Grand Circle Travel - GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE Ireland in Depth 2021
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL PLANNING GUIDE
Ireland in Depth
2021
Learn how to personalize your experience on this vacation
®
Grand Circle Travel
Worldwide Discovery at an Extraordinary Value
1
Grand Circle Travel ®
347 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Dear Traveler,
While we may not be physically able to travel at the moment, the act of planning—or even just
dreaming—always gives my spirits a boost.
At Grand Circle, we’re already planning for the day when we can resume our travels. We’re working
closely with our Program Directors and regional offices around the world to implement a number
of measures to give you greater peace of mind—because your health and safety is our top priority.
Inside, you’ll learn more about the NEW specific precautions we are taking.
I hope this Grand Circle Travel Planning Guide inspires you to join us on our Ireland in Depth
vacation, to go beyond the iconic sites and into the true heart of Ireland thanks to our groups of no
more than 42 travelers (with an average of 30). Plus, our Irish Program Director will reveal their
country’s hidden wonders and help us discover its essence like only an insider can. And our local
regional office in Killarney is staffed with an experienced team of associates ready to help in case
any unexpected circumstances arise.
Throughout our explorations, we’ll meet local people to get an intimate glimpse into the real
Ireland, not just a surface view. Visit a working sheep farm where you’ll chat with the owner about
rural life and get a chance to see Ireland’s finest border collies in action. You’ll also learn about
contemporary life in Ireland—and savor a traditional meal—during a Home-Hosted Lunch in
a local home. Plus, a portion of our proceeds goes toward the charitable efforts of Grand Circle
Foundation—see inside for more details on how your travel dollar helps make the world a better
place.
We understand that no two people are the same. That’s why more than 80% of our travelers take
advantage of the freedom to personalize their experience. Join the 50% of travelers who extend
their time abroad. Add the pre-trip extension to Northern Ireland, post-trip extension to Glasgow,
Scotland, or both of these extensions to your Ireland vacation.
I hope you find this Grand Circle Travel Planning Guide helpful. If you have any further questions,
don’t hesitate to contact one of our Travel Counselors at 1-800-221-2610.
Warm regards,
Harriet R. Lewis
Vice Chairman
Overseas Adventure Travel
2
WHAT’S INSIDE
TRIP SUMMARY
Health & Safety Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
It’s Included . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Departure Dates and Prices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
DETAILED DAY-TO-DAY ITINERARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
Travel Documents & Entry Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Rigors, Vaccines & General Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Money Matters: Local Currency & Tipping Guidelines . . . . . . . 38
Air, Optional Tours & Staying in Touch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Packing: What to Bring & Luggage Limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Climate & Average Temperatures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
About Your Destinations: Culture, Etiquette & More . . . . . . . . 54
Demographics & History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Resources: Suggested Reading & Movies . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
MAP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
3
What to Expect When
We Travel Again
Health and safety measures on our vacations
The health and safety of our travelers is always our #1 priority and we understand travelers are concerned about
traveling abroad in light of the unprecedented crisis we are currently facing. For that reason, we wanted to share
with you the specific measures we are taking on our Grand Circle vacations to support social distancing and give
our travelers greater peace of mind when we begin to travel again. We are working with our 36 regional offices
and more than 2,500 regional associates and Program Directors around the world, as well as listening to
feedback from our travelers to create and update these new health and safety protocols. We will be addressing
each of our trips and making specific updates to each itinerary to ensure the safety of our travelers.
TRAVELER SCREENING PROCESS & SAFETY FACE COVERINGS & HAND SANITIZER
MEASURES PRIOR TO ARRIVAL IN FIRST • N95 face masks (or the equivalent in the country), gloves,
DESTINATION ON ADVENTURE and hand sanitizer will be provided to all travelers
• Your Program Director will contact you approximately 3 throughout the trip, however travelers can bring
weeks prior to departure to introduce himself or herself their own preferred face covering and hand sanitizer
and provide you with specific information regarding from home.
updated safety and health measures and protocols you
can expect on your trip.
WHISPERS HEADSETS
• Whispers will be provided for all included features and
• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has activities to support social distancing—and remain with
updated its security screening procedures, including each traveler for the entire trip.
increasing the distance between travelers as they enter
security check points, requiring travelers to return to the • Whispers will be thoroughly sanitized before the trip
area outside of security if prohibited items are found, and begins and alcohol wipes will be provided for personal
having travelers scan their own boarding passes. daily sanitizing.
• Many airlines and airports have specific safety INCLUDED FEATURES & ACTIVITIES
procedures they are following, so travelers are • All included features and activities to popular locations
encouraged to check with their airline prior to their or sites will be rearranged to avoid large crowds—this
adventure and arrive at the airport early as these may mean that we will arrive early or visit the location
updated protocols will add more time to check in and later in the day.
security check points.
• Travelers will be broken into smaller groups as needed
TRAVELER SCREENING UPON ARRIVAL AT for Home-Hosted meals to support social distancing.
FIRST DESTINATION ON ADVENTURE
• Our local regional offices have carefully selected
• All travelers will have their temperature checked at the
included features and activities with a focus on the
airport by a Grand Circle representative or Program
safety of our travelers, however all included features and
Director using a non-contact infrared temperature
activities are optional, so travelers can choose whether
scanner before transferring to the first accommodation
to participate in an activity or explore on their own.
or lodging on their adventure.
4
• Our Program Directors will offer alternate options if a • All trips will feature smaller restaurants to support
traveler chooses not to participate in an included feature. social distancing and whenever possible, our small group
will be the only diners present during the meal.
LOCAL TRANSPORTATION & COACHES
• All local transportation and coaches will operate at • To promote social distancing when dining in local
approximately half the vehicle’s capacity. restaurants, our group may be separated into smaller
groups and each dine in a different restaurant.
• All coaches will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized
with disinfectant before each use. • Items usually shared, like bread and butter or salt and
pepper, will be served to each person individually
• The driver will have his or her temperature upon request.
checked daily.
SCREENING PROCESS & SAFETY MEASURES
ACCOMMODATIONS & LODGING FOR PROGRAM DIRECTORS
• Our local regional offices have carefully selected your • Health screenings of Program Directors, including a
accommodations by city or town on our trips because of COVID-19 test, will be completed before joining the trip.
their high standards for quality.
• All Program Directors will be trained on health and
• In some instances, we have changed accommodations safety protocols to follow during the trip.
or lodgings to better ensure the health and safety of
our travelers. We will continue to make updates to our • All Program Directors will check his or her
accommodations and lodgings as needed to ensure the temperature daily.
highest quality of service and safety for our travelers.
• Your Program Director will be available to you 24/7, with
• Our local regional offices will contact each the support of our local regional office.
accommodation or lodging prior to our small group’s
arrival to ensure enhanced safety and health protocols • Your Program Director will be prepared to make
for cleaning and sanitization of rooms, public areas, and adjustments to the itinerary as needed during the
elevators have been properly followed. adventure.
• Your Program Director will contact you shortly after We will do all we can to ensure our travelers’ safety and
check in to ensure you are comfortable with the health while on our vacations, but we need your help.
cleanliness and sanitization of your room. We expect travelers to follow best health and hygiene
practices to prevent the spread of illness as well—from
• The staff at all of our accommodations and lodgings washing your hands regularly, covering your mouth when
will have 24/7 access to a doctor or medical staff, should coughing or sneezing, and following social distancing
medical assistance be needed. guidelines. By working together, we can create a safer
travel experience for everyone.
LOCAL RESTAURANTS
• Whenever possible, meals in restaurants will be
individually plated and served.
• Buffet breakfasts will still be available and the dining
staff will follow best health and hygiene practices to
ensure food safety and prevent the spread of illness.
Learn about all of the safety measures we are implementing on our vacations at
www.gct.com/health-safety-guidelines
5
Ireland in Depth
Ireland: Dublin, Kilkenny, Cork, Killarney, Galway
Countries: 1 | Cities: 5
Cliffs of Moher, County Clare, Ireland
IT’S INCLUDED
15 days from $2995
Including international airfare • Choose to purchase Grand Circle’s airfare, and your airport transfers,
government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges are included. Or, make
from New York
your own air arrangements
Travel from only $200 per day
• Accommodations for 13 nights in comfortable rooms with private baths
• 22 meals: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 6 dinners (including 1 Home-
14 days from $2195 Hosted Lunch)
Tour only
• 16 included features: 12 guided tours and 4 exclusive Discovery Series
Travel from only $157 per day events: Hurling demonstration • Home-Hosted Lunch • Irish history &
culture discussion • Sheep farm experience
Single Supplement: FREE
• Exclusive services of a local Grand Circle Program Director (assigned to no
more than 42 travelers)
MAXIMIZE YOUR • Gratuities on your main trip for local guides and motorcoach drivers
DISCOVERIES & VALUE • Personal headset for all included and optional tours on your main trip
• Private motorcoach land travel
OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS
• Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per person, including tips
Northern Ireland
5 nights pre-trip from $1195
• 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward your next trip
Glasgow, Scotland
5 nights post-trip from $1695
To get a richer view of the Included Features on this trip,
watch our Trip Itinerary video at www.gct.com/eid2021
Ireland in Depth
6
IRELAND IN DEPTH NEW: SAVE UP TO 10% WITH OUR GOOD BUY PLAN
The earlier you reserve your departure and pay in full, the more
2021 DATES & PRICES you’ll save—up to 10%—plus, you’ll lock in your price.
For details, visit www.gct.com/gbd
DEPART FROM: MARCH APRIL MAY 5-15 MAY 19-26 JUNE JULY AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER
New York $2995 $3795 $4095 $4145 $4395 $4595 $4495 $4295 $3995
Orlando, Seattle, Tampa $3095 $3895 $4195 $4245 $4495 $4695 $4595 $4395 $4095
Baltimore, Miami,
Minneapolis, Newark,
$3195 $3995 $4295 $4345 $4595 $4795 $4695 $4495 $4195
Philadelphia, Portland,
San Diego
Atlanta, Boston, Chicago,
Dallas, Houston, Phoenix, $3295 $4095 $4395 $4445 $4695 $4895 $4795 $4595 $4295
San Francisco
Denver, Detroit, Los Angeles,
$3395 $4195 $4495 $4545 $4795 $4995 $4895 $4695 $4395
Washington, DC
Additional departure cities are available. Upgrade to Business Class may be available for the international portion of your flight. Call for details.
MAY JUNE;
MARCH APRIL MAY 5-15 19-26 SEPTEMBER JULY AUGUST OCTOBER
Land tour only $2195 $2895 $3195 $3145 $3395 $3595 $3495 $3095
EID2021
Prices are per person. Airfare prices include government taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges. All prices and availability are effective as of the date of
this publication, and are subject to change without notice. Standard Terms & Conditions apply, please visit our website: www.gct.com/tc. Every effort
has been made to produce this information accurately. We reserve the right to correct errors.
For specific departure dates, current availability, and detailed pricing, visit www.gct.com/eid2021pricing
NEW RISK-FREE BOOKING
POLICY: RESERVE WITH BEST PRICE FREE SINGLE
CONFIDENCE GUARANTEE SUPPLEMENTS
on your main trip and extensions.
We will waive any change fees
We promise you won’t find a lower We don't charge you more for your
for existing or new 2020 and 2021
reservations if you transfer to another price on a comparable vacation— own room.
departure date by 12/31/20. if you do, we’ll match it.
Each departure has limited solo
See details at www.gct.com/ See details at www.gct.com/bpg space available—call today.
flexible-booking.
Publication Date 5/21/20
1-800-221-2610 • www.gct.com/eid2021
7
Freedom to Personalize Your Experience
Your Choice, Your Trip, Your Way
Extending the length of your stay in a destination can improve your overall travel experience—and allow you to seek out
even more eye-opening cultural interactions. Your local Program Director will help to ensure you’re getting the personalized
experiences you’re looking for. In fact, 85% of our travelers are personalizing their experience in more than 85 countries.
Call us at 1-800-221-2610 to discuss personalizing your vacation today or visit us online at www.gct.com/personalize-eid2021.
Maximize Your Time & Value: 55% of our travelers Back-to-Back Trips: 90% of our travelers who
choose to take a pre- or post-trip extension combined two vacations rated it excellent
See more of the world and maximize your value by taking One of the most common vacations travelers combine with
advantage of your already-included airfare. On this this one is England, Scotland & Wales. If you’re already
vacation, you can choose between Northern Ireland and overseas, why not see more of the region and avoid another
Glasgow, Scotland. international flight? Plus, you'll save $250 per person when
you reserve two trips right after one another.
“Break Away” Options: 30% of our travelers choose
to arrive early or stay late in their destination Air Options: More than 50% of our travelers
Before or after your main tour or trip extension, “break customize their flights
away” anywhere you'd like to go to do more exploring We make every effort to provide you with non-stop
entirely on your own. flights and acceptable connection times to and from
your destination. You also have several other ways you can
Please note: Our Travel Counselors can help you plan your
personalize your air itinerary, including choosing your
airfare if you'd like to “break away,” however since this option
departure city and airline, upgrading your seat, and more.
is completely on your own, you will need to plan your own
accommodations, meals, tours, and transfers.
Glasgow Cathedral, Glasgow, Scotland
Ireland in Depth
8
Ireland in Depth
2021
15-Day Land Tour
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
PRE-TRIP
Northern Ireland
POST-TRIP
Glasgow, Scotland
Your Day-to-Day Itinerary
9
GRAND CIRCLE TRAVEL
Grand Circle Travel, founded in 1958 to serve the American Association for Retired Persons (AARP), is
the leader in international travel and discovery for Americans over age 50. Grand Circle vacations have
been recommended by The New York Times, Conde Nast Traveler, The Los Angeles Times, Travel + Leisure,
The Wall Street Journal, Arthur Frommer’s Budget Travel, and others. But our most impressive reviews
come from our travelers. More than two million people have traveled with us, and the overwhelming
majority say they’d gladly do so again.
LAND TOUR
During your Grand Circle vacation, you’ll have reliable assistance available at all times from an on-site
ORFDO*UDQG&LUFOH7UDYHO3URJUDP'LUHFWRUWKURXJKRXW\RXUWULS+HRUVKHLVͬXHQWLQ(QJOLVKDQGFDQ
give you an inside perspective on your destinations. You will also be supported along the way by local
tour guides, who lead you expertly through particular sites and cities.
Many Program Directors are graduates of professional education programs for travel guides. In
addition, they receive specialized training directly from Grand Circle, based on what we’ve learned
from past travelers about how to make the trip most enjoyable. Your Program Director offers both
a deep knowledge of the region and a commitment to make this a very pleasant, informative, and
rewarding travel experience for you.
He or she will provide sightseeing trips, handle all travel details, reserve optional tours you choose to
take, oversee your Discovery Series events, and provide any other assistance you may need.
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Choose to purchase Grand Circle’s airfare, » ([FOXVLYHVHUYLFHVRIDORFDOGrand
and your airport transfers, government Circle Program Director (assigned to no
taxes, fees, and airline fuel surcharges more than 42 travelers)
are included. Or, make your own air » Gratuities on your main trip for local guides
arrangements and motorcoach drivers
» Accommodations for 13 nights in » Personal headset for all included and
comfortable rooms with private baths optional tours on your main trip
» 22 meals: 13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 6 » Private motorcoach land travel
dinners (including 1 Home-Hosted Lunch)
» Baggage handling for 1 piece of luggage per
» 16 included features: 12 guided tours and 4 person, including tips
exclusive Discovery Series events: Hurling
» 5% Frequent Traveler Credit toward
demonstration • Home-Hosted Lunch •
your next trip
Irish history & culture discussion • Sheep
farm experience
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
10WHAT THIS TRIP IS LIKE
GROUP SIZE
» A maximum of 42 travelers, led by a local
Grand Circle Program Director
PACING
» 5 locations in 14 days
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
» Walk 2 miles unassisted and participate in
1.5-2.5 hours of physical activities daily,
including stairs
» Agility, balance, and stair-climbing are
required to kiss the Blarney Stone
» Not accessible for travelers using
wheelchairs or scooters
» Travelers using walkers, crutches, or other
mobility aids must travel with a companion
who can assist them
» We reserve the right for Program Directors
to restrict participation, or in some
circumstances send travelers home, if their
limitations impact the group’s experience
TERRAIN & TRANSPORTATION
» Uneven walking surfaces, including
unpaved paths, hills, stairs, and
cobblestones
» Travel by 45-seat motorcoach,
ferry, and boat
CLIMATE
» Daytime temperatures range from 48-67°F
during touring season
» June-August are the warmest months
» Weather in Ireland can be unpredictable and
change quickly
» Rain is common and should be expected
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
11Ireland in Depth
2021
As you travel through Ireland, delve deeply into a land rich in history, legend, stirring music, and verdant
landscapes. Begin your journey in Dublin, Ireland’s cosmopolitan capital, before continuing on to the historic
city of Kilkenny. From there, you’re off to Cork and its nearby seaport of Cobh, from which thousands of Irish
emigrated during the Potato Famine. You’ll also visit Killarney and the 110-mile Ring of Kerry, boasting some
of Ireland’s most astonishing scenery, before exploring the eerie landscape of the Burren and the captivating
Cliffs of Moher. Finally, end your Ireland guided tour in lovely Galway, where there’s a tune playing around
every corner. This Ireland tour is an in-depth discovery of the Emerald Isle—its lore, its lands, and above all,
the gregarious charm of its people.
EXTEND YOUR TRIP
Northern Ireland
5 NIGHTS PRE-TRIP
Northern Ireland beckons with rich history and natural beauty. In a truly timeless extension, you’ll gaze in
wonder at the curious rock formation of the Giant’s Causeway and bow your head in a rustic churchyard,
pausing along the way to stroll the cobbled streets of Londonderry. You’ll also tour historic Drogheda, the site
of the Battle of the Boyne, and more.
Glasgow, Scotland
5 NIGHTS POST-TRIP
Experience the warmth and charm of Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city. Study its contrast of modernist chic
and old-fashioned Victorian elegance, and expand your Scottish discoveries with day trips to peaceful
Loch Lomond, the largest lake in all of Great Britain, and the birthplace of Robert Burns, one of Scotland’s
national heroes.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
12DETAILED ITINERARY
Day 1 Depart U.S. Day 3 Explore Dublin
Depart from the U.S. today and travel to • Destination: Dublin
Ireland, arriving on Day 2. Please refer to your • Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
individual air itinerary for exact departure and • Accommodations: Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane
arrival times. or similar
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Day 2 Arrive Dublin, Ireland
Morning: Begin your discoveries of Dublin,
• Destination: Dublin Ireland’s political and cultural center. Dublin
• Accommodations: Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane is amazingly rich in literary history—Yeats,
or similar Shaw, Beckett, Joyce and other literary
Activity Note: Your Program Director may be immortals have walked its streets—and its
traveling on the Northern Ireland pre-trip architecture and museum collections are
extension, in which case you will be assisted second to none.
by a Grand Circle hotel representative until
Begin your discoveries with a guided panoramic
your Program Director arrives with the rest of
tour of the city’s sights, which will include a
your group.
stop at Trinity College to view the ancient Book
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Dublin today of Kells. Believed to have been crafted in AD
and begin your Ireland tour. A Grand Circle 800, the Book of Kells is a stunningly illustrated
representative will meet you at the airport collection of the four Gospels of the New
and escort you to your hotel, where you’ll Testament.
meet your Program Director and your fellow
After your tour, you’ll have the rest of the day
travelers, including those returning from their
to spend in Dublin as you wish.
Northern Ireland pre-trip extension. After your
arrival, your Program Director will take you Lunch/Afternoon: Yours to do as you please.
for a vicinity walk to explore the area around Your Program Director will be happy to
your hotel, and provide suggestions on how to recommend a spot for lunch and free time
maximize your day and explore on your own. activities.
Tonight, get to know your fellow travelers over Dinner: Get to know your fellow travelers
D:HOFRPH'ULQNDQGEULHͫQJ during an included Welcome Dinner at
your hotel.
Dinner/Evening: Tonight is yours to relax or
explore independently, with dinner on your Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
recommendations. Program Director for recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
13Day 4 Dublin • Visit Guinness Storehouse Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
• Optional Traditional Irish Night discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
• Destination: Dublin
recommendations.
• Included Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodations: Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane Or, join us for an optional Traditional Irish Night,
or similar for a hearty three-course meal accompanied
by lively tunes from local musicians. Feel free
Breakfast: At the hotel.
to raise your voice and join in the chorus as the
Morning: Learn about the history of Ireland’s merriment takes you away into the evening.
famous brew during a tour of the Guinness
Storehouse, a seven-story museum located in Day 5 Dublin • Visit Glendalough • Avoca
a former brewing factory inside the St. James’s Handweavers • Kilkenny
Gate Brewery. You’ll also have a chance to
• Destination: Kilkenny
observe the technique behind pouring a perfect
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
glass of “the black stuff” during a pint-pulling
• Accommodations: Pembroke Hotel or similar
demonstration, and enjoy a glass on the house
at the Storehouse’s Gravity Bar at the top level, Breakfast: At the hotel.
which features 360-degree panoramic views
Morning: Depart for Kilkenny, stopping along
of Dublin.
the way at Glendalough to tour the ruins of the
After your tour, the rest of the day is yours to monastery, founded in the sixth century by
spend discovering Dublin at your own pace. St. Kevin.
Lunch/Afternoon: Yours to do as you please. Among the monks’ great achievements was
Your Program Director will be happy to manuscript writing and copying, including
recommend a spot for lunch and free time the creation of the spectacular Book of
activities. Glendalough around 1131. Now at the Bodleian
Library at Oxford, the book—containing
Perhaps you’ll wander to St. Stephen’s Green,
historical chronicles, genealogies, and
a 22-acre public park designed in the Georgian
religious poems—is one of the most important
era. Its history is as rich as its landscaping.
and beautiful Irish manuscripts from the
Among many points of interest, a memorial
pre-Norman period.
garden to W. B. Yeats features a Henry Moore
sculpture. Then, continue on to the river town of Avoca,
made famous by the Avoca Handweavers. This
Or maybe you’ll visit the National Library of
clothing manufacturer is Ireland’s oldest line
Ireland, whose collection includes manuscripts
of business, active since the early 1700s. Here,
spanning a thousand years. The library
you’ll meet with some of the handweavers
regularly exhibits selections from its archive of
when you visit Avoca’s mill, which happens to
historic and modern Irish photographs, prints,
be the oldest of its class in all of Ireland.
and drawings. You could also choose to follow
the enlightening route walked by Leopold Lunch: On your own in Avoca—ask your
Bloom in Joyce’s UlyssesLQFOXGLQJ(FFOHV6WUHHW Program Director for local restaurant
and Bachelor’s Walk. recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
14Afternoon: Continue on to Kilkenny, where Lunch: Conclude your tour of Kilkenny with an
you’ll arrive later today and check into included lunch at a local restaurant.
your hotel.
Afternoon: Free for your own discoveries—ask
Dinner: Included at your hotel tonight. your Program Director for recommendations.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
Program Director for recommendations. own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
recommendations.
Day 6 Explore Kilkenny • Hurling
demonstration Day 7 Kilkenny • Visit Waterford Crystal
• Destination: Kilkenny factory • Cahir Castle • Cork
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch • Destination: Cork
• Accommodations: Pembroke Hotel or similar • Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
• Accommodations: Maldron Hotel South Mall
Breakfast: At the hotel.
or similar
Morning: Partake in an exclusive Discovery
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Series event as you learn about hurling, an
energetic and uniquely Irish sport similar to Morning: Travel from Kilkenny to the city of
ͫHOGKRFNH\RUODFURVVHZLWKWUDGLWLRQDO*DHOLF Cork today, stopping en route to visit Waterford
roots. The Irish have been playing the game and Cahir Castle.
since the Celts invented it 2,000 years ago, and
In Waterford, you’ll tour the Waterford
take an immense amount of pride in the game.
Crystal factory, prized the world over as the
You’ll learn all about the game as a former standard for the highest quality lead-cut
player demonstrates his skillful moves, and crystal. Founded in 1783 by George and William
you’ll watch as an expert craftsman masterfully Penrose, the Waterford branch of the company
transforms a plank of ash into a hurley (the is now part of a worldwide operation that
stick used to play the game) in his workshop. includes such notable brands as Wedgwood and
Royal Doulton.
Then, explore Kilkenny, a medieval city
straddling the banks of the River Nore, on You’ll learn about the organization’s history,
an included walking tour with your Program and witness a glassblowing demonstration
Director. Your tour will take you to the before free time to explore further or shop their
sprawling gardens of Kilkenny Castle, an ͫQHSURGXFWV
800-year-old stronghold that lords over the
Lunch: Depart for Cahir, and enjoy an
city center. Though originally designed to
independent lunch upon arrival. Your Program
defend a crossing over the River Nore, the
Director can offer a number of restaurants to
castle’s grounds today provide a peaceful place
choose from.
for locals and visitors alike to stroll about
DQGDGPLUHWKHLPSUHVVLYHDUWLVDQDOͬRULVWU\ Afternoon:(QMR\DWRXURI&DKLU&DVWOH,Q
on display. its time (13th-15th centuries), Cahir Castle
featured a state-of-the-art defensive design,
and is now one of Ireland’s best-preserved
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
15castles. Situated on a rocky island in the River the last place the RMS Titanic dropped anchor
Suir, the castle still boasts its keep, tower, and before heading across the Atlantic on her tragic
much of its original structure. The last Lord journey in 1912.
Cahir died in 1961, at which point the castle
Here you can also pay tribute to the victims
came into state stewardship.
of the RMS Lusitania at a quayside memorial.
Arrive in Cork late this afternoon, where, after In 1915, this ship was sunk by a German
checking in to your hotel, you may choose submarine off the coast of Cobh, with a loss of
to relax, explore independently, or join an 1,196 passengers, including 127 Americans. This
optional orientation walk around the city with action helped bring America into World War I.
your Program Director.
Lunch: Learn about contemporary life in
Dinner:(QMR\DQLQFOXGHGGLQQHUZLWK\RXU Ireland—and savor a traditional meal—during
fellow travelers tonight. a Home-Hosted Lunch in a local home, an
exclusive Discovery Series event.
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your Afternoon: In the late afternoon, return to
Program Director for recommendations. Cork, where the rest of the day is yours to
explore independently.
Day 8 Cork • Explore Cobh • Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
Home-Hosted Lunch discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
• Destination: Cork own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch recommendations.
• Accommodations: Maldron Hotel South Mall
or similar Day 9 Cork • Visit Blarney Castle • Sheep
Breakfast: At the hotel. farm experience • Irish history & culture
conversation • Killarney
Morning: This morning, ride to Cobh
• Destination: Killarney
(pronounced “cove”). This picturesque town
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
long served as the main harbor for the city
of Cork, and is dominated by the spire of St. • Accommodations: Killarney Towers
Colman’s Cathedral, which contains the largest or similar
carillon in Ireland. A local historian will give Activity Note: Today’s exclusive Discovery
you some insight into Cobh’s history during an Series farm visit is an outdoor event and is
included tour this morning. weather-dependent. It will not be conducted in
wet, muddy conditions.
Cobh was a major emigration point for families
who left the country during the Great Potato Breakfast: At the hotel.
Famine, when some two-and-a-half million
Morning: Bid Cork farewell and begin your
emigrants departed this port for North
transfer to Killarney.
America. Here you’ll discover the story of Irish
emigration and the era of the great ocean liners, On the way, stop for a visit to Blarney Castle,
when Cobh was a very active port. This was where a 129-step staircase leads up a tower
to the famed Blarney Stone. According to
legend, anyone who manages the backward
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
16lean to kiss it receives the “gift of the gab”—a Day 10 Killarney • Optional Dingle
smooth, soothing way with words that at best Experience tour
mean nothing.
• Destination: Killarney
7KHZRUG̡EODUQH\̢ZDVFRLQHGE\(OL]DEHWK, • Included Meals: Breakfast
to describe her endless and fruitless discussions • Accommodations: Killarney Towers
with Dermot McCarthy over his surrender of or similar
the castle to the Crown. The McCarthys built
Breakfast: At the hotel.
the present castle with its 85-foot-high keep in
1446, replacing an earlier castle. Morning: Free for your own discoveries—ask
your Program Director for recommendations.
Though the Blarney Stone gets all the publicity,
the castle’s tower house and surrounding Or, join a full-day optional tour as we venture
gardens are superb in their own right. The RXWDORQJWKH'LQJOH3HQLQVXODDinner/Evening: Continue making independent Upon returning to Killarney, you’ll have the rest
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your of the day at leisure to explore independently.
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant Perhaps you’ll choose to ride on a jaunting car
recommendations. (a traditional Irish horse-drawn carriage) for a
tour of the lush forested environs of Killarney
Day 11 Killarney • Explore Ring of National Park.
Kerry • Optional National Folk Theatre Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
performance discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
• Destination: Killarney own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch recommendations.
• Accommodations: Killarney Towers Or, join us for an optional performance by
or similar the National Folk Theatre, the country’s
Please note: The National Folk Theatre optional only repertory company, with an included
tour is available on late May-early September three-course dinner. Using traditional
departures only. Irish disciplines, the group offers a cultural
experience dramatizing the essence of
Breakfast: At the hotel. Irish culture.
Morning: On this morning’s included tour,
you’ll discover the Ring of Kerry, a drive that Day 12 Killarney • Visit Cliffs of Moher &
traces the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula the Burren • Galway
and offers breathtaking views. There is
• Destination: Galway
always something new to appreciate in the
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
combination of ocean, islands, mountains,
• Accommodations: The Galmont Hotel
light, and ever-changing weather patterns. We
or similar
ride most of the way, making scenic stops.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
7KHͫUVWWRZQDORQJWKHURXWHLV.LOORUJOLQ
where an elegant eight-arched bridge crosses Morning: Bid farewell to Killarney and begin
the River Laune. Then you’ll advance to the your transfer to Galway, stopping along the
ZDWHU̞VHGJHDW.HOOVDQDWWUDFWLYHͫVKLQJ way to discover a few more treasures of the
village with panoramic viewing points. (PHUDOG,VOH
Lunch: On the return to Killarney, your route First, ferry across the River Shannon and drive
takes you through the picturesque village of along the coast of County Clare to visit the
Sneem, where you’ll have an included lunch. majestic Cliffs of Moher. These precipitous
rock formations—towering more than 700 feet
Afternoon: Make your way back to Killarney, above the crashing ocean surf at their highest
pausing along the way to enjoy the scenery point—offer breathtaking panoramic views of
of Ladies View, named after Queen Victoria’s Ireland’s Atlantic coast, and provide nesting
ladies-in-waiting. The vistas of lakes and sites for tens of thousands of seabirds. If the
PRXQWDLQVUHPDLQPDJQLͫFHQWWRGD\ ZLQGLVVWURQJWKHVHDIRDPDQGVSUD\ͬLHVXS
and over the cliffs along with the rain; while on
clear sunny days, fantastic views can be seen
from every angle.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
18Over the centuries, people have also made their Day 13 Galway • Optional Connemara &
mark with towers, quarries, and well-worn Kylemore Abbey tour
paths, but they’re almost lost in the scale and
• Destination: Galway
grandeur of the sea cliffs. One that does stand
out is O’Brien’s Tower, a huge structure built to • Included Meals: Breakfast
house the guests of Cornelius O’Brien, County • Accommodations: The Galmont Hotel
Clare’s legendary Member of Parliament from or similar
the 1830s until he died in 1857. Breakfast: At the hotel.
Lunch: You’ll have time for lunch on your own Morning: Spend the day at leisure, exploring
at the Cliffs of Moher. Galway on your own. The city’s compact center
spans both sides of the River Corrib. In the
Afternoon: Depart the cliffs and travel along a
FHQWHURI(\UH6TXDUHVWDQGVWKH4XLQFHQWHQQLDO
scenic coastal road to discover another natural
Fountain, constructed in 1984 to mark the
Irish wonder, the Burren. Its name is derived
500th anniversary of the Royal Charter granted
from a Gaelic word meaning “stony place,”
by King Richard III that created Galway as an
and it is like no other place in Ireland. Instead
independent city-state.
RISHDWERJVDQGSDVWXUHV\RX̞OOͫQGDVXUUHDO
moonscape full of huge limestone crags. Nearby are some of the oldest streets in
Galway, narrow winding lanes that curve
Despite this seemingly inhospitable setting,
in and around old wooden buildings, often
a diverse array of plant life—including wild
meandering off toward the Corrib and the
orchids and rock rose—thrives here. Alpine
GRFNVLunch: On your own—ask your Program times. Today, Galway remains a merchant
Director for local restaurant recommendations. town, but it is also a burgeoning center for
Or, if you’ve chosen our optional tour, you’ll technology and a lively bohemian mecca.
enjoy an included lunch and Irish coffee during
Lunch/Afternoon: Yours to spend in Galway as
your fjord cruise.
you please. Your Program Director will be happy
Afternoon: Today’s optional tour continues to recommend a spot for lunch and free time
as you travel through the Inagh Valley to the activities.
coast, where you’ll see the deserted village of
Dinner: Gather with your Program Director and
Clough Na Mara and discover a sense of the
fellow travelers at your hotel for an included
hardship the Irish experienced during the
Farewell Dinner.
famines of the 18th and 19th centuries. Today,
only the shells of their homes remain—set Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
amidst hundreds of miles of stone walls. rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
Program Director for recommendations.
Return to Galway late this afternoon.
Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent Day 15 Galway • Return to U.S.
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
• Included Meals: Breakfast
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
recommendations. Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: After breakfast, transfer to the
Day 14 Explore Galway DLUSRUWIRU\RXUͬLJKWKRPH2UFURVVWKHVHD
• Destination: Galway to join our optional post-trip extension in
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner Glasgow, Scotland.
• Accommodations: The Galmont Hotel
or similar
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Join your Program Director on a
walking tour through Galway. This enchanting
city is a medley of narrow lanes, wood and
stone shop fronts, and bustling restaurants
and pubs. Originally presided over by the
local O’Flahertys, Galway was taken over by
Anglo-Normans and became a thriving center
of trade and commerce by the 14th century.
Your tour will take you to Galway Bay, which
Spanish galleons once regularly called “home”
during their western voyages. Galway declined
after being damaged in battle with the forces of
Oliver Cromwell in the mid-17th century, but
regained its prosperity and vitality in modern
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
20OPTIONAL TOURS
During your trip you will be able to book optional tours directly with your Program Director. He or she
ZLOODVN\RXWRFRQͫUPWKHSD\PHQWIRUWKHVHWRXUVE\ͫOOLQJRXWDSD\PHQWIRUP2SWLRQDOWRXUVFDQ
only be purchased with a credit or debit card. We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover credit cards.
We also accept Visa and MasterCard debit cards, but it must be a debit card that allows you to sign for
purchases.
In order to correctly process these charges, there can be a delay of 2-3 months from the date of your
return for the charges to be posted to your account. Therefore we ask that you use a card that will not
expire in the 2-3 months following your return.
Please note: Optional tour prices include gratuities for local guides and motorcoach drivers, are listed in U.S.
dollar estimates determined at the time of publication, and are subject to change. Optional tours may vary.
Traditional Irish Night National Folk Theatre performance
(Day 4 $95 per person) (Day 11 $95 per person)
(QMR\DQLJKWRIcraic (a ubiquitous Irish (QMR\DSHUIRUPDQFHRISiamsa Tíre—the
ZRUGZLWKQRUHDO(QJOLVKHTXLYDOHQWORRVHO\ National Folk Theatre of Ireland, and the
translated to “having a good time”) at a local country’s only repertory company. Using
restaurant as you savor a hearty three-course traditional disciplines, Siamsa Tíre offers a
dinner, followed by an evening of lively cultural experience dramatizing the essence of
entertainment. A group of local musicians takes Irish culture. You’ll also enjoy a three-course
the stage after dinner to play some traditional dinner before the show.
Irish music into the night.
Please note that this optional tour is available on
late May-early September departures only.
Dingle Experience This optional tour is available on late May-early
(Day 10 $95 per person) September departures only.
Venture out along the Dingle Peninsula,
stopping at Tralee’s Kerry County Museum,
Connemara & Kylemore Abbey
where you’ll experience a re-created medieval
(Day 13 $95 per person)
village. Then follow the rugged peninsula,
tracing a path of wild mountains and some Once home to more than two million Irish
of Ireland’s most spectacular coastline. One residents, Connemara retains its regional
of Ireland’s largest Irish-speaking areas, the heritage, as you will discover while rambling
wild landscapes continue to inspire writers around its lakes, mountains, and bogs. Visit
DQGDUWLVWV:H̞OOVWRSLQWKHͫVKLQJSRUWRI the former Gothic mansion of Mitchell Henry,
'LQJOHWRHQMR\ORFDOO\FDXJKWͫVK DQGFKLSV now the home of Benedictine nuns and better
for lunch. known as Kylemore Abbey. You will have
time to wander both the mansion and the
Victorian gardens. Then enjoy lunch as you
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
21cruise Killary Harbor, a charming fjord-like
inlet. Lastly, you’ll see the deserted village of
Clough Na Mara, where only shells of 18th-
and 19th-century houses remain—set amid
hundreds of miles of stone walls.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
22PRE-TRIP
Northern Ireland
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 5 nights » ([FOXVLYHVHUYLFHVRIDORFDO*UDQG&LUFOH
» 6 meals: 5 breakfasts and 1 dinner Program Director
» 7 included tours: Belfast, Giant’s » Gratuities on this extension for local guides
Causeway, Londonderry, Ulster American and motorcoach drivers
Folk Park, Monasterboice, Drogheda, Battle » All transfers
of the Boyne site
PRE-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Northern Ireland beckons with rich history and natural beauty. In a truly timeless extension, you’ll gaze in
wonder at the curious rock formation of the Giant’s Causeway and bow your head in a rustic churchyard,
pausing along the way to stroll the cobbled streets of Londonderry. You’ll also tour historic Drogheda, the site
of the Battle of the Boyne, and more.
Day 1 Depart U.S. in the development of industries like linen,
rope-making, and shipbuilding, with the
'HSDUWIURPWKH86WRGD\RQ\RXUͬLJKWWR world’s largest dry dock. The city’s Victorian
Belfast, Northern Ireland. heritage can be seen in the stately buildings of
this area and at Belfast’s Grand Opera House.
Day 2 Arrive Belfast, Northern Ireland
This afternoon, get acquainted with the area
• Destination: Belfast
around your hotel on an orientation walk.
• $FFRPPRGDWLRQV (XURSD%HOIDVWRUVLPLODU The balance of the day is free for you to relax
Breakfast: At the hotel. DIWHU\RXURYHUVHDVͬLJKW*DWKHULQWKHODWH
afternoon with your fellow travelers for a
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Belfast today. :HOFRPH'ULQNDQGEULHͫQJIURP\RXU3URJUDP
You’ll be met at the airport by a Grand Circle Director.
representative who will assist you with the
transfer to your hotel. Dinner/Evening: Tonight is yours to relax or
explore independently, with dinner on your
Belfast is a robust northern metropolis of own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
nearly half a million people. This is a scenic recommendations.
city, situated between the waters of Belfast
Lough, the Belfast Hills, and the forested slopes
of Cave Hill. Belfast was the catalyst of the
industrial revolution in Ulster, and specialized
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
23Day 3 Explore Belfast Day 4 Belfast • Explore Derry
• Destination: Belfast • Destination: Derry
• Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner • Included Meals: Breakfast
• $FFRPPRGDWLRQV (XURSD%HOIDVWRUVLPLODU • Accommodations: City Hotel Derry or similar
Breakfast: At the hotel. Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: On a panoramic city tour this Morning: Today, we travel from Belfast to
morning, you’ll see Belfast’s compact center Londonderry, or simply Derry as the locals refer
in Donegall Square, which is dominated by the to it. On the way, we’ll stop to view the Giant’s
elaborate City Hall. Causeway, an amazing geological formation of
approximately 40,000 basalt stones—some as
You’ll also drive through West Belfast’s
tall as 130 feet, and mostly hexagonal in shape.
Protestant neighborhood of Shankill Road, and
the Catholic neighborhood of Falls Road, where As Northern Ireland’s premiere landmark, and
large, vivid murals painted on the sides of D81(6&2:RUOG+HULWDJH6LWH\RX̞OOEHIUHH
buildings express the feelings that still run deep to decide for yourself whether the Causeway is
on both sides. Though the names of these areas DUHVXOWRIDFFHOHUDWHGFRROLQJRIODYDRXWͬRZV
were much in the news during “the Troubles,” 60 million years ago. Or is it the work of the
the gate in the Peace Wall between them now legendary Irish giant, Finn MacCool, in his
stands open. attempts to a) woo a distant lady giant, or b)
meet a Scottish giant in battle to determine who
Lunch/Afternoon: Yours to do as you please.
was the stronger giant?
Your Program Director will be happy to
recommend a spot for lunch and free time Lunch: On your own at Giant’s Causeway—ask
activities. your Program Director for recommendations.
The city’s main shopping district is just Afternoon: You’ll arrive in Derry in the
north of Donegall Square along several afternoon, where you’ll set off on a guided walk
pedestrian-only streets. Belfast’s most famous atop the city’s walls, which have stood around
historic pub, the Crown Liquor Saloon, is also in the city since the 17th century.
this area (it’s always packed, but worth a look
Dinner/Evening:(DUO\WKLVHYHQLQJ\RXPD\
for its gaslit Victorian architecture even if you
join your Program Director for a vicinity walk
can’t get a seat).
in the neighborhood surrounding your hotel.
Or you might head for Belfast’s Golden Mile The remainder of the day is yours to spend at
neighborhood or the beautiful Botanic Gardens, leisure. Dinner will be on your own.
with the campus of Queen’s University nearby.
Dinner:(QMR\DQLQFOXGHG:HOFRPH'LQQHUDW Day 5 Derry • Inishowen Peninsula
your hotel tonight. optional tour
• Destination: Derry
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the
• Included Meals: Breakfast
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your
• Accommodations: City Hotel Derry or similar
Program Director for recommendations.
Breakfast: At the hotel.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
24Morning: Today is yours to spend in Derry at Day 6 Derry • Visit Ulster American Folk
leisure. You might visit the Tower Museum, Park • Monasterboice • Drogheda
with exhibits illustrating the maritime history
• Destination: Drogheda
of Derry, or the Guildhall built in 1890 and in
the Gothic architectural style, similar to its • Included Meals: Breakfast
London counterpart. Today, it’s the seat of the • Accommodations: The d Hotel or similar
local government. Breakfast: At the hotel.
Or, join an optional full-day excursion to Morning: Set out to discover the Ulster
the Inishowen Peninsula, a peaceful place of American Folk Park on an included, self-guided
pastoral solitude jutting out into the Atlantic on tour. This fascinating facility tells the story of
Ireland’s northern edge. First, you’ll visit the emigration from Ulster to America in the 18th
Monreagh Heritage Centre, a small museum and 19th centuries and provides visitors with a
whose artifacts and exhibits tell the story of “living history” experience on its outdoor site.
the Ulster Scots, who migrated from Great
Britain during the Plantation of Ulster in the In the Folk Park, costumed guides and
17th century. craftspeople recreate the past in an outdoor
museum that includes a weaver’s cottage,
Next, discover the Grianan of Aileach, an Iron forge, schoolhouse, log cabin, church,
Age stone ring fort resting atop a high hill. and a 19th-century Ulster street. The Ship
You’ll learn about the origins of the structure, and Dockside Gallery features a full-size
which dates back to 1700 BC, and admire the reconstruction of an early 19th-century sailing
views from the hilltop vantage. ship of the type that carried thousands of
emigrants across the Atlantic. A major indoor
Then you’ll travel to Fort Dunree, where you’ll
H[KLELWLRQ̡(PLJUDQWV̢FRPSOHPHQWVWKH
WRXUWKHFRDVWDOIRUWLͫFDWLRQ6LWXDWHGRQWRSRI
outdoor site.
a cliff, Fort Dunree has protected Lough Swilly
(a glacial fjord leading to the Atlantic) from Lunch: Your self-guided tour of the folk park
invaders over the centuries. The fort boasts includes time for an independent lunch.
one of Ireland’s largest collections of coastal
artillery, as well as breathtaking panoramic Afternoon: Head south to Drogheda, your
views over the water. next destination, stopping on the way for a
visit to Monasterboice for an included tour.
Lunch: On your own—ask your Program Monasterboice is an important Irish spiritual
Director for local restaurant recommendations. site dating back to the 5th century AD, founded
Or, if you’ve joined our optional tour, you’ll by Saint Buithe, a disciple of Saint Patrick.
enjoy an included lunch at Fort Dunree. The holy grounds were an important place of
congregation for local Christians for more than
Afternoon: Optional tour travelers will return
500 years.
to the hotel in Derry later this afternoon, where
the rest of the day is at leisure. As you tour the ruins of the monastic site, take
QRWHRILWVPDJQLͫFHQWKLJKFURVVHVFDUYHG
Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
with biblical images depicting scenes from
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
both the Old and New Testaments. The crosses
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant
combine form and function—in addition to
recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
25being beautiful works of art, they allowed by Oliver Cromwell during his Irish conquest
contemporary worshippers who could not read in 1649, and then again in 1690 following the
to follow along with the Bible’s stories. Battle of the Boyne, which you’ll learn more
about later today on another included tour.
Later today, you’ll arrive at your hotel in
Drogheda, where the rest of the day is at leisure. Lunch: On your own in Drogheda—ask
your Program Director for local restaurant
Dinner/Evening: Continue making independent
recommendations.
discoveries this evening, with dinner on your
own. Ask your Program Director for restaurant Afternoon:7UDYHOWRWKHEDWWOHͫHOGZKHUHWKH
recommendations. historic Battle of the Boyne was fought. Here
on the banks of the river, the forces of the
Day 7 Explore Drogheda • Battle of the 1HWKHUODQGV̞:LOOLDPRI2UDQJHDQG(QJODQG̞V
-DPHV,,GLGEDWWOHIRUWKHWKURQHRI(QJODQG
Boyne site • Dublin • Join main trip
6FRWODQGDQG,UHODQGLQDͫHUFHPHOHHZKLFK
• Destination: Dublin
would see the Protestant William emerge the
• Included Meals: Breakfast victor over the James’ Catholic forces.
Breakfast: At the hotel.POST-TRIP
Glasgow, Scotland
INCLUDED IN YOUR PRICE
» Accommodations for 5 nights » ([FOXVLYHVHUYLFHVRIDORFDO*UDQG&LUFOH
» 10 meals: 5 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners Program Director
» 3 included tours: Glasgow, Loch Lomond, » Gratuities for motorcoach drivers on
Robert Burns Museum your extension
» All transfers
POST-TRIP EXTENSION ITINERARY
Experience the warmth and charm of Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city. Study its contrast of modernist chic
and old-fashioned Victorian elegance, and expand your Scottish discoveries with day trips to peaceful
Loch Lomond, the largest lake in all of Great Britain, and the birthplace of Robert Burns, one of Scotland’s
national heroes.
Day 1 Galway, Ireland • Day 2 Explore Glasgow
Glasgow, Scotland • Destination: Glasgow
• Destination: Glasgow • Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
• Included Meals: Dinner • Accommodations: Radisson Blu Hotel
• Accommodations: Radisson Blu Hotel Glasgow or similar
Glasgow or similar Breakfast: At the hotel.
Morning: Transfer to the Dublin airport for
Morning: Tour Glasgow, the largest city in
\RXUͬLJKWWR*ODVJRZ6FRWODQG
Scotland. Glasgow’s incredible collection of
Lunch: On your own in the airport. museums, theaters, and performance halls and
seamless blend of Victorian and art nouveau
Afternoon: Arrive in Glasgow in the late architectural styles set the city apart as one of
afternoon. Check into your hotel and take a WKH8.̞VPRVWUHͫQHGGHVWLQDWLRQV
quick vicinity walk of your surroundings.
Its famously friendly people and wealth
Dinner: Get a taste of Glasgow’s of welcoming parks ensure a hospitable
history—literally—during an included dinner atmosphere. You’ll witness Glasgow’s many
at one of the city’s oldest restaurants. highlights this morning on an included city
Evening: You have the freedom to spend the tour with your Program Director, using a
rest of your evening as you wish—ask your hop-on/hop-off bus service.
Program Director for recommendations.
Itinerary Subject to Change. For Information or reservations, call 1-800-221-2610
27You can also read
