I would have liked. The staff weren't as friendly as in other places we stayed, which was a little disappointing. It might not be my first choice if I return.

Activity Reviews

Visit Blarney castle and kiss the stone

Ireland

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The 10 Tastings of Dublin Private Food Tour

Dublin

Ruairi was a wonderful guide and host with an extensive knowledge of the food offerings of Dublin. Quite possibly the best falafel I have ever had!! Nothing like a Guinness, but even better when you have some history of Michael Collins, local lore, etc! Highly recommend this event!

Quality of Experience

Just such fun and so different from any other tour we did!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Ruairi was so warm and engaging!

Transport

All within walking distance, which we loved!

Small Group Giant's Causeway Tour from Dublin

Dublin

Bucket list item done! Truly breathtaking to see in person. Needed another hour or two for more exploring!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Michael with Elegant Tours was so warm and engaging. He shared the stories, tales and music that fits a trip to the Causeway! Highly recommend his group!

Transport

A lovely Mercedes coach that was very comfortable

A Full-Day Tour: Cliffs of Moher Cruise, the Aran Islands, South Connemara and the Burren

Galway

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Phil was a load of fun!

Transport

The English Market

Cork

The English Market in Cork was a bit disappointing due to timing issues. Many of the stalls start closing down earlier than the stated hours, and we got there late, missing the opportunity to see most of the market. It would have been helpful to know the real closing times.

Irish Traditional Live music session at Sin é

Cork

The Irish Traditional Live music session at Síne was one of our favorite parts of the trip. It was just so much fun, and we had a great time experiencing live music in such a lively atmosphere.