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Even though Ireland is small, figuring out how to get around the country can be daunting if you don't have a lot of experience driving outside of your home country (remember, everyone drives on the left in Ireland). If you choose not to drive a rental car, getting your head around the public transportation system can be equally frustrating.

If you do decide on public transport, you'll need to know that Ireland is a bit different than say other countries in Europe due to the fact that its rail system is not quite as extensive, and it doesn't reach some areas.

Here are 3 simple rules to follow when you're planning your trip.

1. Traveling between major cities in Ireland? Everything originates out of Dublin, which is fine if you want to get a train from Dublin to Galway, Cork, Killarney, Belfast or Limerick.

2. Want to explore smaller towns and villages? You'll need a car, or you'll need to know what buses to take. Ireland's national bus company, Bus Eireann, is the main provider and will take passengers from say Tralee to Dingle regularly as the train line does not extend into rural County Kerry. The Bus Eireann website does not work well outside of Ireland, so I'd urge you to wait until you get to Ireland to book your tickets. Most can be purchased at any bus station or at Busaras in Dublin. The website transportforireland.ie will be your friend as you plan your journeys across Ireland on buses and trains. Rail tickets can be booked on Irish Rail (works well in the US) and popular routes such as Dublin-Belfast, Dublin-Galway, Dublin-Killarney, and Dublin-Cork should be booked at least a week in advance. Rome2Rio also works well and Google Maps can also be helpful.

3. Traveling over water? Sometimes you might want to use a ferry. The most popular one is the Tarbert-Killimer ferry, which brings passengers and their cars from County Clare across the Shannon Estuary to County Kerry and back. It's a great way to avoid potential heavy traffic in and around Limerick and the views are well worth the 20-minute ride. I include more information on ferries in this article.

READ: Getting Around Ireland on Public Transportation – a guide to get you around Ireland on buses and trains.
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If you have any questions about getting around Ireland, be sure to reach out to me at colette@irelandonabudget.com.

Happy traveling,

Colette ☘️💚🇮🇪

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A Sneak Peek into Some of Ireland's Accommodation Offerings

Are you on the hunt for that perfect accommodation, one that you might want to splurge on, or maybe you're sticking to a strict budget? Either way, I'll be revealing some cool hotels and such over the next few months. Here are my 3 picks for May.

​Carrick-a-Rede Retreat, County Antrim

On a clear day, you can see Fair Head and Rathlin Island, as well as Scotland in the distance from this cool property in the Ballintoy area on the Causeway Coast, a hop and a skip away from the popular Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. There are three cabins here that come with all the amenities you'd expect in a modern hotel, including hot tubs with fabulous sea views, fully equipped kitchens, luxury bathrooms, and CCTV for additional security, just to name a few.

This accommodation is perfect for couples who are looking for a unique accommodation set in a glorious spot on the island of Ireland. This is not a budget accommodation, per se, with rates at £250-£260 per night, but worth it if you don't mind spending extra for a place where you can really soak in the beauty of this amazing region. Two-night stays are required. No dogs or children allowed. SPLURGE-WORTHY​

​Glashnacree House, County Kerry

Rent this lovely house that sits on a 10-acre estate in Sneem, County Kerry. Set in a picturesque location overlooking Kenmare Bay and amongst woodlands and tropical gardens, this Airbnb coach house consists of two en suite bedrooms, a kitchen, a large sitting room, with a flat screen TV and a wood-burning stove.

There's even an outdoor pool – rare for Ireland, I know. The pool is heated and open February through December and is covered when the weather is cooler, but slides open on warm, sunny days. Two-night stays are required. For two nights in July, the rate is $652. SPLURGE-WORTHY​

Éalú Lodge, Sligo

Decidedly cheaper than the previous two listings, Éalú Lodge is ideal if you want to avail of the outdoor experiences that are available in County Sligo, an often under-touristed region in Ireland. This new accommodation, located in the heart of Sligo town, is clean, sleek, and sustainable-friendly.

The accommodation is owned by the folks at Northwest Adventure Tours, so expect bike hire, stand-up paddle sessions and guided hikes among the mix of activities that you'll have access to. If you want to stay a bit longer in Sligo, consider the ideas that I provide in this blog post. Accommodation is around €85 per night. NICE BUDGET PICK

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Want to know more about WiFicandy? You can find out more
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Driving in Ireland 🚗🍀

Thinking about renting a car in Ireland but feeling unsure about driving on the opposite side of the road? You’re not alone. It’s one of the biggest concerns for visitors, especially those used to driving on the right. And let’s be honest, narrow country roads, roundabouts, and local driving quirks can be intimidating at first.

If you’re on the fence about whether to drive, that’s okay. It’s completely normal to feel a little hesitant. The good news? Most people adjust faster than they expect, especially when they’ve had a chance to prepare.

💡A Simple Way to Feel Comfortable Behind the Wheel

​The Tripiamo Driving Guide for Ireland, certified by an Irish driving school, helps you mentally adjust before you even arrive.

Get a driver’s-eye view of Irish roads with 360° video practice, so nothing feels unfamiliar when you get there.

Train your brain to stay on the left with simple tricks that make it feel natural.

Master roundabouts, road signs & rural driving so you can focus on the scenery, not second-guessing yourself.

Avoid expensive mistakes — like bus lane fines, speeding tickets, or wrong turns onto a one-way street.

Most travelers who use Tripiamo go from 36% confident to 86% confident because when you’ve seen it before, it’s way less intimidating.

And for less than the cost of a single ticket or fine, it’s a small investment for a stress-free trip.
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If you want to know even more, take a look at this YouTube video that explains the Tripiamo concept, then try it out for yourself.

🚙 If you’ve driven in Ireland, how long did it take you to feel comfortable? Do let me know by responding to this email.

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