Highlights
Dublin, Irish Evening, Kilkenny, Waterford, Choice on Tour: Waterford Crystal Factory or Waterford Medieval Museum and Wine Vault, Blarney Castle, Killarney, Jaunting Car Ride, Ring of Kerry, Limerick, Cliffs of Moher, Sheepdog Demonstration, Galway, Castle Stay
Essential Experiences
Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1 | Overnight Flight |
Day 2 – 3 | Hotel Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin, Dublin |
Day 4 | Granville Hotel, Waterford |
Day 5 – 6 | Great Southern Killarney, Killarney |
Day 7 – 8 | Absolute Hotel, Limerick |
Day 9 | Cabra Castle, Kingscourt |
Extend Your Vacation With
Rate: $1,499.00 USD per person, double, land & air inclusive
3 Meals: 3 breakfasts
Day1Overnight Flight
You’re on your way to the United Kingdom. Begin in England and enjoy a 3-night stay in London.
Day2London, England - Extension Begins
Experience London, the esteemed capital of the United Kingdom. Often described as a world within a city, London is a sophisticated metropolis with a timeless style all its own.
Day3London
Navigate the city with a local expert. Using your included Oyster card, hop on the famous London Underground – the Tube. Take a walking tour around the famous Westminster area, where you will see the exteriors of Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. Then stroll through Trafalgar Square independently, admiring its many monuments. Enjoy the rest of the day on your own to continue exploring the city.
Included Meals
- Breakfast
Day4London
Be sure to take advantage of your included ticket to the Tower of London to peek into the city’s storied past and uncover the secrets of this 11th-century fortress.
Included Meals
- Breakfast
Day5London - Dublin, Ireland
Wish London goodbye as you fly* to Dublin.
Included Meals
- Breakfast
The overall activity level of this extension is a level 3. This means walking and standing for longer periods of time (2-3 hours) isn’t a big deal for you. You can navigate hills and uneven ground, climb into various modes of transportation (tuk-tuk, cable car, zodiac, etc.), and could possibly anticipate changes in elevation. Walking four miles over the course of a day is very doable as is climbing 3 flights of stairs. You can handle altitudes between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. You can expect some longer days balanced with free time. This level is not a fit for travelers that require mobility assistance devices.
Fully-guided extensions are a great way to explore a new destination. Enjoy sightseeing and local experiences led by a Tour Manager or local expert.
We reserve the right to cancel this extension if a minimum of 4 travelers is not met to operate.
Extensions not purchased at time of deposit are subject to availability and applicable charges at time of request.
The half-day city tour is approximately three hours walking.
If you require any special assistance while on tour, please make us aware at time of reservation so the necessary request form can be sent to your attention.
Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Single rate subject to change based on availability.
To navigate London you will be using public transportation.
*The purchase of an additional air segment is required for this extension. Please inquire for air rate at time of booking.
Air inclusive rate is valid for travelers who have purchased our air package for the full tour, depending on the air schedule selected. Rate may vary for those who have purchased their own air.
For air-inclusive reservations, the name provided at time of booking must match your government-issued ID that will be used during travel. Name changes are subject to penalties.
An ETA is required for travel to the UK. Applications are accepted online or through the UK ETA app, at the approximate cost of £10, subject to change based on governing authority. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.
London is predominantly cashless so please ensure you have a suitable bank card for transactions.
Rate: $1,499.00 USD per person, double, land & air inclusive
4 Meals: 3 breakfasts, 1 Dinner
Day10Kingscourt - Edinburgh, Scotland
Fly* to Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland and a city steeped in history. Here, you’ll find charming pubs, quaint shops, and friendly faces all under the watchful gaze of Edinburgh Castle. Dig into Scottish cuisine with dinner at a local restaurant tonight.
Included Meals
- Dinner
Day11Edinburgh
Delve into the heart of Edinburgh as you take a guided walking tour of the famous Royal Mile. Peruse the many shops, learn about the storied history of these streets, and make your way to the peak of the city – Edinburgh Castle. Inside the walls of Edinburgh Castle, you’ll be able to see medieval armor and the Scottish Crown Jewels. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Included Meals
- Breakfast
Day12Edinburgh
Today is yours to explore Edinburgh how you’d like. Take advantage of this day at leisure – maybe take a tour of Edinburgh’s infamous vaults, or stop by The King's Edinburgh residence, the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Included Meals
- Breakfast
Day13Edinburgh - Extension Ends
Give a farewell pat to Greyfriars Bobby as you depart for home.
Included Meals
- Breakfast
The overall activity level of this extension is a level 2. This means you can partake in a two-hour walking tour covering up to 2 miles (including breaks), over a variety of terrains. You can climb two flights of stairs with ease and handle altitudes up to 6,000 feet. While this level is appropriate for travelers that require mobility assistance devices, there could be times when you may have to sit out on some of the included activities.
During this extension, you can expect to have a hosted experience or two, with a local representative revealing more of what this destination has to offer. Enjoy a mix of independent exploration and guided sightseeing and experiences.
We reserve the right to cancel this extension if a minimum of 4 travelers is not met to operate.
Extensions not purchased at time of deposit are subject to availability and applicable charges at time of request.
If you require any special assistance while on tour, please make us aware at time of reservation so the necessary request form can be sent to your attention.
The approach to Edinburgh Castle is steep, with cobbled ground at a gradient of 5 degrees. Inside the castle, the walk to the esplanade is uphill at a gradient of 15 degrees at its steepest.
Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Single rate subject to change based on availability.
For air-inclusive reservations, the name provided at time of booking must match your government-issued ID that will be used during travel. Name changes are subject to penalties.
*The purchase of an additional air segment is required for this extension. Please inquire for air rate at time of booking.
Air inclusive rate is valid for travelers who have purchased our air package for the full tour, depending on the air schedule selected. Rate may vary for those who have purchased their own air.
An ETA is required for travel to the UK. Applications are accepted online or through the UK ETA app, at the approximate cost of £10, subject to change based on governing authority. For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.
Available Options
Guinness Storehouse & Dinner • $99pp
This culinary and cultural adventure begins at the Guinness Storehouse, Ireland's top international visitor attraction. This self-guided tour allows you time to wander over 7 floors with your audio guide, learning about how Guinness is brewed, it's various advertising campaigns over the years, and of course you get to taste the iconic drink at its spectacular Gravity Bar. Enjoy a sweeping 360º view of Dublin as you savor a complimentary pint. Then, indulge in a quintessential Irish dinner at a contemporary restaurant that explores “New Irish Cuisine,” serving up cutting-edge dishes using the freshest, local ingredients. This option must be booked at least 7 days prior to departure, and will not be offered during Dublin's St. Patrick’s Day Festival (March 14-18). Children under the age of 18 MUST be accompanied by an adult and may not participate in the tasting. Duration: Approximately 5 hours. Please note a minimum of 15 passengers is required. Transportation is included.
Medieval Banquet • $115pp
In a beautiful land of rolling green fields, ancient battlefields and medieval fortresses once inhabited by generations of clansmen, you can conjure up a world filled with lords and ladies, knights and damsels as you experience a true medieval banquet hosted in a real castle! The 15th century magically comes to life the moment you enter the castle. Sip honey-rich mead and admire the ornate tapestries and royal furnishings before sitting down for a sumptuous four-course meal and some fine wine suitable for toasting the royal court. Spirits run high with delightful song and dance performances reminiscent of this unique period. Duration: Approximately 4 hours. Please note a minimum of 15 passengers is required. Transportation is included.
Cancellation Waiver
Worry-Free Cancellation
Our industry-leading cancellation waiver offers travellers a full cash refund for the price of the tour, right up to the day prior to departure, minus the small cost of the waiver. Travel worry-free knowing if anything changes, you're protected.
Click here for complete details.
Plus, you're covered on tour.
Our travel protection plan covers you on tour. If you have to stop your trip or return home early, need medical assistance or evacuation, suffer a baggage loss or delay; or are delayed on tour for 12 hours or more, you're covered.
Travel Protection is just $549 per person.
Travel Tips
The natural wonders of our planet are awe-inspiring. To ensure their beauty can be enjoyed for generations, we are committed to reducing single-use plastics on our tours and in our offices. On tours in this region, where the tap water is safe to drink, we encourage you to bring a reusable filter water bottle. Your Tour Manager will direct you to bottle refill stations throughout each day. By bringing your own bottle, you will reduce plastic waste and help to preserve the environment.
Thank you for helping us make the world a better place through travel and supporting sustainability!
At the time of booking, you will be asked what type of room you would like.
A double room has either one large bed or two smaller ones. Double rooms are perfect for couples or if you’re travelling with a companion and wish to share a room. There are plenty of double rooms available on our tours.
A single or solo room has only one bed and may be smaller in size. These rooms are first come, first-served, as most properties have only a certain amount of these available.
A triple room usually consists of a standard double room with two beds. A cot or fold-up bed may be added, but it depends on the room size and local fire codes. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Triples are first come, first-served, as they are also very limited. If you booked a triple and only a double and single room is available at a hotel, appropriate charges for the single and double accommodations will be assessed.
We will forward your request to the hotel and do our best to accommodate your needs; however, please know that we cannot make any guarantees. In certain countries, the hotel rooms may not be as large as standard hotel rooms in North America.
Here are a few details to keep in mind:
Check-in times are set by individual hotels and can vary, but most hotels offer afternoon check-ins. Depending on your arrival time, you may have to wait before you can get into your room. Some hotels may be willing to store your luggage in a secure location until your room is ready. In these instances, the hotel will not be responsible for lost or stolen items and there may be a charge for this service.
Please observe check out times at all properties. Hotels designate these as well.
Some hotels require a credit card imprint or your passport information upon check-in to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies. You will be responsible for all incidental fees occurred during your stay, and these must be paid at time of check out.
Hotel membership programs are not applicable.
If you have chosen our air-inclusive tour package, you have opted that we take care of all your air travels from your home to the destination and back. This also includes any inter-flights from city to city within the tour package if applicable. We ask that you keep the following in mind:
1) In order to comply with Homeland Security’s “Secure Flight” mandate, you must provide full name (including middle name or middle initial, if applicable), as it appears on your valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID that you will show at the airport. The name on your airline ticket must be an exact match to this ID, or you may be prevented from boarding the aircraft.
2) If you are a member of a participating frequent flyer program, make sure to provide the number when you book your trip and retain the copy of your ticket and boarding pass so you will receive proper credit for your mileage. Please note that some air tickets are not eligible for mileage accrual.
3) Whenever possible, we will add charges for air departure taxes to your invoice. Some international arrival and departure fees are not included in your air ticket and must be paid by you during the tour in the local currency.
If you chose to purchase a land-only tour package, you have opted to purchase your own airline tickets to and from home. In this case, we ask that you keep a few important factors in mind when booking your round-trip flights:
1) Please make sure your round-trip flights work with your tour itinerary. There may be scheduled activities on these days.
2) You must provide us with your flight schedules for the entire tour upon final payment. This ensures that we can arrange any other services you may have purchased from us, including hotel transfers, and that your Tour Manager will know when to expect your arrival. This also allows us to maintain contact with you in case of an emergency.
One of the ways we encourage you to make your journey your own is with Choice on Tour, letting you decide how to experience a destination or site based on your unique interests.
It’s your choice! Included in your itinerary, there may be a day, or days, featuring a choice of two (or more) activities during a designated time. You may have selected your preferred option(s) when booking your tour. In most cases, your selection may be made upon arriving on tour and discussing it with your Tour Manager. If no selection is made during the booking process, the default option is assumed.
While in Waterford, you have the choice between two activities.
Your first choice is a behind the scenes tour which reveals the century’s old tradition of Waterford Crystal making. Your guide will detail the step-by-step phases of creating this beautiful product, including sculpting, engraving and design inspiration. Meet high-end crystal makers. Visit the Waterford retail store, home to the largest collection of Waterford Crystal found anywhere in the world.
The Activity Level of this choice is a level 1.
Leisurely and slow paced. Minimal physical activity, approximately 45 minutes in duration and travelers will have time to enjoy the café and gift shop.
Your second choice is to enjoy a privately guided tour of Waterford’s Medieval Museum, the only museum of its kind in Ireland. Discover the story of Ireland’s oldest city through the middle Ages. Your tour will take you down into centuries old vaults, through the 13th century Choristers Hall, past the magnificent Cloth of Gold and High Mass Vestments, and culminate in the 15th century Mayor’s Wine Vault. Here, enjoy a glass of wine.
The Activity Level of this choice is a level 2.
Leisurely paced and approximately 1 hour in duration.
You’re in for a treat as you discover the flavors of Ireland. While cooking in Ireland can be considered simple, it’s also quite modern and tasty.
In Ireland, they value the high quality of their produce and other native products like salmon and beef.
Irish butter is regarded as the best in the world and butter and cream make frequent appearances in regional cooking.
Some dishes that we might regard as "typically Irish" are actually rare finds, such as corned beef.
Other favorites like fish and chips, Irish breakfasts, potatoes prepared in various ways, soda bread, Irish stew and shellfish are quite common. Most restaurants offer variations of local cuisine with other European influences.
All in all you will eat very well during your time exploring Ireland, the unparalleled Emerald Isle.
Be sure to pair various Irish whiskeys and beer with your food.
A light handshake and friendly hello are customary when greeting someone in Ireland.
Pubs play a central role in Irish culture and life, as it is a gathering place for friends, music and community. Taking turns buying drinks in “rounds” is the tradition in Ireland. Everyone takes turns treating one another to a drink.
For non-included meals, a 10% tip is customary in Ireland.
Irish dining etiquette is not as strict as other countries, but elbows should be kept off the table in a more formal setting and your knife and fork should be placed together to denote you have finished yourmeal.
In Ireland, don’t be surprised if conversations turn humorous and witty—laughter and funny banter are woven into Irish social interactions rather than formality.
A slow and laid-back pace is valued. Don’t rush your meals and visits.
It is wise to avoid political topics in casual conversation, such as the conflict with Northern Ireland.
It used to be when traveling abroad, you had to go to a bank to exchange your home currency for that of the country you were visiting. Thanks to technology, those days are gone. Now you can use your bank card at any ATM in almost any city around the world just like you would at home. There may be a fee for this convenience, but it makes getting local currency quick and easy.
You can find ATMs in airports, hotels, and banks. Fees tend to be lower at hotels or within cities than they are at the airport. Many exchange bureaus in Europe will not accept $50 or $100 US Dollar bills. While most vendors accept credit cards, you may need local currency for lunch, gratuities, or for smaller purchases.
You can also pay with a credit card when travelling. The price will automatically be converted to your home currency by the system. Some merchants charge a fee for this service, but it adds an extra guarantee on your purchase, so it’s a nice option.
If you have a credit or debit card with a chip in it, it is recommended you use it rather than a card with a magnetic strip. The chip adds an extra layer of protection against fraud.
Many of our tours include optional excursions that are available for purchase. If you decide to go on one of these during your trip, please note, the credit card you use for payment must have an expiration date greater than 30 days from the start of the tour.
If you choose to review exchange rates or exchange currency before you depart for your trip, the currency in this region is the Euro.
If you plan to enter or leave the EU carrying the equivalent of €10,000 or more in cash, you must declare it at customs. Cash includes currency notes, coins, bankers’ drafts, checks, and travelers’ checks. If you do not declare the cash, customs authorities could take away your money, and you may receive a fine of as much as €8,000.
When traveling to another country, you may need an adaptor and/or electric converter to plug your electrical devices and appliances into the local power grid. An adaptor changes the plug so it fits into the outlet. A converter changes the voltage coming out of the outlet.
To determine what you need, first verify if the plugs on your devices fit the outlet of your destination.
In Ireland, the plug type is G, which has three rectangular pins in a triangle pattern. If your plugs do not match this description, you will need an adaptor.
Next, verify the voltage of each device you intend to bring. You can find this information on the cord, plug, or on the device itself. Many devices are dual-voltage. For those, you do not need a converter. If your device is not dual-voltage and it differs from the voltage of your destination, you will need a voltage converter.
In Ireland, the voltage is 230V. If necessary, make sure to get a converter that converts to this voltage.
If you plan to bring a sleep apnea machine, please remember to bring an extension cord along with the adaptor and voltage converter, as not all hotels will have bedside plug sockets.
The highest elevation encountered on this tour is 1,500 feet/457 meters.
If you have some extra time before your tour begins to explore Dublin, you'll find plenty to do! A good public bus service allows you to easily make your way around, or perhaps hop on a double decker sightseeing bus which loops through the city, giving you access to some of the city’s highlights.
Consider seeing some of the following sights: Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, National Museum of Ireland, National Gallery of Ireland, Temple Bar district or the Grafton Street shopping area.
Due to varied flight schedules and arrival times of our travelers, there are no scheduled activities prior to dinner on arrival day. Should your flight schedule allow for an early arrival, enjoy this opportunity for some independent exploration.
If you are staying post tour, your Tour Manager will be available to offer suggestions for your additional time in the area.
Get excited – and get ready for your upcoming tour! As you look ahead to your tour, you’ll probably have some questions. Our team of travel experts assembled this booklet packed with answers so you can feel ready for your upcoming journey. Before you go, take time to review and get familiar with what to expect throughout your tour, and keep this information on hand during your travels.
By booking a guided tour, all the details of your trip are covered so you can make the most of every moment. You’ll join your tour group (a maximum of 44 people) to experience an expertly planned itinerary. Being part of a group tour is a great opportunity to meet new people and to share the adventure. You’ll also be accompanied by your Tour Manager, an expert guide who can answer questions and offer advice along the way. Get ready to see the sights, taste the cuisine, and explore the world – with all the logistics handled and in good company.
Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation for the people who help keep your tour running smoothly. Tipping is discretionary and should be on an individual basis.
Gratuities for hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, transfer drivers, on-tour motor coach drivers, and your Tour Manager are not included in the price of your tour.
The suggestions below are provided in US Dollars to help you budget for your trip. Plan to convert the total US Dollar amounts into the equivalent local currency, which is generally the preferred option when giving.
Tour Manager: equivalent of $10 US Dollars per person for each travel day, given at the end of your tour. For this 9-day tour, this would amount to $90 US Dollars total per person.
Local Guide: equivalent of $2-3 US Dollars per person, given at the end of your day or time with them. There are 2 local guides on this tour.
On-Tour Motor Coach Driver: equivalent of $5 US Dollars per person for each travel day, provided at the end of your tour or time with your driver.
Hotel Housekeeping: equivalent of $1 US Dollar per day, per room, left each morning.
Airport Transfer Driver: If your airport transfer is included in your package or purchased from Collette, gratuities might already be included. Please reference the transfer information section for confirmation. If gratuities are not mentioned, the suggested amount is typically $3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person.
Travelers flying to the United States from all international destinations will require extra screening when carrying powdered products weighing 12 oz./ 350 ml or more in carry-on luggage for security reasons. This added security measure will apply to all powders, with the exception of baby formula and medications. For your convenience, please consider packing any non-essential powders in your checked bag. Items that cannot be verified by a TSA officer risk being confiscated. Please visit www.tsa.gov for more information.
Your day of departure is almost here, and it’s time to think about what to pack. We have a few guidelines to help you. But before you pack anything, you must check with your airline for any luggage fees or restrictions. These can vary widely depending on your carrier and destination.
Let’s begin. The first thing to consider is how many bags to bring. Your tour package includes luggage handling for one checked bag per person. You will be responsible for your backpack or tote bag as you travel between destinations. It’s very important you keep this in mind. We have limited space on our buses, so limiting the bags ensures there’s room for everyone’s luggage.
Your larger bag can’t be more than 62 in/157 cm in length, height and width and cannot weigh more than 50lb/23kg. Your carry-on should be a size that you can carry comfortably. You will use this bag to hold your personal items during sightseeing trips.
Please note that if you bring more than one checked bag and one carry-on, we cannot guarantee there will be room for them on the bus. You’ll need to store or ship any additional luggage at your own expense. If there is room for your additional luggage, we will charge a fee of 10 USD per bag per hotel.
We recommend you consider using a TSA-approved lock, as a theft prevention measure during transit and during your tour.
It’s also very important that all your bags be labeled clearly. In your packet you will find a luggage tag. Please attach it to the bag you plan to check.
The name on this tag should match the information on your reservation exactly, so the Tour Manager and all baggage handlers can properly identify the bag as yours. This will ensure the bag is delivered to you quickly and efficiently.
Finally, we recommend you purchase travel insurance to ensure peace of mind while you’re on tour. We cannot assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft or normal wear and tear that results from hotel, airline and group carrier handling. But we offer comprehensive “No Worries Travel Protection” for your convenience. With insurance, you’ll be able to focus on creating wonderful memories, not worrying about your luggage.
Please note, some attractions do not allow large backpacks into their sites, so you may need a smaller bag for sightseeing.
Remember the 3-1-1 rule: Each airline traveler is allowed to bring 1 quart-sized bag containing no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) of any liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bag. Any liquids, including water bottles, that don’t fit in the one quart-sized bag or are larger than 3 ounces will be discarded by security. Common items that must comply with this rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. For a complete list of what is allowed and not allowed to bring on a plane, visit www.tsa.gov.
The food people eat is a window into their history, traditions, and values, and sharing food brings people together. One of the many wonderful aspects of travel is to experience as much of the regional cuisine as possible. Your tour includes many meals as outlined on your itinerary. Our team has carefully chosen restaurants that feature local ingredients and offer regional flavors, usually with a modern twist or with other European influences.
For meals that are not included in your itinerary, your Tour Manager will be happy to recommend eateries and local businesses that best fit your taste and needs.
The average price for meals in this region ranges from 7 to 15 US Dollars for breakfast, 10 to 20 US Dollars for lunch and 15 to 40 US Dollars for dinner.
Please let your Tour Manager know of any food allergies or dietary needs you may have at the beginning of your tour.
Special Diet
North America offers diverse dietary options due to ingredient availability and acceptance of alternative diets. However, traveling abroad may pose challenges as menus reflect local tastes, alternative diets may not be common, and medical conditions requiring dietary adjustments may not be understood. Group meals typically offer a pre-fixed menu that cater to diverse travelers. It’s important to note that while some dietary requests can be accommodated, options may be limited.
Included in your tour documents bundle is your personalized name tag. We ask that you put this on before your first gathered event and wear it throughout your tour. This helps your fellow travelers get to know you and for your Tour Manager to better identify you in large groups.
Your comfort is important to us. With that in mind, we charter coaches that are temperature-controlled.
While some coaches may have a toilet facility, it is for emergency use since local laws require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons. Rest assured that frequent stops will be made along the touring route for your comfort and convenience.
Please note, outlets for charging devices may not be available on the coach. Therefore, if you anticipate using electronic devices, we recommend bringing portable power banks.
Change your seat, change your view! At least once a day, the Tour Manager will ask all travelers to change seats. This ensures that every traveler has an opportunity to enjoy a variety of views as they travel and a chance to get to know each other better. Depending on availability, single travelers may be seated next to another traveler. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.
When you’re deciding what to bring on your trip, we have a few suggestions for you.
In regards to clothing, think layers. It’s much easier to maintain a level of comfort if you can add or remove a layer at a time, especially if you’re traveling to a destination where the temperature can vary widely. So always bring a light jacket or sweater. Fleece or wool is best. We recommend staying away from cotton sweaters or jackets as they won’t keep you warm if they get wet.
Comfortable footwear is crucial. Make sure you bring a pair of shoes that fit well and give you the necessary support. If you decide to purchase new shoes for your trip, we suggest you wear them a number of times before you leave to break them in. Your feet will thank you.
Be prepared for all types of weather. For warm, sunny weather, pack sunscreen, a hat or a bandana/scarf to protect your neck from sunburn. For cool, rainy weather, pack a light raincoat, travel umbrella, waterproof shoes and a thin pair of gloves.
For your toiletries, pack anything that could leak in plastic bags or a waterproof case. In addition, you might want to bring a washcloth or two. Not all hotels provide them.
If you take prescription medication, make sure to bring enough for your entire tour plus a few additional days in the original prescription containers.
Medication should be packed in your carry-on bag, never your checked luggage; this is in case your luggage is delayed. You don’t want to be without your medication. You could also bring extra medication in a separate bag in case any gets lost.
In general, we recommend not packing anything of value in your checked bag.
You’ll want to take pictures of everything, so make sure to bring a camera as well as extra memory cards and batteries for your entire trip. If you decide to bring a video camera, don’t forget an extra battery for it plus a charger. Be sure to pack chargers and cords for all your electronic equipment.
It’s also a good idea to bring a travel alarm clock, a travel sewing kit, a portable scale to weigh luggage, and some hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren’t readily available.
If you are travelling with a companion, we suggest dividing the contents of your suitcase with them, that way if one bag is delayed, some of your belongings are still available to you both.
If that is not an option for you, you could put a change of clothing in your carry-on if there’s room. That will give you something to wear if your checked luggage is delayed as well.
Last but certainly not least, leave room! You’ll need it to fit all the souvenirs you want to bring home.
As you prepare to explore Ireland — the verdant Emerald Isle — enjoy a casual dress style and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes. It is recommended to bring clothing that may be worn in layers and can be added or removed as the temperature changes. In the instance of rain, it is suggested you pack rain gear such as a raincoat, collapsible umbrella and waterproof shoes for your trip to Ireland. Packing several washcloths for your tour is recommended as hotel properties do not always offer them.
The Americans with Disabilities Act does not apply outside of the United States.
We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of our travelers. However, if you require individual assistance you must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and totally responsible for, providing the necessary assistance. Neither our personnel nor the personnel of our destination partners may physically lift or assist clients onto transportation vehicles at any time while on tour. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a traveler who has special mobility or other like needs.
If your schedule allows, you may have selected to give yourself the advantage of an additional day or more in the starting or ending destination of your tour by booking a Pre-Night or Post-Night and arranging your flights accordingly. (Please note: A Tour Manager is not present during Pre-Night or Post-Night Stays.)
Check out the following book and movie recommendations that will immerse you into the destination long before your arrival. Let this set the scene for you as you prepare for the trip of a lifetime and get excited about all that is to come!
Books:
The Back of Beyond: A Search for the Soul of Ireland by James Charles Roy - James Charles Roy, an authority on Irish history, leads a group of weary American tourists on a journey through obscure parts of Ireland, using humorous stories and visits to ancient sites to share his passionate though idiosyncratic views on the country's past and present as it transitions from old to new.
Normal People by Sally Rooney - An intimate portrayal of the complex relationship between Connell and Marianne, two young people from the same small town whose magnetic attraction toward one another begins in secret during high school and continues through their years together at Trinity College Dublin as they navigate self-discovery, mental health, and relationships with others yet always find themselves drawn back together.
Ireland: A Concise History by Maire MacEntee O’Brien - Spanning ancient pagan Ireland to the modern Northern Irish civil rights movement, this book provides a compelling narrative of the emeralds isle's tumultuous history.
The Dublin Saga by Edward Rutherfurd - Spanning over 1500 years from ancient Ireland to the modern era, Rutherfurd's epic novel follows generations of interconnected Dublin families as they experience seminal moments in the history of their city and country.
Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt - A poignant memoir recounting McCourt's impoverished childhood in Depression-era Brooklyn and Limerick, Ireland—a difficult yet lyrical coming-of-age story marked by his father's drinking and talent for storytelling, his mother's struggle to provide for her family, and McCourt's own gift for using eloquent prose and wit to transcend the cruel circumstances of his youth.
Movies:
The Wind that Shakes the Barley (2007) - The film follows two brothers fighting in the Irish War of Independence and the ensuing Irish Civil War, showing the moral complexity and heartbreaking betrayals that fracture a family and country during a turbulent revolutionary period.
The Commitments (1991) - In this film adaptation of Roddy Doyle's novel, a group of working-class Dubiners come together to form an unlikely soul band in 1970s Ireland.
Michael Collins (1996) - Set during Ireland's struggle for independence in the early 1900s, this film follows the rise of revolutionary leader Michael Collins as he spearheads the violent Irish rebellion against British rule but is later deemed a traitor for controversially negotiating with the enemy, forcing him to grapple with divided loyalties when he is ordered by the IRA to murder his closest friends.
Waking Ned Devine (1998) - When a lottery winner dies of shock upon discovering his good fortune, two elderly best friends in a remote Irish village scheme to claim the prize money by pretending one of them is the deceased winner but run into obstacles that test their wits and friendship.
In the European Union and United Kingdom, the law states all travelers must wear a seat belt in all vehicles whenever one is available. Most of the motor coaches we use will have them, so if you see one, be sure to wear it. Failure to comply could result in a personal fine of up to Euro 750 or 500 GBP. Please be aware that we will not issue refunds to travelers fined for non-compliance. While on tour, your Tour Manager will remind you to buckle up.
One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that really reflect the place you’ve just been.
In Ireland, you’ll find an array of renowned local items including Aran wool sweaters, Waterford Crystal, Belleek Pottery, Celtic music, religious items, Irish whiskey, lace, and jewelry – like the famous Claddagh Ring, a symbol of love and friendship.
If you purchase DVDs or other electronic equipment abroad, check that it is compatible with your PC or other home equipment.
Our tours are non-smoking throughout. If you require a smoking room, please let your Client Care agent know when you book your tour. Please note we cannot guarantee your request as many hotels prohibit smoking in rooms and on property.
Please be mindful of other locations where smoking is not allowed. These include the motor coach, at dining venues, and any other restricted areas on tour. Travelers are responsible for any fines they incur for failing to comply with smoking regulations.
We Want to Hear From You!
• A few days after you return home, you’ll receive an email from us with a survey asking you about your experience. Your feedback is important to us and we use it to continually refine our tours to bring you more of what you want when you travel.
• Be on the lookout for our email when you get home.
• We look forward to seeing you on tour soon!
Download the Collette Compass smartphone app and enhance your tour with this easy-to-use digital companion that never leaves your side.
Find Your Way Around
• Easily navigate your destination like a local with detailed maps and offline turn-by-turn directions, all without using Wi-Fi or cellular data.
Plan Your Free Time
• Discover exciting activities, dining options, and local attractions during your free time, ensuring you make the most of every moment.
Stay Informed
• Review your daily itinerary, on-tour inclusions, as well as information on your hotels and transfer services.
Record the Fun
• Create your own trip journal as you travel, including text and photos. Share it with friends and loved ones back home!
Live Flight Tracking
• Check in online* for your flights and stay up to date on your schedule with real-time** tracking of your flight status, gate changes, and delays.
*Online check-in subject to availability
**Requires Wi-Fi or Cellular Data
Ireland is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and Eastern Daylight Time.
Peace of mind for our travelers is our number one priority. When you’re on tour with us, your only thoughts should be to immerse yourself in creating lifelong memories. Your Tour Manager is a destination expert on the people, places, history, and culture and ensures that you will have the best experience with us. Please utilize your Tour Manager’s expertise for any concerns or questions you may have while on tour.
We offer full-service transfers from start to finish. So, when you arrive at the airport of your destination, arrangements will have been made to transfer you to your first hotel on the tour.
If you purchased our air-inclusive tour package, you will enjoy this service free of charge.
If you purchased your air ticket on your own (our land-only tour package), you may purchase a round-trip transfer for a fee.
Meeting locations and times will be set up to accommodate your transfer arrival and departure schedules, which will be provided to you in your documents packet. If you decide to arrange your own transportation to the hotel, please make sure to check in with your Tour Manager once you arrive.
As an added measure of confidence while traveling internationally, visit www.travel.state.gov. The U.S. State Department offers a “Smart Travelers Enrollment Program” (STEP), which you may individually choose to enroll in. This allows the U.S. to better assist with lost passports or in the event of any emergency abroad.
Here is a list of entities we recommend you contact before you depart on your tour:
1.) Your cell phone/mobile carrier if you are planning on using your device. You will want to confirm you will have access in the area(s) you will visit and inquire about any charges you may incur.
2.) Your credit card company for any card(s) you plan to use. Make sure the card company knows when and where you will be traveling to avoid any charges being declined.
3.) Your bank, so you can use your ATM/debit card worry-free. If you are travelling to another country, your bank will be able to tell you if your card will work at the ATM machines to dispense local currency, including if your PIN will be accepted. Also, indicate if you plan to use your debit card as a credit card if your card has that option. Your bank will advise you of any charges for each transaction as well.
Leave a copy of your itinerary, hotel list (included in your tour documents bundle) and a contact number with a designated person in case an emergency comes up while you’re away and someone needs to reach you.
We recommend you leave a copy of your passport at home in a secure location and bring an additional copy with you as a precaution.
During your flight, make sure to stand up and walk around as much as possible, and drink plenty of water. These simple suggestions will help you stay comfortable, particularly during long flights.
Thank you for choosing to travel with us and allowing us to guide you along this adventure! From the moment you step out your door, we strive to provide a comprehensive, stress-free, and unforgettable travel experience. To that end, the following features are included with your tour: motor coach transportation, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (porterage), select meals, admission to attractions as outlined in your itinerary, and gratuities for servers of included meals as outlined in your itinerary, bellmen, and door attendants.
At the beginning of your tour, your Tour Manager will distribute a personal radio and headset. You should wear them on sightseeing tours to make sure you can hear your guides clearly at all times. Please bring them with you every day. Your Tour Manager will collect them at the very end of your tour, typically on your last evening. You are responsible for returning these devices and will be charged a replacement fee should you fail to do so.
Wi-Fi access has improved, with free or cheap internet available in many public spaces. Some restaurants, cafes, and hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, though at times it may not reach rooms in hotels. Wi-Fi may not be available onboard motorcoaches or other modes of transportation used during your tour.
Pricing
-
Double
$4,899pp
$5,099 -
Single
$5,699pp
$5,899 -
Triple
$4,849pp
$5,049
* For bookings made after 11/30/2025 call for rates.
* Included in Price: Round Trip Air from Charleston Intl Airport, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges, Hotel Transfers
* Not Included in Price: Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $549 per person
* All Rates are Per Person and are subject to change based on air inclusive package from CHS