Episodios

  • Hiring a Driver in Ireland: 3 Driver Options Explained

    Hiring a Driver in Ireland: 3 Driver Options Explained
    Nov 28 2025

    In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode…
    I’m breaking down the three main types of driver services in Ireland so you can choose the one that fits your style, budget, and itinerary. From full-service, white-glove driver-guided tours to flexible private drivers to simple point-to-point transfers, you’ll learn what each option includes and when they make the most sense. I also share red flags, common booking mistakes, and where to find my trusted driver recommendations.

    👉 Find my updated driver guide list, rates, and recommendations:
    IrelandFamilyVacations.com/driver

    Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 313

    The post Hiring a Driver in Ireland: 3 Driver Options Explained appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.
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    12 m
  • Introducing the Ireland Travel Compass

    Introducing the Ireland Travel Compass
    Dec 2 2025

    Have you ever wished you could access all the information in my brain to create your Ireland travel plans?

    You’re not alone – every year I hear from so many travelers who want help planning their trip, and last year I was busier than ever. I simply couldn’t support everyone who reached out, and that never sits well with me.

    So, for 2026, I’m building something new: a resource that gives more travelers the guidance they need without waiting for space on my calendar. Think of it as the closest thing to downloading everything in my brain straight into your Ireland itinerary.

    The Ireland Travel Compass: Your Complete Planning System

    To help more travelers plan with confidence, I’m creating The Ireland Travel Compass, a DIY planning course that walks you through every step of building a trip that fits you. It’s the same system I use when I design custom itineraries – only now, you get to use it yourself. Whether this is your first visit or your fifth, the goal is simple: clear guidance, less stress, and the confidence to get excited about your adventure.

    The Ireland Travel Compass officially launches on January 5 for $97, but you can grab it early for $59 during the pre-sale from December 29–January 4. If you want that early-bird price, join the interest list at IrelandFamilyVacations.com/Compass.

    What’s Inside: The 5-Step Compass Path

    The course follows a straightforward planning path designed to help you move from dream to itinerary:

    • Big-picture planning: define your goals, budget, must-see spots, and map your route
    • Transportation: choose between driving, hiring a driver, public transit, or a mix
    • Accommodations: find the right B&Bs, farm stays, boutique inns, and castles
    • Experiences: attractions, tours, dining, and those local favorites that make a trip special
    • Pack & Prepare: connectivity, packing, money, airports, and “know before you go” tips

    And you won’t be doing it alone – the course includes location guides, worksheets, templates, a detailed planning map, and short videos to help explain the trickier bits of planning. You can binge it in a weekend or work through it step-by-step as your trip takes shape.

    A New Way to Get Expert Feedback: Itinerary Reviews

    Alongside the course, I’m also launching a new Itinerary Review service. There’s no appointment needed – you simply send me your itinerary, and I send back a detailed video review. I’ll highlight any red flags (like tight timelines or long drives), offer alternatives and ideas, and suggest timing fixes to help your trip flow smoothly. It’s a fantastic option if you want reassurance before you start booking.

    Launch Details & How to Join

    To celebrate the launch — and to give my podcast listeners first access — The Ireland Travel Compass will be available for $59 during the pre-sale window. After January 4, the price returns to $97.

    Visit IrelandFamilyVacations.com/Compass to join the interest list and get the early-bird price.

    The post Introducing the Ireland Travel Compass appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.
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    9 m
  • An Insiders Tour of Ireland with Jack Kavanagh

    An Insiders Tour of Ireland with Jack Kavanagh
    Nov 25 2025

    What makes Ireland such a special place? Get an Insider's Tour of the Emerald Isle with Jack Kavanagh, author of Always Ireland.

    Jack shares the 3 things he believes make Ireland so appealing to Americans, his advice for people planning a trip, and 3 places he thinks people shouldn't miss.

    Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 145

    The post An Insiders Tour of Ireland with Jack Kavanagh appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.
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    44 m
  • Best Places to Stay in Ireland: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Trip

    Best Places to Stay in Ireland: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Trip
    Nov 18 2025
    Ireland vacation accommodations are as varied as the landscape. You'll find everything from charming rural hostels and homey B&Bs to luxury resorts and castles that invite you to feel like the lord (or lady) of the manor. Most Ireland travelers find themselves somewhere in between the two extremes and choosing the best places to stay in Ireland is based on your vacation dreams, your planned itinerary, and your budget. This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 311. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. Understanding Your Ireland Lodging Options You won’t find many big-name hotel chains in Ireland – and that’s part of the charm. Most places are independently owned and family run, which means every stay has a bit of personality. From cozy farmhouses to elegant manor homes, these smaller accommodations often reflect the people and families who run them. Looking for recommended accommodations in a specific location?Search by county here! Choosing a Hotel in Ireland The first thing to know about hotels in Ireland is that the star-rating system is completely subjective. A three-star hotel in Ireland might feel more like a two-star in the U.S., but a five-star hotel is a five-star the world over. Choose a hotel for the experience, not just the bed. Maybe you want a central location that lets you walk everywhere, a spa escape where you’ll be pampered, or the chance to sleep like royalty in a historic manor surrounded by acres of countryside. Before you book, take time to read the hotel’s website carefully so you know what’s included – and what’s not. If anything’s unclear, don’t hesitate to send an email and ask. Irish hospitality often starts with that first friendly reply. Ireland Hotel Tips Don’t rely on star ratings alone. A 3-star in Ireland might mean charming and traditional – or just dated. Reading recent reviews and the hotel’s own description helps you set realistic expectations.Confirm check-in and check-out times, especially for your first night – arriving early after a long flight can leave you waiting for hours if your room isn’t ready.Confirm what’s included in your rate. Want breakfast? Parking? Late checkout? Make sure it’s spelled out clearly before you book.If you’ve chosen a hotel for the pool, note that bathing caps (and sometimes pool shoes) are required. Children may only be allowed during designated times.If you’re staying in a city, check how close you are to public transport and what parking will cost. It may make sense to pick up your rental car after leaving the city.Ask about lifts (elevators). Many older or boutique hotels don’t have them, which can matter if you’re managing luggage or mobility needs.Remember that the “first floor” in Ireland is one level above ground level. If you want to avoid stairs, request a ground-floor room.Traveling with kids? Confirm if the crèche or kids’ club is open during your stay – some only operate on weekends or in high season. Stay in an Irish Castle Lough Eske Castle is a peaceful and quiet retreat in Donegal It's definitely a splurge, but one you won't forget! Ireland is dotted with castle hotels and country houses. Ashford Castle has been named ‘Best in the World' by Travel & Leisure multiple times. Lough Eske Castle, Adare Manor, Dromoland Castle, Ballynahinch Castle, Kinnitty Castle, Cabra Castle, and Clontarf Castle are only a few of the dozen castle hotels in Ireland. But all castle hotels aren't created equal, so be sure to do your homework when booking! Some hotels include the word castle due to their proximity to a local ruin. Others may have a few rooms in the castle while another nearby building provides more lodging. Know what you're getting before hitting the reservation button! For a truly royal experience consider renting a private heritage property, like the Barbican Gatelodge in County Antrim or Bansha Castle in County Tipperary. Staying in an Irish Bed and Breakfast Caed mile failte at The Old Bank in Bruff, County Limerick. I do love a great Irish Bed & Breakfast. The céad míle fáilte – the hundred thousand welcomes – is evident the moment you walk through the door. On my first solo trip to Ireland, I arrived at a B&B near Shannon cold and drenched after a windy afternoon at the Cliffs of Moher. My hostess took one look at me, led me straight to my room, drew a hot bath, and delivered tea and biscuits a few moments later. No matter how nice a hotel is, you just don’t get that kind of care. No two B&Bs are alike. One might be in a stately manor house, another purpose-built with spacious ensuite rooms, and another an expanded family home with cozy charm. What they all share is a personal touch that can make your Ireland stay unforgettable. A B&B host isn’t just your lodging provider – they’re your local guide, restaurant critic, and connection to the community around...
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    19 m
  • Top 3 County Clare Experiences

    Top 3 County Clare Experiences
    Nov 21 2025
    County Clare is filled with spectacular places to explore, but when I think about the places I've returned to multiple times and the ‘wish list' so many people have for their Ireland vacation, these are my top 3 recommendations: the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Castle, and an evening of live trad music. Together they offer an unforgettable mix of landscape, history, and culture. Top 3 Things to Do in County Clare Whether you’re drawn to dramatic landscapes, medieval stories, or the energy of a lively pub session, these three experiences capture the heart of County Clare. They’re easy to plan, enjoyable for all ages, and offer a true sense of what makes this county so unforgettable. Bonus: if you are short on time, you can absolutely fit them all into one day. Ireland Family Vacations is programmatic ad-free, supported through partnerships with trusted travel brands I personally work with and recommend. We may earn income from purchases made via affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn commission from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. ​See why this is important. Cliffs of Moher The Cliffs of Moher are undeniably the number one natural tourism spot in Ireland, often described as a bucket-list destination. Travelers frequently express that seeing the cliffs is essential to feeling like they’ve truly visited Ireland. The cliffs offer dramatic views that change with the weather and time of day, making each visit unique. For visitors, the Cliffs of Moher provide various ways to explore. The visitor center offers informative exhibits about the history and lore of the site. Adventurous guests can embark on a guided cliff walk with local experts from Ollie's Tours or Pat Sweeney, ensuring a safe and enriching experience. Alternatively, a scenic cruise from Doolin Pier allows visitors to appreciate the cliffs from a different perspective. For the best experience, it's advisable to visit early in the morning (before 10am) or later in the afternoon (after 4pm) to avoid the majority of tour buses. Bunratty Castle Bunratty Castle, the best-preserved tower house in Ireland, presents a fascinating look into medieval life. Fully restored and furnished, the castle is a superb representation of how it would have been used in its heyday. Visitors can explore the castle’s dungeons, climb the circular staircases to the battlements, and immerse themselves in its rich history. Adjacent to the castle is the Bunratty Folk Park, which offers a glimpse into traditional Irish life. The park features authentic houses and buildings, creating a living history museum where visitors can witness daily activities as they were centuries ago. For families and history enthusiasts alike, spending at least two and a half hours here is recommended to fully appreciate both the castle and the folk park. Additionally, Bunratty Castle hosts a medieval banquet year-round, making it a delightful culinary experience for those seeking evening entertainment. Reservations are essential, especially for the first seating, which often fills up quickly. Pro Tip: if the first seating is full, book into the second seating then email and request to be added to the wait list for the earlier seating. Often times these are booked by tour operators and seats can become available if the tour isn't completely full. Be sure to follow up as your trip approaches. Live Trad Music While traditional Irish music can be found throughout the country, County Clare is particularly renowned for its vibrant music scene. Doolin, a charming village near the Cliffs of Moher, bills itself as the ‘home of traditional Irish music'. With numerous pubs hosting live sessions and events, visitors are never far from the sound of fiddles and flutes. The Doolin Music House, hosted by Christy Berry, offers an authentic experience where guests can enjoy music alongside stories and camaraderie in a cozy setting. Throughout the year, County Clare hosts various music festivals, ensuring that every visit is filled with melodic moments. Russell Festival (Doolin) – late FebCorofin trad Fest – late FebKilfenora Trad Fest -late AprilDoolin Folk Fest – mid-JuneWilly Clancy Summer School – early JulyKilrush Trad Music & Dancing Festival – late JulyLisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival – all September (always loads of music!) Planning Your County Clare Visit County Clare offers so much more to see, taste, and experience beyond these top three picks. To help you plan your time in the west, I’ve created a County Clare Travel Guide with my Top 5 things to do, recomhttps://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-vacation-planning/clare-lodging-attractions/mended tours and places to stay, transport tips, family-friendly suggestions, and practical insights to make your visit easy and enjoyable. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 312 The post Top 3 County Clare Experiences appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.
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    12 m
  • Can You Drive a Rental Car from Ireland to Northern Ireland (and Scotland)?

    Can You Drive a Rental Car from Ireland to Northern Ireland (and Scotland)?
    Nov 7 2025
    In this part of the Car Rental in Ireland series, we’re looking at one of the most common traveler questions: can you take your rental car into Northern Ireland, or even across to Scotland? Here’s what to know before planning a trip that crosses borders. Cross Border Travel with an Ireland Rental Car Many travelers visiting Ireland plan to explore beyond the Republic’s borders, whether that means heading into Northern Ireland or, possibly, taking a ferry across the Irish Sea to Scotland. While crossing the border on the island is easy, taking a rental car beyond it isn’t always straightforward. Here’s how to make sure you’re covered – and avoid unexpected costs or insurance problems along the way. Driving Between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland Traveling between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland is simple – there’s no checkpoint or customs stop, and in most places, you’ll cross the border without even noticing (until you see a speed limit sign – the Republic uses kilometers per hour while Northern Ireland uses miles per hour). What does change, though, are the rules attached to your rental car agreement. Rental companies charge a cross-border fee, usually a flat rate for the entire rental period, to cover additional insurance requirements. With a few companies this is included in your rate, but with most companies this is an additional fee. (Review Car Rental Fees & Hidden Costs for more information.) Car rental series episode 2 Your rental company will ask if you plan to travel to Northern Ireland. Be honest with them – don't try to avoid the fee. Firstly, they will know as the cars are monitored.And second, if you don’t share that information you could void your insurance coverage and be liable for any damage or incidents that occur while you’re north of the border. What about picking up a car in Dublin and dropping off in Belfast (or vice versa)? Not every car rental company will allow this, so you'll need to do your research. The rental company will need to have a rental location in both countries and there may be an extra fee for the ‘international drop off'. I recommend creating few test bookings to compare prices and read the terms. Pro Tip: Your rental agreement includes all insurance and roadside service information so keep your copy in the glove box. Taking a Rental Car to Scotland (or Elsewhere in the UK) Ferries operate from Dublin and Belfast to several ports in Scotland and England, but most rental companies don’t allow their vehicles to leave the island of Ireland. If Scotland is part of your itinerary, the easiest option is to return your Irish rental car in Belfast or Dublin and book a separate rental once you arrive in Scotland. A few rental agencies occasionally permit cars to travel by ferry, but this is rare and always requires advance approval. Policies can change without notice, so it’s essential to confirm before you book – not when you arrive at the dock. If permission is granted, be prepared for an increased rate to cover insurance and a return fee to cover the vehicle should it be damaged while the car is outside of Ireland. In most cases, arranging separate rentals on each side of the Irish Sea is simpler, cheaper, and far less stressful. Pro Tip: It may even cost less to fly from Dublin or Belfast to Edinburgh or Glasgow. Check budget airlines like RyanAir and EasyJet. Practical Tips for Cross-Border Travel A few small but important details change once you cross the border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Car insurance and currency differ north and south – Ireland uses euros (€), while Northern Ireland uses pounds sterling (£). Most credit cards are accepted on both sides, but it’s still helpful to have a small amount of local cash if you’re traveling outside major towns. You’ll also notice a change in road signs. Distances and speed limits in the Republic are shown in kilometers, but once you cross into Northern Ireland, they switch to miles. Keep that in mind when checking your speed, setting your cruise control, and judging travel time. Mobile coverage can vary near the border, so check whether your phone plan includes both Irish and UK networks. And if you’re using GPS or a map app, make sure your destination didn’t switch country settings automatically – it’s an easy mistake to make when towns share similar names on both sides. So yes, you can take your rental car across the border into Northern Ireland, or even Scotland, as long as your rental agreement allows it. Just make sure you’ve paid the fee and have the proof tucked safely in your glove box. The next episode wraps up this series with how to save money on your Ireland car rental – I’ll share the do’s and don’ts that can make your rental cheaper and easier. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 308 The post Can You Drive a Rental Car from Ireland to Northern Ireland (and Scotland)? appeared first ...
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    13 m
  • How to Save Money on Car Rental in Ireland (Do’s & Don’ts)

    How to Save Money on Car Rental in Ireland (Do’s & Don’ts)
    Nov 14 2025
    This final installment in my Car Rental in Ireland series brings together money saving tips I’ve shared throughout the series – all in one handy guide to help you cut costs on your rental. A few smart decisions can keep hundreds of euros in your pocket while still getting the car you need. 7 Tips to Save Money on Your Ireland Car Rental Every penny counts when you’re planning a trip, and rental cars can take up a large chunk of your budget. These simple do’s and don’ts – drawn from real traveler questions and my own experience – will help you avoid extra costs while still getting the car that fits your trip. Do Book Early The best prices go to travelers who book early – especially for high season or holiday travel. Automatics and larger vehicles sell out first, and last-minute rentals often cost far more. Consider reservations with free cancellation so you can rebook if rates drop closer to your trip. Get an unbeatable quote on your car rental in Ireland with Irish Car Rentals!Click my exclusive link to save 10%! Don’t Rent for Days You Don’t Need If you’re spending a few days in Dublin or another major city, wait to rent your car until you’re ready to explore beyond town. You’ll save on rental fees, fuel, and parking costs. Pick up your car the morning you leave the city and return it before heading home. Do Compare Quotes Correctly Not all rental quotes show the same information – and that can make one deal look cheaper than it really is. When comparing, make sure each quote includes the same insurance coverage, taxes, and fees. Look at the total price, not just the daily rate. Taking a few extra minutes to compare apples to apples can easily save you a big surprise at the rental counter. Don’t Pay for Unnecessary Add-Ons Most rental desks offer GPS units, toll tags, and other extras that sound helpful but can quickly add up. Your mobile map app works perfectly well across Ireland if you have data, and tolls rarely add up to the price you are charged for the toll pass. Before you add any extras at the desk, ask yourself whether you planned to buy it before you walked up to the counter – if not, skip it. Do Read the Fine Print Not every quote includes cross border fees or roadside coverage, so check before you confirm. Review the fuel policy to avoid refill fees. Some rental agencies charge small admin fees for using your own insurance or credit card hold, so factor those in when comparing companies. Don’t Forget to Document the Car A quick walkaround can save you from costly disputes later. If you don't have a zero deductible excess policy, take photos or a short video of the car before leaving the lot and again when you return it. Be sure to capture smaller details like wheels and glass. Return the car on time – late returns can trigger an extra day’s charge. Final Thoughts on Saving Money A little planning goes a long way when it comes to renting a car in Ireland. Book early, skip what you don’t need, and take a few extra minutes to understand the details of your agreement. The savings can easily cover a great meal, a night in a cozy B&B, or an extra adventure along the way. That’s a wrap for the Car Rental in Ireland series — I hope these videos have helped you feel more confident about renting, driving, and exploring Ireland on your own schedule. Catch Up on the Full Car Rental in Ireland Series If you’ve just discovered this post, you can find the rest of the series below. Each one covers a specific part of the car rental process – short, practical, and packed with details to make your Ireland trip easier. • Manual vs Automatic – What It Really Costs• Fees, Insurance & Hidden Costs Explained• Ireland Car Rental Insurance Demystified• Comparing Car Rental Quotes• When to Rent (and Why You Don’t Need a Car in Dublin)• How to Book the Right Car for Your Ireland Vacation• Pick Up & Return – What to Expect• Driver’s License & International Permit• Driving Across the Border (Ireland ↔ Northern Ireland & Scotland)• How to Save Money on Car Rental in Ireland (Do’s & Don’ts) You can also visit the complete Renting a Car & Driving in Ireland one-stop resource. Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 310 The post How to Save Money on Car Rental in Ireland (Do’s & Don’ts) appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.
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  • The 2025 Ireland Gift Guide: Meaningful Gifts for Irish Travelers and Dreamers

    The 2025 Ireland Gift Guide: Meaningful Gifts for Irish Travelers and Dreamers
    Nov 6 2025
    Whether you’re shopping for the Ireland lover in your life or planning your own adventure, these gifts bring a little bit of Ireland right to your doorstep. From Irish-made crafts and cozy favorites to travel tools and experiences that inspire your next trip, this year’s guide has something for every kind of traveler and dreamer. A Little Bit of Ireland to Give (or Get) This Year I’m sharing thoughtful ideas for every budget – starting with small Irish-made treats, moving through meaningful keepsakes and planners, and wrapping up with unforgettable experiences and tours that let you truly give the gift of Ireland. Irish-Made Treats and Thoughtful Keepsakes Lovely, shippable pieces from Ireland – perfect for stockings, friends, or anyone dreaming of the Emerald Isle. 15% Off Irish Good Luck Horseshoes from Biddy’s Good Luck Horseshoes Give a gift that carries Irish heritage, positivity, and a touch of real good luck. Each authentic horseshoe was once worn by an Irish sport horse – shoes that have travelled across Ireland’s countryside, collecting a bit of Irish spirit along the way. Every piece comes beautifully boxed and ready to gift. Enjoy 15% off any item on the website with code Christmas15 through December31, 2025.Ireland Tariff note: gifts under $100 sent by post remain duty free. 🌐 biddysgoodluckhorseshoes.com Give a Plot of Irish Land Owning land in Ireland can feel unachievable, but Emerald Heritage makes it fun, affordable, and perfect for gift giving! You can purchase 1, 4, and 9 square foot plots of land in the stunning Glens of Antrim for as little as $21 – a 50% savings! Included with these purchases are access to the estate, so you can visit your land, the Master Title Deed, and the title of Squireen, which is super fun to add to your email signature (or any other spot you should wish to use it). To receive the document hard copies be sure to order no later than December 10 if you live in North America or Australia. Or order the digital documents and receive everything immediately! 🌐 Buy Irish Land 🔊 My Squireen Story + Visiting Our Land 10% Off Family Group Report with Hibernia Roots Discover your Irish heritage with professional genealogy research from Hibernia Roots. Receive 10% off a Family Group Report (regularly €350) when you mention the code IFV10. Offer valid until 31 January 2026.Research covers all of Ireland. 🌐 hiberniaroots.com Planners, Journals, and Practical Tools for Travel Lovers Organize, dream, and plan your next Irish adventure with items that inspire every step of the journey. My Ireland Vacation – Spiral Bound Planner & Journal Planning a trip to Ireland or know someone who is? The My Ireland Vacation Planner & Journal is the perfect gift to organize every detail – and capture every memory. It includes three guided planning sections plus a final section for journaling your travels, making it an ideal keepsake of your Ireland adventure. Available in two spiral-bound keepsake editions or a digital/self-print version.Use code holiday20 to save through 13 December 2025. 🌐 Purchase the planner 20% Off Portable WiFi with Wificandy Stay connected across Ireland with Wificandy’s portable WiFi and save 20% with code XmasFi. This discount is available from 10 November through 5 December. 🌐 Reserve your connectivity now Travel Clothing & Gear Black Friday starts early at Columbia Sportswear! Almost everything is on sale + 50% off Top Deals & Free Shipping on everything.No code necessary. Sale November 20 – December 2. 🌐 Shop Columbia Sportswear If you need a few more ideas my ‘Must Have Travel Gear' page includes links to the items I use every time I travel, including luggage, electric adapters, and my favorite map (if you plan to drive). Unforgettable Experiences in Ireland From driver-guide discounts and upgraded stays to tour savings and gift cards, these Ireland-based experiences are perfect for anyone planning their next trip. Each one adds a special touch – and a bit of savings – to a future Ireland adventure. Dublin Pass Savings If you plan to spend a couple days in Dublin be sure to take advantage of the Black Friday offer on Go City Dublin passes! From November 24-28 save 10% with code BF2025.If places like Guinness Storehouse, EPIC, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Jameson's, Teelings, or The Liberties Distilleries, and the Hop-on Hop-off bus are on your ‘must do' list, the Dublin Pass is a great option! 🌐 Order online If you missed the holiday discounts you can always save 5% with code AFFGOALL 10% Off Signature Whiskey Tasting Experiences with Kingdom Whiskey Tastings Enjoy an authentic whiskey experience in County Kerry with Kingdom Whiskey Tastings. Receive 10% off the standard rate on all Signature Tasting Experiences when you request your booking before St. Brigit’s Day, 1 February 2026. When completing the booking form on the website, add the code JODY10 in the comment section to claim your discount....
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