Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find the answers to questions we get asked most frequently. If something isn’t clear, or you have a query which isn’t covered below, feel free to contact us by any of the means outlined on our Contact Page
PREPARATION
When the best time of the year to visit Ireland?
There’s no such thing as a perfect time to visit Ireland. The summer months are considered high season for visitors. They come for the long sunny evenings, parks in full bloom and eating al fresco in cafés. And of course, in summer, there are festivals around every corner.
Autumn and spring are mid-seasons for travelers. You’ll enjoy kicking bronze-burnished leaves about in autumn, while spring sees nature kick into gear and flowers blossom. As for winter, a walk through a national park on a clear, crisp winter’s day can mean seeing nature at its most impressive.
Do I Need A Passport/Visa?
Passports are required by all foreign nationals visiting Ireland. Passports do not need to be shown if you are entering Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland. It is advised to contact your Embassy or travel advisor before travel regarding passports/visas required before traveling.
Do I Need Travel Insurance?
We recommend that clients take out travel insurance before paying their deposit to cover all circumstances if they need to cancel their tour, or for any illness which may occur during their time in Ireland.
What should I bring to wear?
Wondering what to bring? You’ll need to be adaptable. so go for layers that you can put on or take off as the temperature changes. Bring a sweater, even in summer; waterproofs to accompany all outdoor activities; sunglasses; comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella.
Don’t be fooled into thinking you won’t need sunscreen in the summer months – when the sun shines in Ireland it’s quite strong, so wear a high factor and bring a sunhat. Short-term forecasts are viewable at Met Éireann.
Okay, it does rain in Ireland, but long bouts of rain are pretty rare. So, you can either put on suitable
Electricity?
220 volts AC (50hz) in Ireland & Northern Ireland. You will have the facility to charge your cell phones in the vehicle while touring during the day.
General Questions
What type of vehicle will I be travelling in?
You’ll be traveling in a fully air-condition Mercedes V Class.
These vehicles are very suitable to take a maximum of six people in comfort.
What does the price include when travelling on a day tour?
The cost covers your vehicle and driver/guide along with all associated vehicle costs. The tour price does not include lunch or any admission fees.
Can you arrange my accommodation during the tour?
Whilst we don’t offer a service to make hotel reservations on behalf of our clients we will send recommendations for and information on accommodation based on your requirements.
Is it possible to start my tour in any location?
Tours usually start at either airport arrivals or your hotel, depending on your itinerary. Tours can start anywhere on the island of Ireland.
Do you offer walking - hiking tours?
We understand that many people may wish to dedicate some time to enjoy a walk/hike in the beautiful areas we visit. We are more than happy to amend the itinerary although it is important to say that none of our driver/guides are qualified or insured to lead a formal walking/hiking tour. It would be vital to have correct clothing /footwear and equipment with you should you wish to spend some time on a structured walk/hike.
Will my guide accompany us inside the tourist sites we visit?
Your driver/guide will explain the relevant history of the locations we visit and some general information about Ireland and her history however our driver/guides are not permitted to act as guides within any tourist site we visit: this is due to legislative/insurance issues.
Do you accept children on tour?
Yes, we are very happy to have families with children traveling with us.
We have a selection of children’s car seats dependant on the age of the children.
How long is each day of touring?
Each day of touring is typically 9:00 am to around 5:00 pm with the collection and drop off point being your chosen hotel/guest house.
Please note that our drivers are not permitted to offer driving/transfer services outside our usual working hours, thus complying with the working time regulations for professional drivers.
Financial Matters
How much does a Private/Guided tour cost?
Please contact us to get the latest prices and information on your desired trip.
What currency is used in Ireland?
In the Republic of Ireland, the official currency is the euro. One euro consists of 100 cents.
Notes are €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500.
Coins are 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c,
ATMs are very widely available throughout Ireland there is no need to bring large quantities of currency.
Remember, higher denomination notes such as €100, €200 and €500 will not normally be accepted in retail outlets, so bring cash in lower denominations when you’re coming to Ireland.
Is there a different currency used in Northern Ireland?
In Northern Ireland, British Sterling is the local currency.
Credit Cards that display, Visa, MasterCard, or American Express symbol will be widely accepted.
ATM (Cash) machines available and are located at most Banks and Service Stations, almost all restaurants and tourist attractions accept Credit & Debit Cards.
Your Driver will be happy to help you exchange/source your currency while traveling in the region.
Can I reclaim Value-Added Tax on Purchases?
The Retail Export Scheme allows persons who are resident outside the EU and who make purchases of goods in the EU to a refund of the Value-Added Tax charged on these goods where the goods are exported from the EU by the traveler within 3 months of purchase. The scheme requires proof of purchase and proof of export.
Click on this link to the Irish Revenue Site for full details and requirements.
Tipping in Ireland?
Most hotels and restaurants include service charge, though good service may merit an additional gratuity. Tipping in pubs is uncommon. In the case of taxis, a small tip is usually common (10%). Tips are always appreciated by porters, drivers, and guides.
RESERVATION
What is your Payment - Refund & Cancellation policy?
Payments
We require a 20% deposit upon booking with the balance due 6 weeks before you travel.
We accept most payments types, Credit Cards – Bank transfers – Pay Pal – Cash payable on short notice day trips may be available.
Cancellation
- 4 to 6 weeks
prior 40% - 2 to 4 weeks
prior 60% - 1 to 2 weeks
prior 80% - Less than 1 week 90%
There are no refunds for cancellations within 24 hours of your tour, or if you decide not to show up.