Visiting Ireland ... Suggestions

[R.MAC12]

I'm an AZ'er from the states making a trip to Ireland in the beginning of November and wanted to see if there were any suggestions from my fellow AZ'ers across the pond regarding where I should visit while there. I'll be staying in Dublin but looking to make trips (thinking Kerry, Galway, Cork ...??). Would also appreciate understanding what rental car options are available from any locals. Any direction or assistance would greatly be appreciated. Cheers.

[jpcallmotor]

Fly into Dublin, which is a shithole but don't spend all your time there. Check out the Temple Bar area.

The west is where its at. Galway is my favorite destination in Ireland, nonstop nightlife, loads of good craic. Skip the touristy destinations and rent a car, take a trip through Connemara and see the Cliffs. Looking to go back there myself in the next few months! When I was last there in April I rented an automatic Hyundai Accent Sedan, Hahaha... I wasn't the one driving this time however. Even the bus form Dublin to Galway is like 10 Euro if you catch it at DUB airport. www.gobus.ie

Corcaigh and Kerry is a ways from Galway, never been down to that corner, but worth the trip. For some reason, I dislike Dublin, maybe because of all the scumbags there, well in the deep part of the city it seemed like it. Alot of Gardai on their feet to prevent all the mischief, which was good.

Anyways, I know I am a little late in replying, let me know how you liked Ireland, is it your first time there?

[R.MAC12]

A little late but greatly appreciated ... I actually got back the day before you replied. It was a fantastic trip. I'm ready to quit my job, move to ireland, meet a nice irish girl, work in a pub and call it a day! I really enjoyed the Dublin area (didn't witness a lot of the said scumbags ... besides other american tourists)... did a bit of the touristy stuff, but i figured no trip would be complete without a tour of the guiness factory and old jameson distillery. My sister's boyfriend is from there so he kind of gave us the "real" Dublin tour. I rented a car while I was there, which was an experience in itself. Nothing like driving a little 5 speed diesel Fiat through the winding roads near the Burren! Coming back to my A4 I think I almost stalled out twice after trying to adapt driving styles! Made our way out to Killarney (overrated ... wish we stayed in Kenmar instead), did the Ring of Kerry, Went to Cork, stayed with family in Crosshaven (SW of Cork on the water), saw the cliffs and made our way all over the island. I definitely agree that Galway was the place to be. Very pretty city, fun people, and a great nightlife. In summary, it was a "grand" trip and good "Craic". Good luck in organizing the trip and let me know if you're looking for any recommendations or ideas. Cheers.