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Emerald Package 2008
Our famous Emerald B&B package is the easiest way to travel around Ireland, allowing you to plan as much or as little as you want - knowing there's a warm bed and breakfast awaiting you at the end of the day.

Our Emerald Bed and Breakfast is a unique experience where you can enjoy the warm welcome and relaxed pace of life in Irealnd. The B&B offers total immersion into Irish life and culture. You'll have complete flexibility to stay anywhere you would like. B&B's are the msot economical way to travel throughout Ireland. It also offers you the opportunity to experience Irish life from those who live it every day! Discuss social issues or sports, make life long friends and trace your ancestors with your welcomig hosts and their families.

Enjoy the ease of traveling without having to carry cash to pay for accommodations. Our Open Voucher system is convenience and practical. Plan your route and drive to every corner of Ireland where you can stay in one of our many B&B's in every village, town and city.

There are 2 types of B&B'S:
Farmhouse B&B's - share a bath throughout the house. You'll find them located near villages and towns or in more rural destinations. Homes vary from period dwellings to modern houses, all have your comfort as a priority.

Town and Country B&B's - have a private bath. You'll find Town & Country B&B'sin almost every village, town and city in Ireland. Your host is there to help you plan your daily activities.

Emerald Castle Package 2008

First Night Pre booked in local hotel
4 Nights Farmhouse B&B's (upgrades to private bath available)
Final night in a 5* Luxury Castle
Weekly car rental (upgrade to automatic is available)
Waterford Crystal Factory Guided Tour
Full Irish Breakfast daily

COMPANIONS/FRIENDS & FAMILY ARE ELIGIBLE!

Sites and Cities
Day 1 USA Shannon
Fly transatlantic overnight to Shannon Ireland. Dinner is served and in flight entertainment is provided.

Day 2 Shannon Galway
Morning arrival at Shannon Airport where your Driver Guide greets you. Travel to view the majestic Cliffs of Moher, which stand 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean and extend for a distance of over 5 miles.Continue to the seaside village of Doolin for a pot of tea or a pint! Continue around Black head through the area of County Clare, known as The Burren Region to Galway and check in at The Imperial Hotel for a two night stay. Dinner is at the hotel this evening.

Day 3 Connemara
After a hearty Irish breakfast we travel through the predominantly Gaelic speaking region of Co. Galway known as Connemara. This natural terrain and unspoiled environment offers a mosaic of natural beauty at every turn in the road. We visit Clifden known as the Capital of Connemara, where we have time to stroll or browse its quaint streets and shops. We continue with a stop in the village of Moycullen where we visit The Connemara Marble Visitors Centre. Connemara Marble is unique to this region and geologists estimate this beautiful marble displaying twisted and interlocking bands of serpentine, in various shades of light green and dark green to be approximately 500 million years old. We return to Galway City where dinner this evening is at leisure. Galway offers a myriad of restaurants from which to choose.

Day 4 Galway Dublin
After breakfast, board your motorcoach and drive via the Irish Midlands to Dublin where you can appreciate the City's Georgian Heritage. Check in at your 4 Star Jury's Croke Park Hotel for a two night stay. Spend the afternoon exploring the 1,000+ year old capital on your own. Visit the priceless "Book of Kells" at Trinity College, or see where writer Jonathan Swift "Gulliver's Travels" gave his famous sermons at St. Patrick's Cathedral, Browse the shops along Grafton Street in the heart of Dublin's pedestrian area or enjoy lunch at one of Dublin's unique pubs. Dinner will be served at your hotel tonight.

Day 5 Dublin City
Following breakfast enjoy a tour of one of Ireland's favorite attractions, The Old Jameson Distillery. Trace the history of the magical spirit in its unique setting on the original site, its origins dating back to the year 1780. This afternoon explore more of this ancient, yet cosmopolitan capital on your own. Dinner and evening activities are at leisure. At night, Dublin comes alive with entertainment from trendy cafes, in Temple Bar, to the more traditional Dublin Pub. Dublin also offers a selection of world class theatres, clubs and of course traditional Irish music.

Day 6 Dublin
After your last Irish breakfast, travel to Dublin Airport for last minute duty free shopping before boarding your flight home - taking all your treasured memories of your trip to the Emerald Isle.

Rates are per person based on double occupancy. Single room supplement $257. Air inclusive rates include lowest airfare at time of print. 100 additional airports also available. Airline taxes additional

Treasures of Ireland
9 Days/ 7 Nights Escorted Holiday with confirmed air from $1597*
Escorted Motorcoach Tour with confirmed air!
Never before has there been a vacation that captures the essence of the Emerald Isle like Treasures of Ireland Tour. From the charm of a local B&B to the luxury of ancient castle, from the breathtaking vistas of Ireland’s crystal lakes and glens to its quaint villages and historic landmarks, you’ll discover an Old World, from a new perspective as you tour Ireland via motorcoach. A 9 day vacation, filled with the sights, sounds, flavors, fantasies, the history and the mystery of Ireland. This is an experience you will always Treasure.
Departure Dates

Land Only prices are available.

Day 1 US To Shannon Depart USA. Overnight confirmed flight to Ireland on Aer Lingus.

Day 2 Welcome to Ireland Morning arrival at Shannon Airport where you are greeted by your driver/guide and travel to the Old Ground Hotel. After a brief rest, travel to the County Clare coast to view the awe inspiring Cliffs of Moher. Sightsee and take photoes before returning to the hotel. Rest, or explore on your own the quaint town of Ennis. Enjoy the local culture and dinner at your hotel.

Day 3 Shannon Limerick Adare Killarney After a hearty Irish breakfast, travel through the bustling city of Limerick,birthplace of Frank McCourt, the Pulitzer Prize winning author of "Angela's Ashes". Cross the Shannon River and onto Adare Vilalge, recently honored as one of Ireland's "Prettiest Villages" and stop to view the thatched roof cottages. Then off to Killarney for a two night stay at "The Killarney Towers Hotel. ENjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.

Day 4 The Ring of Kerry Experience the true beauty of Ireland, on this full day tour of the magnificent Ring of Kerry, while traveling along the rugged Atlantic coastline and through the quaint villages of Killorglin, Glenbeigh and Sneem. Later, return to your hotel in Killarney town where dinner and evening activitiees at your leisure.

Day 5 Blarney Waterford Your journey today to Waterford includes a stopover at Blarney, famous for its Blarney Stone and Woolen Mills. Continuing to Waterford, you will arrive on the estate of Faithlegg House, a wonderful manor home residence, where you will spend tonight, just like the Lords and Ladies of old. Dinner this evening at Faithlegg will be memorable.

Day 6 Waterford Kilkenny Dublin Your morning will be enjoyed touring the Waterford Crystal Factory. You will see firsthand every piece being handcrafted into true works of art. You will see more beauty today on your drive to Dublin, which takes you through the beautiful town of Kilkenny with its world famous historical castle. Once you check into your Dublin hotel, you may relax at the hotel or take a city stroll before dinner in the hotel’s restaurant.

Day 7 Dublin This morning enjoy a tour of Dublin. Visit St. Patrick's Cathedral where Jonathan Swift (Gulliver's Travels) gave his famous sermons and continue with a visit to Trinity College to view the priceless "Book of Kells". Spend the rest of the day exploring more of this 1,000+ year old ancient, yet cosmopolitan city. Take in a multi media exhibit of the city's history at Dublinia; learn the secrets behind the Emerald Isle's most famous brew at the Guinness storehouse; or shop along Grafton Street in the heart of Dublin's pedestrian area. Overnight at Jury's Ballsbridge Hotel with dinner and evening activities at leisure.

Day 8 Dublin Adare Manor or Dromoland Castle After breakfast travel via the Irish midlands, to either Clare or Limerick. The very special final night in Ireland features two luxurious resorts, Adare Manor or Dromoland Castle. Relax and enjoy the many amenities and facilities of your luxurious castle. This evening's Gala Farewell Dinner will be served in the dining room. (Jacket and tie required).

Day 9 Shannon to USA After your final breakfast, you will be taken on the short journey to Shannon Airport, with an opportunity to finalize your shopping in the acclaimed duty free stores at the airport. Depart from Shannon airport and arrive back in the US the same evening.

Grand Tour of Ireland
Day 1
Fly transatlantic overnight to Dublin, Ireland. Dinner is served and inflight entertainment is provided.
Day 2
Welcome to Dublin! Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing. This evening, get to know your fellow travelers over a welcome dinner. (D)
Day 3
See Georgian squares and pass Christ Church on your way to stately St. Patrick's Cathedral. On to the seat of learning at the heart of Dublin - Trinity College. Walk across the cobbled squares to the old library and see one of Ireland's greatest treasures - the 8th century Book of Kells. Spend the rest of your day exploring the city's shops, galleries and museums or relax in a cafe or pub. (FB)
Day 4
Travel through the serene Wicklow Mountains to the monastic ruins at Glendalough. On to the ancient town of Waterford with its colorful terraced houses, cafes and bars overlooking the quay side. At the Waterford Crystal Factory, watch master craftsmen at work in the centuries old tradition of glass cutting and engraving, then stroll through the splendid showrooms. On to Cork, the largest city on Ireland's south coast. (FB,D)
Day 5
Your first stop today is Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Stroll across to the Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for fine Irish knitwear and handicrafts. Then on to Killarney, famous for its cheerful atmosphere and what the Irish call "craic!" - Gaelic for fun. (FB)
Day 6
Journey along the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, Better known as "The Ring of Kerry." This is one of the most beautiful and magical places in Ireland. Here mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. After dinner, you are free to stroll through Killarney town. (FB,D)
Day 7
This morning cross the Shannon estuary by ferry and enter County Clare. Stop for a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, rising approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. Then travel north across the Barren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape. Drop in for afternoon tea at Rathbaun Farm and meet an Irish farming family as they carry out their everyday chores. Watch as the farmer shears a sheep and maneuvers his flock with the help of his dog. Next, on to discover Galway, "City of the Tribes," including lovely Galway Cathedral. The balance of your stay is at leisure. (FB,AT,D)
Day 8
In the west of Ireland, the starkly beautiful mountains of Galway and Mayo drop down to the coast. Little whitewashed cottages are scattered over a land of mountains, brooks and rivers. Visit Kylemore abbey, a castellated neo Gothic mansion, occupied by the Irish Benedictine community of nuns who came from Ypres after World War I. the balance of the evening is free. (FB,D)
Day 9
First stop is the Shrine at Knock, a place of modern pilgrimage for millions. In 1879 the figures of Mary, St.Joseph and St. John are reported to have miraculously appeared here in a vision to 15 local people. In County Sligo, bid your own farewell to W.B. Yeats, Ireland's great poet at Drumcliff churchyard. Then continue on to Bundoran on Donegal Bay, in the heart of picturesque Donegal Bay in the heart of picturesque Donegal. (FB,D)
Day 10
Travel north to Glenveagh National Park. Covering nearly 40,000 acres, the Park is Ireland's largest. It encompasses scenic lakes, forested hills, and majestic mountains, including the two highest peaks in Donegal. This is also home to the largest herd of red deer in Ireland. Board minibuses for the trip to Glenveagh Castle, a 19th century mansion. You may want to take a guided tour of the sumptuous interior or stroll through the formal gardens and rhododendron woods or along one of the many trails. (FB,D)
Day 11
Today, travel south. From the Heritage Center at Bru-na-Boinne, visit the awe inspiring Neolithic tombs at Knowth, which predate the pyramids by 1000 years. Some tours may substitute this with a visit to the historic Hill of Tara. This peaceful place contrasts the final destination of your tour - Dublin. (FB)
Day 12
After your Irish breakfast, travel to Dublin Airport for last minute duty free shopping before boarding your flight home - taking all your treasured memories of the Emerald Isle.

Sights & Sounds of Ireland
Day 1
Fly transatlantic overnight to Dublin, Ireland. Dinner is served and in flight entertainment is provided.
Day 2
Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing or travel a short distance and visit the beautiful 18th century Anglo-Irish Powerscourt Gardens. This evening, get to know your fellow travelers over a Welcome Dinner at your hotel. (D)
Day 3
Glimpse Viking and medieval times as you pass by Christ Church to St. Patrick’s' cathedral, a legacy of religious power from the 12th century. On to the seat of learning at the heart of Dublin - Trinity College. Walk across the cobbled squares to the Old Library and see the famed 8th century Book of Kells. Spend the rest of your day exploring the city on your own. (FB)
Day 4
Leaving Dublin, travel to Belfast where you enjoy a living history tour with a local guide. See the landmarks that have played their part in the city's colorful development. The balance of the day is free to explore on your own, shop or simply relax. (FB,D)
Day 5
This morning explore the white cliffs and wide idyllic bays of North Antrim. Visit the Giant's Causeway and walk on top of this volcanic formation, sometimes referred to as the "eighth wonder of the world" Next, wind your way through the sheltered Nine Glens, whose woodlands and seaside villages are still rich in legend and folklore before continuing to Derry. (FB,D)
Day 6
While in Derry, one of the longest continuously inhabited places in Ireland, join your local guide on a walking tour of the city walls. They date from 1613 and make Derry the only city in Ireland completely encircled by walls. Then visit the Ulster American Folk Park, celebrating Ireland's links with America. travel back to Derry City to enjoy dinner at your hotel. (FB,D)
Day 7
Stop in County Sligo, and bid your own farewell to W.B. Yeats, Ireland's great poet, at quiet Drumcliff churchyard where his simple tombstone reads; "Cast a cold eye/ On life, on death? Horseman, pass by!" next, visit the Victorian mansion, Clonalis House, ancestral home of the O'Connors, descendants of the last High Kings of Ireland. Continue on to medieval Galway, the "city of the Tribes." Tour the city and visit impressive Galway Cathedral before heading out to your hotel on the coast. (FB,D)
Day 8
Today tour Connemara, a wild land of rocky mountains, sparkling brooks, and rushing rivers. Stop at lakeside Kylemore abbey, a castellated neo Gothic mansion, occupied today by the Irish Benedictine community of nuns who came from Pyres after World War 1. Travel through bog land and villages to the Connemara Marble Factory and learn the origin and uses of the area's splendid marble. Tonight, local entertainers liven up the evening after dinner at your hotel. (FB,D)
Day 9
Drop in for coffee at Rathbaun Farm; Meet an Irish farming family as they carry out their everyday chores. Continue west across the Burren, a stark and barren landscape, to see the Cliffs of Moher, rising approximately 700 feet above the Atlantic. Later take the Tarbert ferry across the Shannon estuary and continue your journey to Killarney. Dinner tonight at your hotel. (FB,MC,D)
Day 10
A truly scenic day. Take the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as "The Ring of Kerry." Here mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a breathtaking landscape. Before returning to your hotel, why not take an optional jaunting car ride? (FB)
Day 11
This morning, travel to 15th century Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Stroll across to the Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for fine knitwear and handicrafts. Then on to the seaport town of Waterford with its colorful houses overlooking the mile long quayside. Visit the impressive Waterford Crystal Factory and watch master craftsmen at work in the centuries old tradition of glass cutting and engraving, then stroll through the splendid showrooms. (FB,D)
Day 12
This morning enjoy a walking tour of Waterford, where your guide brings the city's fascinating history alive. Then, travel through the Wicklow Mountains to the monastic ruins at Glendalough, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Finally, continue on to Dublin, where the balance of the day is at leisure. (FB)
Day 13
After your Irish breakfast, travel to Dublin Airport for last minute duty free shopping before boarding your flight home - taking all your treasured memories of the Emerald Isle. (FB)

Airline taxes are additional.

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