Tips for you for your Irish vacation.

Not everybody is going to have somebody taking them around during their Irish vacation, so here are just a few basic things that may help you while you are here.
Let me begin with accommodation. B&B's can be very good, but make sure that they Failte Ireland recommended. They are our tourism organisation, and places bearing their approval are safe. Just make sure that your location is suitable, as cabs or taxis can be expensive, and a hotel might very well work out as cheap, if you are staying any distance away from the town center that you may wish to visit in the evenings. Do not drink and drive.

No this is not a B&B. This is the magnificent Ashford castle. Now you are at the top of the list when it comes to class, but if you can afford it, then you will not be disappointed.
Hotels in general are good. You can get good prices in four star types, and some of the guest houses are really good also. Just check them out. Trip Advisor can be helpful, but always remember that some really good places get poor reviews from disgruntled guests, who give poor reviews everywhere they go, for reasons best known to themselves. Simply grumpy gits.

Tipping in Ireland.
Many people come here having been misinformed about this subject. Why do you tip? I think when you know the answer to that, you should know that no matter where you go, it is nice to show your appreciation for services well rendered. Tip accordingly. Those you are tipping may even seem to be telling you that you shouldn't be doing that, but take it from me, they are delighted that you are happy to give them a tip. We are very aware that in the USA tips range from anywhere in the region of 15% to 20%. They tell you that that is because people in the service industry are paid low wages, or even no wages, and depend on their tips. Well in Ireland they are not on overly generous wages either, and they need their tips too. Be generous. Do not leave small loose change. It does nothing but give the impression of meanness. Better off not to tip at all than to do that.
In the picture above, you can see me moving this large rock, which was blocking the road. Yes, i did get a tip for that.

Yes, bring good warm clothing, warm undergarments, and woolen socks, and light rainwear. Also a couple of warm sweaters for the evenings. No need for fancy stuff, smart casual is fine everywhere, unless you are planning on visiting all five star places. Hoodies are great, as they cover your head also. Be careful with your belongings, you have no idea who may be around.

How about food? The best you can get. Many people traveling with me are now claiming that our portions are too large, and that, coming from Americans, surprises me. But they are large, and the quality is tops. All our meat is free range, and our fish is as good as it gets, as nowhere is far from the sea in Ireland, and everything is fresh.We have the best of Irish, Italian, Chinese, Thai, Mexican, Indian, and do not miss out on our fish and seafood.You do not need to look for the pricey places as the food everywhere is fine. You can get wonderful meals in the pubs and ordinary restaurants, and the prices are great.

That much info should help you, but if you really want the best,
just simplify it, and travel with me. I love my food, and if you eat where i eat, then you cannot go wrong.
Would love to hear form you.

Dave Hogan