Is there such a thing as hiring a driver who takes you where you want to go as opposed to designing a tour? I don't want them to design the itinerary, Just to let us know if it's out of the way, and we can change it up some; even though we've made bookings to certain hotels already, places we want to go, because they were already booking up for the Fall. We're four people. All adults. But no one is driving there. That's decided. That ship sailed. Any thoughts?
Posted by
TN, USA
2114 posts
The answer is YES! I would suggest asking asking the hotels where you are staying who they would recommend, either for your entire trip or for various segments. For instance if one driver services mostly the SW coastal area, then you might use that driver for a portion of the trip, then switch to a different driver for more inland and/or up to Dublin.
We used a two different drivers when we visited Ireland about 10 years ago, and for days when we stayed put with two overnights in one place, we did not need a driver, so he accepted other shorter trip fares for those days, but then met us for our on-going leg.
Your next question would be: Can you give me their contact info? I used to give it regularly on this forum, but I believe both drivers have since retired (email I sent to the primary one comes back as undeliverable). But, he was recommended to us by a B&B in Doolin, and the other driver by a B&B in Tubercurry.
Sounds like you have some flexibility...and that works best. For our primary driver, I sent him my outline of an itinerary with timeframes, etc. and also asked his suggestions. The changes he suggested were wonderful, and along the way, he surprised us with additional sights. Our one request to him was: Show us the beauty of your country.....and that he did!!
Posted by
OP
19 posts
Thanks, Maggie! I'm so glad you responded, I was getting a bit down about this. The driver I contacted with the Tour by Locals company that says it has private drivers, and does, sent me his itinerary loosely based on mine, but that isn't what we wanted. I wrote back to him, explaining what we need, if possible of course, so we shall see. I love your idea about a different river for the places, and hotels recommending one too. I wasn't sure how far in advance this needed to be sorted, or could we do it when we get there? Obviously we need transport from the airport to our first hotel that we already booked. Thanks again!
Posted by
Calgary
1651 posts
My Day Trip is a company that I've used for this. https://mydaytrip.com
Posted by
OP
19 posts
thanks! I will check this out.
Posted by
17 posts
I am looking for the same thing for 3 adults. We would like to get from Galway to Dingle. If you find something/someone that's great, I'd really appreciate if you'd share. If I find the right thing, I'd be happy to let you know. Have a great trip. Kate
Posted by
OP
19 posts
hi Kate,
The best thing to do is contact your hotel/ B&B's and ask them to find you a driver to take you to abd from airport, to your day excursions, etc. We didn't want a tour guide who has or will plan out itinerary and holiday. We're going where we want, Enjoying each place for two days, as we go. We booked those places already. The hotel we're stopping at first, upon arrival, and staying for the weekend, is helping us! He says we can organize a driver at each place. It makes sense. Try that. Don't settle for what you don't want. :)
Posted by
17 posts
Thank you, I haven't booked hotels yet. Will do that this weekend and work with them. Thanks. We didn't want a tour, just transport.