IRELAND

Below you will find some specifics about Ireland as a whole.  Also, the optional excursions are further explained and researched for your convenience.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 Optional Sightseeing Excursions
Irish breakfast at hotel. Today you will have three options (additional costs apply for options #1 and #2).

• Option #1- You will enjoy a day trip to Galway and the Cliffs of Moher. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren Area, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights. Standing 230 meters above the ground at their highest point and 8 km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara. Later we’ll arrive in Galway, known as the City of Tribes. You’ll have free time for lunch, shopping and dinner before we return to Dublin ($95 extra per person which includes admission to Cliffs of Moher and full-day bus transportation).

• Option #2- You can elect to visit the Guinness Storehouse Brewery this morning and spend the remainder of day with free time in Dublin ($30 extra per person which includes admission to Guinness Storehouse Brewery and bus transfer from hotel to attraction and drop-off in Dublin).

• Option #3 – Free day to spend in Dublin. 

• A load of craic! No, it is not what you think.  This is referred to as "fun", so it is natural to be taken aback at first, but you'll catch on!
• Famous symbols of Ireland will be visible and often found in all parts of the country.  Keep your eyes peeled!
• Harp - National symbol; also found on the Guinness logo
• the Celtic cross - possibly introduced by Saint Patrick, combining the symbol of Christianity with the sun.
• The shamrock - some believe it was Saint Patrick's tie from Roman Catholic church to nature in the 5th century.  Three leaves = Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
• Ireland is greatly famous for literature.  Many famous authors, poets, and playwrights were Irish. For example: Oscar Wilde, Emma Donohue, Bram Stoker - Dracula and James Joyce - Ulysses and Finnegan's Wake.  If you're big into literature, try checking out some popular bookstores.
• Look out! Drivers are on opposite side of road that we are used to. Look both ways, but look right first!