Several months ago I asked for feedback on private tour companies. We went with Little Gems and I wanted to update with my review.
My husband and I had a wonderful, 13 day private tour with Little Gems and I recommend them without reservation. This is a family run, small, Ireland focused tour company. I had done a good amount of research and it was my initial communication and interactions with Rosie Dooney that led me to select Little Gems. Rosie is warm, responsive and will work with you to plan your trip so that it is personally tailored to your interests, style and needs. As you will read on any reveiws, she is lovely to work with.
Our trip took us through Cashel, Wicklow, Kinsale, Kenmare, Dingle, Inismor, Galway and Mayo. Ruth O'Meara was our guide through the majority of our trip and honestly we fell in love with her. She is an accomplished, intelligent and intuitive guide. She had a subtle way of understanding who we are as a couple and as travelers and she was perfect for us. She is so knowledgeable and will research and make recommendations that are always spot on. She has a special way of knowing when to step in and when to step away. We would request her if we return to Ireland and she has a standing invitation to our home should she make it to our part of the States.
Our time with David was shorter but also nice. David is a musician who honored us with a private concert with his ancient Irish harp. It was lovely. He also helped us to explore my husband's ancestrial history which was very special.
A highlight of our trip was our time at the cottage and farm with Eddie Joe Dooney. The Patriarc of the Dooney family. He was a joy and you must try to spend a couple nights at the cottage on his property. We loved his sense of humor, the way he shared Irish history, farm life and the lovely cottage restoration. The cottage is beautifully stocked with everything you could need and it was exactly what we needed to end our trip.
You will not be disappointed if you book a private tour with Little Gems.