Tourist Traps?

Question

Hi. I am planning a trip to Ireland in the summer and I want to stay away from c**p aimed at tourists. I just want to go and enjoy the country and its people (legally of course... ;). Any suggestions? If it helps, I am landing in Shannon and working my way to Dublin or vice versa...whichever lands me the cheapest air fare.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Do as I did, hire a car, stay at B&Bs and ask your host where to eat, shop, etc.They will often tell you about sights that are not on the tourist maps.

Ireland has some great towns, and fantastic history, a lot of places give a concession.

Answer 2

I visited Doolin on the west coast north of Shannon.  I really enjoyed it, its a small town with some nice B&B's, three pubs with live music every night.  There are some touristy stuff near by but not right in the town.  Also Galloway which is north of Doolin is a bigger town on the west coast that seemed nice also.  We didn't stay there though, just  stoped for lunch.

Answer 3

Taxi's are expensive here and some will overcharge if they think they'll get away with it. Make sure you get a receipt with the taxi plate number on it. Buses are much cheaper, especially the privately owned ones. Bus Eireann are expensive compared to the rest as are the trains. Stay out of most of the 's***w the tourist' shops, the usual gift shops with the Wooly sweaters or Guinness memorabilia in the windows and you should be ok. Shop around for everything and try not to but too much in the main streets as prices will be greatly hiked. Eating out can be expensive also so again, check out prices before you sit and look out for places where veg are extra.