St Patrick's Day 2007
If you are thinking about traveling to Ireland for St Patrick's day this year, you might be cutting it close (target date: March 17), yet there is still some time left for planning a somewhat inexpensive trip.
And there is plenty of help when it comes to finding that Irish vacation you always wanted. For starters, Frommer's dutifully posted an article on how to find somewhat discounted air deals to Ireland, as well as some vacation packages from the big providers as well as from the somewhat Irish-oriented packagers such as CIE Tours, Sceptre Tours, Dooley Vacations, and Go-Today.
All in all, nothing but good advice from Frommer's. However, they somehow have left out the new kid on the block in terms of Europe packages: EuropeanDestinations.
On this green note, I am pleased to see the following self-drive packages that would satisfy your inner-most Irish desires (from farm houses to castles):
Live Like a Lord: 7 nights from $1,219 (incl. air + car rental)
A self drive through Ireland in Style. Spend your nights in medieval castles, ranging from the 11th century to the 18th century. Visit Dublin, Galway, Connemara, Clare and Limerick.
King and Kinsmen: 7 nights from $839 (incl. air + car rental)
Sample all facets of life in Ireland, with stays at a Farmhouse, a Bed & Breakfast, a castle and a hotel. Visit Dublin, Galway, Connemara, Limerick, Kerry and Kilkea.
Celtic Treasures: 7 nights from $2,149 (incl. air + car rental)
Now this is the luxury package Frommer's was looking for: stay in some of Europe's finest hotels, ranging from a stylish city center 5 star hotel to Ireland's oldest inhabited Castle. Visit Dublin, Galway, Cong, Connemara, County Clare, Kerry, and Kenmare or West Cork Region and the Midlands.
Georgian Farmhouse Tour of Ireland: 7 nights from $739 (incl. air + car rental)
How better to experience Ireland than by staying in stylish Georgian or other period/historic farmhouses, where history and the warm Irish welcome can be combined. Visit Dublin, Wicklow, Kilkenny, Cork and West Cork or Kerry, Ring of Kerry, Limerick or Tipperary and Kildare or Meath.
