Ireland. been talking about this for 3 years. read, watched, raised kids on RS DVDs Yet not real travel savvy. Went to england about 10 years ago. And italy on a choir tour 4 yrs ago. Now want to go to Ireland, 50's mom, 21 yr old daughter (celtic folk harpist) and 16 yr old son. suddenly realized we could go august or early september, but checking, it looks bad. High air rates, festivals going on possibly making reservations hard? Would otherwise have to wait until mid june 2012? Feel we need more time, but we are great at procrastinating. this could takes us years more! England again seems more comfort zone. Help!
Either Ireland or Great Britain would be good trips. August and September are great travel times but September would probably impact your son's school. Air fares may be higher next year. Festivals are going on everywhere but they tend to only impact the local area where it is held. You can go to the festival or avoid it. Bank holidays are another matter but they can also be worked through. It does make sense to know if there is a major festival going on when you put it into your travel plans. Bottom line.... I don't really see you asking a question. I see you wanting assurance that you can do it. Ireland's beautiful and has wonderful sites. If you feel more comfortable in England, it will work too. Being there 10 years ago won't exactly give you too much time in England. Have you looked at Rick's books on Ireland, England and Great Britain? They are a good place to start planning and deciding what you'd like to see. Ask some more specific questions and you can get better answers than what I'm giving you.
There will be airfare deals with Aer Lingus next year! My advice-plan for June. If your heart is set on it and I hope you all do go there-Start with making a travel plan like where to stay,what to see,how to get around.
Or sign up for a small tour group and relax!
Go outside your comfort zone as you call it. Explore something new. Go to Ireland since you have already been to England. When you go depends on your son's school schedule also. Can you go over spring break?