Travel Podcasts, Discovered
Welcome to “Traveling in Ireland,” the podcast where Jody Halsted, your go-to Ireland travel expert, chats with locals about their areas and tourism businesses. Listen for laid-back conversations that spill the beans on the best places and experiences Ireland has to offer. From the buzz of Dublin to the tranquil spots in County Kerry, we’re diving into it all. Get ready for stories, insights, and tips that go beyond the guidebooks. Plus, I’ll be dishing out some Ireland travel tips to make your
100 most recent episodes displayed below
Visit website →Ireland’s world-famous golf courses may top the bucket list, but some of the most memorable experiences happen well beyond the marquee names – especially when you pair great golf with Irish whiskey and local connection.
This article is based on podc
Standing on Ireland’s wild Atlantic edge is always unforgettable, but if you’re planning to walk the Cliffs of Moher coastal trail, a few important updates will shape how you experience it.
Cliffs of Moher viewed from the cliffs trail
Cliffs of Moh
Westport has long been one of those places travelers stumble upon and wish they’d planned more time for. With new developments at Westport Estate and a new luxury hotel, it’s quickly becoming a destination worth lingering in.
Top Reasons to Base You
Just after Easter, Jody is heading back to Ireland—and this trip is filled with experiences, stays, and a few surprises that might inspire your own plans.
Ireland trip preview: tours, experiences, and places to stay
This upcoming visit blends guide
Cruise stops in Ireland can feel like a whirlwind – but with the right plan, even a few hours can turn into an unforgettable experience.
With more cruise ships arriving at Irish ports each year, travelers have more options than ever when it comes to
Ireland and castles go hand in hand. With thousands scattered across the island, it can feel like there’s one around every bend in the road. The real challenge isn’t finding castles in Ireland — it’s deciding which ones to add to your itinerary.
Bar
Landing at Dublin Airport is often the first stop in your Ireland journey, but one of the first questions many travelers have is how to get into the city centre.
A lot of people immediately look for the cheapest option. That makes sense, but the che
Group tours are one of the most popular ways to experience Ireland – especially for travelers who want to see a lot without worrying about driving, directions, or logistics. Nearly half of overseas visitors explore Ireland this way, which means coach
This article is part of my Planning Your Ireland Vacation series — a step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire planning process, answers common questions, and helps you move forward with clarity.
If you’d like to follow the full series in
Not far beyond Dublin’s busy streets lies a landscape of forest trails, heather-covered hills, and stories that stretch back thousands of years. The Dublin Mountains are closer than most visitors realize – and packed with history, mythology, and unfo
Two Ways Across Ireland: Direct and Easy, or Scenic and Story-Filled
Traveling between Dublin and Galway might look simple on a map – a straight shot from east to west. And it can be. But this is Ireland, and sometimes the best part of the journey i
Skellig Michael rises straight out of the Atlantic, jagged and dramatic, and according to archaeologist Neil Jackman, it’s every bit as challenging as it looks. Visiting this remote Kerry island can be an extraordinary experience – but only if travel
Planning an Ireland vacation can feel overwhelming when you start adding up the numbers -but a memorable trip doesn’t have to be out of reach. With smart choices and a few intentional trade-offs, travelers can enjoy Ireland fully without overspending
If you’ve spent any time researching Ireland trips online, you may have noticed a strange pattern: different companies, different websites… and yet the itineraries feel almost identical. There’s a reason for that, and it goes back much further than m
Choosing an Ireland vacation package seems simple enough. You find a deal you like- be it self-drive or guided- and make the purchase. Done. Ireland vacation booked and ready.
But it may not be so simple. Airline transfers, car rental, accommodation
Visiting the Museum of Literature Ireland (MoLI)
Dublin didn’t earn its UNESCO City of Literature designation by accident. This is a city shaped – physically, culturally, and emotionally – by writers. Their words echo through streets, pubs, librarie
Avoid the worst Dublin crowds by planning your trip around these dates when prices will rise, accommodations will fill, and streets will be swarming with people.
• Aer Lingus College Football Classic, August 27–30
• NFL Game in Dublin, September 24
If you're planning a trip to Ireland in 2026 these tips will make planning smoother, help you avoid crowds, and maybe even save you a bit of money.
Probably the most important tips are when NOT to be in Dublin, but there are some updates to European
It's almost the end of 2025 – and you know what that means!
2026 trip planning is getting underway and the Ireland Travel Compass is available for presale! Learn more here and get on the presale list at IrelandFamilyVacations.com/compass
2026 Trave
This Quick Tip shares where to find the Family Travel Resource Page on my website — a hub packed with practical articles, kid-friendly recommendations, and free itineraries designed to help families of all ages plan a smoother, happier Ireland trip.
In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode, I’m showing you exactly where to find answers to the most common Ireland travel questions. Over 20 years of traveler questions — and my own “learned the hard way” experiences — are organized on my FAQ
Several of my travel partners rolled out special offers that run well into the new year — and a few stretch all the way through 2026. From tours and tastings to stays and savings, these are the deals worth grabbing while they last.
📍 See everything
In this Traveling in Ireland Quick Tips episode…
I’m breaking down the three main types of driver services in Ireland so you can choose the one that fits your style, budget, and itinerary. From full-service, white-glove driver-guided tours to flexibl
What makes Ireland such a special place? Get an Insider's Tour of the Emerald Isle with Jack Kavanagh, author of Always Ireland.
Jack shares the 3 things he believes make Ireland so appealing to Americans, his advice for people planning a trip, and
County Clare is filled with spectacular places to explore, but when I think about the places I've returned to multiple times and the ‘wish list' so many people have for their Ireland vacation, these are my top 3 recommendations: the Cliffs of Moher,
Ireland vacation accommodations are as varied as the landscape. You'll find everything from charming rural hostels and homey B&Bs to luxury resorts and castles that invite you to feel like the lord (or lady) of the manor.
Most Ireland travelers find
This final installment in my Car Rental in Ireland series brings together money saving tips I’ve shared throughout the series – all in one handy guide to help you cut costs on your rental.
A few smart decisions can keep hundreds of euros in your poc
In this part of the Car Rental in Ireland series, we’re looking at one of the most common traveler questions: can you take your rental car into Northern Ireland, or even across to Scotland? Here’s what to know before planning a trip that crosses bord
Whether you’re shopping for the Ireland lover in your life or planning your own adventure, these gifts bring a little bit of Ireland right to your doorstep. From Irish-made crafts and cozy favorites to travel tools and experiences that inspire your n
Not all flights to Ireland are created equal. The departure time, route, and arrival hour can completely shape your first few days – for better or worse. Here’s how to choose flights that work for your itinerary, and how to handle jet lag when you ge
Before you hit the road in Ireland, one of the most common questions travelers ask is, “Will my driver’s license work here, or do I need an international permit?” The answer depends on where you’re from – but for many visitors, the answer is ‘yes, yo
Irish Pub Etiquette: How to Order, Tip, and Blend In Like a Local
If there’s one place where Irish culture truly comes to life, it’s the local pub. It’s more than a spot for a pint – it’s a social space, a living room, and a reflection of the commun
Whether you’re collecting your car at the airport, in the city, or a more rural area, the pickup and return process in Ireland is straightforward once you know what to expect. With a little preparation and a few quick checks, you can avoid delays, pr
In this episode, I’m taking you along on my Craft, Culture & Craic women’s tour – a week designed for connection, creativity, and a good dose of laughter along the way.
This trip winds through some of my favorite parts of Ireland’s south and east, w
You’ve figured out when you need a rental car and have found the best option, but before you book, let’s make sure you’re booking the right vehicle for your trip.
But before you click “book,” make sure you’re choosing the right vehicle for your trip
Discover the enchanting origins of Halloween at the Hill of Ward in Athboy, Ireland, where the festival of Samhain began over 3,000 years ago.
Hill of Ward
This article is based on Traveling in Ireland podcast episode 235. Join Tlachtga, the guardi
You’ve got your car rental quotes lined up, but before you hit “book,” let’s make sure you’re not renting a car for longer than you actually need it. Trimming even a couple of days off your rental can save you money, reduce stress, and make your time
When most people think of surfing, Ireland probably isn’t the first place that comes to mind. But along Clare’s Atlantic coast, rolling waves crash onto wide sandy beaches, drawing surfers from around the world.
From the lively breaks at Lahinch to
Quotes can look wildly different at first glance; one bundles taxes and roadside, another separates fees until checkout. This guide walks through how I compare quotes fairly so you can see the real total before you book.
Comparing Car Rental Quotes
For many women, the idea of traveling solo in Ireland can feel both exciting and a little daunting. The good news is that Ireland is widely considered one of the safest countries in the world for female travelers.
I’ve been exploring Ireland on my o
Car rental insurance can feel overwhelming, and I know it’s not the most exciting topic. But stick with me — I’m going to make this as simple and painless as possible, so by the end you’ll know exactly what coverage you need, what you can skip, and h
In the podcast episode below I’m sharing highlights from A Giant Adventure, one of my small-group tours through Ireland north of Dublin. This journey included Belfast’s Titanic history, the legendary Giant’s Causeway, Derry’s resilience, and a deep d
Welcome back to my Car Rental in Ireland series. This is Episode 2, where I’m diving into the fees and hidden costs that can really add up when you rent a car. Some of these are predictable, others may catch you by surprise – but after this installme
The Medieval City of Kilkenny is an easy trip from Dublin – under 2 hours if you travel direct by car – and is a terrific day trip from Dublin by train.
But too many travelers consider Kilkenny as a ‘stop through' in route to another spot (usually C
When you rent a car in Ireland, one of the first choices you’ll face is manual vs automatic. For North American travelers, it’s a question you might not even think to ask – but the difference in price is bigger than you imagine.
Why Choosing a Trans
Ireland is a terrific introduction to Europe for Americans because the Irish speak English. Kind of. But you're likely to hear quite a few words you won't recognize – or maybe words you recognize, but not in the way they are used.
The tips below wil
It would be very easy to spend most of your vacation in Dublin – Ireland's capital has so very much to see, do and experience.
Most visitors, however, plan one full day in the city – maybe a bit more depending on flights. So how do you get the most
How long is the ‘perfect' Ireland vacation? Everyone has an opinion, but the scientific study may surprise you.
Researchers say that the sweet spot is “not too long, where experiences begin to feel normalized, and not too short, where you don't have
When planning a trip to Ireland you’re probably focused on castles, coastlines, and creamy pints – but don’t overlook something far less exciting (yet super important): keeping your valuables safe.
This is part 3 of my Travel Smart series, and we’re
Step back into Irish history with modern comfort.
If your ancestors emigrated from Ireland, you’ve probably wondered about the life they left behind. And if you’re planning your own trip, maybe you’ve dreamed of staying in a traditional thatched cot
Travel days are busy, a little chaotic, and exactly when people tend to misplace things. Whether I’m driving myself or taking the train across the country, I have a few go-to habits to make sure everything stays where it’s supposed to.
This is part
The OPW (Office of Public Works) cares for, maintains, and operates 780 important heritage sites across the Republic of Ireland. The goal of the organization is to preserve and protect structures in its care while providing safe public access and inf
When you arrive in Ireland, your focus should be on enjoying the trip – not worrying about your stuff. But once you’re on the ground, the small, everyday decisions you make can go a long way toward keeping your belongings secure.
This is part 1 of m
It started with a shared love for sea swimming and a chat at a trade show in San Francisco. Orla Leahy and Biddy Hughes, both seasoned professionals in Irish tourism, quickly bonded over their passion for the sea – and soon after, an ambitious idea w
At Iowa Irish Fest, the music flows as easily as the pints. This year, I sat down with Belfast-born musician Ian Gould, who’s been sharing Irish music around the world for years.
Known for weaving stories and history into his performances, Ian also
Guinness might be one of the most iconic Irish exports, but did you know it's the number one selling draft beer in the United States? It’s growing at an impressive rate – so much so that Guinness Brewery Ambassador Zach Berger proudly shared the news
Want to visit Ireland without blowing your entire vacation budget on airfare?
You don’t need insider connections or complicated travel hacks – just two easy-to-use (and totally free) tools: Kayak Explore and Google Flights. These platforms make it si
Dublin is often the first stop on an Ireland itinerary, but too often, visitors rush through it.
Gráinne Lawlor wants you to slow down, sit down, and taste the city. Through her company, Flavour Trails, she offers food, whiskey, and storytelling tou
If you’ve ever listened to the podcast and thought, “I wish you’d just take me to Ireland!” well, I’ve got good news.
Next spring, from mid-April through early May, I’m hosting two small-group tours to Ireland. The first leads you along the rugged c
When a new list of “underrated” Irish attractions makes the rounds, I always take a look. Sometimes I nod in agreement. Sometimes I roll my eyes and wonder who decided the Rock of Cashel was a hidden secret.
That was my reaction to a recent ranking
☘️ I’ll be at Iowa Irish Fest and Kansas City Irish Fest this August, chatting all things Ireland travel—tips, ideas, and maybe a laugh or two. If you're attending, come say hi! I’d love to meet you.
At Iowa Irish Fest August 1-3, in downtown Waterl
“Do I need travel insurance for an Ireland vacation?”
It's a question I receive often, and one that doesn't have the same answer for everyone as it has to do with risk, as well as figuring out the coverage you may already have.
Since the question i
If you're wondering where to eat in Dublin, these three picks cover every craving and budget, each one recommended by Gráinne Lawlor of Flavor Trails, who knows this city’s food scene inside and out.
Find Grainne's full podcast interview & article h
Are you ready to tee off in one of the most picturesque and challenging golf destinations in the world? Look no further than Ireland, where the rolling green landscapes and stunning coastline provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable golfing
If you're planning a summer trip to Ireland, you might be surprised to discover that air conditioning is not common in most accommodations. Whether you're booking a hotel, a B&B, or a self-catering cottage, it's likely the rooms won’t have A/C – and
I received a question from a podcast listener with some questions about Christmas travel in Ireland.
While her inquiry about car rental and things they could consider doing was an easy one for me to answer, it was the conversation that followed that
When planning a trip to Ireland, accommodation details matter—and one common source of confusion is hotel room descriptions that don't actually match the bed size. While the terms may sound familiar, what you get can be very different from what you'r
It’s no surprise that most travelers to Ireland have the Rock of Cashel on their list. It's dramatic, iconic, and completely captivating as it rises unexpectedly from the landscape. But if that’s the only stop you make in County Tipperary, you're mis
If Newgrange and Kilmainham Gaol are on your Ireland itinerary, you’ll need more than interest to visit – you’ll need a timed ticket.
These two OPW-managed sites are incredibly popular, and both strongly recommend advance booking. The good news? Eve
When it comes to packing for your Ireland vacation it is easy to pack way more than you will need. The old adage of ‘lay out everything you think you need then leave half of it at home' stands true.
Not only does it lighten your load but realizing y
Blarney Castle and Gardens is one of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations – and for good reason. But if you show up at the wrong time, your magical visit can quickly turn into a crowded, stressful experience.
Here’s a quick planning tip that
Slip off the motorway and into another era with a visit to Morrissey’s Pub in Abbeyleix, County Laois. Established in 1775, this isn’t just a place to grab a pint—it’s a deep dive into the kind of Irish hospitality and history that you just can’t fak
It happens all the time—you walk up to the rental counter in Ireland, share your reservation information, and the agent smiles and says, “We can upgrade you today!”
But before you say yes, take a pause.
While an upgrade might sound like a win, it’s
If you're wondering which spots the Irish think are worth visiting- wonder no more! The Independent, an Irish publication, polled its readers to find the top 7 Wonders of Ireland.
If you've been around here a while, you know that I love to get tips
Planning to rent a car and explore Ireland’s cities? While having your own transportation gives you flexibility, parking in cities like Dublin, Galway, or Belfast can be frustrating—unless you plan ahead.
This quick guide (and the video below!) will
If you've ever longed for a corner of Ireland that feels untouched, authentic, and refreshingly uncrowded, set your sights on the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare.
Tucked away from the tourist-heavy paths of the Wild Atlantic Way, Loop Head offer
With Ireland's tourism numbers increasing annually it's understandable that many travelers are looking outside the busy summer months to plan their vacation.
Ireland Travel Tips for Off-Season Vacations
In this article you'll learn Ireland travel t
Step aboard the Jeanie Johnston in Dublin's Docklands and learn the stories of those who left Ireland for a better life across the ocean.
Jeanie Johnston famine ship in Dublin Docklands
Photo courtesy of the Jeanie Johnston, an Irish Famine Story
T
Planning your Ireland vacation is a smart way to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience.
While the idea of “winging it” might sound tempting, today’s travel landscape in Ireland is a bit different from what it used to be. With more visitors,
If you're flying to Ireland from North America, chances are you're looking at round-trip tickets into and out of Dublin. It's the most popular route for good reason—direct flights, solid availability, and yes, it’s usually cheaper.
But if your Irish
The drive from Dublin to Killarney is one of the most popular point-to-point routes in Ireland. It takes about four hours if you're going straight through—but where’s the fun in that? These routes offer plenty of chances to turn the journey into a fu
County Laois (pronounced leash) may not be on your radar when planning your Ireland itinerary, but if you are traveling between Dublin and Kilkenny, Cork, Kerry, or Clare, you're likely to pass through this often overlooked county.
Barbican Gate Roc
Booking flights can be a nerve-wracking game of ‘now or later.’ That anxiety often leads to early clicks — and higher prices.
I use a simple flight monitoring process to take the edge off (outlined here), but timing – and a bit of patience – plays a
I am thrilled to welcome author Felicity Hayes-McCoy back to the podcast. It wasn't that long ago when Felicity first joined me on the podcast to talk about her book The Library at the Edge of the World, her first book to publish in the US.
A bit ab
I fear that I can be a bit like a broken record as I seem to repeat ‘slow down, do less, experience more' like it is a personal Ireland travel mantra.
Which, I suppose, it kind of is. As I've mentioned previously, I've made every travel mistake ther
Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital and home to the country’s busiest airport, is a no-brainer starting (or ending) point for your Irish adventure.
There’s plenty to see and do in Dublin—you could easily spend a few days soaking up the sights, history,
Planning to visit Derry/ Londonderry?
This city in Northern Ireland is well known for its defensive city walls, murals, and the tragic Bloody Sunday history during the period known as The Troubles.
Located at the westernmost end of the Causeway Coa
I offer a lot of Ireland travel advice. In over 22 years of travel to and through Ireland, I have made dozens (hundreds?) of mistakes and have learned a lot. Additionally, I spend a lot of time researching anything new, confirming and updating the in
I am a huge fan of beautiful gardens! We have visited many gardens throughout the years, and while gardens in Ireland always have something to offer, there is a sweet spot if you want to catch the blooms looking their best.
Italian Gardens at Powers
When you think of the Great Famine, your mind likely drifts to the midlands of Ireland. However, a unique and deeply moving famine experience exists in Northern Ireland at Gorta, located above Friel’s Pub in Swatragh, Mid Ulster. Here, you can step i
You've probably heard of the Causeway Coastal Route – it's one of the most scenic drives in the world. But Ulster, Ireland's northernmost province, saves some stunners for people who aren't afraid to get off the tourist path. Way, way off the tourist
Is Northern Ireland on your itinerary? Today's guest, Jamese McCloy, is going to give you a dozen reasons to venture off the tourist trail and explore the heart of Mid Ulster in Northern Ireland.
Exploring Mid Ulster in Northern Ireland
Click Here
Do you ‘knead' a taste of Ireland right now? Today's guest has an Irish bread making experience you can try in your own home – or in her thatch cottage in the North of Ireland.
Irish Baking Experience at Tracey's Farmhouse Kitchen
This article is b
In this episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast, Jody shares valuable insights and tips for planning multi-generational family trips to Ireland. She emphasizes the importance of creating memorable experiences for families, discusses transportatio
Have you ever dreamed of living and working in Ireland? While moving overseas might seem like a daunting challenge, there’s an exciting opportunity that could make this dream a reality for young adults—the Working Holiday Authorization (WHA).
This p
When you think of Ireland, you might picture rolling green hills, ancient castles, and lively pub music. But did you know that Ireland is also one of the world’s top destinations for equestrian tourism?
Welcome to Horse Country—an area that embodies
EP 251
The post Choosing the Best Mobile Connectivity for Your Ireland Vacation appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.
The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland's most popular natural attraction at the edge of the Burren landscape, are experiencing partial trail closures due to necessary repairs on specific trail sections.
However, the visitor centre and several trails remain op
If you want an Ireland vacation filled with exploration, discovery, and loads of craic there is one thing you really must avoid – overfilling your itinerary!
The post 10 Steps to a Perfect Ireland Vacation Itinerary appeared first on Ireland Family
Flights to Ireland from North America are overnight, which means you'll arrive in Ireland in the morning, leaving a nearly full day for exploration!
If you've rented a car and are ready to hit the road, I highly recommend a good breakfast to fuel yo