Irelandthe Good, the Bad, and the . . . . Just some notes from my recent March/April 2011 independent trip to Ireland: The Good Hotels- Dublin- Best Western Premier Academy Plaza: quiet location but short walking distance to everything including Air Coach and hop-on/hop-off buses; free computers in lobby. Killarney-Castle Lodge Guesthouse: very convenient to everything with large car park and quiet rooms in back. Galway-Harbour Hotel: quiet city centre hotel just 2-3 blocks from all the bars, cafes and shops; 15-minute walk to train and bus stations; fantastic breakfast buffet; free guest computer; covered, secured paid parking. Newgrange Lodge: combines hostel services (kitchen use, bikes for rent, lounge areas) with motel style private rooms with ensuite baths and individual thermostats for heat; 200 yards from entrance to Bru na Boinne Visitor Centre. The Good Sightseeing- Best abbeys-Clanmacnoise and Glendalough Best ancient sights-Aran Islands and Newgrange (Bru na Boinne) Best nature-Connemara (even in the pouring rain) and Killarney Lakes/National Park Best history lesson-Kilmainham Gaol in Dublin The Bad Lodging- Cashel, Holiday Hostel-hard narrow bed with old linen, no heat, filthy dark bathroom Overrated Sightseeing- Dublin-the Book of Kells (the library, however, is fantastic) Cliffs of Moher-nice view for a quick photo stop but not worth the price charged The Ugly: Dublin Airport Hertz Rent-a-Car-worst car rental experience of my life
Skellig ring road-going from west to east almost no signage; very easy to get lost and turned around.
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