We are planning a self-drive trip in Ireland in April 2010.
I've read many of the iteneraries posted and the comments -in doing so, it occurs to me that we might be better off flyng into Shannon and then out of Dublin. We will have 13 nights and are using the open ended vouchers for B&B's (has anyone used this system & what are your comments) What is a suggested itenerary with this scenario?
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
Vouchers work great and there are enough participants that you probably won't be inconvenienced by location or lack thereof.
Since Shannon and Dublin are only about three hours apart and you have a fair number of days, I'd select airports based on price of tickets and nothing else.
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9363 posts
I have used the vouchers before - no problems, though we had to pay a bit extra for a an ensuite room. That may have changed since we used them, and the extra charge was small, but we hadn't been informed of that in advance.
As for which airport, if you have not driven on the other side of the road before I would highly suggest Shannon. It is a small airport out in the country, whereas Dublin is on a busy, multi-lane city street. It is a lot easier to get your bearings and get used to the concept before you encounter any traffic if you fly into Shannon. I've always taken Aer Lingus, and they stopped briefly in Dublin before continuing on to Shannon, but it actually cost more to get off there. There isn't likely to be much, if any, of a price difference.
Posted by
OP
Garland, Tx, usa
2 posts
Thank you both - excellent info about driving from Shannon as opposed to driving in Dublin! Will heed that advice.
Posted by
Philadelphia
655 posts
I think starting from Shannon is much easier. Also, it puts you near the southwestern coast which is probably where you want most to be. You can return from Dublin if your plans take you into that area - especaially to see Newgrange which I recommend. The Dublin airport is removed from the city. If you want to explore the city consider lodging on the outskirts and using the bus system.
There are some very good websites that will help you regarding driving on the 'wrong' side and all about the roundabouts etc. Google will find them for you.