Ireland & Scotland 2014
Guided, Locally Hosted and Customized Vacations
Authentic vacations – individually crafted by the local experts
IRELAND & SCOTLAND
Vacation Selections Everyone at Brendan Vacations has a love of Ireland and Scotland – and that’s because we actually come from the destinations we share with you. It’s just one of the ways we “take you personally.” Bringing this mantra to every vacation we create, we don’t just show you the surface and sights, but truly listen to what you want so you can go deeper into the places we call home.
GUIDED VACATIONS REG I ONAL 14 I r i s h h eritage 6 days 16 Treasures of Ireland 7 days 22 en c h an tin g emera ld isle 9 days 24 T h e B est o f Irela n d & As h fo rd Castle 9 days 28 B es t of Irela n d 11 days
What’s inside? 3
The Brendan Story
4
Become part of the story
6
Taking You Personally
8
Travel your way
9
Travel styles
12
Guided Vacations
38
Express Check-In
38
Extra nights & Transfers
39
Savings on Guided Vacations
40
Locally Hosted Vacations
52
Private Chauffeur Vacations
58
Customized Vacations
100 TreadRight Foundation & sustainable tourism 101 Insurance
30 All o f Irela n d 12 days 32 B es t of irela n d & scotla n d 16 days 36 S c ot tish High la n d s, I s la n d s & Cities 14 days
PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR VACATIONS 54 Irish Cities, La n d scap e s & Castles – Sample itinerary 7 days 55 Fa mily Adv en ture o n t he Emera ld Isle – Sample itinerary 7 days 56 Scottish & Irish Highl ig ht – Sample itinerary 14 days 57 Bo n n ie Scotla n d – Sample itinerary 6 days
CUSTOMIZED VACATIONS 60 Self Driv e Irela n d 65 Dublin – Hotels 68 Dublin – Si gh tseein g
b o u t i q u e j o u r n e ys 20 CASTLES & MANORS 9 days
69 Dublin – full-Day rail Tou r s 70 Irela n d – Si gh tseeing 71
K ilken n y, Waterfo rd, Cor k, K in sa le & W exfo rd – Hot e l s
72 K illa rn ey & K en ma r e – Hot e l s
at l e i s u r e
73 Din gle, Ada re, Li meric k, Ennis, Bun ratty & Sh a n n on – Hot e l s
26 S c en i c Irela n d 9 days
74 Ga lway – Hotels
34 B es t o f Scotla n d 8 days
75 Co n g, W estpo rt, Ba l l ina, Sligo & Do n ega l – Hot e l s 76 Belfast – Hotels
102 Terms & Conditions
c o s t s av e r 18 I R I SH wo n d er 9 days
77 An trim Coast, lo n d onDe r ry & n o rth ern irela n d – Hot e l s 78 Bed & Brea kfast Gems 82 Irish Castles & Ma nor s 86 Self Driv e Scotla n d
LOCALLY HOSTED VACATIONS
91
42 D u b li n & Belfast 4 or 5 days
94 Scottish Co un tryside – Hot e l s
44 D u b li n & K illa rn ey 5, 6, or 7 days 46 D u b li n, K illa rn ey & Li merick 5, 6, or 7 days 48 D u b li n, Co rk, K illa rn ey & Li m er ick 7, 8, or 9 days 50 E d i n b urgh & t h e S c ottish High la n d s 7, 8, or 9 days
2
90 Glasgow – Hotels Ed in burgh – Hotels
93 Ed in burgh & Glasgow – Si gh tseein g
96 Scottish Castles & manor s 97 Lo n d o n – Hotels 99 Lo n d o n – Si gh tseeing
We don’t just take our name from St. Brendan, patron saint of navigation. His passion for discovery inspired us to share the soul and spirit of our home countries – Ireland and Scotland. Like this Irish-born priest, we’ve been travelling around these nations for many years, building local connections, understanding local nuances and finding hidden secrets as we go.
Our Story Of course, you’ll see their beautiful scenery, iconic landmarks, and rich traditions, but we also share unique experiences – so you can see Ireland and Scotland like a local too. You’ll be pleased to hear that, unlike St. Brendan, we don’t do this in a tiny boat. We have a collection of trip styles, so you can choose exactly how you travel: st. brendan’s boat, co kerry
Guided Vacations Completely hassle-free, our Travel Directors reveal the real Ireland and Scotland on trips mixing sightseeing, dining, and unique insider moments. See page 12 Locally Hosted Vacations These trips give the freedom of an independent break to popular cities, but the insider knowledge and round-the-clock help of our Local Hosts. See page 9
Customized Vacations Giving flexibility to travel at your own pace, these trips let you pick from our exclusively negotiated accommodation, sightseeing and rental cars. See page 11
PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR VACATIONS The ultimate in luxury, on these trips you have your own private chauffeur to drive you to the places you’ve chosen to see in Ireland or Scotland. See page 10
3
Hear haunting bagpipe music at Ashford Castle, Co Mayo
Become part of the story Meet the locals of remote Inishbofin Island, Co Galway
chat with ouR local expert damien brennan at broc house in sligo
4
Learn about Oscar Wilde, Ireland’s famous son, Dublin
Listen to stories as yoU cruise Lough Corrib, Co Mayo
Nations of storytellers, Ireland and Scotland’s history, myths, and even laws were often passed down through generations in unwritten stories.
Our namesake, Saint Brendan, would have heard the seanchaithe recount tales of warriors, monsters, and fairies. And this tradition survives to this day. In fact, the only way to experience some parts of Celtic culture is to hear the stories first hand. You cannot truly understand these nations by simply following a guidebook. That’s why we introduce you to our circle of local friends – storytellers who take you deeper inside Ireland and Scotland. Take Captain Patrick. He spins tales of a haunted past as you sail across Lough Corrib towards Ashford Castle. The sound of a lone piper sends shivers down your spine as you approach this fairytale castle. But it’s a warm welcome and a night of royal treatment that await at the other side of the drawbridge. On tiny Inishbofin, one of the island’s residents tells you stories of life far off the beaten track. Showing you the little schoolhouse, farmsteads and sweeping sandy beaches, their tales reveal the timeless quality that has attracted people to this remote way of life since 4,000 BC.
Hike to Torc Waterfall with a Local Expert, Co Kerry
Damien Walsh, a Bodhrán drum player at Kyteler’s Inn – one of Ireland’s oldest pubs. He tells the story of Irish music, before teaching you to play this unique drum, so you can get up and join his band. These are just some of our characters who share their gift of storytelling with you – and who become part of your own story.
And of course, we take you to some of the pubs these nations are known for. And there you meet locals like
Learn to play the Bodhrán, Kilkenny
5
Taking You Personally Proud and passionate locals, we live and breathe our home nations. This has inspired us to seek out authentic Irish and Scottish experiences, places and characters, using our home-grown understanding to take you deeper inside. OUR team (left to right): sandra carroll, ann marie mahon, audrey o’brien, catherine reilly, lorraine dawson
Our central Dublin office
Walking the walk Behind a shiny blue door in the center of Dublin is a bunch of bubbly enthusiasts with a love of travel, like our Managing Director Catherine Reilly.
will love. They really do walk the walk, seeking out the best places to visit and the vivacious local personalities that form the backbone of our vacations.
But their passion for all things Irish and Scottish means the door never contains them for long.
And, although the team has a lot of fun on the job, they are serious when it comes to giving you a real insight and feel for what Ireland and Scotland are all about.
Always out and about looking into the “nooks and crannies,” as Catherine calls them, to build trips that our guests 6
dromoland castle, co clare
The Brendan experience We have four different trip styles, but there are some things we always promise on our holidays: • Hassle-free vacations: you can relax and enjoy your time in Ireland or Scotland, because we do all the hard work, from the planning to the driving
Safe in our hands When you travel with us, you get all the benefits of having a local, friendly team who live and work in Ireland and Scotland. But you also get the peace of mind that comes with traveling with one of the world’s largest and most trusted travel companies – as we’re one of 25 worldwide brands that make up The Travel Corporation, which wins multiple global travel awards every year.
• Local expertise: you get unique itineraries at incredible value, benefiting from our in-depth knowledge and exclusive connections – only possible because we’re true locals • Local insights: you travel deeper, getting local knowledge and insider experiences, being introduced to residents and staying in accommodations that give a true flavor of the region • Dedicated team: your every need is taken care of by our expert team on the ground. And, being locals, they have personal recommendations, stories and insights to share • Quality transportation: you’ll always travel in comfort and ease, from our luxury coaches to our private chauffeur-driven cars. We can even help our independent travelers with public transportation • The right accommodation: you get hand-picked properties to suit every stage of your journey – from city center hotels and quaint and friendly B&Bs to ancient castles • Airport transfers: your vacation begins the moment you land, whether it’s with a complimentary airport transfer, helping you with public transportation or car rental, or your private chauffeur waiting for you
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Inverlochy Castle, Fort William
Travel your way Everyone has a different idea of the perfect vacation: some want to relax and have it all done for them; others want a little more independence. The following pages show our four travel styles. Each is different, but we always pour in our personal care and local knowledge.
Adare Manor, Co Limerick
Titanic Experience, Belfast
8
Locally Hosted Vacations george flynn, local HOST
Our Locally Hosted trips give you the independence of a city break, and the excitement of exploring Ireland and Scotland’s most popular cities, but all the insider knowledge and ease of a Brendan vacation.
Who you meet Our Brendan Local Hosts are just that – local. Real characters, they live in and love the cities they share with you. On hand day and night, they can recommend anything from the most authentically Irish or Scottish restaurants to places to buy traditional gifts without tourist price tags. Take George Flynn in Dublin: he’s lived in the capital for more years than he’s willing to admit, so he knows all the places the locals go – places you can experience Ireland’s famous craic.
What’s included? train journey, dublin to cork
hop-on hop-off bus, dublin
Our Locally Hosted trips mix freedom with the luxury of someone else doing the planning: • Pre-planned itineraries – with all the essentials and little extras • A choice of accommodation level • Transportation between cities • An orientation tour or excursion to introduce you to each city • The 24/7 service of a Local Host Find out more on page 40
9
Our Private Chauffeur Vacations are the ultimate in luxury and relaxation – with a dedicated chauffeur meeting you at the airport and taking you to all the accommodation and sights on your personally designed itinerary. your private chauffeur awaits
Private Chauffeur Vacations Who you meet Our Private Chauffeurs aren’t just highly qualified drivers – they’re expert guides, born and bred in Ireland or Scotland. As well as taking you to the sights, regaling you with facts and stories, and sharing local treasures, they also get to know what you like – and include it on your journey.
the ultimate in luxury travel
Like Mick Houlihan, who told us about a vacation he recently chauffeured: “As soon as I learned the couple loved dancing, I knew exactly where to take them in each city we visited.”
• The luxury of a private car What’s included? Our Private Chauffeur Vacations let you mix and match benefits to create your ideal trip:
• Exclusive itineraries – designed to suit you • Sightseeing choices • Choice of hotels – like quaint B&Bs, five-star city hotels, and ancient castles • A dedicated private chauffeur to reveal your destination Find out more on page 52
10
What’s included? Our Customized Vacations let you mix and match benefits to create your ideal trip: • Covers Ireland and Scotland’s favorite cities and little towns • Choice of hotels, B&Bs, castles, and manors – pre-booked or with vouchers
Our Customized Vacations give you the flexibility to create your own itinerary – going where you want, when you want. And all with the benefit of having a local team using connections and knowledge to negotiate savings for you.
• Pre-bookable sightseeing and excursions • Range of rental car options • Flexibility and free time Find out more on page 58
Customized Vacations atholl palace hotel, perthshire
pat & norrie o’neill, B&B owners
westport
Who you meet We’ve found the loveliest Bed & Breakfast owners in Ireland and Scotland, locals who open up their private homes and working farms, sipping tea and sharing stories with you. They’re people like Norrie O’Neill of Alderhaven B&B, who tells us she still gets cards from past guests – with many returning to visit her again.
11
bunratty castle hotel
Our Guided Vacations aren’t just hassle-free, they take you deeper with Insider Experiences from nights in truly traditional places to home-cooked meals with local families.
Guided Vacations Who you meet Welcoming and well-informed, your dedicated expert Travel Director looks after your every need. We’ve chosen true locals, excited to share their home nations and insider knowledge with you.
Meet&Greet Valerie Jordan
They’re people like Liz Morgan, who’s been sharing Ireland with Brendan guests for years and says she “can’t imagine a better job in all the world.” And they introduce you to our Local Experts – from historians to musicians, they aren’t just specialists in their fields, they’re people with true Irish wit or Scottish charm – like Jackie Tully, who reveals the stories of Strokestown Park House. Kylemore Abbey, a Benedictine monastery, was founded in 1920
12
Your Insider Experiences Dine with local families at exclusive Be My Guest meals, enjoying stories and home-cooked dishes at their home or farm. Visit your Travel Director’s favorite Hidden Treasures, secret places they love. Meet artisans as they create Local Specialities, from traditional crafts to regional food. Explore with Local Experts who have a special connection with a town or icon. Get a Unique Insight or behind-the-scenes look at well-known attractions. Stay in Authentic Accommodations for a true feel of the region’s style or traditions.
liz morgan, travel director
Our collection Our Guided Vacations collection includes Regional itineraries, immersing you in one country or region. But we also have At Leisure itineraries (pages 26 and 34), with later starts and longer stays in each destination; a Boutique Journey (page 20) with 24 guests or fewer so you can visit places not open to larger groups - and even stay in grand historic castles; and a CostSaver trip (page 18), giving you amazing value without compromising on the quality.
What’s included Our Guided Vacations are carefully created to reveal the best of your destination: • Itineraries which take you beyond the icons – and into the real Ireland and Scotland • Carefully chosen accommodations, most with free WiFi • A luxury coach with panoramic windows, air conditioning, a restroom and WiFi (where possible) • Sightseeing, unique insider moments and free time • Memorable dining experiences • The expertise of your Travel Director, Driver and Local Experts
13
15th-century ross castle on lough leane, county kerry
REGIONAL
IRISH
Heritage from
FROM THE USA
DUBLIN TO shannon YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Airport transfers in Dublin on Days 2 and to Shannon on Day 6 (conditions apply, see page 38
Jun 7, 14, 21, 28 – $999
>> 4 breakfasts (B); 3 dinners, including a Welcome Dinner with Irish beer or wine (WD), a three-course dinner, and a Farewell Dinner (FD)
Aug 30 – $1,025
>> Services of a professional Irish Travel Director
Dec 28 § – $999
headsets M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary
A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director hidden treasure
VA C AT I O N leisurely
Mar 15 § – $1,125
>> Free WiFi available on the coach and in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103)
>> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights
land only
Saturdays: Mar 29 – $999
>> Luxury air-conditioned coach
965
DEPARTURES FROM THE USA & PRICES per person* REF: BRIJB
>> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling
Ù
$
Apr 5, 12, 19, 26 – $999 May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 – $999 Jul 5, 12, 19, 26 – $999 Aug 2, 9, 16, 23 – $999 Sep 6, 13, 20, 27 – $1,025 Oct 4, 11, 18, 25 – $975 Nov 22 – $965
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
§ Holiday departures – St. Patrick’s Day Mar 15; New Year’s Eve Dec 28.
Single Room Supplement: $199 (Oct 4-Nov 22); $225 (all other departures) Triple Room Reduction: $20 OTher GREAT ways to save!
your personally selected hotels
Book and pay early and save up to $113* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $56*
F First Class
Young Traveler Discount: $100
Dublin | BW Academy Plaza F Killarney | Scotts Hotel F Bunratty | Bunratty Castle Hotel F
* Above discounts are per person.
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions.
14
THE CLIFFS OF MOHER
See page 100.
PAC E LET’S GO
DAY
TORC WATERFALL
1 DE PART U S a
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland
At 2 p.m., your voyage of discovery begins on a city tour. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, see the Georgian squares, and walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to its library and world treasure, the 8th-century Book of Kells. Later, gather for a Welcome Dinner with Irish beer or wine at a favorite pub. WD
3 DUBL IN / B LAR NEY CAS T LE / KIL L A R NEY
Head to fabled Blarney Castle. There’s time to kiss the famous stone that gives the gift of eloquence. Then on to Killarney, the lively town on the lakes. B D
4 Ring of Kerry Excursion
Travel the road that winds around the beautiful Ring of Kerry. Mountains, valleys, lakes, and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Stopping at Torc Waterfall, there is a chance to join a leisurely hike. For those who do not want to hike, the motorcoach will return you to Killarney, where the rest of the day is free. B NOTE: The hike travels over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit, have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and raingear. Approx. 3 miles/2 hours
5 Killarney / C liffs of M oher / B U NR AT T Y
Travel north, crossing the Shannon Estuary by ferry. Continue to the majestic Cliffs of Moher rising 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. On to Bunratty. Tonight, attend a Medieval Castle Banquet - a festive way to end your Ireland vacation! B FD
6 B U NR AT T Y / Depart Shannon
You will be transferred to Shannon Airport where your vacation ends. Perhaps extend your vacation with extra nights in Bunratty or return to Dublin and stay in Ireland longer! B FD
+ Add an extra night in Dublin + to the beginning of your vacation +
Arrive in Dublin a day prior to the start of your Guided Vacation and begin exploring this exciting city on your own. Private airport transfers and the services of a Brendan local host are included. See page 25 for details.
Your Personally Selected Hotel Dublin |BW Academy Plaza F
Price Per Person From: Twin $186; Single $249; Triple $180
Add an extra day and end your vacation in Dublin DAY 1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
1 to 5
Same as the “Irish Heritage.”
Northern Ireland
END CITY
6 B unratty / Dublin
Spend the morning at Bunratty Folk Park, a unique re-creation of Irish village life in the 19th century. Later, your coach will take you to Dublin and the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport. Your evening is free. B
7 Depart Dublin
Take the free hotel shuttle to the airport, where your vacation ends. B
Ireland
DUBLIN 1
Optional night at Dromoland Castle
CLIFFS OF MOHER
Price Per Person Twin $130; Single $190; Triple $125
DUBLIN +
DROMOLAND DROMOLAND CASTLE CASTLE 1
1
BUNRATTY
SHANNON AIRPORT
Ring of Kerry
2
1
+ Spend a night in a castle! + Why not spend a night + (evening of Day 5) at
historic and luxurious Dromoland Castle, built in the 16th century. Set on a 375-acre estate, the Castle retains priceless reminders of a magnificent past with its woodcarvings, stone statuary, handcarved paneling, and antique furnishings. Your stay includes dinner in the Earl of Thomond Restaurant (dress shirt required for men) and a full Irish breakfast. You will be picked up on Day 6 and transferred to Shannon Airport or Bunratty Folk Park then Dublin, for those choosing the extension.
BLARNEY
KILLARNEY + DUBLIN POST-EXTENSION
Price Per Person Twin: $310 (Apr 1-May 31 and Oct); $405 (Jun 1-Sep 30) Single: $500 (Apr 1-May 31 and Oct); $685 (Jun 1-Sep 30) Triple*: $405 (Apr 1-May 31 and Oct); $485 (Jun 1-Sep 30) *Triples are accommodated in deluxe rooms.
15
king john’s castle in limerick
REGIONAL
TREASURES OF
Ireland
FROM THE USA
from
DUBLIN TO shannon YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Airport transfers in Dublin on Days 2 and Limerick to Shannon on Day 7 (conditions apply, see page 38)
$
>> Free WiFi available on the coach and in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103)
Jul 5, 12, 26 – $1,199
>> Services of a professional Irish Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights INSIDER EXPERIENCES Local Specialty and Local Expert, see page 13 headsets M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary
A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director
hidden treasure
V ACATION leisurely
Saturdays: Apr 26 – $1,150 May 3, 10 – $1,199
>> 5 full breakfasts (B); and 3 dinners, including a Welcome Dinner with Irish beer or wine (WD) and 2 three-course dinners (D)
land only
DEPARTURES FROM THE USA REF: BRSD & PRICES per person*
>> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
1150
May 17, 24, 31 – $1,235 Jun 7, 14, 21 – $1,235 Jun 28 – $1,199 Aug 2, 16 – $1,199 Aug 30 – $1,260 Sep 6, 13, 20 – $1,260 Sep 27 – $1,199 Oct 4, 11 – $1,150
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
Single Room Supplement: $275 Triple Room Reduction: $10 OTher GREAT ways to save! Book and pay early and save up to $126* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $63* Young Traveler Discount: $120
your personally selected hotels SF Superior First Class
F First Class
Dublin | Clyde Court F Cork | Rochestown Park F Killarney | Killarney Towers SF Limerick | The George – boutique hotel SF
16
* Above discounts are per person.
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions.
See page 100.
P ACE LET’S GO
DAY
1 Depart from the U S A
4 cork / cobh / blarney / killarney
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland
Welcome to Dublin. At 2 p.m., discover the city’s charms with a guided tour. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a Gothic church dating to 1220. See the stately Georgian Squares with their doorways painted in hues of red, blue, black, and even purple. Walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to its library and world treasure, the Book of Kells. Later, gather for a Welcome Dinner with wine. WD
3 Dublin / waterford / cork
Reluctant as you may be to leave dashing Dublin, you’ll be enticed by the 6th-century monastic ruins at Glendalough. See the 100-foot-tall Round Tower, amazingly well preserved for its age of nearly 1,000 years, the Cathedral and St. Kevin’s Cross, an enormous cross carved from a single piece of granite. Appreciate more delicate works of art during your Local Specialty experience at the House of Waterford Crystal in Waterford. Then head to Cork, the “Rebel City.” Celebrate Brendan’s 45th Anniversary with a Local Expert historian who will share seafaring tales and stories of Cork’s history, recalling the sinking of the Lusitania and Cobh, the last port of call for the RMS Titanic. B D
GLENDALOUGH
Looking for something a little different? Go to BrendanVacations.com and refer to the 8-day Irish Highlights (ref: IRIH) Guided Vacation
1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
Visit the Heritage Centre in Cobh to learn about the Great Famine and the ill-fated ships Titanic and Lusitania. Afterward, plant a kiss at the famed stone at Blarney Castle. Surely you’ll wax poetic about the fascinating sights you saw today as you continue to Killarney. B
5 ring of kerry excursion
You’ve heard about it, dreamed about it, and now it’s real: the Ring of Kerry. Travel the celebrated route and stop at beautiful Torc Waterfall for a leisurely guided hike. If you would rather forgo this forest amble, reboard the motorcoach and return to Killarney. B D NOTE: The hike travels over wooded paths. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit and have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and raingear. Approx. 3 miles/2 hours
6 KILLAR NEY / FOY NES / CLI FFS O F M OHER / LIM ER IC K
Discover the Flying Boat Museum in Foynes, and savor a taste of Irish coffee, a Local Specialty that was first created here in 1942. Later, at the Cliffs of Moher, marvel at the rocky bluffs rising up to 700 feet above the sea. End the day in Limerick. B
7 Limerick / depart s h annon
Janey mac! Is your Irish experience over already? Indeed it is, as you are transferred to Shannon Airport. A transfer to Dublin and the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport is also available. B
+ Add an extra night in Dublin + to your vacation + Arrive in Dublin a day or two prior to the start
Northern Ireland
of your Guided Vacation and begin exploring this exciting city on your own. Private airport transfers and the services of a Brendan local host are included. See page 25 for details.
Your Personally Selected Hotel Dublin | Clyde Court SF
Ireland
Price Per Person Twin $199; Single $262; Triple $197
DUBLIN 1
in a castle!
Optional night at Dromoland Castle
CLIFFS OF MOHER
Optional coach return to Dublin
1 1
FOYNES
GLENDALOUGH
LIMERICK
SHANNON
WATERFORD
KILLARNEY Ring of Kerry
2
BLARNEY
CORK
1
+ Spend the + last night of + your vacation
COBH
What better way to end your vacation than staying in one of Ireland’s finest castle hotels? Dromoland Castle offers deluxe accommodations, breathtaking scenery and exceptional service. Your stay includes dinner in the Earl of Thomond Restaurant (dress shirt required for men) and a full Irish breakfast. You will be picked up on Day 7 and transferred to Shannon Airport, where your vacation ends. Price Per Person Twin: $440 (Apr 1-May 31 and Oct); $535 (Jun 1-Sep 30) Single: $640 (Apr 1-May 31 and Oct); $830 (Jun 1-Sep 30) Triple: $530 (Apr 1-May 31 and Oct); $615 (Jun 1-Sep 30) 17
benbulben mountain, county sligo
COSTSAVER
irish
Wonder
FROM THE USA
from
DUBLIN TO dublin
$
1350
land only
YOUR costsaver TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
DEPARTURES FROM THE USA REF: IRWO & PRICES per person*
>> Airport transfers in Dublin on Days 2 and 9 (conditions apply, see page 38)
Saturdays: Apr 12, 19 – $1,350
>> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Apr 26 – $1,375
Ù
>> Free WiFi available on the coach and in some hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> 7 full breakfasts (B); and 3 three-course dinners (D) >> Services of a professional Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Local Guide in Dublin >> Must-see sightseeing and scenic highlights Headsets M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary
V ACATION leisurely
May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 – $1,425 Jun 7, 14, 21, 28 – $1,425 Jul 5, 12, 19, 26 – $1,375 Aug 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – $1,375 Sep 6, 13, 20 – $1,425 Sep 27 – $1,365
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
belleek pottery
Single Room Supplement: $300 Triple Room Reduction: $10 OTher GREAT ways to save! Book and pay early and save up to $143* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5%
your personally selected hotels F First Class
MF Moderate First Class
Dublin | Jurys Inn Parnell St MF Sligo | Sligo Park F Limerick | Jurys Inn F Tralee | Manor West F Dublin | Jurys Inn Parnell St MF
Frequent Traveler Discount: up to $71* 2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $36* Young Traveler Discount: $130
* Above discounts are per person.
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions.
dublin castle
Operated in conjunction with our sister company
See page 11 for a description of our low cost vacations.
18
See page 100.
PACE LET’S GO
cliffs of moher
DAY
1 Depart from the US A
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 Ar r ive in Dub lin, I reland
Welcome to Dublin! This afternoon, your Local Guide will take you on a panoramic sightseeing tour. See Dublin Castle, Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Phoenix Park. A great introduction to your Irish journey!
3 DU BLIN / BOY LE / KN OC K / SLI GO
View the ruins of the Cistercian Abbey at Boyle, dating back to the 12th century. On to visit the pilgrimage town of Knock in County Mayo, where the Virgin Mary appeared to villagers in 1879. End the day in Sligo. B D
4 COU NT Y DONEG AL & BELLEEK EXCU RSION
Travel through beautiful County Donegal. See the harbor town of Mullaghmore, then head to the city of Donegal to see the 15th century castle. Next, visit traditional weavers in Ardara. On across the border into Nothern Ireland for a visit to the Belleek Pottery Factory. Stop at Drumcliffe to view the grave of renowned Irish author W.B. Yeats before returning to your hotel in Sligo. B
5 SLIG O / WEST PORT / GA LWAY / LIMERICK 1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
This morning, travel via Westport and the beautiful region of Connemara to Galway on the banks of the Corrib River. View the Cathedral, built on the site of the old prison, and stroll around Eyre Square. Continue to Limerick, the setting for the film Angela’s Ashes. Here, your orientation drive includes views of St. Mary’s Cathedral and King John’s Castle. Tonight, explore the vibrant city of Limerick on your own, or perhaps join your Travel Director and companions for an optional medieval banquet in an Irish castle. B
Nor the r n I r eland
DONEGAL
BELLEEK 2
SLIGO
6 CLIFFS OF MOHER EXC URSION
BOYLE WESTPORT
Drive to the west coast and the magnificent Cliffs of Moher. The history of the cliffs is brought to life with a visit to the “Atlantic Edge” exhibition. Return to Limerick for free time to explore on your own. You might want to join your Travel Director for an optional excursion to Bunratty Folk Park. B D
KNOCK
1
GALWAY
I r eland
CLIFFS OF MOHER
LIMERICK
2
1
DUBLIN
7 LIMERICK / DING LE PEN I N S UL A / T RALEE
Enjoy a scenic morning drive along the Dingle Peninsula. See the colorful, unspoiled villages and fishing harbors of Ireland’s most westerly point. Later, arrive in the town of Tralee, famed for its annual “Rose of Tralee” festival. B D
8 T RALEE / BLARNEY / D UBLI N
1
DINGLE
TRALEE BLARNEY
On a visit to Blarney Castle, don’t miss the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone and acquire the “gift of the gab!” Arrive later in the Irish capital, Dublin, where your evening is free. B
9 DEPART DU BLIN
You will be transferred to the airport (conditions apply), where your vacation ends. B
19
BALLYNAHINCH CASTLE
BOUTIQUE JOURNEY
Maximum of 2 4 guests
Manors CASTLES &
FROM THE USA
from
DUBLIN TO DUBLIN YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Airport transfers in Dublin on Days 2 and 9 (conditions apply, see page 38)
>> Free WiFi available on the coach and in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103)
Aug 28 – $3,235
>> Services of a professional Irish Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights
land only
VA C AT I O N leisurely
PAC E LET’S GO
Thursdays: May 1, 22 – $ 3,125
>> 7 full breakfasts (B); a Be My Guest lunch (BG); and 6 dinners, including a Welcome Dinner with Irish beer or wine (WD), 4 three-course dinners (D) and a Farewell Dinner with wine (FD)
3075
DEPARTURES FROM THE USA & PRICES per person* REF: BRCM
>> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
$
Jun 5, 12, 19, 26 – $3,225 Jul 10, 17, 24 – $3,150 Aug 7, 14 – $3,150 Sep 4, 18 – $3,235 Sep 25 – $3,135 Oct 2 – $ 3,075
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
inishbofin island
Single Room Supplement: $625 Triple rooms are not available
INSIDER EXPERIENCES Local
Specialty, Be My Guest dining, and Local Expert, see page 13 M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary headsets
A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director
hidden treasure
OTher GREAT ways to save! Book and pay early and save up to $324* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $162* 2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $81* Young Traveler Discount: $310
your personally selected hotels DLX Deluxe F First Class
17th century lough eske castle hotel
SF Superior First Class
Dublin | Brooks – boutique hotel Sf Killarney | The Malton SF Connemara | Ballynahinch Castle Hotel F Donegal | Lough Eske Castle Hotel DLX Dublin | Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel F
20
* Above discounts are per person.
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions. See page 100.
DAY
Galway for a visit to the cathedral. Then continue through lovely Connemara to the extraordinary Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, an Authentic Accommodation. B D
1 Depa rt fro m the USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 Arrive in Dublin, Irel and
Alas, but haven’t you had a wee bit o’luck, because here you are in Dublin, ready for your afternoon guided walk. See Dublin Castle, ruins of medieval buildings, and the vibrant, modern city. Raise a mug of the “black stuff” and drink in Dublin views at the Gravity Bar, located at the popular Guinness Storehouse. Later, savor free time and a Welcome Dinner with Irish beer or wine. WD
6 INISBOFIN IS LA ND EXC U R S ION
Stop in the picturesque town of Clifden, then take a drive along spectacular Sky Road to Cleggan and board a ferry bound for Inishbofin Island. Inhabited since 4000 B.C., this island with just 200 residents boasts magnificent scenery, from velvety green hills to white sandy beaches. Should it be a “soft old day”—raining or otherwise inclement—an alternative tour will be planned. B D
3 Dub l in / Ki lla rney
7 connemara / sligo / donegal
Head across the rolling countryside. In County Kildare, visit the Irish National Stud for a unique view into the world of Ireland’s thoroughbred industry. Stop at the Old Midleton Distillery, home of Jameson Irish Whiskey, and taste the triple-distilled, twiceas-smooth whiskey, a Local Specialty. Continue to charming Killarney. B D
Venture north to Sligo. Here, amid the hills and loughs that inspired the lyrical lines penned by poet William Butler Yeats, you will be treated to a 45th Anniversary Celebration for Brendan with a visit to a private home for a bit ‘o food, fun and poetry. Damien and Paula Brennan live at Broc House, a modern abode with rustic touches overlooking beautiful Lough Gill. Inside, you will find walls adorned with contemporary Irish paintings and a table set for a Be My Guest feast prepared by Paula, a noted chef. Damien is a Local Expert on Yeats. Scrumptious food, fine company and the delicious poetry of Yeats come together ‘round the table. Hearts warmed and souls nourished, say fare thee well to your hosts and head to Donegal and the splendid 15th-century Lough Eske Castle hotel, an Authentic Accommodation. B BG D
4 R I NG O F K ERRY EXCURSION
One of the must-dos for travelers is the Ring of Kerry, and for good reason: It is about as beautiful a drive as you would ever want to see. At Torc Waterfall, you might wish to join a leisurely guided hike. B NOTE: The hike travels over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit and have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and raingear. Approx. 3 miles/2 hours
5 ki l l a rney / connemara
8 donegal / dub lin
Go behind the scenes at Belleek Pottery, where you’ll witness skilled craftsmen create the intricate and timeless white porcelain china during a personally guided tour. Back in Dublin, relish a Farewell Dinner. B FD
9 depart dub lin
Transfer to the airport, where your Emerald Isle adventure concludes. B
AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATIONS Ballynahinch Castle, Connemara With ties to such famous and infamous people as the Pirate Queen, Grace O’Malley; “Humanity Dick” Martin, founder of the SPCA; and Maharajah Ranjitsinji, Prince of Cricketeers; Ballynahinch is a true Authentic Accommodation featuring comfortable, modern rooms in a classically scenic setting. Lough Eske Castle, Donegal Gracious and elegant, Lough Eske Castle sits on a secluded lakeside estate. Its rich history dates back to the 1400s, when it was built by the O’Donnell Clan, the founding fathers of Donegal. Your stay at this Authentic Accommodation will be in a spacious room with modern, 5-star amenities.
+ Add an extra night in Dublin + to your vacation +
See the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, rising 700 feet above the Atlantic. Next, head to
1
Arrive in Dublin a day prior to the start of your Guided Vacation and begin exploring this exciting city on your own. Private airport transfers and the services of a Brendan local host are included.
DONEGAL Northern Ireland
SLIGO
DAY
1 DEPART FROM T HE USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 AR R IVE IN DU B LIN, I RELAN D
INISHBOFIN ISLAND CLEGGAN
2
BALLYNAHINCH CASTLE (Connema r a) GALWAY
DUBLIN 1
1
KILDARE
KILLARNEY Ring of Kerry
3 DU B LIn free ti m e & sightseeing
Ireland
CLIFFS OF MOHER
2
You will be met and privately transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to begin exploring on your own. Perhaps take a Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing tour to get acquainted with the lively Irish capital or visit the Guinness Storehouse (see page 68 for other options). A Brendan local host is available to assist you as needed.
A leisurely morning to relax. At 2 p.m., meet your fellow travelers for a guided walk. See the city highlights including Dublin Castle. Then on to the Guinness Storehouse for a mug of the “black stuff” in the Gravity Bar, high above the city. Tonight, relish a Welcome Dinner with wine. B wD
4 to 10
Same as Days 3-9 of “Castles & Manors.”
MIDLETON 1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
Your Personally Selected Hotel Dublin | Brooks Hotel SF
Price Per Person Twin $251; Single $389 21
KYLEMORE ABBEY
REGIONAL
Enchanting
Emerald Isle FROM THE USA
from
DUBLIN TO DUBLIN YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Airport transfers in Dublin on Days 2 and 9 (conditions apply, see page 38) >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
available on the coach >> Free WiFi and in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> 7 breakfasts (B); 1 You’re Personally Invited morning coffee (PI); 5 dinners, including a Welcome Dinner with Irish beer or wine (wd), and 4 three-course dinners (D) >> Services of a professional Irish Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights INSIDER EXPERIENCES Be My Guest dining, Local Specialty, and Local Expert, see page 13 headsets M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary
A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director
hidden treasure
your personally selected hotels SF Superior First Class F First Class MF Moderate First Class
Dublin | Ballsbridge Hotel – executive room f or Clyde Court f Ballina | Downhill House Hotel MF Connemara | Connemara Coast Hotel SF Killarney | Killarney Towers SF Kilkenny | Kilkenny Ormonde F Dublin | Ballbridge Hotel – executive room f or Clyde Court f
22
$
1325
land only
VA C AT I O N
PAC E
leisurely
LET’S GO
DEPARTURES FROM THE USA REF: BRED & PRICES per person* Friday: Mar 14‡ § – $1,325 Saturdays: Apr 12 – $1,599 Apr 26 – $1,625 May 3, 10 – $1,650 May 17, 24, 31 – $1,699 Jun 7, 14 – $1,699 Jun 21, 28 – $1,650 Jul 5, 12, 19, 26 – $1,650 Aug 2, 9, 16, 23 – $1,650 Aug 30 – $1,699 Sep 6, 13, 20 – $1,725 Sep 27 – $1,599 Oct 4, 11, 18 – $1,599 Nov 8‡ – $1,465 2015‡ §: Mar 14 – $1,465 Thursdays: May 22 – $1,699 Jun 12 – $1,725 Sep 4, 11, 18 – $1,725
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
§ Holiday departures – St. Patrick’s Day Mar 14, ‘14 & ‘15. ‡ Winter departures – REF: WRED. Sightseeing, hotels and discounts may vary. Ask your Brendan Specialist for details.
OTher GREAT ways to save! Book and pay early and save up to $173* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $86* 2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $43* Young Traveler Discount: $160
* Above discounts are per person.
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions.
Single Room Supplement: $360 (Mar 14); $399 (Apr 12-Oct 18); $365 (Nov 8 & Mar 14, ‘15) Triple Room Reduction: $30 See page 100.
DAY
1 Depart from the U S A
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland
Welcome to Dublin. During your guided tour, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral and see the Georgian Squares with doorways painted in hues of red, blue, black and even purple. Walk to Trinity College to admire the 8th-century Book of Kells. Later, gather for a Welcome Dinner with Irish beer or wine. WD
3 Dublin / T he M idlands / B allina
If the old saying “getting there is half the fun” applies anywhere, it is here in the Midlands. As you cross from Dublin to Ballina, you’ll witness varied landscapes and stop at the magnificent Strokestown Park House, an 18th-century mansion with original furnishings. In the old stables is the Irish Famine Museum, one of the world’s best private archives dedicated to the potato famine of the 1840s. Continue to your hotel in Ballina. B D
dublin’s colorful georgian doors
1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
4 Ballina / C onnemara
Travel to Westport and then on to Connemara. The day’s highlight: Your visit to Kylemore Abbey. Strikingly situated on Lake Kylemore, this 19th-century neo-Gothic wonder serves as a Benedictine monastery. This evening, relax at your seaside hotel. B D
Northern Ireland
5 C onnemara / G alway / C liffs of M oher / K illarney
Visit Galway Cathedral, an impressive stone church dating to 1965, and stop in for a Be My Guest morning coffee at Rathbaun Farm. Warmed by the company of your hosts, head to the rugged Cliffs of Moher. Then take the ferry across the Shannon estuary and continue to Killarney. B PI D
6 R ing of Kerry Excursion
Travel the gorgeously scenic Ring of Kerry and stop at Torc Waterfall for a chance to join a leisurely guided hike, taking you along the lakeshore and past the farmlands of the 19th-century Muckross Estate. If you prefer to forgo this pleasant amble, allow your motorcoach to return you to Killarney. B
NOTE: The hike travels over wooded paths. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit and have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and raingear. Approx. 3 miles/2 hours
7 KILLAR NEY / B LAR NEY / WAT ER FOR D / KILKE N N Y
Pucker up for your visit to Blarney Castle, where you’ll have a chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. They say the stone gives you “the gift of the gab,” and surely you’ll be talking for years to come about your Local Specialty experience at the House of Waterford Crystal, home to the largest collection of Waterford Crystal found anywhere in the world. Next up is Kilkenny, a delightful town boasting narrow lanes lined with quaint shops, well-preserved medieval buildings and pubs offering a pint and generous shots of good cheer. Call in at Kytelers Inn, one of Ireland’s oldest, dating back to 1263. Watch the pub’s own Local Expert, Damien Walsh, play the Irish Bodhrán (a one-sided drum), then join the band! B D
8 kilkenny / Dublin
BALLINA
Visit Kilkenny Castle, an Anglo-Norman mansion that sits majestically over the River Nore. In the castle basement you’ll find the Butler Gallery, one of Ireland’s most important art galleries outside of Dublin. Speaking of Dublin, return to Ireland’s capital, spending the balance of the day as you please. B
1
STROKESTOWN PARK HOUSE WESTPORT
9 DEPART DU B LIN
KYLEMORE ABBEY
CONNEMARA
1
CLIFFS OF MOHER
GALWAY
DUBLIN
1
1
RATHBAUN FARM
Ireland
1
KILKENNY KILKENNY
KILLARNEY Ring of Kerry
WATERFORD 2
Slán abhaile or “safe homeward” as you transfer to the airport where your vacation ends. B
BLARNEY
+ Add an extra night in Dublin + to your vacation +
Arrive in Dublin a day prior to the start of your Guided Vacation and begin exploring this exciting city on your own. Private airport transfers and the services of a Brendan local host are included. See page 25 for details.
Your Personally Selected Hotel
MUCKROSS
Dublin | Ballsbridge Hotel – executive room sf or Clyde Court sf
Price Per Person Twin $199; Single $262; Triple $197
23
ashford castle was once home to the guinness family
REGIONAL
THE BEST OF
Ireland FROM THE USA
& ASHFORD CASTLE from
DUBLIN TO DUBLIN YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Airport transfers in Dublin on Days 2 and 9 (conditions apply, see page 38) >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling
Ù
>> Free WiFi available on the coach and in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> 7 full breakfasts (B); 1 lunch (L); a Be My Guest afternoon tea (BG); and 6 dinners, including a Welcome Dinner with Irish beer or wine (WD) and 5 three-course dinners (D) >> Services of a professional Irish Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights INSIDER EXPERIENCES Be My
Guest dining and Expert Historian, see page 13
headsets M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary
A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director hidden treasure
$
2175
land only*
VA C AT I O N leisurely
DEPARTURES FROM THE USa REF: BRAC & PRICES per person* Saturdays: Apr 19, 26 – $2,185 May 3 – $2,250 May 10, 17, 24 – $2,299 May 31 – $2,399 Jun 7, 14, 21, 28 – $2,399 Jul 5, 12, 19, 26 – $2,325 Aug 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – $2,325 Sep 6, 13, 20 – $2,399 Sep 27 – $2,275 Oct 4 – $2,175 Wednesdays: May 21 – $2,325 Jun 11 – $2,399 Jul 9, 30 – $2,325 Sep 3, 17 – $2,399
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people
sharing a room. International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
Single Room Supplement: $620 (Apr 19May 24; Sep 27-Oct 4); $700 (all other departures) Triple Room Reduction: $5 OTher GREAT ways to save!
your personally selected hotels DLX Deluxe F First Class
SF Superior First Class
Dublin | Clyde Court F Killarney | Killarney Plaza SF Connemara | Connemara Coast Hotel SF Cong | Ashford Castle DLX Dublin | Clyde Court F
24
Book and pay early and save up to $240* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $120* 2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $60* Young Traveler Discount: $230
ashford castle
* Above discounts are per person. Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions.
See page 100.
PAC E LET’S GO
DAY
5 Kil l ar ney / Cliffs of Moher / Conn em ar a
1 De pa rt fro m th e USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
Stop for a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, the iconic bluffs that rise 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic. Drop in for a Be My Guest afternoon tea at Rathbaun Farm. Next tour Galway, including impressive Galway Cathedral, then on to Connemara. B BG D
2 A r r iv e i n D u bli n, Ire l and
Welcome to the Emerald Isle. Enjoy a Dublin city tour with a visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a chance to admire the colorful doorways of stately Georgian Squares, and a stroll along the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to see the ornate Book of Kells. Tonight, raise a glass during a Welcome Dinner. WD
6 Conn em ar a exc ur sion
Discover why some consider this rugged realm of mountains, lakes and bogs to be the real emerald of Ireland. Visit Kylemore Abbey, beautifully located on a lake, and explore the Connemara Marble Factory, makers of Connemara marble for generations. B D
3 Du b l i n / B la r n ey / Kil l arne y
Visit the Rock of Cashel, a storied pre-Christian fortress perched atop a hill. Continue to Blarney Castle to kiss the fabled Blarney Stone and come away with “the gift of the gab.” Head west to Killarney, where during free time you may exercise your newfound eloquence by chatting it up with the locals at the town’s shops and pubs. B D
7 Conn em ar a / Ashfor d Cast le (CONG)
4 Ring of Kerry Excursion
What scenic route runs circles around the ordinary country drive? The Ring of Kerry, of course. Venture along this first-rate secondary road to see beaches, lakes, mountains and medieval ruins. At Torc Waterfall you can join a leisurely guided hike. If this countryside amble is not your cup o’ tea, return to Killarney, where the rest of the day is free. B
Celebrate Brendan’s 45th Anniversary aboard The Isle of Inisfree on an exclusive cruise of Loch Corrib. Captain Patrick, Ashford Castle’s Expert Historian, will share his local knowledge as you glide through the waters. As you disembark, a lone piper will escort you over the drawbridge to Ashford Castle, an Authentic Accommodation. Tonight, have a seat in the castle’s sumptuous dining room for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. Gentlemen are requested to wear a jacket to help ensure a memorable evening. B L D
NOTE: The hike travels over wooded paths. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit and have good walking shoes or boots, sunscreen and raingear. Approx. 3 miles/2 hours
8 Cong / Dub lin
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps a stroll on the estate before returning to Dublin. B
9 Depart Dub lin
Take your included transfer to the airport where your vacation ends. B
AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION Ashford Castle, Cong Set alongside the glistening waters of Lough Corrib, Ashford dates back to 1228. It became the home of the Guinness family in the mid1800s, and was transformed into a luxury hotel in 1939. Guests of this Authentic Accommodation have included Princes and Presidents, and now it’s your turn!
+ Add an extra night in Dublin + to your vacation +
Arrive in Dublin a day prior to the start of your Guided Vacation and begin exploring this exciting city on your own. Private airport transfers and the services of a Brendan local host are included.
DAY
1 DEPART FROM THE USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
2 ARRIVE IN DU BLIN, IRELAND
You will be met and privately transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free. Perhaps take a Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing tour to get acquainted with the lively Irish capital or visit the Guinness Storehouse (see page 68 for other options). A Brendan local host is available to assist you as needed.
Northern Ireland
END CITY
3 DUBLIn free time & sightseeing
ASHFORD CASTLE (CONG)
KYLEMORE ABBEY
DUBLIN
1
CONNEMARA
1
2
GALWAY
1
4 to 10
Same as Days 3-9 of “The Best of Ireland & Ashford Castle.”
RATHBAUN FARM
Your Personally Selected Hotel
CLIFFS OF MOHER
Ireland
KILLARNEY Ring of Kerry
A morning to relax. At 2 p.m., meet your fellow travelers for a city tour. Visit venerable St. Patrick’s Cathedral, view quaint Georgian Squares, then on to Trinity College to see the ornate 8th-century Book of Kells. Later, relish a Welcome Dinner with wine. B WD
2
BLARNEY
Dublin | Clyde Court SF
CASHEL
Price Per Person Twin $199; Single $262; Triple $197
Follow Us on Twitter Get trip tips and be the first to hear about great deals and what’s new in travel! Follow Brendan on Twitter at twitter.com/BrendanVacation.
25
ring of kerry
at leisure
Scenic Ireland FROM THE USA
from
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
Fridays: Apr 18 – $1,965
>> Free WiFi available on the coach and in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103)
Jul 11, 25 – $2,065
>> 7 full breakfasts (B); and 4 dinners, including a Welcome Reception with a pub meal (WR), a three-course dinner (D), a Be My Guest dinner and (BG), and a Farewell Dinner (FD) >> Services of a professional Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights INSIDER EXPERIENCES Local Expert and Be My Guest dining, see page 13 headsets M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary
A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director
hidden treasure
VA C AT I O N leisurely
DEPARTURES FROM THE USa REF: IDIN & PRICES per person*
>> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
1965
land only*
DUBLIN TO DUBLIN
>> Airport transfers in Dublin on Days 2 and 9 (conditions apply, see page 38)
$
May 2 – $2,065 May 16, 30 – $2,125 Jun 13, 27 – $2,125 Aug 8, 22 – $2,065 Sep 5, 19 – $2,125 Oct 3 – $1,985 Oct 17 – $1,965
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
blarney castle
Single Room Supplement: $520 Triple Room Reduction: $10 OTher GREAT ways to save! Book and pay early and save up to $213* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $106* 2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $53* Young Traveler Discount: $200
your personally selected hotels SF Superior First Class
* Above discounts are per person.
georgian dublin
F First Class
Dublin | Trinity Capital F Killarney | Killarney Plaza SF Dublin | Trinity Capital F
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions. Operated in conjunction with our sister company
See page 100.
26
PAC E LET’S GO
Nor the r n I r eland
1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
5 DING LE P ENINS U LA E XCURSI O N
Today, experience a breathtaking excursion ‘round the Dingle Peninsula. Ireland’s most westerly point, the peninsula features ring forts and ancient ruins as well as verdant hills, magnificent mountains, and sandy beaches. B
I r eland 1
2
DUBLIN
KILDARE
ADARE ROCK OF CASHEL
KILLARNEY DINGLE
travel around the stunning dingle peninsula
4
Ring of Kerry
Travel Ireland’s most scenic coastal drive, the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. It is undoubtedly one of the most magical and varied places in the whole of Ireland and is truly a photographers delight. See Killorglin set on Dingle Bay, the location of the film Ryan’s Daughter, pass through Cahirciveen and Waterville, take in the dramatic landscape of Molls Gap, and see the Lakes of Killarney. Tonight enjoy a Be My Guest farmhouse experience which also includes a cooking demonstration. B BG
7 KILLAR NEY AT LEIS U RE
BLARNEY 3 DUBLIN SIGHTSEEING & AT LEISURE
DAY
1 Depart from t h e USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 DU B L I N S I G H TSEEI N G
6 R ING OF KER RY EXC U RSI O N
Welcome to Dublin! There’s time to relax or start exploring this vibrant, friendly city. Meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers this afternoon, and set off to see Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Phoenix Park, and the stately Georgian Squares with your Local Expert. This evening, get to know your companions and Travel Director over a traditional Irish meal with drinks at a Welcome Reception in a lively pub. WR
This morning, enjoy a walking tour of the National Botanical Gardens in Dublin. Founded in 1795 and dedicated to conservation, education, and science, the gardens are now home to over 15,000 species of plants. Spend the rest of the day as you please. Why not explore Temple Bar or Grafton Street? This evening, perhaps attend an Irish cabaret. B
4 DUBL IN / ROC K OF CAS HEL / BL ARNEY / KILLAR NEY
Leave the capital city and drive through scenic countryside to visit the spectacular Rock of Cashel, with one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe. On to visit Blarney Castle, to kiss the Blarney Stone and acquire the “gift of the gab!” End the day in Killarney. B D
A full day to do as you please. Killarney National Park offers an exciting range of outdoor activities including walking, cycling, horseback riding, or golf on championship courses overlooking the Killarney Lakes. Alternatively, enjoy the peace and tranquillity of your surroundings – find a quiet spot, put your feet up, and admire the views. B
8 KILLAR NEY / KILDARE / D UBLI N
Follow scenic roads through the beautiful Irish countryside as you wind your way back to Dublin. View the thatched cottages in Adare, voted the prettiest village in Ireland, and visit St. Brigid’s Church in Kildare. St. Brigid is one of Ireland’s patron saints along with St. Patrick and St. Columba. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a Farewell Dinner, and raise a toast to your newfound friends and your scenic Ireland adventure! B FD
9 Depart Dublin
You will be transferred to the airport, where your vacation ends. B 27
HA’PENNY BRIDGE, DUBLIN
REGIONAL
BEST OF
Ireland from the usa
from
>> Airport transfers in Dublin on Days 2 and 11 (conditions apply, see page 38)
2275
land only*
DUBLIN TO DUBLIN YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
$
DEPARTURES FROM THE USa REF: IRBO & PRICES per person*
>> 9 full breakfasts (B); a Be My Guest lunch (BG); and 5 dinners, including a Welcome Reception with a light meal and drinks (WR), 3 three-course dinners (D), and a Farewell Dinner (FD)
Fridays: Apr 18 – $2,275 Apr 25 – $2,299 May 2 – $2,325 May 9, 16, 23, 30 – $2,399 Jun 6, 13, 20, 27 – $2,399 Jul 4, 11, 18 – $2,350 Jul 25 – $2,375 Aug 1, 8 – $2,375 Aug 15, 22, 29 – $2,350 Sep 5, 12, 19, 26 – $2,399 Oct 3, 10, 17 – $2,299
>> Services of a professional Travel Director
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people
>> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
>> Free WiFi available on the coach and in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103)
>> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights INSIDER EXPERIENCES Unique Insight, Local Specialty, and Be My Guest dining, see page 13
sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
Single Room Supplement: $430 (Apr 18-25 & Oct 3-17); $450 (all other departures)
headsets M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary
Triple Room Reduction: $20
A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director
OTher GREAT ways to save!
hidden treasure
your personally selected hotels SF Superior First Class F First Class MF Moderate First Class
Dublin | Ballsbridge Hotel F Waterford | Waterford Marina F Killarney | Dromhall Hotel F Limerick | Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Limerick SF Galway | Connacht Hotel MF Donegal | Kee’s Hotel F Dublin | Ballsbridge Hotel F
28
VA C AT I O N leisurely
Book and pay early and save up to $240* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $120* 2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $60* Young Traveler Discount: $230
* Above discounts are per person. Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions. Operated in conjunction with our sister company
See page 100.
PAC E LET’S GO
4 WATERFORD / YOUGHAL / BLARNEY / KILLARNEY
Visit the historic seaport town of Youghal, once home to Sir Walter Raleigh. At Blarney, get the “gift of the gab” as you kiss the famous stone. Arrive later in Killarney. B
5 R ING OF KER RY EXC URSI O N
Experience Ireland’s most scenic coastal drive, the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Here mountains, valleys, lakes, and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. It is undoubtedly one of the most magical and varied places in the whole of Ireland, and is truly a photographer’s delight. You’ll also see Daniel O’Connell’s Cahirciveen, the fishing village of Waterville, the Black Valley, and Moll’s Gap. B D
6 KILLAR NEY / DING LE PEN I N SULA / ADAR E / LIM ER IC K
kylemore abbey – ireland’s most romantic castle
DAY
3 DUBL I N / NEW ROS S / WAT ER FOR D
1 Depart from t h e USA
Head through scenic County Wicklow, known as the “Garden of Ireland,” to New Ross, the ancestral hometown of John F. Kennedy. Visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship to gain a Unique Insight into the plight of Irish emigrants. Later, arrive in Waterford and see how the famous crystal, a Local Specialty, is crafted during a guided tour of the visitor center. B D
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 Arrive in D ublin, Ireland
Welcome to Dublin! Relax and enjoy the city sights. Later, meet your fellow travelers and Travel Director as you board a canal barge for a Welcome Reception with a light meal and drinks, enjoyed on a cruise along Dublin’s 200-year-old canals. WR
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
Explore Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, dedicated to life in Ireland during the 18th and 19th centuries. On to the dramatic and rugged coast for a unique Be My Guest lunch experience which includes foraging for local wild plants. Then sit down for a hearty meal and take in the spectacular views. Next, stop at the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, and see the history of the cliffs brought to life with a visit to the “Atlantic Edge” exhibition. Later arrive in Galway. B BG D
DONEGAL
1
See the untouched landscape of Connemara, with its golden beaches and Twelve Bens mountain range. This unspoiled region of Western Ireland was captured in the film The Quiet Man, featuring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. During your scenic drive, stop at Kylemore Abbey for a visit to the country’s most romantic castle and walk through the Victorian Walled Garden. Returning to Galway, you have free time to view the cathedral or stroll through Eyre Square. B
Nor the r n I r eland
KNOCK
GALWAY
9 G ALWAY / KNOC K / D O N EGA L
I r eland 1
2
CONNEMARA
1
DUBLIN
CLIFFS OF MOHER BUNRATTY
1
ADARE
2
LIMERICK NEW ROSS
KILLARNEY YOUGHAL BLARNEY
Heading north, stop in the town of Knock to view the Marian Shrine. On to see the grave of Irish poet W.B. Yeats in a churchyard in Drumcliff. Then explore the region of County Donegal where old traditions still play a part in everyday life. In the town of Donegal, see the castle which was once the stronghold of the O’Donnell clan. B
10 DONEG AL / DU B LIN
1
Ring of Kerry
7 LIMERICK / BUNRATTY / CLIFFS OF MOHER / GALWAY
8 C ONNEM AR A EXC U R S I O N
1
DINGLE
Explore the Dingle Peninsula with its small fishing towns and rugged landscape. Visit Adare, known as one of the prettiest villages in Ireland. In Limerick, your orientation tour includes views of St. Mary’s Cathedral, King John’s Castle, and the Treaty Stone. B
WATERFORD
This morning, enjoy a scenic drive along the banks of Loch Erne in Northern Ireland. On arrival in Dublin, you will have plenty of time to explore this lively city. Walk down Grafton Street and see the street performers and musicians or stroll along the banks of the River Liffey and cross the Ha’penny Bridge. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a Farewell Dinner. B FD
11 Depart Dublin
You will be transferred to the airport, where your vacation ends. B 29
legend says the giant’s causeway was built by the giant finn mccool
REGIONAL
ALL OF
Ireland
from the usa
from
DUBLIN TO DUBLIN YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Airport transfers in Dublin on Days 2 and 12 (conditions apply, see page 38) >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
>> Free WiFi available on the coach and in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> 10 full breakfasts (B); a Be My Guest afternoon tea (BG); and 6 dinners, including a Welcome Dinner with Irish beer or wine (WD) and 5 three-course dinners (D) >> Services of a professional Irish Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights INSIDER EXPERIENCES Local Specialty, Local Expert, and Be My Guest dining, see page 13
M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary headsets
hidden treasure A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director
your personally selected hotels SF Superior First Class
F First Class
Dublin | Ballsbridge Hotel – executive room F Cork | Rochestown Park F Killarney | Killarney Plaza SF Connemara | Connemara Coast Hotel SF Londonderry | Ramada Da Vinci’s F Belfast | Europa F Dublin | Ballsbridge Hotel – executive room F
30
$
2175
land only
VA C AT I O N
PAC E
leisurely
DEPARTURES FROM THE USA REF: BRGT & PRICES per person* Saturdays: Apr 26 – $2,199 May 3, 10 – $2,250 May 17, 24, 31 – $2,325 Jun 7, 14, 21 – $2,325 Jun 28 – $2,250 Jul 5, 12, 19, 26 – $2,250 Aug 2, 9, 16 – $2,250 Aug 30 – $2,350 Sep 6, 13, 20 – $2,350 Sep 27 – $2,199 Oct 4 – $2,175 Wednesdays: Sep 10, 17 – $2,350
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book.
Single Room Supplement: $635 Triple Room Reduction: $50 OTher GREAT ways to save! Book and pay early and save up to $235* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $118* 2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $59* Young Traveler Discount: $220
* Above discounts are per person.
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions.
See page 100.
Looking for something a little different? Go to BrendanVacations.com and refer to the 12-day Irish Experience (ref: IREX) Guided Vacation
LET’S GO
titanic belfast, the birthplace of RMS titanic
3 Dublin / Waterford / C ork
Visit the 6th-century monastic ruins at Glendalough, where you’ll see the Round Tower and St. Kevin’s Cross, an enormous cross carved from a single piece of granite. Appreciate more delicate works of art at the House of Waterford Crystal, a Local Specialty in Waterford. Then allow an Expert Storyteller to regale you with tales of rogues and rascals during a city stroll. Next, head to Cork. B D
4 CORK / BLARNEY / KILLARNEY
Stop at the Old Midleton Distillery, home to Jameson Irish whiskey, a Local Specialty. Enjoy a tour and tasting and then prepare to pucker up for your visit to Blarney Castle, with its magical stone. On to lively Killarney. B D
8 Connemara / LONDONDerry
Visit Clonalis House, then stop by W.B. Yeats’ grave in Drumcliff. Continue to the walled city of Londonderry to enjoy the evening at leisure. B
9 G iant’s causeway Excursion
Experience the Giant’s Causeway, a coastal landscape created by thousands of interlocking basalt columns. Later, join a Local Expert for a walking tour of Londonderry’s city walls. B D
10 LONDONDER RY / B EL FAST
Travel to Belfast, where you’ll take a living history tour of the Titanic Belfast Visitor Centre with a Local Expert. Then check in to your Authentic Accommodation, the Europa Hotel. B D
11 B ELFAS T / KNOWT H / D UBLI N
Visit Knowth, the Neolithic passage graves at the Brú na Bóinne complex. Then on to Dublin, where your evening is free. B
5 Ring of Kerry Excursion
Venture along the famed Ring of Kerry, one of the most scenic routes in all the world. B
6 Killarney / C liffs of M oher / Connemara
1 Depart from t h e USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 Arrive in D ublin, Ireland
Welcome to Dublin, a small capital with a big personality. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, see Georgian Squares with doorways painted in hues of red, blue, black and even purple, and walk to Trinity College to see the 8th-century Book of Kells. Later, enjoy a Welcome Dinner with wine. WD
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION Europa Hotel, Belfast The Europa Hotel was built in 1971, on the site of the Great Northern Railway Station. During the Troubles, it became the hang-out for journalists from across the globe. Since then, this Authentic Accommodation has played host to Presidents, Prime Ministers, and other celebrities.
7 Connemara free day
You’re on the pig’s back (meaning “you’ve got it made”), because it’s a full day free. Perhaps take an optional excursion to Kylemore Abbey. B
GIANT’S CAUSEWAY START CITY
Take your included transfer to the airport where you’ll bid farewell to Ireland. B
Stop at the quaint village of Adare to see the thatched-roof cottages, then to the Cliffs of Moher. Then celebrate Brendan’s 45th Anniversary with a Be My Guest afternoon tea at Rathbaun Farm. Hear about the traditions of Irish farming from the farmer, Fintan, a Local Expert. Afterward, depart for your seaside hotel in Connemara. B PI D
DAY
1
12 Depart DU B LIN
L O N D O N D E R RY
2 1
Nor the r n I r eland
END CITY
DRUMCLIFF
BELFAST
+ Add an extra night in Dublin + to your vacation +
Arrive in Dublin a day prior to the start of your Guided Vacation and begin exploring this exciting city on your own. Private airport transfers and the services of a Brendan local host are included.
DAY
1 DEPART FROM T HE U S A
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
KNOWTH
CLONALIS HOUSE KYLEMORE ABBEY (optional)
CONNEMARA
2
GALWAY GALWAY
I r eland
RATHBAUN FARM CLIFFS OF MOHER
1
1
DUBLIN GLENDALOUGH
ADARE
KILLARNEY Ring of Kerry
2
MIDLETON
BLARNEY
1
CORK
WATERFORD
2 AR R IVE IN DU B LIN, IR E LA N D
You will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free. Perhaps take a Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing tour to get acquainted with the lively Irish capital or visit the Guinness Storehouse (see page 68 for other options). A Brendan local host is available to assist you as needed.
3 DU B LIn free time & sig h tseeing
A morning to relax. At 2 p.m., meet your fellow travelers for a city tour. Visit venerable St. Patrick’s Cathedral, view quaint Georgian Squares, then on to Trinity College to see the ornate 8th-century Book of Kells. Later, relish a Welcome Dinner with wine. B WD
4 to 10
Same as Days 3-12 of “All of Ireland.”
Your Personally Selected Hotel Dublin | Clyde Court SF or Ballsbridge Hotel SF
Price Per Person Twin $199; Single $262; Triple $197 31
EDINBURGH CASTLE
REGIONAL
BEST of
Ireland & Scotland from
from the usa
dublin to edinburgh YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Airport transfers in Dublin on Day 2 and Edinburgh on Day 16 (conditions apply, see page 38) >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling available on the coach >> Free WiFi and in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> 14 full breakfasts (B); and 7 dinners, including a Welcome Reception with a light meal and drinks (WR), a Be My Guest dinner (BG), 4 three-course dinners (D), and a Farewell Dinner (FD) >> Services of a professional Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights INSIDER EXPERIENCES Local Expert, Unique Insight, Local Specialty, and Be My Guest dining, see page 13 headsets M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary hidden treasure A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director
Ù
your personally selected hotels SF Superior First Class F First Class MF Moderate First Class ST SuperiorTourist Class
Dublin | Mespil F or Ballsbridge Hotel F Waterford | Fitzwilton F or Marina Hotel F Killarney | Dromhall Hotel F, Travel Inn Killarney F, or Gleneagle Killarney F Castlebar | Breaffy House F Londonderry | Everglades SF or Tower Hotel MF Belfast | Europa Hotel SF Glasgow | Jurys Inn Glasgow F, Marks Hotel F or Crutherland House F Isle of Skye | Tongadale Hotel Mf, Dunollie st or Kings Arms ST Scottish Highlands | Macdonalds Four Seasons F Edinburgh | Marriott Edinburgh F
32
$
3450
land only
DEPARTURES FROM USA & PRICES per person*
VA C AT I O N
PAC E
leisurely
LET’S GO
REF: BIAS
Fridays: Apr 18 – $3,450 Apr 25 – $3,475 May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 – $3,499 Jun 6, 13 – $3,499 Jun 20, 27 – $3,535 Jul 4, 11 – $3,635 Jul 18¶, 25¶ – $3,799 Aug 1¶, 8¶ – $3,799 Aug 15, 22 – $3,635 Aug 29 – $3,599 Sep 5, 12, 19, 26 – $3,525 Oct 3, 10 – $3,475 Oct 17 – $3,450 Sundays: Jul 20¶#, 27¶# – $3,799 Aug 3¶#, 10¶# – $3,799
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book. ¶ Tickets for the Edinburgh Tattoo are included on these dates. #These departures may be accommodated in hotels different from those listed. All sightseeing and Insider Experiences will remain as described.
military tattoo, edinburgh
OTher GREAT ways to save! Book and pay early and save up to $380* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $190* 2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $95* Young Traveler Discount: $360
* Above discounts are per person.
Single Room Supplement: $650 (Apr 18-25 & Oct 17); $670 (all other departures) Triple Room Reduction: $50
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions. Operated in conjunction with our sister company
See page 100.
DAY
1 DE PA RT FRO M TH E USA
This morning visit the Titanic Belfast Visitor Centre for a Unique Insight into the history of one of the world’s most famous ships. Then board a ferry at Larne and cross to Cairnryan in Scotland. Drive through the spectacular Ayrshire countryside to Glasgow. B
2 AR R IV E I N D U BLI N, IRE L AND
Welcome to Ireland! Your time is free until you board a canal barge for an evening Welcome Reception. Enjoy a light meal and drinks as you cruise along Dublin’s 200-yearold canals. WR
3 DU B L I N S I G H TSEEI N G & F RE E TIME
4 DUBLIN / KILDARE / WATERFORD
Visit the Irish National Stud Farm for a Unique Insight into the world of horse breeding. After a guided walk through the farm, stroll through the Horse Museum or the tranquil Japanese Gardens. This afternoon, visit the House of Waterford Crystal. Watch the master craftsmen at work during your Local Specialty demonstration and tour of the workshop, and see the exquisite completed pieces in the showrooms. B
5 WAT ERFO R D / B LA R NE Y / KI L L A RN EY
16 Depart Edinburgh
12 GLASGOW / GLENCOE / ISLE OF SKYE
You will be transferred to the airport (conditions apply), where your vacation ends. B
Journey along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond to Glencoe, or the “Glen of Weeping,” the site of the 1692 massacre. Pass Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. At Glenfinnan see the monument to the final Jacobite Rising, as well as the famous viaduct which has been featured in the Harry Potter films. Then cross by ferry to the Isle of Skye. B d
AUTHENTIC ACCOMMODATION Breaffy House, Castlebar For a real taste of Ireland, stay at the Breaffy House in County Mayo. Dating back to 1890, the turret, 90-acre grounds, and country-house feel of this Authentic Accommodation are mixed with modern comforts.
13 ISL E O F S KY E / LOC H NES S / SCOT T IS H HIG HLANDS
Enjoy a scenic drive back to the mainland via Glen Shiel and on along the banks of Loch Ness, keeping an eye out for the elusive monster! Visit Culloden, where Bonnie Prince Charlie was defeated by the redcoats. End the day in the magical Scottish Highlands. B D
6 R I NG O F K ERRY EXCURSION
Experience Ireland’s most scenic coastal drive around the Ring of Kerry. Here mountains, valleys, lakes, and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. It is one of the most magical places in Ireland. See Cahirciveen, Waterville, the Black Valley, and Moll’s Gap as you travel. B
14 SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS / PITLOCHRY / ST. ANDREWS / EDINBURGH
Heading south, stop in the village of Pitlochry. Then on to the historic town of St. Andrews, the home of golf. Take a photograph on the 18th hole of the Old Course, where the game was first played
ISLE OF SKYE 1
CULLODEN
GLENCOE
Drive through Adare, one of Ireland’s prettiest villages. See King John’s Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and the Treaty Stone as you pass through Limerick. In Galway, view the Cathedral and stroll around Eyre Square during some free time. Dine tonight at your hotel, the Breaffy House, an Authentic Accommodation. B d
GLASGOW
DONEGAL
GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
1
CASTLEBAR
ST. ANDREWS 2
2
EDINBURGH
Scotland
1
No r t h I r el an d
SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
PITLOCHRY
Loch Lomond
LONDONDERRY
GALWAY
Loch Ness
1
7 KI L L A RN EY / LI M ERICK / GALWAY / CAS T LEBA R
9 LONDONDERRY / GIANT’S CAUSEWAY / BELFAST
This morning, a Local Expert takes you on a sightseeing tour including a visit to Edinburgh Castle. See the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the new Scottish Parliament building, and the elegant Georgian architecture in the New Town. Join your fellow travelers this evening for a Farewell Dinner. During the Edinburgh Festival in August, your visit includes tickets to the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo. B FD
Your morning orientation tour of Glasgow includes views of George Square and the River Clyde. Visit St. Mungo’s Cathedral before free time. This afternoon, visit the Glengoyne whisky distillery, a Local Specialty, to sample a“wee dram.” B
At Blarney Castle, kiss the Blarney Stone and acquire the “gift of the gab.” Then cross the Kerry Mountains to Killarney. Join your companions for a Be My Guest dinner on a traditional Irish farm tonight. B BG
Head north through Sligo to Donegal, where you can view the castle which was once the stronghold of the O’Donnell clan. In Londonderry, walk along the 17th-century walls with your Local Expert and see the streets and murals of the Bogside. B
15 EDINBURGH SIGHTSEEING & FREE TIME
11 GLASGOW ORIENTATION & FREE TIME
See Trinity College, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Phoenix Park, and the stately Georgian Squares with a Local Expert. Spend the rest of the day as you please. This evening, perhaps attend an Irish cabaret. B
8 CAS T LEBA R / D O N EGAL / L OND O N D ERRY
600 years ago! Cross the Firth of Forth to the Scottish capital, Edinburgh. Tonight, why not enjoy an optional night out including traditional song, dance, and Scottish fare? B
10 BE L FAS T / G LAS G OW
CAIRNRYAN 1
BELFAST
Ireland
Visit the iconic Giant’s Causeway, 2 a UNESCO World Heritage DUBLIN KILDARE site and an Area of LIMERICK Outstanding Natural Beauty. Later arrive in Belfast where a city 2 tour with a Local KILLARNEY Expert takes in 1 Ring of Queens University WATERFORD Kerry BLARNEY and City Hall. B D
IRISH SEA
1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
33
Many films have been shot in Glencoe, including parts of “Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban”
at leisure
BEST of
Scotland
from
FROM THE USA
Edinburgh TO glasgow YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Airport transfers in Edinburgh on Day 2 and Glasgow on Day 8 (conditions apply, see page 38) >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
>> Free WiFi available on the coach and in most hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> 6 full breakfasts (B); and 4 dinners, including a Welcome Reception with a light meal and drinks (WR), 2 threecourse dinners (D), and a Be My Guest Farewell Dinner (BG) >> Services of a professional Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights
Local Expert, Local Specialty, and Be My Guest dining, see page 13
INSIDER EXPERIENCES
M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary headsets
hidden treasure A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director
$
1825
land only
VA C AT I O N
PAC E
leisurely
LET’S GO
DEPARTURES FROM THE USA & PRICES per person* REF: BBOS Saturdays: Apr 26 – $1,825 May 3, 10, 17, 24 – $1,850 May 31 – $1,865 Jun 7, 14, 21, 28 – $1,865 Jul 5, 12, 19, 26 – $1,899 Aug 2¶#, 9¶#, 16¶# – $2,175 Aug 23, 30 – $1,999 Sep 6, 13, 20 – $1,899 Sep 27# – $1,865 Oct 4 – $1,865 Oct 11 – $1,850 Wednesdays: Aug 6¶#, 13¶#, 20¶# – $2,175
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book. ¶ Tickets for the Edinburgh Tattoo are included on these dates. #These departures may be accommodated in hotels different from those listed. All sightseeing and Insider Experiences will remain as described.
Single Room Supplement: $300 (Aug 2-20); $250 (all other dates) Triple Room Reduction: $30 OTher GREAT ways to save!
your personally selected hotels
Book and pay early and save up to $218* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5%
SF Superior First Class
Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $109*
F First Class
Edinburgh | Novotel City Centre F Scottish Highlands | Laggan Gaskmore F or Macdonalds Four Seasons F Glasgow | Radisson Blu Glasgow SF
34
EILEAN DONAN CASTLE
2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $54*
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions.
Young Traveler Discount: $190
Operated in conjunction with our sister company
* Above discounts are per person.
edinburgh’s old and new towns werE named a world heritage city in 1995
the New Town. During the Edinburgh Festival, your visit will include tickets to the dazzling Edinburgh Tattoo. B 4 EDINBURGH / ST. ANDREWS / PITLOCHRY / SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
Travel across the Firth of Forth to St. Andrews and view the ancient university and the home of golf. Continue north across the Tay at Dundee, to visit Pitlochry, a charming village on the banks of the River Tummel. Explore the village or, optionally, visit Blair Castle, ancestral home to the Dukes of Atholl. B D
5 IS LE OF S KY E & S C EN I C HIG HLANDS EXC U R S I O N
Travel through Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, and along the banks of famous Loch Ness. View Eilean Donan Castle before crossing the bridge to the Isle of Skye. Visit the Clan Donald Centre and the Museum of the Isles, where you can trace your genealogy or explore the wonderful gardens. Later take the ferry to Mallaig and continue your journey through the lochs and glens of the Scottish Highlands back to your hotel. B D
6 S C OT T IS H HIG HLAN D S / G LENC OE / G LAS G OW
DAY
1 DE PA RT fro m t h e USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
3 E DINBU R G H S IG HT S EEING & FRE E T IM E
This morning, a Local Expert takes you on a sightseeing tour of Edinburgh, including a visit to Edinburgh Castle, perched high above the city. See the Royal Mile, the elegant Palace of Holyroodhouse in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat, and the new Scottish Parliament building. Admire the elegant Georgian architecture in
2 AR R I V E I N ED I N B URGH, SCOTL AND
There’s time to relax or to begin exploring. This evening, meet your traveling companions and Travel Director at a Welcome Pub Reception, which includes a typical Scottish pub meal and drinks. WR
ISLE OF SKYE
Loch Ness
1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
INVERNESS
MALLAIG
SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
2
GLENCOE PITLOCHRY Loch Lomond
STIRLING CASTLE
GLASGOW
2
Scotland
Stop at the Commando Memorial near Fort William for breathtaking views of Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. Continue south through Glencoe, the “Glen of the Weeping,” site of the infamous massacre of the Macdonald clan by the Campbells in 1692. Journey along the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond, immortalized in the well-known Scottish song, to the lively city of Glasgow. This afternoon visit St. Mungo’s Cathedral, dedicated to the patron saint and founder of the city. Your orientation tour of Glasgow also includes magnificent George Square and the River Clyde, former heart of the ship building industry. Your evening is free. B
7 S T IR LING CAS T LE EXCURSI O N
There’s some free time this morning to explore the vibrant city on your own. Later, visit Stirling Castle, a symbol of national pride and once a place of great power. See the Stirling Heads, and visit the halls, chapels, and bedrooms of this imposing castle. From the castle walls view the Wallace Monument, dedicated to Sir William Wallace and overlooking the battlefield of Stirling Bridge. Then travel into Trossachs National Park. Here, enjoy a Local Specialty visit to the Glengoyne Whisky Distillery and sample a “wee dram.” Tonight, experience a festive Be My Guest Farewell Dinner at a working farm on the banks of Loch Ard. B BG
8 DEPART G LAS G OW
You will be transferred to the airport, where your vacation ends. B
ST. ANDREWS 2
EDINBURGH
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35
the isle of skye is knowN for its ancient farmsteads and natural beauty
REGIONAL
scottish
Highlands, Islands & Cities from
FROM THE USA
edinburgh to glasgow YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Airport transfers in Edinburgh on Day 2 and Glasgow on Day 14 (conditions apply, see page 38) >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, all with private facilities; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling available on the coach >> Free WiFi and in most hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> 12 full breakfasts (B); a Be My Guest lunch (BG), and 7 dinners, including a Welcome Reception with a pub meal and drinks (WR), 5 three-course dinners (D), and a Farewell Dinner (FD) >> Services of a professional Travel Director >> Luxury air-conditioned coach >> Must-see sightseeing, surprise extras, and scenic highlights INSIDER EXPERIENCES Local Expert, Local Specialty, and Be My Guest dining, see page 13 headsets M for sightseeing so you can easily hear your guide’s commentary hidden treasure A unique experience provided by yourTravel Director
Ù
your personally selected hotels SF Superior First Class MF Moderate First Class
F First Class
Edinburgh | Novotel City Centre F Aberdeen | Park Inn F Inverness | Thistle Hotel F Thurso | Royal Hotel F Isle of Skye | Kings Arms ST Ballachulish | Ballachulish Hotel MF, Isles of Glencoe MF or Caledonian Hotel Oban MF Glasgow | Holiday Inn Glasgow Theatreland F NOTE: Hotels in the Scottish Highlands and on the Isle of Skye are generally simpler properties typical of the region. In July and August, accommodation on the Isle of Skye may be substituted with accommodation on the mainland. Sightseeing will remain per the itinerary.
36
$
3299
land only
VA C AT I O N
PAC E
leisurely
DEPARTURES FROM THE USA REF: BHLD & PRICES per person* Sundays: May 11 – $3,299 May 18, 25 – $3,325 Jun 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 – $3,350 Jul 6, 13, 20, 27 – $3,450 Aug 3¶#, 10¶#, 17¶# – $3,725 Aug 24 – $3,625 Aug 31 – $3,350 Sep 7, 14 – $3,325
* Per person prices are land only and based on two people sharing a room.
International airfare between your U.S. gateway city and the itinerary’s start and end cities is not included in the prices above. Brendan Vacations guarantees to quote you the lowest possible airfare available to us on the day that you book. ¶ Tickets for the Edinburgh Tattoo are included on these dates. #These departures may be accommodated in hotels different from those listed. All sightseeing and Insider Experiences will remain as described.
Single Room Supplement: $580 Triple Room Reduction: $10 OTher GREAT ways to save! Book and pay early and save up to $373* Book and pay in full by Jan 15 & save 10%; pay in full by Mar 31 & save 7.5% Frequent Traveler Discount: save up to $186* 2nd Vacation Discount: save up to $93* Young Traveler Discount: $340
* Above discounts are per person.
Visit BrendanVacations.com for all Definite Departures ✔ and up-to-date information on itineraries and optional excursions. Operated in conjunction with our sister company
the italian chapel, scapa flow
LET’S GO
Glenfinnan viaduct, featured in some of the Harry Potter films, and glimpse Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Then on to the picturesque village of Ballachulish. B D 11 M ull and Iona Isles Excursio N
In Oban, board the ferry for a cruise to Craignure on the Inner Hebridean Isle of Mull, the fourth largest Scottish island. Then cross to the Isle of Iona. Visit the Abbey of Iona, one of the oldest religious sites in Western Europe, before returning to your hotel. B D
12 B allac hulis h / G lasgow
Near Glencoe, travel through the Glen of Weeping, site of the 1692 massacre. Travel along the banks of sparkling Loch Lomond. Stop in Trossachs National Park for a Be My Guest lunch on a working farm. Later, arriving in Glasgow, an orientation tour includes views of George Square and a visit to St. Mungo’s Cathedral. B BG
13 S T IR LING & B ANNOCK BURN Excursion
glencoe is one of scotland’s most scenic highland glens
Visit historic Stirling Castle and see the Stirling Heads. Then on to Bannockburn, site of the battle between King Robert Bruce of Scotland and Edward II of England. Back in Glasgow, relish a Farewell Dinner with newfound friends. B FD
DAY
Pass the Ring of Brodgar to Viking Kirkwall. Later, journey back to Thurso by ferry. B D
1 DE PA RT from t h e USA
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
2 Arrive in edinburgh, scotland
9 Thurso / Isle of S kye
3 E DI NB URGH SI G H TSE E ING & free tim E
10 Isle of S kye / B allachulis h
Your time is free to explore until you gather this evening for a Welcome Reception. Enjoy a Scottish pub meal and drinks with your traveling companions. WR
14 DEPART glasgow
You will be transferred to the Glasgow airport (conditions apply), where your vacation ends. B
Admire the scenery of misty valleys and glens as you travel along the coast on your drive to Ullapool. View Eilean Donan Castle, then head to the Isle of Skye. B D There is free time in the village of Portree before heading back to the mainland. View the
With a Local Expert, see Princes Street, the Royal Mile and more, and visit Edinburgh Castle. This afternoon is free. During the Edinburgh Festival, tickets for the Military Tattoo are included. B
ORKNEY ISLANDS THURSO
2
JOHN O’GROATS
4 T he B orders Excursion
Drive to Jedburgh to see the ruined 12thcentury abbey. Take in views of Melrose Abbey, then return to Edinburgh. B
NORTH SEA
Cross to St. Andrews and view the university and the golf course. On to visit Glamis Castle. Then head to Aberdeen. B D
1
ISLE OF SKYE
6 Aberdeen / S cottis h High lands
Join the Malt Whisky Trail in Speyside. This area is famous for producing some of the best-selling malt whiskies in the world. Visit the Glenlivet Distillery and sample a “wee dram” of this Local Specialty. See the site of the Battle of Culloden, then on to Inverness. B
CULLODEN
INVERNESS
BALLACHULISH
1
LOCH LOMOND
GLASGOW 1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
ABERDEEN
GLAMIS CASTLE
CRAIGNURE
IONA
Scottish Highlands SPEYSIDE
Scotland
2
Isle of Mull
Pass Loch Ness on your way to visit Dunrobin Castle. There is time to stroll in the formal gardens before heading to Thurso. B D Board a ferry (weather permitting) to the Orkney Islands. View the Scapa Flow, then on to visit the Italian Chapel and see the remains of a Neolithic village at Skara Brae.
1
FORT WILLIAM
7 S cottis h High lands / Thurso
8 Or kney I slands E xcursion
DUNROBIN CASTLE
ULLAPOOL
5 E dinburg h / A berdeen
ST. ANDREWS
STIRLING
2
BANNOCKBURN
3
EDINBURGH
MELROSE The Borders
JEDBURGH England
37
Express Check-In and Extra Nights & Transfers on Guided Vacations The Ultimate Hassle-free Guided Vacation & Boutique Journey Experience
Extra Nights & Transfers – Extend your stay on your Guided Vacation or Boutique Journey
To provide you with the best travel experience possible, we encourage you to check in as soon as you have paid your deposit. It’s easy to do on our secure website: BrendanVacations.com/ expresscheck-in. All you will need are your booking reference number, passport details for all travelers on your booking, travel insur ance details, and information for a contact person in the unlikely event of an emergency. All of your information is kept secure.
It’s easy to do with Brendan’s low extra night rates. Each itinerary page shows the name of the hotel where your vacation will start and
Prices per person
Bunratty Bunratty Castle Hotel Dublin Ballsbridge Hotel* Apr 1-Oct 31 Nov 1-Mar 31, ’15 Ballsbridge Hotel ‡§# Brooks BW Academy Plaza Mar, ’14 & ’15 All other dates Carlton Dublin Airport Clyde Court Fitzpatrick Castle Jurys Inn Parnell St Mespil Trinity Capital Edinburgh Marriott Edinburgh§ Novotel City Centre§# Glasgow Glasgow Holiday Inn Theatreland§ Radisson Blu Glasgow§# Limerick The George – boutique hotel Newmarket-on-Fergus Dromoland Castle Apr-May & Oct Jun-Sep
The benefits of using Express Check-In: • Your Travel Director will be able to better prepare for your needs and preferences, creating a more tailored trip for you • No paperwork on your vacation • Smoother hotel check-ins • You’ll receive travel tips and exclusive savings on travel-related goods and services • We will be able to quickly locate you or your contact at home in the unlikely event of an emergency
After Check-In When you have completed your Express Check-In, you will receive a confirmation email plus additional information to help you prepare for your vacation.
Brendan provides all guests with free airport transfers on the scheduled arrival and departure days of their vacation. For vacations on pages 14, 16, 20, 22, 24, and 30, the transfers are private – there’s no waiting for of other guests to arrive. Vacations on pages 18, 26, 28, 32, 34, and 36 include shuttle transfers with conveniently scheduled times (see chart). If you are adding extra nights before and/or after your trip, low priced transfers can be purchased (see extra night chart for prices). 38
Twin
Single
Triple
Private Transfer
$126
$179
$120
$65
$139 $105 $116 $191 $200 $126 $99 $139 $135 $105 $126 $126
$202 $168 $179 $329 $262 $189 $158 $202 $197 $160 $176 $195
$137 $101 $116 N/A $193 $120 $95 $137 N/A N/A $109 N/A
$60 $60 $60 $60 $60 $60 N/A $60 $60 $60 $60 $60
$145 $166
$181 $214
$142 N/A
$35 $35
$121 $123
$169 $176
N/A $115
$45 $45
$95
$133
$91
$65
$273 $352
$472 $633
$357 $429
$65 $65
All prices are in US dollars, are per person, per night, and include a twin-bedded room with private facilities, breakfast daily, all taxes and service charges. Luggage handling is not included. Rates are subject to change. Private transfer prices are per person, one way and by car or minibus. You will be met after clearing customs and escorted to your vehicle. Brendan is not responsible for missed or unused transfers as a result of missed flight connections. If your extra nights are not at the hotel where your vacation begins/ends, you will be responsible for your transfer between hotels, at your own expense. § seasonal and special event supplements apply * for vacations on pages 22-23 and 30-31 ‡ for vacations on pages 28-29 and 32-33 # on certain days of the week a supplement applies
Express Check-In is another way Brendan is using to enhance the quality of your overall travel experience, and to make your vacation as seamless and hassle-free as possible.
Airport Transfers
end. Simply find it on this chart and have your Travel Agent request the nights you wish to add. Transfers are not included in the price of the hotel, but you can purchase private transfers between the airport and your hotel for the rates shown.
If you have booked your air with us, there’s nothing more to do. If your Travel Agent booked your air, simply have them provide flight details to us as soon as the flights are booked.
City
Arrival Transfers Depart the Airport:
Departure Transfers Arrive at the Airport:
Dublin 8:30, 11:00 & 13:00 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 Edinburgh 9:00, 11:30 & 14:00 7:00 & 9:00 Glasgow N/A 7:00 & 9:00 TRANSFER CONDITIONS (All destinations and travel styles): 1. Your flights must be booked by Brendan or detailed flight
information given to Brendan no less than 21 days prior to departure. You must advise Brendan of any changes to your flight schedule as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in missing the transfer. If flight/change information is received too late, we cannot guarantee the service provider can be advised. 2. You must stay at a hotel booked by Brendan on the night of your arrival and the night prior to your departure. 3. Brendan includes only one inbound and one outbound transfer. 4. In the event of flight delays, missed flights and/or missed transfers, transfers will be considered cancelled. Passengers will need to arrange their own transportation to the hotel or to join the vacation in progress. 5. No refund is available for missed transfers or for passengers not using this service. 6. In the case of unforeseen events (such as road or rail work, strikes, or demonstrations), Brendan will not be responsible for delayed transfers.
So Many Ways to Save!
AIR SELLS OUT QUICKLY & PRICES CHANGE DAILY. BOOK EARLY FOR THE MOST CHOICES & BEST PRICES!
Book & Pay Early save up to
The earlier you pay, the more you save! You 10% can save up to 10% off the land portion of your vacation, so book and pay early to get the best savings before they run out. Your options are: >> Save up to 10% – Pay in full on or before Jan 15 and SAVE up to $380 per person >> Save up to 7.5% – Pay in full on or before Mar 31 and SAVE up to $285 per person Select departures only. See BrendanVacations.com or itinerary pages to find out if your departure qualifies. The amount you can save is shown on itinerary pages; example above based on “Best of Ireland & Scotland.” Deposits must be paid at the time of booking and the balance paid in full on or before the above dates for this discount to apply. Not valid on Locally Hosted, Private Chauffeur or Customized Vacations, extra nights, airfares, taxes and fees, flight supplements or airport transfers. For more details, ask your Brendan Specialist.
Single Travelers single traveler
Traveling solo on a Guided Vacation is a great way to see the world in the company of new friends.
We offer a GUARANTEED ROOM SHARE on select Guided Vacations. We will accom modate you with a fellow passenger of the same sex in a twin room. If there is no single to match up with you, we will absorb the single supplement. We cannot guarantee that your roommate will be of a similar age. You will be accommodated in non-smoking rooms only. This service does not apply to the Locally Hosted, Private Chauffeur or Customized Vacations, Ireland vacations on pages 14-17, 20-25, and 30-31, extra nights, or optional extensions. Ask your Brendan Specialist details.
We also offer low Single Room Supplements for those traveling on their own who do not wish to share a room. Please see each itinerary for the cost. Single rooms can be relatively expensive and are sometimes smaller than a twin-size room. Single travelers are welcomed on Family Experiences only as part of a larger booking (e.g.-3 guests traveling in a twin and a single room).
triple room discount
Triple Room Discount
save
Exclusively for our Repeat Travelers
5%
On many of our trips, we offer a REDUCED LAND RATE to three people sharing a room. Triple room savings are listed on the itinerary pages.
As a thank YOU to our past guests, Brendan offers a discount of 5% off the land portion of your next Guided Vacation, taken within 5 years.
Triple rooms are usually not larger than a twin-size room. The room can accommodate three people, however it may only have two beds or one double bed and a rollaway (triple rooms are suitable for 2 adults and a child; 3 adults may find them to be too small and with limited space for luggage). This discount applies only to itineraries featuring the Triple Room Discount offer, and is not combinable with Group Travel Discounts.
This discount is not available retroactively and is valid for 5 years from the date of your last Brendan vacation (or one of our sister companies, see thetravelcorporation.com). Only one discount is available per person, per year. Only one discount can be redeemed against each further Guided Vacation booking. Not valid on Locally Hosted, Private Chauffeur or Customized Vacations, City Breaks, extra nights, airfares, taxes and fees, flight supplements or airport transfers.
save up to
Great Savings for Young Travelers
Brendan offers a savings of up to 10% off of the land price of your Guided Vacation to travelers between the ages of 5 AND 17 YEARS, provided they are accompanied by an adult.
10%
There is a limit of one Young Traveler per room. See itinerary pages for the amount you will save. Young Travelers must be between 5-17 years on the departure date to be eligible. This discount cannot be combined with our Group Discount and does not apply to Locally Hosted, Private Chauffeur or Customized Vacations, extra nights, airfares, taxes and fees, flight supplements, or airport transfers.
save up to
Pay less for your second vacation
2.5%
Combine two or more of our Guided Vacations and save! As long as each of the trips you’re taking is 8 days or longer, you will receive a discount of up to 2.5% off the land only portion of the shortest tour.
group discount
Travel in a group & save!
Sharing your travels with your FAMILY AND FRIENDS makes the trip even more enriching and memorable. Travel with 5 to 9 friends or family members, and everyone will receive a 5% DISCOUNT off the land portion of the Guided Vacation. Travel in a group of 10 to 15 passengers and one guest qualifies for a 50% DISCOUNT* off the land portion of the vacation price. In a group of 16 passengers, one traveler will qualify for a 100% DISCOUNT* on the land portion of the vacation price. Space is limited to one group per motorcoach. Cannot be combined with our Young Traveler or Triple Room discounts. Not valid on Locally Hosted, Private Chauffeur or Customized Vacations, City Breaks, Special Interest Vacations with trains, Eastern Mediterranean vacations with cruises, extra nights, airfares, taxes and fees, flight supplements, or airport transfers. Other restrictions may apply. All passengers’ names must be advised before the discount is applied. * Discount is on a twin-share basis only.
Book two trips and save up to $93 on the shorter trip. Take three tours and save on two. The more you take, the more you’ll save! See itinerary pages for the maximum amount you will save; example above based on “Scottish Highlands, Islands & Cities.” Trips must be booked at the same time. The discount is on the land portion only and does not apply to Locally Hosted, Private Chauffeur or Customized Vacations, Eastern Mediterranean vacations with a cruise, City Breaks, extra nights, airfares, taxes and fees, flight supplements, or airport transfers.
Definite Departures ✔ Our vacation departures are guaranteed to operate as soon as enough guests are booked on them (weather and other conditions dependent of course). Look for a ✔ on Brendan’s website to identify these departures, or ask your Brendan Specialist. See BrendanVacations.com for more information
39
Locally Hosted Vacations Travel On Your Own, But Never Alone
dublin castle
These unique packages include the essentials for travel, from your private airport transfers to your accommodations, and from sightseeing to transportation between cities. They also give you the services and insider insights of a Brendan local host, available 24/7, and plenty of time on your own.
40
Your travel essentials taken care of You’ll have private airport transfers, so when you arrive you don’t have to wait for a shuttle bus to fill. And when it’s time to go home, you’ll be whisked directly to the airport for your flight – there are no stops at other hotels.
dugald stewart monument and city view, edinburgh
Choose between three classes of hotels: Premier
Deluxe, Moderate Deluxe, or Superior First Class properties with excellent service, facilities, guest rooms and amenities
First Class Full service properties with a wide range of facilities and comfortable rooms offering many amenities Moderate
Economy to Moderate First Class properties with basic room amenities and limited public rooms and facilities
No matter which standard you choose, you can expect free WiFi, either in your room or in public areas. Your Brendan local host is a true Irish or Scottish treasure! Your host will visit you at your hotel the day you arrive, and is then available by phone 24/7. Get aquainted with the cities you visit on an included orientation tour or an excursion.
barry o’connor, local host the malton, killarney (first class)
And you have plenty of free time! Leisurely days to catch up on your z’s, sightsee to your heart’s content, shop in boutiques and neighborhood stores, or find a favorite table in a cozy pub. When it’s time to travel from one city to the next, train or private car transportation is included, with free WiFi on trains (where available). For the Premier hotel level, we give first class train tickets. On the First Class and Moderate levels, you’ll have a standard class rail ticket. If you’d prefer to travel first class, upgrades are available at low prices – see each itinerary page for the cost. All the hotels we have selected are an easy walk or short taxi ride from train stations. Private transfers are also available at a low rate – just ask your Brendan Specialist.
o’callaghan alexander hotel dublin (first class)
2014 is an exciting year for Scots at home, abroad or at heart! Be part of their year-long celebration, Homecoming Scotland, featuring music, art, and food festivals; Highland Games; the Commonwealth Games; and the Ryder Cup, to be held at Gleneagles, where it all began in 1921.
41
L O C A L LY H O S T E D
Dublin & Belfast from
DUBLIN TO BELFAST
$
628
land only
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
4 days
her n No r tl a n d Ire 2
>> Round-trip private airport transfers in Dublin on Day 1 and Belfast on Day 4/5
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D
BELFAST
>> Twin-bedded rooms in your selected, centrally located hotels; hotel taxes and service charges
2 DU B LIN / belfast, nort h ERN ireland B
+ Optional return
I r eland
Ù
available aboard the train >> Free WiFi and at all hotels (conditions may apply, see page 103)
DUBLIN
REF: DDB4
train to Dublin
3 belfast, city si g htseeing B
1
4 Depart belfast B
>> Breakfast daily (B) >> Services of a local host in each city, available 24/7 >> Train transportation Dublin/Belfast >> Hop-On Hop-Off city tour in Dublin (REF: DDB5 only)
5 days
her n No r tl a n d Ire 2
>> Hop-On Hop-Off city tour in Belfast
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D
BELFAST
>> Travel documents
2 dublin, city si g htseeing B
+ Optional return
I r eland
YOUR personally selected hotels & TRANSPORTATION
DUBLIN
3 DU B LIN / belfast, nort h ERN ireland B
train to Dublin
2
4 belfast, city si g htseeing B
PREMIER
5 Depart belfast B
Dublin | The Shelbourne Belfast | The Fitzwilliam Train | 1st class ticket with reserved seat FIRST CLASS
Dublin | O’Callaghan’s Alexander Hotel Belfast | Europa Hotel Train* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat moderate
Dublin | Ashling Hotel Belfast | Park Inn by Radisson Train* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat
stormont parliament buildings IN belfast, HOME TO THE NORTHERN IRELAND ASSEMBLY
EXTEND YOUR STAY Extra nights are available in Dublin.
* upgrade YOUR RAIL EXPERIENCE!
For an even more comfortable train journey, upgrade to First Class from only $24 per person.
+ NEED TO RETURN TO DUBLIN?
A return by train to Dublin is available from $98 per person.
FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS, VISIT:
BrendanVacations.com 1
42
START CITY
1
REF: DDB5
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
YOUR included SIGHTSEEING
THE botanic gardens ARE PART OF belfast’S VICTORIAN HERITAGE
DUBLIN See all the highlights of the city on a Hop-On Hop-Off tour. With an entertaining guide you will see famous sites such as Dublin Castle, Trinity C ollege, the Guinness Storehouse, and many more (entrance fees not included). Pick up the tour at more than 20 stops every 15-20 minutes and travel at your own pace. You can stay on the coach or get off as often as you’d like, to see your favorites up close (ref: DDB5 only). BELFAST The perfect way to see Belfast at your own pace is on a Hop-On Hop-Off tour! You can stay on the coach and watch the city sights as you pass by, or get off and see what you want to up close (entrance fees not included). Pick up the tour at one of the 20 stops, including the Titanic’s Dock & Pump House, the Parliament buildings, Shaftsbury Square and many more.
THE RECENTLY OPENED “titanic belfast”
STATUE OF GEORGE SALMoN, trinity college, dublin
EXPLORE MORE OF ireland For your convenience, we have handpicked exciting tours that can be easily added to your vacation. See pages 68-70.
PR IC ES per person F RO M *
Twin
Single
4 DAYS Premier $891 First Class $723 Moderate $628
$1,279 $1,038 $925
5 DAYS Premier $1,017 First Class $817 Moderate $712
$1,553 $1,206 $1,059
Dublin castle, BUILT IN 1204
Triple REF: DDB4
$855 $694 $596 REF: DDB5
$966 $776 $676
Travel any day.
* Per person prices are land only and based on low season
travel. Higher rates may apply depending on your date of travel. Airfare is additional. Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available to us at the time of booking.
Extra nights are available in Dublin and Belfast.
Because of the close proximity between hotels and train station in Dublin and Belfast, transfers are on your own. Private train station transfers are available at an extra charge.
Let us drive, you relax...
WORRY-FREE TRAIN STATION TRANSFER package Add private transfers between your hotel and train station in Dublin and Belfast from $132 (per car).
43
L O C A L LY H O S T E D
Dublin & Killarney from
DUBLIN TO DUBLIN
$
776
land only
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
5 days
>> Round-trip private airport transfers in Dublin on Days 1 and 5/6/7
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D 2 DU B LIN / KILLAR NEY B
>> Twin-bedded rooms in your selected, centrally located hotels, hotel taxes, and service charges
Ireland
DUBLIN
Ù
>> Free WiFi available aboard the train and at all hotels (conditions may apply, see page 103) >> Breakfast daily (B)
1
3 ring of kerry excursion B
1
4 KILLAR NEY / dublin B 5 Depart dublin B
Ring of Kerry
>> Services of a local host in each city, available 24/7
2
KILLARNEY 6 days
>> Round-trip train transportation Dublin/Killarney
REF: DDK6
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D
>> Hop-On Hop-Off city tour in Dublin (ref: DDK6D and DDK7 only)
2 DU B LIN / KILLAR NEY B Ireland
>> Ring of Kerry tour in Killarney
DUBLIN
>> Travel documents
YOUR personally selected hotels & TRANSPORTATION
REF: DDK5
1
3 ring of kerry excursion B
1
4 KILLAR NEY, A full free day B 5 KILLAR NEY / dublin B
Ring of Kerry
6 Depart dublin B
3
KILLARNEY
PREMIER
Dublin | The Shelbourne Killarney | Killarney Park Hotel Trains | 1st class ticket with reserved seat
6 days
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D 2 DU B LIN, city si g htseein g B
FIRST CLASS
Dublin | O’Callaghan Alexander Hotel Killarney | The Malton Trains* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat
Ireland
DUBLIN
3 DU B LIN / KILLAR NEY B 2
1
4 ring of kerry excursion B 5 KILLAR NEY / dublin B
moderate
Dublin | Ashling Hotel Killarney | Arbutus Hotel Trains* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat
REF: DDK6D
Ring of Kerry
6 Depart dublin B
2
KILLARNEY
EXTEND YOUR STAY Extra nights are available in Dublin.
7 days
REF: DDK7
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D
* upgrade YOUR RAIL EXPERIENCE!
2 DU B LIN, city si g htseein g B
For an even more comfortable train journey, including spacious electrically adjustable seats and additional leg room, upgrade to first class round-trip from only $84 per person.
Ireland
DUBLIN
3 DU B LIN / KILLAR NEY B 2
1
4 ring of kerry excursion B 5 KILLAR NEY, a full free day B
Ring of Kerry
FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS, VISIT:
6 KILLAR NEY / dublin B
3
7 Depart dublin B
KILLARNEY
BrendanVacations.com 1
44
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
YOUR included SIGHTSEEING DU BLIN See all the highlights of the city on a Hop-On Hop-Off tour. With an entertaining guide you will see famous sites such as Dublin Castle, Trinity C ollege, the Guinness Storehouse, and many more (entrance fees not included). Pick up the tour at more than 20 stops every 15-20 minutes and travel at your own pace. You can stay on the coach or get off as often as you’d like, to see your favorites up close. Killarney ring of kerry e xcursion Travel the road that winds around the lovely Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Admire the breathtaking scenery of majestic landscapes and crashing seas on your guided coach tour. Delight in tradit ional Irish life as you stop in quaint villages along the way. This is a sight not to be missed!
when first built, it cost half a penny to cross what is now the ha’penny bridge see dublin’s favorite sites on your hop-on hop-off tour
EXPLORE MORE OF ireland For your convenience, we have handpicked exciting tours that can be easily added to your vacation. See page 65.
PR IC ES per person F RO M *
Twin
Single
5 DAYS Premier First Class Moderate
$1,320 $829 $776
$2,106 $1,199 $1,090
6 DAYS Premier First Class Moderate
$1,473 $923 $854
$2,366 $1,354 $1,224
6 DAYS Premier First Class Moderate
$1,505 $928 $858
$2,470 $1,380 $1,235
7 DAYS Premier First Class Moderate
$1,658 $1,022 $936
$2,733 $1,535 $1,366
Triple REF: DDK5
$1,254 $787 $737 REF: DDK6
$1,399 $877 $811 REF: DDK6D
$1,430 $882 $815 REF: DDK7
$1,575 $971 $889
Travel any day.
* Per person prices are land only and based on low season
travel. Higher rates may apply depending on your date of travel. Airfare is additional. Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available to us at the time of booking.
Because of the close proximity between hotels and train station in Dublin, transfers are on your own. Private train station transfers in Dublin are available at an extra charge. Hotels in Killarney are within a block or two of the train station.
Let us drive, you relax...
WORRY-FREE TRAIN STATION TRANSFER package Add round-trip private transfers between your hotel and train station in Dublin from $102 (per car).
see some of ireland’s 40 shades of green along the ring of kerry
45
L O C A L LY H O S T E D
Dublin, Killarney & Limerick $
from
DUBLIN TO shannon
922
land only
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Private airport transfers in Dublin on Day 1 and from Limerick to Shannon Airport on Day 5/6/7 >> Twin-bedded rooms in your selected, centrally located hotels, hotel taxes, and service charges >> Free WiFi available aboard the train and at all hotels (conditions may apply, see page 103) >> Breakfast daily (B) >> Services of a local host in each city, available 24/7 >> Train transportation Dublin/Killarney >> Hop-On Hop-Off city tour in Dublin (ref: DKLL6 and DKL7 only) >> Ring of Kerry tour in Killarney >> Private car and driver transportation Killarney/Limerick >> Orientation tour in Limerick >> Travel documents
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YOUR personally selected hotels & TRANSPORTATION
5 days
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D 2 DU B LIN / KILLAR NEY B I r el a n d
1
LIMERICK DROMOLAND CASTLE +
4 KILLAR NEY / lim erick B
1
5 lim erick / de part shannon B
1
SHANNON
Ring of Kerry
3 ring of kerry excursion B
DUBLIN
2
KILLARNEY
6 days
2 DU B LIN / KILLAR NEY B I r el a n d
1
LIMERICK DROMOLAND CASTLE +
4 KILLAR NEY, A full free day B
1
5 KILLAR NEY / lim erick B
1
SHANNON
Ring of Kerry
3 ring of kerry excursion B
DUBLIN
6 lim erick / de part shannon B
3
KILLARNEY
6 days
Dublin | The Shelbourne Killarney | Killarney Park Hotel Limerick | No. 1 Pery Square Train | 1st class ticket with reserved seat
2 DU B LIN, city si g htseein g B I r el a n d
2
LIMERICK DROMOLAND CASTLE +
3 DU B LIN / KILLAR NEY B
DUBLIN
4 ring of kerry excursion B
1
5 KILLAR NEY / lim erick B
1
SHANNON
6 lim erick / de part shannon B
moderate Ring of Kerry
2
KILLARNEY
7 days
EXTEND YOUR STAY Extra nights are available in Dublin or Limerick.
* upgrade YOUR RAIL EXPERIENCE! For an even more comfortable train journey, including spacious electrically adjustable seats and additional leg room, upgrade to first class from only $42 per person.
FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS, VISIT:
REF: DKL7
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D 2 DU B LIN, city si g htseein g B I r el a n d
2
LIMERICK DROMOLAND CASTLE +
4 ring of kerry excursion B
1
SHANNON
Ring of Kerry
3 DU B LIN / KILLAR NEY B
DUBLIN
5 KILLAR NEY, a full free day B
1
6 KILLAR NEY / lim erick B
3
7 lim erick / de part shannon B
KILLARNEY
BrendanVacations.com 1
46
REF: DKLL6
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D
FIRST CLASS
Dublin | Ashling Hotel Killarney | Arbutus Hotel Limerick | Clarion Hotel Limerick Train* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat
REF: DKL6
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D
PREMIER
Dublin | O’Callaghan Alexander Hotel Killarney | The Malton Limerick | Limerick Strand Hotel Train* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat
REF: DKL5
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
+ DROMOLAND CASTLE OPTION
YOUR included SIGHTSEEING
ladies view, ring of kerry
DU BLIN See all the highlights of the city on a Hop-On Hop-Off tour. Entertaining guides will take you to see famous sites such as Dublin Castle, Trinity C ollege, the Guinness Storehouse, and many more (entrance fees not included). Pick up the tour at more than 20 stops every 15-20 minutes and travel at your own pace. You can stay on the coach or get off as often as you’d like, to see your favorites up close. Killarney ring of kerry e xcursion Travel the road that winds around the lovely Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Admire the breathtaking scenery of majestic landscapes and crashing seas on your guided coach tour. Delight in tradit ional Irish life as you stop in quaint villages along the way. This is a sight not to be missed! LIMER I CK Your driver will give you an orientation tour of Limerick on the way to your hotel.
the picturesque town of killarney
EXPLORE MORE OF ireland For your convenience, we have handpicked exciting tours that can be easily added to your vacation. See pages 68-70. PR IC ES per person F RO M *
Twin
Single
Triple
5 DAYS REF: DKL5 Premier $1,341 $2,222 $1,274 First Class $966 $1,524 $918 Moderate $922 $1,446 $876 6 DAYS REF: DKL6 Premier $1,494 $2,482 $1,420 First Class $1,060 $1,679 $1,007 Moderate $1,000 $1,578 $950 6 DAYS REF: DKLL6 Premier $1,524 $2,589 $1,448 First Class $1,065 $1,705 $1,012 Moderate $1,004 $1,589 $954 7 DAYS REF: DKL7 Premier $1,677 $2,850 $1,593 First Class $1,157 $1,859 $1,099 Moderate $1,082 $1,720 $1,028 Travel any day.
* Per person prices are land only and based on low season travel. Higher rates may apply depending on your date of travel. Airfare is additional. Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available to us at the time of booking. Because of the close proximity between hotels and train station in Dublin, transfers are on your own. Private train station transfers in Dublin are available at an extra charge. Hotels in Killarney are within a block or two of the train station.
Let us drive, you relax...
WORRY-FREE TRAIN STATION TRANSFER package Add a private transfer between your hotel and train station in Dublin from $102 (per car).
Spend a night in a castle!
DROMOLAND CASTLE Why not spend your last night in Ireland at a historic and luxurious castle? Dromoland Castle is a Renaissance structure built in the 16th century, and was once the royal seat of the O’Brien clan. Set on a 375-acre estate, the Castle retains priceless reminders of a magnificent past with its woodcarvings, stone statuary, handcarved paneling, and antique furnishings. Your stay includes a full Irish breakfast. You will be picked up and transferred to Shannon Airport on your last day. Free WiFi available at the castle.
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PRICES per person FROM
Twin $228; Single $416; Triple $275‡ ‡ Triples accommodated in a Jr. Suite.
47
L O C A L LY H O S T E D
Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Limerick $
from
DUBLIN TO LIMERICK
1082
land only
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Private airport transfers in Dublin on Day 1 and from Limerick to Shannon Airport on Day 7/8/9 >> Twin-bedded rooms in your selected, centrally located hotels, hotel taxes, and service charges >> Free WiFi available aboard the train and in all hotels (conditions may apply, see page 103) >> Breakfast daily (B) >> Services of a local host in each city, available 24/7 >> Train transportation Dublin/Cork and Cork/Killarney >> Hop-On Hop-Off city tour in Dublin (ref: DCKL8 and DCKL9 only) >> Ring of Kerry tour in Killarney >> Private car and driver transportation Killarney/Limerick >> Orientation tour in Limerick >> Travel documents
7 days
REF: DCKL7
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IR ELA N D 2 DU B LIN / C OR K B 3 C OR K, city si g htseein g B
I r eland
Ù
1
LIMERICK DROMOLAND CASTLE +
5 ring of kerry excursion B 6 KILLAR NEY / limerick B
1
1
SHANNON
Ring of Kerry
4 C OR K / KILLAR NEY B
DUBLIN
2
7 limerick / de part shannon B
2
CORK
KILLARNEY
8 days
REF: DCKL8
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IRELA N D 2 DU B LIN, city si g htseein g B 3 DU B LIN / C OR K B
I r eland
YOUR personally selected hotels & TRANSPORTATION
FIRST CLASS
Dublin | O’Callaghan’s Alexander Hotel Cork | The River Lee Hotel Killarney | The Malton Limerick | Limerick Strand Hotel Trains* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat
DROMOLAND CASTLE +
5 C OR K / KILLAR NEY B 6 ring of kerry excursion B
1
1
SHANNON
Ring of Kerry
4 C OR K, city si g htseeing B
2
LIMERICK
PREMIER
Dublin | The Shelbourne Cork | Hayfield Manor Killarney | Killarney Park Hotel Limerick | No. 1 Pery Square Trains | 1st class ticket with reserved seat
DUBLIN
7 KILLAR NEY / limerick B 8 limerick / de part shannon B
2
2
CORK
KILLARNEY
9 days
moderate
Dublin | Ashling Hotel Cork | Imperial Hotel Cork Killarney | Arbutus Hotel Limerick | Clarion Hotel Limerick Trains* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat
2 DU B LIN, city si g htseein g B 3 DU B LIN / C OR K B
I r eland
EXTEND YOUR STAY Extra nights are available in Dublin or Limerick. YOUR RAIL EXPERIENCE! *Forupgrade an even more comfortable train journey from
Dublin/Cork (not available Cork/Killarney), including spacious, electrically adjustable seats and additional leg room, upgrade to first class from $42 per person.
FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS, VISIT:
BrendanVacations.com 48
REF: DCKL9
1 Arrive in DU B LIN, IRELA N D
LIMERICK DROMOLAND CASTLE +
3
KILLARNEY 1
2
5 C OR K / KILLAR NEY B 6 ring of kerry excursion B
1
SHANNON
Ring of Kerry
4 C OR K, city si g htseeing B
DUBLIN
START CITY
1
7 KILLAR NEY, a full free day B 8 KILLAR NEY / limerick B
2
9 limerick / de part shannon B
CORK 1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
+ DROMOLAND CASTLE OPTION
15th-century ross castle on lough leane, county kerry
YOUR included SIGHTSEEING DUB LIN See all the highlights of the city on a Hop-On Hop-Off tour. Entertaining guides will take you to see famous sites such as Dublin Castle, Trinity C ollege, the Guinness Storehouse, and many more (entrance fees not included). Pick up the tour at more than 20 stops every 15-20 minutes and travel at your own pace. You can stay on the coach or get off as often as you’d like, to see your favorites up close. COR K First stop, Blarney Castle! Kiss the famous stone and receive the gift of eternal eloquence. There’s time for shopping at Blarney Village before returning to Cork for a short city tour. Ride alongside Cork Harbour to Cobh, where you will visit the “Queenstown Story” Heritage Centre, the last port of call for millions fleeing starvation during the potato famine. This was also the final stop for the Titanic, before she began her ill-fated ocean crossing. After your visit, return to Cork. Tour starts and ends at Cork Train Station.
Killarney ring of kerry e xcursion Travel the road that winds around the lovely Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Admire the breathtaking scenery of majestic landscapes and crashing seas on your guided coach tour. Delight in tradit ional Irish life as you stop in quaint villages along the way. This is a sight not to be missed! LIMERI CK Your driver will give you an orientation tour of Limerick on the way to your hotel. EXPLORE MORE OF ireland For your convenience, we have handpicked exciting tours that can be easily added to your vacation. See pages 68-70.
St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral in cork was built between 1865 and 1879
P R I C E S per person FRO M *
Twin
Single
7 DAYS Premier First Class Moderate
$1,677 $1,159 $1,082
$2,849 $1,860 $1,721
8 DAYS Premier First Class Moderate
$1,875 $1,431 $1,350
$3,009 $2,124 $2,004
9 DAYS Premier First Class Moderate
$2,028 $1,524 $1,429
$3,269 $2,278 $2,137
Triple REF:DCKL7
$1,593 $1,101 $1,028
DROMOLAND CASTLE
REF:DCKL8
$1,781 $1,360 $1,283 REF: DCKL9
$1,927 $1,448 $1,358
Travel any day.
* Per person prices are land only and based on low season
travel. Higher rates may apply depending on your date of travel. Airfare is additional. Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available to us at the time of booking.
Because of the close proximity between hotels and train station in Dublin and Cork, transfers are on your own. Private train station transfers in Dublin and Cork are available at an extra charge. Hotels in Killarney are within a block or two of the train station.
Let us drive, you relax...
WORRY-FREE TRAIN STATION TRANSFER package relax on the train from dublin to cork
Spend a night in a castle!
Add private transfers between your hotel and train station in Dublin and Cork from $157 (per car).
Why not spend your last night in Ireland at a historic and luxurious castle? Dromoland Castle is a Renaissance structure built in the 16th century, and was once the royal seat of the O’Brien clan. Set on a 375-acre estate, the castle retains priceless reminders of a magnificent past with its woodcarvings, stone statuary, handcarved paneling, and antique furnishings. Your stay includes a full Irish breakfast. You will be picked up and transferred to Shannon Airport on your last day. Free WiFi available at the castle.
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PRICES per person FROM
Twin $228; Single $416; Triple $275‡ ‡ Triples accommodated in a Jr. Suite.
49
L O C A L LY H O S T E D
Edinburgh & The Scottish Highlands $
from
edinburgh to edinburgh
1703
land only
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Round-trip airport transfers in Edinburgh on Days 1 and 7/8/9 >> Twin-bedded rooms in your selected, centrally located hotels, hotel taxes, and service charges >> Free WiFi at most hotels (conditions may apply, see page 103) >> Breakfast daily (B) >> Services of a local host in Edinburgh on Day 1 and by phone 24/7 for the rest of your vacation >> Round-trip train transportation Edinburgh/Inverness >> Hop-On Hop-Off city tours in Edinburgh and Inverness >> Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Excursion >> Cruise on Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal >> Travel documents
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your personally selected hotels & TRANSPORTATION
7 days
Scottish Highlands
ISLE OF SKYE
3
Scottish Highlands
ISLE OF SKYE
4
EDINBURGH
moderate Edinburgh | The Inn on the Mile Inverness | Best Western Inverness Palace Hotel & Spa Train* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat
1
Scottish Highlands
ISLE OF SKYE
For an even more comfortable train journey, upgrade to first class from only $120 per person. Enjoy a large reclining seat, the distinguished atmosphere, and complimentary snacks.
4
5 INVERNESS, LOCH NESS CRUISE & SIGHTSEEING B 6 INVER NES S / EDINBU RGH B 7 DEPART EDINBU R GH B
2
8 days
ORKNEY ISLANDS +
4 INVER NES S, IS LE OF SK YE & HIGHLANDS EXC URSI O N B
Scotland
1
5 INVERNESS, LOCH NESS CRUISE & SIGHTSEEING B 6 INVER NES S, A FULL F REE DAY B 7 INVER NES S / EDINBU RGH B 8 DEPART EDINBU R GH B
2
9 days
ORKNEY ISLANDS +
REF: UKJ
1 AR R IVE IN EDINBU R GH , SCOTLA N D 2 EDINBU R GH, C IT Y S IGH TSEEI N G B 3 EDINBU R GH, A FULL F REE DAY B 4 EDINBU R GH / INVER N ESS, CITY S IGHT S EEING B
INVERNESS Scotland
LOCH NESS
REF: UKI
1 AR R IVE IN EDINBU R GH , SCOTLA N D 2 EDINBU R GH, C IT Y S IGH TSEEI N G B 3 EDINBU R GH / INVER N ESS, CITY S IGHT S EEING B
INVERNESS
JOHN O’GROATS
EXTEND YOUR STAY Extra nights are available in Edinburgh.
4 INVER NES S, IS LE OF SK YE & HIGHLANDS EXC UR SI O N B
Scotland
LOCH NESS
Edinburgh | The Scotsman Hotel Inverness | Rocpool Reserve Hotel Train | 1st class ticket with reserved seat
* upgrade YOUR RAIL EXPERIENCE!
INVERNESS
JOHN O’GROATS
PREMIER
first class Edinburgh | Macdonald Holyrood Inverness | Kingsmills Hotel (WiFi fee) Train* | 2nd class ticket with reserved seat
1 AR R IVE IN EDINBU R GH , SCOTLA N D 2 EDINBU R GH, C IT Y S IGH TSEEI N G B 3 EDINBU R GH / INVER N ESS, CITY S IGHT S EEING B
LOCH NESS
EDINBURGH
REF: UKH
5 INVER NES S, IS LE OF SK YE & HIGHLANDS EXC URSI O N B 6 INVERNESS, LOCH NESS CRUISE & SIGHTSEEING B
EDINBURGH
1
7 INVER NES S, A FULL F REE DAY B 8 INVER NES S / EDINBU RGH B 9 DEPART EDINBU R GH B
3
FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS, VISIT:
BrendanVacations.com 1
50
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
+ ORKNEY ISLANDS OPTION
Inverness
ROCPOOL RESERVE HOTEL
KINGSMILL HOTEL
BW INVERNESS PALACE HOTEL
PREMIER
FIRST CLASS
MODERATE
An exclusive 5-star hideaway in the center of Inverness • 11 rooms offer a coffee/tea machine, oversize beds, iPod dock, TV, and free WiFi • Bar and restaurant
A 4-star hotel set on 4 acres of gardens in the heart of Inverness • 120 rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, iPod dock, and TV • Bar and restaurants • Gym, pool, Spa, and free WiFi in public areas
This 3-star city center hotel is on the banks of the River Ness across from Inverness Castle • 88 rooms with a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi • Brasserie, lounge, and restaurant • Gym, pool, and Spa
YOUR included SIGHTSEEING EDINBURGH The best way to see the sights of Edinburgh is on a Hop-On Hop-Off tour through the city. Travel through Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and see such highlights as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Holyrood Palace, or take in New Town attractions (entrance fees not included). With your 24-hour pass, you can hop on and off as many times as you like, and see Edinburgh your way! INVERNESS Explore the capital city of the Scottish Highlands at your own pace on your Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing tour. See Abertarff House, St. Andrews Cathedral, and the Eden Court Theater. Cross the Caledonian Canal, where you can hop off for a short cruise on Loch Ness before continuing on to higher ground with views of Kessock Bridge and the Black Isle. (Entrance fees not included.)
URQUHART CASTLE, LOCH NESS
Isle of Skye and Eilean Donan Castle Excursion. Start a full day of sightseeing with a drive along the shores of Loch Ness for a possible monster sighting. Then wind your way through the Five Sisters Mountains to see picturesque Eilean Donan Castle, perched on its island at the head of Loch Duich. Cross to the Isle of Skye, famous for its dramatic mountain scenery and picturesque seascapes. Returning to the mainland, visit the village of Applecross and on via the scenic Black Isle. Finish the day with stunning views of the Moray Firth as you head over the Kessock Bridge en route to Inverness. Cruise on Loch Ness and Caledonian Canal. A full day sightseeing tour, which includes a cruise on Loch Ness and the Caledonian Canal, followed by a visit to the Loch Ness Exhibition Centre. After Loch Ness monster hunting, relax at Urquhart Castle and Visitor Centre before viewing the prehistoric ruins of the Corrimony Cairns.
EXPLORE MORE of edinburgh For your convenience, we have handpicked exciting tours that can be easily added to your vacation. See page 93.
PRICES per person F ROM*
Twin
Single
Triple
7 DAYS REF: UKH Premier $2,438 $3,782 $2,296 First Class $1,816 $3,159 $1,676 Moderate $1,703 $3,074 $1,558 8 DAYS REF: UKI Premier $2,705 $4,048 $2,541 First Class $1,956 $3,299 $1,797 Moderate $1,834 $3,200 $1,660 9 DAYS REF: UKJ Premier $2,692 $4,306 $2,774 First Class $2,163 $3,506 $1,972 Moderate $2,060 $3,377 $1,812
optional SIGHTSEEING
Travel any day.
Inverness
* Per person prices are land only and based on low season
Orkney Islands Day Excursion. Depart early this morning and coach to John O’Groats in Scotland’s far north. Then ferry to the Orkney Islands for a full day of touring. Start at Skara Brae, Europe’s best preserved Stone Age village, even older than the Egyptian Pyramids. Other highlights are the famous naval anchorage of Scapa Flow and Churchill Barriers, the 12th-century Norse Cathedral in Kirkwall and the Standing Stones of Stenness. The 40-minute ferry journey provides opportunities to see seabirds and marine animals. Price per person from $138; available on 8 or 9 day vacations only.
travel. Higher rates may apply depending on your date of travel. Airfare is additional. Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available to us at the time of booking.
Because of the close proximity between hotels and train stations, transfers are on your own. Private transfers are available at an extra charge. Easy hotel/train station transfer instructions will be provided in your documentation.
Let us drive, you relax ...
WORRY-FREE TRAIN STATION TRANSFER package Add private transfers between your hotel and train station in Edinburgh and Inverness from $131 (per car).
51
Our Private Chauffeur Vacations offer the ultimate in comfort, convenience, and relaxation. These exclusive trips are designed around you. You imagine the vacation of your dreams and we’ll put it together. Then, when it’s time to go, you’ll have a private chauffeur to read the maps and do the driving!
Private Chauffeur Vacations
Let us do the driving Travel your way With Private Chauffeur Vacations, it’s all up to you. Where do you want to go? Perhaps you’d prefer an in-depth exploration of just one country – or maybe spend time in Scotland then cross to Ireland. How much time do you want to spend? Since you’re designing your own trip, it can be as long or as short as you want it to be.
52
With a private luxury car and chauffeur you are free to explore. Any time you see see something that excites your imagination, ask your private chauffeur to stop. Notice a town that looks interesting? Take a break and find out more. Want to seize a photo opportunity? Pull over and snap some shots. Suddenly feel like grabbing a bite to eat or drive by a shop that you don’t want to miss? Your time and schedule are yours, so ask your private chauffeur to park, and
you’re off on a shopping spree! There’s no better way to really immerse yourself in the true culture of your destination, and to get to know the country and her people more intimately. What kind of hotels do you want to stay in? Deluxe 5-star properties including castles and manors? Unique boutique accommodations? Charming B&Bs? It’s all available, you just have to ask.
For the epitome of class and style, ask for accommodations in BG logo properties. These are 5-star deluxe or offer an exceptional experience difficult to replicate anywhere else.
What kind of car do you want? Something small for two guests or a larger vehicle to accommodate a group of extended family and friends. We have a wide range of transportation options – from luxury to minivans.
What sightseeing and visits do you want included? A view from the outside of an attraction may be all you want. You may prefer to go inside and explore a sight at length. Whatever you want included, we can organize it for you. On the following pages you will find sample itineraries. You can take one of these or ask us to design a bespoke itinerary for you. Then your private chauffeur will show you Ireland and Scotland your way – with helpful hints, insider tips and expert guidance along the way. Dream big and let us make your dreams a reality. Private Chauffeur Vacations are truly the ultimate in travel. 53
PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR VACATION
Irish Cities, Landscapes & Castles from
DUBLIN TO SHANNON YOUR BRENDAN GOLD TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Private transfers throughout >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
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>> Free WiFi available in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> Breakfast (B) daily >> Transportation in a private chauffeurdriven Mercedes Benz; your Irish private chauffeur is your guide >> Free WiFi in your Mercedes Benz >> Sightseeing, special features, and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges
suggested hotels DLX Deluxe
SF Superior First Class
Dublin | Merrion Hotel DLX Waterford | Waterford Castle SF Killarney | Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa DLX Newmarket-on-Fergus | Dromoland Castle DLX
$
sample itinerary
4537
land only
DAY
1 Arriv e in Du b lin, Ir eland
Welcome to Dublin! Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel by your private chauffeur. This afternoon, your voyage of discovery begins with a city tour. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in 1190, tour Dublin’s Georgian Squares, and walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to its unique world treasure – the ornate 8th-century Book of Kells. The rest of the day is free.
2 Boyne Valley Exc u r s ion
Travel to the Boyne Valley in County Meath. This river valley was the cradle of Irish civilization and supported a sophisticated society in Neolithic times. Witness this when you stop at the Bru-na-Boinne Centre to visit one of the important Neolithic tombs at Newgrange or Knowth. Return to the city, where the balance of the day is at leisure. B
3 Dubl in / Wat er for d
En route to Waterford, visit Powerscourt Estate’s glorious formal gardens. Also stop at Glendalough, the “Valley of the Two Lakes,” famous for its early monastic ruins and scenic setting. Continue to the ancient town of Waterford with colorful terrace houses, cafés and bars overlooking the quayside. Enjoy a night in Waterford Castle, set on its own private island on the River Suir. B
DROMOLAND CASTLE
PRICE per person FROM* # OF GUESTS
Land only
2
3
4
$4,537
$3,721
$3,205
Travel any day Ask your Brendan Specialist for prices for larger parties. You can modify this itinerary including the hotels and sightseeing to suit your interests.
* Per person prices are land only. Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
4 Wate r for d / Killar ney
Your day starts with a visit to Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the “gift of the gab” for a kiss. Stroll across to the Blarney Woollen Mills to shop for fine traditional knitwear and crafts. Then continue on to the charming town of Killarney. B
1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
Northern Ireland
5 Ring o f Ker ry exc u r s ion
Admire the breathtaking scenery of rugged landscapes and crashing seas along the famous Ring of Kerry. Delight in traditional Irish life as you stop in quaint villages along the way. This is sight not to be missed! Later, your evening is free in Killarney. B
Meet your private chauffeur
Your private chauffeur is a highly trained professional who will enrich your travels with a wealth of expert knowledge. Departure times and a flexible balance between driving and sightseeing can be agreed upon each day. In addition, advice on entertainment, restaurants and more is readily available.
6 Kil l ar ney / Drom oland Cas t le
Pass through pastoral farmlands, stopping at the Flying Boat Museum of Pan Am fame in Foynes. On to the picturesque village of Adare, then continue to Dromoland Castle. This elegant 16th-century baronial castle features luxurious accommodation in a splendid setting. B
7 Dromoland / De part Shannon
Visit BrendanVacations.com for up-to-date information.
54
Ireland
You will be transferred to Shannon Airport where your vacation ends. B
BOYNE VALLEY
DUBLIN
DROMOLAND CASTLE
1
SHANNON AIRPORT FOYNES ADARE
KILLARNEY 2 Ring of Kerry
2
POWERSCOURT GLENDALOUGH
1
WATERFORD BLARNEY CASTLE
PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR VACATION
Family Adventure on the Emerald Isle from
DUBLIN TO dublin YOUR BRENDAN GOLD TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Private transfers throughout >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
>> Free WiFi available in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> Breakfast (B) daily >> Transportation in a private chauffeurdriven Mercedes Benz; your Irish private chauffeur is your guide >> Free WiFi in your Mercedes Benz >> Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges
Suggested Hotels DLX Deluxe
F First Class
Dublin | Merrion Hotel DLX Cork | Maryborough House Hotel F Killarney | Malton Hotel F Cong | Ashford Castle DLX
YOUR PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR AWAITS
$
4580
land only
DAY 1
1 Arrive in Du b lin, Ir eland
START CITY
Northern Ireland
Welcome to Dublin! This afternoon, take the 1 OVERNIGHT STAY exhilarating Viking Splash Tour for a truly 1 unique experience. Board an amphibious END CITY World War II vehicle (DUKW) which will take you from land to water and back again, offering city views not available on other tours. Later, visit Trinity College to see the lavishly ASHFORD 1 decorated Book of Kells.
Ireland
2 Dublin / Cork
DUBLIN
CASTLE (CONG)
Set out from Dublin and travel to the Hook Peninsula. Visit Hook CLIFFS OF MOHER Lighthouse, built in the 13th century (perhaps earlier) and one of the oldest active lighthouses in the world. Hear the legend of Dubhán, a 6th-century monk who established the first light on Hook Head after KILLARNEY discovering the bodies of 2 shipwrecked sailors on the rocks. Climb the 115 steps to the top level, and enjoy the tale of the monks, Ring of the earliest keepers of the light. Kerry Continue to ancient city of Waterford, and see evidence of a Viking settlement dating back to the 10th century. Next, take a guided tour of the House of Waterford Crystal. End the day in Cork. B
3 Cork / Killarney
Set out for historic Blarney Castle. Climb to the top of the castle where the Blarney stone is set in the wall below the battlements. Legend says that the stone gives “the gift of the gab” to those who kiss it. Explore the castle grounds and the Rock Close, a mystical place where yew and oak trees grow around an ancient druidic settlement. Follow the trail through giant gunnera leaves and bamboo, and you will find a dolmen or prehistoric tomb, wishing steps, and a witch’s kitchen. Then on to Killarney. Take a jaunting car ride, and see Killarney National Park, deer parks, and Ross Castle on the enchanting shores of Lough Lein. B
4 Ring of Ker ry Excu r s ion
A scenic day awaits as you travel the road ‘round the beautiful Ring of Kerry. Back in Killarney, visit the three farms at Muckross, each complete with animals and rural machinery. Your evening is free in lively Killarney. B
5 Killarney / Ashford Castle (Cong)
Visit BrendanVacations.com for up-to-date information.
sample itinerary
Heading north, stop at the Cliffs of Moher and board a cruise sailing along the impressive shoreline. Continue to stunning Ashford Castle, nestled on the banks of Loch Corrib. Take a leisurely bicycle ride along winding dirt paths, exploring the vast grounds of the castle. Tonight, you’ll feel like royalty, relaxing in the castle’s sumptuous interiors. B
1
HOOK PENINSULA
BLARNEY CASTLE 1
1
WATERFORD
CORK
6 As hfor d Cas t le / D ubli n
Awake refreshed and enjoy a leisurely morning at Ashford Castle. Later, cross back to Dublin. Visit Christchurch Cathedral, the oldest building in Dublin, founded over 1000 years ago by Sitric the Viking King. Explore the medieval crypt, one of the largest in Ireland. Don’t forget to pick up a copy of “A Young Person’s Guide to Christchurch Cathedral” at the entrance. Afterward, there’s a chance to explore the treats and treasures of Dublin’s quirky boutiques, souvenir shops, and vibrant high street stores. B
7 Depart Du b lin
Your private chauffeur will transfer you to the airport, where you’ll have to say goodbye to your new friend and to Ireland, as your vacation comes to an end. B
PRICE per person* # OF GUESTS
2
3
4-6
7-9
Land only $4,580 $3,760 $2,716- $2,592 $3,237 $2,667 Travel any day Ask your Brendan Specialist for prices for larger parties. You can modify this itinerary including the hotels and sightseeing to suit your family’s interests.
* Per person prices are land only. Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
55
PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR VACATION
Scottish & Irish Highlights $9365
sample itinerary
from
glasgow to shannon
YOUR BRENDAN GOLD TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Private transfers throughout >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
>> Free WiFi available in all hotels (conditions apply, see page 103) >> Breakfast (B) daily >> Transportation in a private chauffeurdriven Mercedes Benz; your private chauffeur is your guide (one each in Scotland and Ireland) >> Free WiFi in your Mercedes Benz (in Ireland only) >> Sightseeing, special features, and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges
Suggested Hotels DLX Deluxe
SF Superior First Class
Perthshire | Gleneagles Hotel DLX Edinburgh | The Scotsman DLX Dublin | Fitzwilliam Hotel dlx Cork | Hayfield Manor dlx Killarney | Killarney Park Hotel sf Newmarket-on-Fergus | Dromoland Castle DLX gleneagles hotel, perthshire
land only
DAY
a landscape that captures the eye and warms the heart. Next take a jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park. On to visit Muckross House. The elegant rooms portray the lifestyle of the landed gentry, while downstairs you can experience the working conditions of the servants. B
1 ARRIV E IN G LAS G OW, S C OT LAND / PE RTH S HIR E
Welcome to Scotland! Head out for a visit to Stirling Castle, once home to Mary Queen of Scots. Then on to the Gleneagles Hotel, where you’ll relax this evening.
2 WHISKY & ST. ANDREWS EXCURSION
12 DING LE P ENINS U LA EXCURSI O N
3 L OCH LOM OND EXC U R S ION
13 KILLAR NEY / DROM OLA N D CASTLE (NEWM AR KET-ON-FER G US)
Start the day with a visit to the Famous Grouse Distillery. Learn how whisky is made and sample the amber liquid. Travel on to St. Andrews, the “Home of Golf.” There’s free time in town before returning to your hotel. B Travel through Trossachs National Park to Loch Lomond, Scotland’s largest lake. Head out on a cruise, and take in the scenery as you glide through the shimmering waters. B
4 PE RTH S HIR E / EDINB U R G H
Travel to Edinburgh and visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, which served Her Majesty the Queen and the Royal Family for over 40 years. Afterward, your time is free to explore. B
On the Dingle Peninsula, majestic hills soar over unspoiled valleys, and glittering mountain streams tumble down into lakes. Stop in the town of Dingle, where there is time to stroll around the town. B
Travel to luxurious Dromoland Castle. Set on 375 acres, the castle retains its wood carvings, stone statuary, and antique furnishings. The day is yours to explore the castle and its grounds. B
14 DROM OLAND CAS T LE / DEPART S HANNON
You will be transferred to Shannon Airport where it’s time to say goodbye to your chauffeur as your vacation ends. B
5 E DINBUR G H S IG HT S EEING & F RE E T IM E
Start the day with a visit to Edinburgh Castle. See city highlights as you continue to Holyrood Palace to visit the chambers of Mary Queen of Scots. The afternoon is at leisure. If your visit is in August, you might want to attend the spectacular Military Tattoo. B
6 E DINBUR G H / DU B LIN, IR ELAND
Fly to Ireland (not included in prices shown) and meet your new private chauffeur. On to visit Malahide Castle, dating back to the 14th century. The oldest inhabited castle in Ireland, Malahide is regularly visited by five ghosts! B
PRICE per person FROM* # OF GUESTS
2
Land only
3
$9,365
$7,810
4
$6,780
Travel any day Ask your Brendan Specialist for prices for larger parties. You can modify this itinerary including the hotels and sightseeing to suit your interests.
* Per person prices are land only.
Flight Edinburgh-Dublin not included. Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
7 DUBL IN S IG HT S EEING & FR EE T IM E
At Trinity College, see the ornate Book of Kells. On to visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Next is the Guinness Storehouse, where you will see how Guinness is produced. The tour ends at the Gravity Bar for a taste of the “Black Stuff.” B
Scotland
PERTHSHIRE
8 Dublin / C ork
3
LOCH LOMOND LOMOND LOCH GLASGOW
Travel south for a visit to Glendalough with its 6th-centurn monastic ruins. Next, in Waterford, tour the House of Waterford Crystal. End the day at magnificent Hayfield Manor. B
EDINBURGH
ST. ANDREWS
2
Head to Blarney Castle, to kiss the stone that gives the “gift of the gab.” Then on to Killarney, where your time is free to explore this delightful town. B
10 RING O F KER RY E XCUR S ION
Visit BrendanVacations.com for up-to-date information.
56
Travel the Ring of Kerry, where sea, mountains, and valleys blend into
P
9 Cork / Killarney
DROMOLAND CASTLE
SHANNON Dingle Peninsula Ring of Kerry
1
I r eland
3
KILLARNEY
BLARNEY
2
DUBLIN start CITY
1
WATERFORD
CORK
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
END CITY
PRIVATE CHAUFFEUR VACATION
Bonnie Scotland from
edinburgh to edinburgh BRENDAN GOLD TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Round-trip airport transfers in Edinburgh on Days 1 and 7/8/9 >> Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar, hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
Ù
>> Free WiFi available in all hotels (conditions may apply, see page 103) >> Breakfast (B) daily >> Transportation in a private chauffeurdriven Mercedes Benz; your private chauffeur is your guide >> Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges
SAMPLE ITINERARY
$
4240
land only
DAY
one of the greatest rail trips in the world. As you travel see the Glenfinnan Viaduct, well known to Harry Potter fans familiar with the “Hogwarts Express.” Disembark in Fort William and continue through Glencoe and on across Rob Roy country to Trossachs National Park and sparkling Loch Lomond. B
1 Arrive in Edinburgh, Scotland
Welcome to Scotland! You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. This afternoon, a sightseeing tour will show you the Georgian period New Town, the Old City, Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace. Take a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle. where you can see the Scottish Crown jewels. Your evening is free.
brendan suggestion: During August, add a day in Edinburgh and attend a perform ance of the world-famous Military Tattoo.
After a day at leisure, head to the Edinburgh Castle Esplanade for an unforgettable evening. The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a not-to-be-missed spectacle, with bands, musicians and other performers from around the world. This extravaganza is an explosion of music, marching, and excitement! You’ll have a grandstand seat for this sell-out show (2014 performance dates: Aug 1-23, Fri-Sat).
5 Loc h Lom ond / Glasgow / EDINBURGH
Start the day with a cruise on majestic Loch Lomond. Then travel to Glasgow. Your private chauffeur will take you on a city tour including a visit to St. Mungo’s Cathedral. Continue to see the uniqe Falkirk Wheel, and on to Stirling Castle. This impressive structure was the home of Mary, Queen of Scots. Visit the castle and stroll through the gardens, then it’s time to return to Edinburgh. B
7 Depart EDINBURGH
Your private chauffeur will take you to the airport, where your vacation ends. B
2 Edinbu r g h / Inver ness
Suggested Hotels DLX Deluxe
SF Superior First Class
Edinburgh | The Scotsman DLX Inverness | Rocpool Reserve DLX Isle of Skye | Duisdale House SF Loch Lomond | Cameron House Hotel DLX Edinburgh | The Scotsman DLX
Drive to St. Andrews, a mecca for golfers. It is also home of one of the world’s oldest universities, and it was here that Prince William and Kate Middleton met. Continue traveling north, stopping in your choice of towns along the way. In Perth, you can visit Branklyn Garden and Scone Palace. Maybe take a break in Pitlochry and tour the Blair Atholl Distillery. On to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. There’s time to browse through the Victorian Market before heading to your hotel. B
PRICE per person from*
2 GUESTS
3 GUESTS
4 GUESTS
$4,240
$3,485
$2,990
Land only
Travel any day Ask your Brendan Specialist for prices for larger parties. You can modify this itinerary including the hotels and sightseeing to suit your interests.
* Per person prices are land only. Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
brendan suggestion: Add a day in
the Orkney Islands.
Travel to Thurso, then take the ferry to Orkney. Visit the Ring of Brodgar, a stone circle older than the pyramids of Egypt; Skara Brae, a stone age village; and Maes Howe, a pre historic burial mound with Viking-carved graffiti on its walls. You’ll overnight at a B&B or Moderate First Class hotel. Return to mainland Scotland the next day. B 3 Inve rness / Is le of S ky e
Head to Loch Ness, and look for the famous monster Nessie. Then continue through Highland scenery to Loch Alsh. Stop for a photo of Eilan Donan Castle, then cross the Skye Bridge to the scenic Isle of Skye,. You might want to visit Dunvegan Castle to hear about 13 centuries of Clan history or the Talisker Whisky Distillery to learn the secrets of making the “water of life.” B
4 Is l e o f S ky e / Loc h Lom ond
Visit BrendanVacations.com
After a leisurely morning, drive to Armadale and take the ferry to Mallaig. This afternoon, board the Jacobite Steam Train, considered
1
START CITY
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
END CITY
THURSO
ISLE OF SKYE 1
2
CAIRNGORMS N.P.
FORT WILLIAM GLENCOE
LOCH LOMOND
INVERNESS
Scotland 1
GLASGOW
PITLOCHRY
PERTH 1
1
ST. ANDREWS
EDINBURGH 57
military tattoo, edinburgh
Ireland and Scotland have many ties with America and Americans. Your trip may be dedicated to tracking down your family’s history or perhaps you want to visit places your parents or grandparents remember. To do that, you often want to spend more time in a spot that a larger group might only visit for a short while. Our Customized Vacations let you move at your own pace.
Customized Vacations adare manor, co limerick
The ultimate in flexibility Yours to explore and discover
kissing the blarney stone
On a Customized Vacation, your time is your own. You are free to head out with hotel and B&B vouchers and plan each day as you go, or set an itinerary with the assistance of your Brendan Specialist and travel with pre-booked lodgings. We have a huge variety of accommodations available, from modest hotels to castles, and B&Bs to manor houses. You can mix and match, so you really get a taste of Ireland or Scotland, living with the locals in a bed & breakfast one night and like royalty with a castle stay the next. From the thousands of properties available in Ireland, Scotland, and London, we’ve handpicked the best, with a good selection of 3-, 4-, and 5-star properties, so there’s something for all budgets.
58
magherabuoy house hotel, antrim coast
cliffs of moher
To help you plan, our star rating is:
Brendan Gold – An exceptional property offering the best in everything
HHHHH Deluxe – A luxury property offering the highest
quality service, facilities, guest rooms and amenities
HHHHH Superior First or Moderate Deluxe Class – An above
average First Class to Deluxe property with excellent service, facilities, guest rooms and amenities
HHHH
First Class – A full service property with a wide range of facilities and comfortable rooms offering many amenities
HH – HHHH
Tourist, Superior Tourist or Moderate First Class – An economy to First Class property with basic room amenities and limited public rooms and facilities
When it comes to your rental car, your options include manual or automatic vehicles ranging from small cars like the Ford Fiesta to minivans, and everything in between. Simply select the car that will be the most comfortable for you and your traveling companions, then you are ready to hit the open road! You also have a choice when it comes to sightseeing. There are some places you want to visit on your own, but others are easier or more enjoyable on a tour. For instance, taking a musical pub crawl in the company of soon-to-be friends adds all the more entertainment. And, seeing the Ring of Kerry from the vantage point of a motorcoach allows for a spectacular panoramic view you won’t get from a car. We have a great collection of tours and excursions to choose from. Our Customized Vacations let you make Ireland and Scotland your own.
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M EA
Lo nd on Do de ne rry g Du al bli n Ga lw a Kil y ke nn Kil y lar ne Ro y ss lar Sh eH an arb no Wa nA ou ter irp r ort for d
IL
G
E
H
R
T
North Atlantic
Tory I.
ANTRIM COAST
DEER RRY RY L O N DU O N D A6 LIFFORD
5
Donegal Bay M A Y O N59
BALLINA
O
N Ashford Castle
Lough Corrib
N59
17
5
2
N5
18
N
T 67 TH H
N
BALYFIN
NEWMARKET ON FERGUS
SN69H A N N O N L I M E R I C K N2 1 N2
PEN ARA
BE Bantry Bay
1
N7
KENMARE
IN
A SUL
N22
CORK Cork
BANTRY
1 N7
Kilkenny
KILKENNY CASHEL
CLONMEL N2
N25
N25
MIDLETON
KINSALE
Glendalough
Kilkenny Castle & Gardens N9
Waterford
Old Midleton Distillery
M9
Waterford Castle
TO HOLYHEAD, WALES
Powerscourt Gardens
WICKLOW
Wicklow
M9
MAP KEY
1
Wexford N30
N2
5
N1
N11
Garnish Island
N72 un t ing CCarts Blarney Jaunting ar t s Castle Blarney Blarney Woolen Castle Mills
Ja
RIN G OF KERRY
Avoca
DUN LAOGHAIRE
CARLOW Glendalough FRESHFORD
4
MALLOW
S.Dublin
M7
PORTLAOISE
Carlow
M8
M8
KILLARNEY
N7
KILMALOCK
DUBLIN
M50
80
0
KILLORGLIN
Rock Rock of of Cashel Cashel
Tipperary
Kerry
Crag Cave
4
M3
Kildare
DROGHEDA
N
TRALEE DINGLE PE NINSUL A
Limerick
N20
Adare Manor
M7
Laois N62
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park & Folk Park
Gallarus Oratory
Great Blasket DINGLE Islands
BIRR
N7
Tarbert Tarbert Ferry Ferry
National Stud
Irish Sea
Fingal
KINNILY Japanese Gardens KILDARE
N80
DOONBEG
TRIM
TULLAMORE
Newgrange
DONORE
M4
M6 Clonmacnoise Clonmacnoise Rathbaun Farm N6
N N E E R R Clare Lough RR UU Derg BB Dromoland Castle E E ENNIS
N51
MULLINGAR
Westmeath
2
KINVARA
Cliffs of Moher
ATHLONE
N6
Aran Isles
Galway
N
Galway Bay Dunguaire
M1
Meath
5
N2
G A LWAY
Dun Aengus
Down
DUNDALK
Louth
52
N4
Lough Ree
Aughnanure
WAT E R F O R D Waterford Crystal Factory
Irish Nat'l Heritage Park
IRELAND
M4
Major Road
N11
Ancient Site
WEXFORD ROSSLARE
Nat'l Park Points Of Interest
DUNGARVAN ARDMORE
Motorway
Natural Feature
TO FISHGUARD, TO CHERBOURG, FRANCE WALES OR ROSCOFF, FRANCE
Castle / Manor Museum Religious Site Ferry
Celtic Sea
0 0
60
BANGOR HOLYWOOD
NEWRY
N
N5
Longford
ROSCOMMON
TO STRANRAER, SCOTLAND
A2
CAVAN
LONGFORD
0
Roscommon
Monaghan
Cavan
N6
LARNE
ARMAGH
N3
C
RA M A Lough E Mask N
N5
M2
M1
Armagh
4
A
CARRICK-ON-SHANNON
KNOCK
Lough Neagh
B E L FAS T
ENNISKILLEN
Leitrim
N5
WESTPORT
OMAGH
A32
N54
17
N
N84
CLIFDEN
Sligo
05
BLACKLION
N4
Croagh Croagh Patrick Patrick Kylemore Abbey N59
Fermanagh
A36
8
Clew Bay
LOUISBURGH
BELLEEK
R
TyroneA5
Ulster American Folk Park Lough Erne
E
N2
Clare I.
6
T
N ORT HERN IRELAND
Londonderry
A2
Mayo
N1
SLIGO
9
N5
N1
N4
Achill I.
5
Yeats Country
S
A5
DONEGAL
L
Antrim
COLERAINE
26
D
A2
N1
BUSHMILLS
PORTRUSH
A
N
O
GLENTIES
G
E
Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge
Giant's Causeway
L
A24
RED = KILOMETERS • BLACK = MILES
A
A29
Aran I.
A2
6
N5
A1
275 171 135 235 84 146 193 82 153 120 51 95
29
198 123 100 62 137 85 48 30
A
172 107 193 120 274 170 92 57 220 137
N11
219 136 117 73 309 192 163 101 222 138 158 98
WW IIC MM CKKLL TTN OO NS WW S.
222 138 204 127 309 192 407 253 391 243 283 176 357 222
A
69 43 237 147 272 169 335 208 441 274 397 247 351 218 383 238
C
428 266 402 250 257 160 209 130 148 92 87 54 208 129 129 80 126 78
H
424 264 117 73 180 112 167 104 306 190 284 177 436 271 330 205 346 215 333 207
IS
At hlo ne Be lfa st Co rk
IR
227 141 219 136 209 130 183 114 126 76 93 58 126 78 232 144 209 130 134 83 174 108
KILOMETERS MILES
90 54
EXPLORE UNCROWDED COUNTRY ROADS ON YOUR SELF-DRIVE VACATION
Ireland SelfDrive
feATUriNG B&B, COUNTrY HOme, HOTel, CASTle & mANOr STAYS YOUr TrAvel vAlUe iNClUDeS
> Accommodation vouchers > Pre-booked hotels, castles and manors and select B&Bs > All taxes for accommodations > Full Irish breakfast each day > Car type of your choice > Unlimited Mileage, Collision Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), Value Added Tax (VAT at 13.5%), Airport Location Service Charge and Vehicle Licensing Fee > Detailed road map of Ireland provided at the Hertz pick-up counter > Two-for-one admission to Knappogue Castle & Walled Gardens, Belleek China Factory Visitor Centre, House of Waterford Crystal, Dunguaire Castle, Craggaunowen
A Self-Drive Vacation allows you to plan your own itinerary, select your overnight stops and choose the type of accommodation best suited to you. There is no better way to travel for those who really want to meet the Irish and absorb the local culture. Most often, your vacation will start in Dublin, Shannon or Belfast, the locations of Ireland’s largest international airports. You can pick up your car when you arrive or wait until you are leaving the city and beginning to travel through the countryside. Brendan will send you vouchers for the accommodations you select. We strongly advise you book as far in advance as possible, particularly for the summer and holiday periods (including Irish Bank Holidays).
LONDONDERRY
DONEGAL
COUNTIES OF IRELAND
TYRONE DOWN
FERMANAGH
ARMAGH
MONAGHAN
SLIGO
> Discounts at Blarney Woollen Mills, Kildare Village Outlet Mall, The Kilkenny Shop, Midleton and Jameson Distilleries Gift Shops and the Connemara Marble Factory Gift Shop
ANTRIM
LEITRIM
CAVAN
MAYO
LOUTH
ROSCOMMON LONGFORD GALWAY
MEATH FINGAL
WESTMEATH OFFALY
S.DUBLIN KILDARE
LAOIS
CLARE
WICKLOW CARLOW
LIMERICK
KERRY
TIPPERARY
KILKENNY WEXFORD
WATERFORD CORK
Visit BrendanVacations.com
61
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW • We recommend you pre-book hotel accommodations for any nights you stay in Dublin, Shannon, Limerick, Killlarney, Galway, and Belfast. • To avoid disappointments during high season, we recommend you pre-book B&B accommodations. Castles should always be pre-booked; see pages 82-85. • Unused, lost or stolen vouchers cannot be refunded or reissued.
CHOOSE YOUR ACCOMMODATION: Mix & Match BED & BREAKFAST (Farmhouses and Town & Country homes) If you prefer discovering the local way of life in an informal and relaxed atmosphere, then this is the choice for you. You will find that some homes are hundreds of years old, while others were just built. They could be a townhouse, farmhouse, historic home, or a simple country home. You can choose from nearly 1100 B&Bs located throughout Ireland. The homes are routinely inspected to ensure high standards of cleanliness and comfort, and all have been approved by the Irish Tourist Board. “Approved” homes will meet your basic needs. You can upgrade to 3-, 4-, and 5-star properties for a small charge. All homes provide private bathroom facilities. If you purchase open B&B vouchers, we encourage you to pre-book as much as possible. This can be done online via a website you will receive once your booking is paid in full. This website lists information on the properties, plus addresses and phone numbers. In addition, we also offer you a selection of preferred B&B’s that Brendan can pre-book for you (see pages 78-81).
B&B PASS PRICES PER PERSON FROM* apr 01-jun 30
oct 01-dec 31
jul 01-sep 30
Approved $58 $63 3-Star $60 $66 4-Star $62 $68 5-Star $66 $72 *Prices based on two people sharing a room.
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A VARIETY OF HOTELS Many travelers prefer staying in hotels, and Brendan can pre-book a good selection of more than 250 properties throughout Ireland. These lodgings offer great variety and a full Irish breakfast is included. You will find the hotels vary in personality from historic with old world charm to modern with many conveniences, while others are peaceful country inns or luxury retreats (see pages 65-67 and 71-77 for our preferred properties). If you would like to sample B&B’s for a few nights – no problem – request the number of nights you wish to stay in B&B accommodations when you request your hotel nights.
• One-way rentals between Dublin, Shannon and Cork Airports are free. For other locations there is a one-way fee of €25-70 (outside of major cities). The one-way fee to Northern Ireland is €160 plus VAT. A minimum 3-day rental is required. Ask your Brendan Specialist for details. • GPS and infants seats are available at an extra charge.
NOT INCLUDED Accommodation supplements, phone calls for onward reservations, additional optional insurance (including reducing deductible costs), one-way drop fees, young driver and additional driver charges where applicable, refueling charges, and VAT charges on additional fees where applicable. Additional local fees and restrictions may apply.
CASTLES & MANORS Why not experience the luxury of an Irish castle or manor? Live like royalty in a hotel rich in history and character. It is essential that you allow Brendan to pre-book your selections in any of these special kinds of properties before your trip to avoid disappointment (see pages 82-85).
If you are traveling between Ireland and the UK, why not take advantage of the convenient Irish Ferries. There are 4 sailings daily between Dublin and Holyhead, Wales (crossing time of 2-3.5 hrs depending on ferry type). There are also two daily sailings between Rosslare and Pembroke, Wales (crossing time of 3 hrs, 45 mins). Ask your Brendan Specialist for rates and schedules. Reservations are strongly recommended.
LONDONDERRY
2 hrs
P
B E L FAS T
P
Ford Fiesta
4.5 hrs
2.5 hrs
Ireland
P
Opel Zafira
3.5 hrs
GALWAY
FERRY TO Ferry to STRANRAER, Stranraer, SCOTLAND Scotland
P
SHANNON
DUBLIN
3.5 hrs
P
.5 hrs DUN LAOGHAIRE
FERRY TO Ferry to HOLYHEAD, Holyhead, 3 hrs WALES Wales
2.5 hrs
BMW5 series
3.5 hrs
P
KILLARNEY Ring of Kerry RING OF KERRY
.5 hrs
1.5 hrs
3 hrs
WATERFORD
CORK
ROSSLARE Ferry to Fishguard, Wales
Peugeot 5008
PRICES PER Car per day from
AUTOMATIC
MANUAL
CAR CLASS
CAR TYPE (OR SIMILAR)
US EQUIVALENT
MAX # OF LUGGAGE CAPACITY ADULTS
PER CAR PER DAY#
Mini
Ford Ka
Smart Car
1 medium, 2 small
2
$40
Economy
Opel Corsa / Ford Fiesta 2/4 door
Hyundai Accent
1 large, 2 small
4
$41
Compact
Ford Focus 4 door
Ford Focus
2 large, 1 small
4-5
$48
Intermediate
Toyota Avensis
N/A
3 large, 2 small
4-5
$57
Intermediate
Opel Zafira
N/A
3 large, 2 small
6
$76
Full Size (minivan)
Ford Galaxy
Toyota Sienna
2 large, 2 small
5-7
$88
Premium (minivan)
VW Caravelle
Ford E series
2 large, 2 small
7-8
$110
Economy
Nissan Micra
Hyundai Accent
1 large, 2 small
3-4
$48
Compact
Mazda 3
Mazda 3
2 large, 1 medium
4-5
$57
Standard
Mazda 6
Mazda 6
2 large, 2 small
4-5
$66
Standard Van
Peugeut 5008
N/A
2large, 2 small
6
$102
Luxury
Volvo 580 / BMW5 series
BMW 5 series
2 large, 3 small
5
$125
Premium
Volvo XC90 (4x4)
Land Rover Discovery
2 large, 2 small
4-5
$183
Premium (minivan)
Renault Traffic
Ford E series
2 large, 2 small
7-8
$135
Inclusive prices based on low season (Jan 1-Apr 30, Oct 1-Dec 15, and Jan 1-Mar 31, ‘15), 7-day rental and include unlimited mileage, Collision Waiver Damage (CDW), Theft Protection (TP) and VAT tax (13.5%). Rentals for shorter (minimum 3 days) or longer periods available. Supplements apply for other times of the year. Luggage capacity based on maximum number of passengers (fewer passengers = more space for luggage). Minimum driver age is 23/24 years and applies to specific categories and a young driver surcharge of 26 Euro per day will apply. Other car types may not be available for drivers 25-30 years. Drivers over 75 years must drive on a regular basis, provide a note from their doctor that they are in good health and a statement from their insurance company that they have not been in an accident in the past five years.
63
c u s t o m i z e d VAC ATIO N s To help you plan your trip, here are a few of our
Most Popular Self-Drive Vacations Your Personally Selected Accommodations – Moderate: 3-star hotels and B&Bs; First Class: 4-star hotels; Premier: 5-star castles and manors.
Ireland’s Southern Charm
1 Arrive in DU B LIN
Must sees: Trinity College Library, Guinness Storehouse, Molly Malone Statue
Irelan d DROMOLAND CASTLE
2 KIL KENNY
1
En route visit the National Stud Farm in Kildare. Must sees: Kilkenny Castle, the Design Centre, Langton’s Pub
SHANNON 1
FOYNES
ADARE MANOR 1
1
KILLARNEY
DUBLIN
1
KILKENNY
3 CO RK
ROCK OF CASHEL
En route visit the Rock of Cashel. Must sees: the English Market, St . Fin Barre’s Cathedral, Queenstown Story at Cobh
JAMESON DISTILLERY
CORK
Ireland’s Country Roads
Must sees: Malahide Castle, City Hall, Phoenix Park
2 We xf ord
GALWAY
CLONMACNOISE
1
En route visit the Mount Usher Gardens. Must sees: JFK Homestead in New Ross, Dunbrody Famine Ship, the Saltee Islands
DUBLIN 1
1
3 cork
En route visit the Hook Head Lighthouse. Must sees: Fitzgerald Park, Fota Arboretum & Gardens, Bantry Bay, Spike Island
THE BURREN TARBERT FERRY
HOOK HEAD BLARNEY
1
4 KILLARNEY
WEXFORD
1
KILLARNEY
1
En route kiss the Blarney Stone. Must sees: Ring of Kerry, Dingle, the Blasket Islands, Tralee
CORK
Ireland Coast to Coast DONEGAL SLIGO
BELLEEK CHINA FACTORY
1
GALWAY
Irelan d
1
CLIFFS OF MOHER
GLENDALOUGH
1 1
KILLARNEY
2 WATERFO RD
En route visit Glendalough and Powerscourt Gardens. Must sees: House of Waterford Crystal, Reginald’s Tower, City Hall
NEWGRANGE
KNOCK
WESTPORT
Must sees: St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Stephen’s Green, Kilmainham Gaol
1
1
1
DUBLIN
3 KILLARNEY
POWERSCOURT GARDENS
En route visit Blarney Castle and Cobh. Must sees: the Ring of Kerry, Killarney Lakes, Muckross House
WATERFORD
COBH
4 ga lway /Connem ara
BLARNEY CASTLE
En route visit the Cliffs of Moher. Must sees: Galway Bay, Kylemore Abbey, The Old Bog Road
5 SLIGO
En route visit Westport or Knock. Must sees: Drumcliff Churchyard, Lissadell House, Lough Gill
1
START CITY
64
1
OVERNIGHT STAY
1
En route visit the J ameson Distillery and Blarney Castle. Must sees: the Dingle Peninsula, ride in a Jaunting Car, Killarney National Park
5 SHANNON AR EA
En route visit the Flying Boat Museum at Foynes. Must sees: Bunratty Castle, Durty Nelly’s Pub, King John’s Castle
6 R ETUR N HOME
Price Per Person 6 Days from: 3-star $640; 4-star $743; 5-star $1,123 PRICED FROM: $737* 5 G ALWAY
En route take the Tarbert Ferry and see the Burren. Must sees: An Spideal, the Aran Islands, the Spanish Arch
6 DUB LIN
En route visit Clonmacnoise. Must sees: Old Jameson Distillery, National Art Gallery, Dublinia and the Viking World
7 R ETUR N HOME
Price Per Person 7 Days from: 3-star $737; 4-star $806; 5-star $1,245
PRICED FROM: $931*
MINIMUM 9 DAYS; IDEAL 11 OR 13 DAYS
1 Arrive in DU B LIN
BELFAST
1
4 KILLAR NEY
MINIMUM 7 DAYS; IDEAL 8 OR 9 DAYS
1 Arrive in DU B LIN
Irelan d
PRICED FROM: $640*
MINIMUM 6 DAYS; IDEAL 7 OR 8 DAYS
END CITY
6 donegal
En route visit the Belleek China Factory. Must sees: Slieve League Cliffs, Donegal Craft Village, Glenveagh National Park
7 B ELFAST
Drive the Wild Atlantic Way coastal road. Must sees: City Hall, Titanic Exhibit, Albert’s Memorial Clock, the Crown Liquor Saloon
8 DUB LIN
En route visit the Neolithic tombs at Newgrange. Must sees: Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, Oscar Wilde statue in Merrion Square
9 R ETUR N HOME
Price Per Person 9 Days from: 3-star $931; 4-star $1,011; 5-star $1,611
* From prices are land only and based on 2 guests sharing a room in Moderate hotels and a standard automatic car. Prices reflect minimum itinerary length.
A I RPORT TRANS F ERS
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
Dublin starting at $27 per person (seat in van) $64 per vehicle (private) $212 per vehicle (with a guide)
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• •• • 3 THE MERRION HHHHH
4 THE WESTIN HHHHH
5 CONRAD DUBLIN HHHHH
PRICE PER Centrally located historic property near St. Stephen’s Green PERSON PER
A certified green hotel, city center, PRICE PER PERSON PER opposite historic Trinity College
142 well appointed rooms and suites offer A/C, LCD TV, and free WiFi
163 rooms and suites well equipped with modern amenities
In the heart of Dublin’s city center, opposite the National Concert Hall
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
191 spacious guest rooms and suites offer deluxe amenities
Twin $132
2 bars, 2 restaurants, and Garden Terrace
NIGHT FROM: Twin $199 Single $397 Triple N/A
Gym, pool, and Spa
Bar, glass-roofed lounge, and restaurant Fitness center, in-room spa services, and free WiFi in public areas
NIGHT FROM: Twin $190 Single $390 Triple $151
Single $258
Triple N/A 2 bars, private dining room, restaurant, and 24-hr room service
Fitness center, parking, and free WiFi in public areas
Prices include breakfast and all taxes. 65
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PRICE PER d ay R llid PERSON PER Ha k St NIGHT FROM: Brunswic t
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FAIRVIEW PARK
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
Dublin
6 THE SHELBOURNE HHHHH A historic property, city center, overlooking St. Stephen’s Green 265 elegant rooms and suites offer A/C, a TV, and free WiFi
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
City center, just steps from lively Grafton Street
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Located in the city center, near Merrion Square 102 rooms with A/C, coffee/tea tray, and free WiFi (limited)
Single $270
Bar and restaurant
Single $152
Triple $107
Mini gym, dry cleaning and laundry service
Triple $77
Fitness room and car parking
10 BROOKS HOTEL HHHH
11 CLONTARF CASTLE HOTEL HHHH
PRICE PER A superior boutique hotel near Grafton Street and Trinity College PERSON PER
An urban castle hotel, only 2 miles from Dublin’s city center
2 bars, lounge, and restaurant
Single $322
Gym, jacuzzi, pool, sauna, and Spa
Triple $143
Bar, 2 restaurants, and tea room
Near the National Museum and Heuston Railway Station, and a 5-minute ride on the Luas tram from the city center
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $110
98 rooms and suites offer A/C, free WiFi and more
225 rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, safe, TV, and free WiFi
Single $203
Bar and restaurant
Single $183
111 rooms and suites offer a coffee/tea maker, minibar, TV, and free WiFi
Triple $97
Fitness center and library lounge
Triple N/A
Bar, lounge, and restaurant
Bar and restaurant
NIGHT FROM: Twin $113
13 FITZPATRICK CASTLE HOTEL HHHH
14 THE GIBSON HHHH
A Dublin landmark on Merrion Square close to Grafton Street
An 18th century castle hotel, just 9 miles south of Dublin
This superior 4-star hotel is located just off the River Liffey
114 rooms and suites offer A/C, a coffee/tea maker, luxury bedding, safe, TV, and free WiFi (limited) Bar, restaurant, and 24-hour room service
Twin $80 Single $152 Triple $77
113 rooms and suites with a coffee/tea maker, safe, TV, and free WiFi Library bar & lounge, Dungeon Bar, 2 restaurants, and 24-hour room service Fitness center, pool, and sauna
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
Twin $80
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $68 Single $135 Triple $62
Gym, concierge, and free parking
12 O’CALLAGHAN DAVENPORT HOTEL HHHH PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $135
205 spacious rooms and suites are equipped with fine amenities and free WiFi
Twin $161
9 ASHLING HOTEL HHHH
66
8 O’CALLAGHAN ALEXANDER HOTEL HHHH
7 THE WESTBURY HHHHH
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $76
252 rooms and suites with A/C, a safe, and free WiFi
Single $139
Bar and restaurant
Single $148
Triple $64
Gym, garden areas; a “green” hotel
Triple $50
Twin $74
Dublin
15 THE MARKER HHHH A stylish superior 4-star hotel in Dublin’s business and cultural quarter
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
187 rooms feature A/C, a coffee/ tea maker, safe, and free Wi-Fi
Twin $156 Single $311
Bar, rooftop lounge, and brasserie Triple $104 restaurant
16 RADISSON BLU ROYAL HHHH
17 O’CALLAGHAN STEPHEN’S GREEN HHHH
PRICE PER Located between St. Patrick’s Cathedral and St. Stephen’s Green PERSON PER
This boutique hotel overlooks St. Stephen’s Green
150 rooms and suites have A/C, room service, LCD TV, and free WiFi
Single $254
99 well-appointed guest rooms with A/C, coffee/tea maker, a safe, TV, Twin $93 Single $175 and free WiFi (limited)
Triple $85
Bar and restaurant
Bars and a restaurant
NIGHT FROM: Twin $127
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Triple N/A
Gym and Spa
24-hour room service, laundry service, parking
Restored Georgian Library with open fireplaces
18 BUSWELLS HOTEL HHH
19 CAMDEN COURT HHH
20 JURYS INN CHRISTCHURCH HHH
A close walk to Grafton St. and Trinity College, this is a stylish boutique property
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A superior 3-star hotel, not far from St. Stephen’s Green and Grafton Street
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
In a convenient location opposite historic Christ Church Cathedral and the trendy Temple Bar area
67 rooms feature a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $73
246 guestrooms are equipped with a coffee/tea tray, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $106 Single $170
182 rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, Twin $81 Single $160 hairdryer, TV, and work area
Triple $103
Bar, coffee bar, and restaurant
Single $121 Triple $53
Bar and restaurant
Bar and restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Triple $77
WiFi in public areas (fee)
Beauty salon, gym, pool, and free parking
OTHER FAVORITE HOTELS
HHHH 24 CLYDE COURT HOTEL HHHH 23 BALLSBRIDGE HOTEL
Twin $102; Single $241; Triple $96 Twin $78; Single $141; Triple N/A
25 BEWLEY’S HOTEL
BALLSBRIDGE
Ù HHH
Twin $82; Single $123; Triple $78
21
JURYS INN PARNELL HHH
22
Around the corner from the pulsing center of Dublin’s historic O’Connell Street
Central, overlooking Merrion Square, near Grafton Street
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $88
253 guest rooms are equipped with a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, Single $173 work area, and TV Triple $84 Bar, coffee bar and restaurant Fitness room WiFi in public areas (fee)
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
O’CALLAGHAN MONT CLARE HHH
74 rooms offer A/C, a coffee/tea tray, and TV Bar, restaurant, and 24-hour room service Free WiFi (limited)
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $72 Single $134 Triple N/A
26 JURYS INN CUSTOM
HOUSE HHH Twin $81; Single $160; Triple $77 Dublin Airport Hotels
27 CARLTON DUBLIN
AIRPORT
Ù HHHH
Twin $99; Single $180; Triple $88
28 RADISSON BLU DUBLIN
AIRPORT
Ù HHHH
Twin $96; Single $169; Triple $89
29 BEWLEY’S DUBLIN
AIRPORT HOTEL
Ù HHH
Twin $60; Single $101; Triple $55
Ù Free WiFi (see page 103) 67
o p t i o n a l S I G H T S E E IN G
Explore
Dublin
DUBLIN HOP-ON HOP-OFF
DUBLIN WALKING TOUR
Entertaining guides will show you famous sites such as Dublin Castle, Trinity College, the Guinness Storehouse and many more.
See the highlights of the Irish capital plus some of her hidden surprises on this easy walk with a knowledgeable local guide.
Operates: Daily; valid 2 days; 2 routes; 20 stops every 15-20 minutes (entrance fees not included) Price Per Person From: $24
Operates: Most Days; 1½ - 2 hours Price Per Person From: $18
LITERARY PUB CRAWL
DUBLIN PASS
Relish a theatrical experience as you move from pub to pub, watching your guides perform works by some of Dublin’s most famous writers, such as Joyce and Yeats.
This pass guarantees access to 30 of the most popular Dublin attractions and sights, often including special offers and discounts. Operates: Daily; 1, 2, 3 or 6 day passes Price Per Person From: $54-$116
DUBLIN BAY & CASTLE TOUR
Travel to historic Malahide Castle. Tour the castle and stroll through the gardens, then stop for stunning views of Dublin Bay. Operates: Apr-Oct Daily; 9:30 a.m. & 2 p.m.; 3½ hours Price Per Person From: $39
ABBEY TAVERN
Enjoy a lively show reflecting Ireland’s wealth of music, song, and dance, served with a 5-course Irish dinner.
DUBLIN CITY BIKE TOUR
DUBLIN city bike tours
Take an easy-paced, eco-friendly bike tour of Dublin with a local guide to show you the sights. Includes the use of a state-of-the-art Dahon bike and a helmet.
OLD JAMESON DISTILLERY IRISH NIGHT
VALLEY OF THE KINGS & NEWGRANGE
GUINNESS STOREHOUSE
Operates: Thu & Sat; 7 p.m.; 4 hours Price Per Person From: $86
OLD JAMESON DISTILLERY TOUR
Operates: Daily; 1 hour, self guided tour, plus your time in the Gravity Bar Price Per Person From: $20
Discover the history of this Irish Whiskey Distillery and how water, barley and yeast are combined to form the golden spirit. Then, savor a Jameson Signature drink.
MUSICAL PUB CRAWL
Operates: Daily; open 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; 1 hour Price Per Person From: $16
Operates: Thu, Fri, Sat; 7:15 p.m.; 2½ hours Price Per Person From: $20
Travel through the Wicklow Mountains and visit Avoca village. On to Glendalough to see the monastic settlement founded by St. Kevin. Operates: Daily; 9:15 a.m.; 7½ hours Price Per Person From: $41
Soak up the evening ambience of the Old Jameson Distillery. Enjoy a guided tour, a signature Jameson drink, a 4-course meal and lively Irish entertainment.
Enjoy a musical experience as you migrate from pub to pub. This lively pub crawl is lead by two professional musicians who are sure to keep you singing along late into the night.
WICKLOW MOUNTAINS, VALLEY & LAKES
Operates: Mar 1-Nov 30; Daily; 2½-3 hours Price Per Person From: $39
Operates: Thu, Fri, Sat; 7:30 p.m.; 2¾ hours Price Per Person From: $86
Experience the true taste of Guinness at this museum showcasing the history of “The Black Stuff” and enjoy a free pint in the G ravity Bar, with 360° views of Dublin.
Operates: Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun; 7:30 p.m.; 2 hours Price Per Person From: $23
DUBLIN GHOST BUS
Visit the ancient tombs of Newgrange, predating the Egyptian pyramids by 1,000 years. See the site of the Battle of Boyne and the Old High Crosses at Monasterboice. Operates: Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat; 10 a.m; 7 hours Price Per Person From: $49
Buy a Bundle & Save a Bundle! SIGHTSEEING BUNDLE Your package includes: > Dublin Hop-On Hop-Off tour > Guinness Storehouse tour and 10% gift shop discount card
Travel with a live storyteller and learn about Bram Stoker, the creator of Dracula; the Walking Gallows; and the Ghost of Dr. Clossy.
> Ring of Kerry coach tour from Killarney
Operates: Mon-Thu; 8 p.m.; Fri-Sun; 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m; 2¼ hours Price Per Person From: $43
> Heritage Island Pass – discounts at 95 of Ireland’s top visitor attractions
> Cliffs of Moher cruise
> House of Waterford Crystal tour – 2 for 1 entrance pass Operates: Daily; Mar 16-Oct 31
Visit BrendanVacations.com
68
Price Per Person From: $104
o p t i o n a l S I G H T S E E IN G
full-day
Rail Tours from Dublin
CORK, BLARNEY CASTLE & THE QUEENSTOWN STORY
blarney castle
All aboard for a fantastic trip to Ireland’s Southern capital, Cork. During your adventure, visit Blarney Castle and perhaps kiss the infamous stone. There’s time to stop by Blarney Village, then travel along Cork Harbour to Cobh. Here, experience the moving Queenstown Story, a multi-media presentation telling the tales of emigration during the famine. This was also the last port of call for the doomed Titanic. The train returns you to Dublin this evening. Operates: Mon-Sat; 7 a.m.; 13½ hours Price Per Person From: $167
GIANT’S CAUSEWAY & THE GLENS OF ANTRIM A scenic trip to the famed Antrim coast in Northern Ireland. See its spectacular seascapes and the Glens of Antrim as you head to the little town of Ballycastle. Stroll along a coastal path to see the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, looking perilous as it spans the 66-foot wide and 76-foot deep chasm. On to visit the mystical Giant’s Causeway, the result of a volcanic eruption – or perhaps built by the giant Finn MacCool. Stop for photos of Dunluce Castle, then board the train for your return to Dublin. Operates: Mon-Sat; 7:30 a.m.; 14¾ hours Price Per Person From: $167 carrick-a-rede rope bridge iveragh peninsula
RING OF KERRY Delight in the scenic countryside as you cross the island to Killarney. Here you will board a motorcoach for an unforgettable drive around the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. Mountains, valleys, lakes, and sea combine to form a spectacular landscape, and picturesque towns are scattered along the route. Back in Killarney, take a return train trip to Dublin. Operates: Mon-Sat; 7 a.m.; 14¼ hours Price Per Person From: $167
THE CLIFFS OF MOHER, BUNRATTY CASTLE, BURREN & GALWAY BAY Journey to Limerick on Ireland’s colorful west coast. Board a coach and head out to visit delightful Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a living museum recreating life in a typical 19th-century Irish village. The spectacular Cliffs of Moher are next. Rising 700 feet above the crashing Atlantic Ocean, the views are incredible! Cross the barren, almost lunar-like landscape of the Burren. Finally, travel along the shores of Galway Bay to the city of Galway before heading back to Dublin. the cliffs of moher
Operates: Mon-Sat; 6:40 a.m.; 14¼ hours Price Per Person From: $167 69
o p t i o n a l S I G H T S E E IN G
Explore
Ireland on your Self Drive Vacation
From Galway ARAN ISLAND FERRY
The Aran Islands offer a glimpse into a way of life that has long since disappeared, with breathtaking scenery, ruins, medieval castles, cliffs, clean air, and rich folklore. Operates: Daily; 1½ hours each way (including the 23 mile drive from Galway), plus your time on the island. There is a shuttle bus available from Galway at an additional cost if you prefer not to drive to the dock Price Per Person From: $25
TRAD ON THE PROM
“Trad on the Prom” is a lively celebration of Irish music, song, and dance! With a variety of performers, this show is sure to leave you humming an Irish tune!
MEDIEVAL BANQUET
From Killarney
From Shannon
RING OF KERRY – coach TOUR
BUNRATTY CASTLE MEDIEVAL BANQUET
Delight in the breathtaking scenery on the Ring of Kerry. See mountains, seascapes, coasts, glens, and quaint villages as you wind along the 112 mile route.
Step back to medieval times at Bunratty Castle. Enjoy a 4-course meal in the Great Hall with entertainment by the Bunratty singers and musicians.
Operates: Daily, except holidays
Operates: Daily; 10:30 a.m.; 6 hours
Operates: Daily; 5:30 & 8:45 p.m.; 2¼ hours
Visit with Tea/coffee and Scone Price Per Person From: $18
Price Per Person From: $33
Price Per Person From: $83
Visit with Lunch (subject to availability) Price Per Person From: $33
DINGLE PENINSULA TOUR
BUNRATTY FOLK PARK IRISH NIGHT
Operates: May-Sep; Tue, Thu, Sun 9 p.m.; 2 hours Price Per Person From: $47
RATHBAUN FARM
Visit a quaint farmhouse where you will be introduced to the workings of a traditional Irish sheep farm. Rathbaun is just 20 miles south of Galway.
CLIFFS OF MOHER CRUISE
The Cliffs of Moher are Ireland’s most famous vista. Now you can view their natural beauty from the sea. Operates: Daily; Mid March-Early Nov; departures 12 p.m., 3 p.m. & 5:15 p.m.; 1 hour, subject to tide and weather conditions Price Per Person From: $29 ROSS CASTLE
The Dingle Peninsula stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean on the Southwest coast of Ireland. Renowned for its scenery, this is a journey not to be missed. You’ll enjoy the vistas and stops in towns along the way. Operates: Daily; Apr-Oct; 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Price Per Person From: $39
ROSS CASTLE & KILLARNEY ESTATE JAUNTING CARS TOUR
Hear tales of history, legend, and folklore as you ramble through Killarney National Park in a horse-drawn jaunting car. See splendid Ross Castle, built in the 15th century and admire the spectacular scenery.
Celebrate the best of Ireland’s traditions in the Corn Barn at Bunratty Folk Park. Enjoy music, storytelling, song and dance over a 4-course, home-cooked meal. Operates: Daily; Apr-Oct; 7 p.m.; 2½ hours Price Per Person From: $68
From Waterford WATERFORD WALKING TOUR
Operates: Daily; minimum 2 passengers; 1 hour
On a walking tour of Ireland’s oldest city you’ll see monuments and cathedrals, and hear about a gallery of rogues and rascals, delivered in the entertaining style of an award-winning master storyteller.
Price Per Person From: $29
Operates: Daily; Mar-Oct; 1 hour Price Per Person From: $9
Visit BrendanVacations.com
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Kilkenny, Waterford, Cork, Kinsale & Wexford
KILKENNY ORMONDE HOTEL HHHH Kilkenny
KILKENNY RIVER COURT HOTEL HHHH Kilkenny
CLIFF HOUSE HHHHH Near Waterford
In the main shopping district near Kilkenny Castle
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
On the banks of the River Nore and overlooked by Kilkenny’s majestic 12th century castle
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A boutique property on the coast PRICE PER overlooking Ardmore Bay, 46 miles PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: southwest of Waterford
Twin $63
90 rooms with a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $83 Single $144
39 guestrooms offer a coffee/tea maker, fridge, and TV
Twin $128
Single $112 Triple $51
2 bars and 3 restaurants
Triple $83
Bar and restaurant
Triple N/A
118 rooms with a coffee/tea tray, TV, and free WiFi Bar, 2 restaurants, and 24-hour room service Pool, kids club, laundry service, and Spa
Gym, pool, and Spa
Gym, pool, Spa, and free WiFi in public areas
FAITHLEGG HOUSE HOTEL & GOLF CLUB HHHH Waterford
GRANVILLE HOTEL HHHH Waterford
IMPERIAL CORK HHHH Cork
An 18th-century mansion located 6 miles east of Waterford
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Overlooking the waterfront and marina, in the center of Waterford City
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $90
100 guestrooms with a coffee/ tea maker, room service, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $62
82 rooms and suites offer a coffee/tea maker, iron & trouser press, and TV Piano bar, lounge, and restaurant
Single $140 Triple $82
Single $110 Triple $41
Bar, restaurant, and 24-hour room service
18-hole golf course & club house, fitness center, pool, sauna, Spa, and free WiFi in public areas
Single $255
PRICE PER Located in the premier shopping and commercial district of the city PERSON PER
130 guestrooms with a coffee/tea maker, TV, and free WiFi Bar, 5 restaurants, and 24-hour room service
NIGHT FROM: Twin $89 Single $150 Triple N/A
Hair salon and Spa
Beauty therapy room and parking
OTHER favorite hotels PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Cork
SILVER SPRINGS MORAN HOTEL HHHH
Twin $76 Single $130 Triple $71
Ù
RIVER LEE HOTEL HHHH Cork Situated on the banks of the River Lee 182 rooms feature A/C, a safe, TV, and free wired Internet access
Kinsale
ACTONS HOTEL HHHH Kinsale PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A period hotel in the heart of Kinsale, overlooking the harbor
Bar and restaurant
Single $156
73 rooms feature a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, safe, TV, and free WiFi
Fitness center, laundry service, free parking, pool, Spa, and free WiFi in public areas
Triple $67
Bar, brasserie, and restaurant
Twin $87
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
Health club, pool, sauna, and Spa
TRIDENT HOTEL HHHH
Ù
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $77
WHITES OF WEXFORD HHHH
Single $134 Triple $76
Wexford
Twin $56 Single $99 Triple N/A
Ù
Twin $72 Single $99 Triple $53
Ù Free WiFi (see page 103)
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Killarney & Kenmare
AGHADOE HEIGHTS HOTEL & SPA HHHHH Killarney
KILLARNEY PARK HOTEL HHHHH Killarney
ARBUTUS HOTEL HHHH Killarney
Country setting overlooking the Lakes of Killarney
Located in the town center, on its own private grounds
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A charming, historic hotel located PRICE PER in Killarney town center and close PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: to Killarney National Park
Twin $142
30 rooms and suites have a coffee/tea maker, desk, satellite TV, and free WiFi
74 well-appointed bedrooms with A/C, dual voltage, a hairdryer, iron, minibar, and free WiFi Bar, lounge, and restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $91 Single $154 Triple N/A
Mini-gym, pool, and Spa
68 beautifully appointed guest rooms feature A/C, a plasma TV, safe, and free WiFi Bar, afternoon tea room, and restaurant
Single $266 Triple $156
Twin $60 Single $120 Triple $60
Bar and restaurant
Fitness club and Spa
THE BREHON HHHH Killarney
KILLARNEY PLAZA HOTEL & SPA HHHH Killarney
KILLARNEY ROYAL HHHH Killarney A family-run boutique hotel in the heart of Killarney
A superior property adjacent to the National Park, not far from the city center
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Centrally located, superior hotel, neighboring Killarney National Park
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
123 beautiful rooms and suites feature A/C, a safe, and free WiFi
Twin $90 Single $156
198 rooms with A/C, a coffee/tea maker, safe, and free WiFi
Twin $85 Single $134
Bar, restaurant, and 24-hour room service
Triple $79
Bars, piano bar, and 3 restaurants Triple $84
49 spacious rooms are individually designed and offer A/C, a hairdryer, trouser press, and free WiFi
Gym, pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and Sundari Spa
Bar, bistro, restaurant, and afternoon tea
Angsana Spa
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $62 Single $110 Triple* $69
*Deluxe room
KILLARNEY TOWERS HHHH Killarney City center, near Killarney National Park 182 rooms feature A/C, a coffee/tea maker, and free WiFi 3 bars, a restaurant, and room service
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $32 Single $63 Triple N/A
Gym and indoor pool
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KENMARE BAY HOTEL HHH Kenmare
THE MALTON HHHH Killarney
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
A historic property set on 6 acres of gardens in the center of town 172 rooms and suites feature a safe, TV, and free WiFi Afternoon tea, bar, and 3 restaurants Laundry & dry cleaning service, leisure center and parking
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Located on the outskirts of Kenmare
Single $126
127 rooms and suites feature a coffee/tea maker, LCD TV, and free WiFi
Triple $80
Bar and restaurant
Twin $84
Spa and leisure center Non-smoking rooms
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $70 Single $98 Triple $57
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
A I RPORT TRANS F ERS Shannon starting at $202 per vehicle (private)
Dingle, Adare, Limerick, Ennis, Bunratty & Shannon
DINGLE SKELLIG HOTEL HHHH Dingle
DINGLE BENNERS HOTEL HHH Dingle
DUNRAVEN ARMS HOTEL HHHH Adare
Set on the shores of Dingle Bay
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
In the heart of the picturesque town of Dingle, an ideal base for touring the magnificent peninsula
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
An old coach house, in the picturesque village of Adare
Twin $84
52 antique-styled rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, satellite TV, and free WiFi
Twin $80
86 rooms offer A/C, a safe, TV, and free WiFi
Single $112
Bar and restaurant
Single $107
Triple $77
Gym, pool, sauna, and Spa treatments
Triple* $111
110 rooms and suites feature a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi Bar, lounge, and restaurant
Single $119
Leisure club, pool, jacuzzi, steam room, and Spa
Triple $84
Traditional Irish bar
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $80
*Luxury family room
CLARION LIMERICK HHHH Limerick A city center waterfront hotel overlooking the River Shannon, 158 bedrooms with A/C, a hairdryer, and free WiFi Bar, lounge, restaurant, and 24-hour room service
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $74 Single $126 Triple $70
Gym, pool, and sauna
LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL HHHH Limerick
NO. 1 PERY SQUARE HHHH Limerick
In a central location on the River Shannon
Boutique townhouse hotel in historic Georgian quarter
184 rooms with A/C, a coffee/tea tray, and free WiFi Afternoon tea, bar, restaurant, and 24-hour room service
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $76 Single $117 Triple $66
Laundry services, gym, salon, and Spa
20 rooms and suites feature a coffee/tea maker, safe, TV, and free WiFi Afternoon tea, lounge, and restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $95 Single $160 Triple $93
Wine shop with private dining Irish Organic Spa
OLD GROUND HOTEL HHHH Ennis An 18th-century manor house in the city center 105 rooms have a coffee/tea maker, TV, and free WiFi Bar, 2 restaurants, and room service
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $70 Single $108 Triple $60
Laundry service and library
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
BUNRATTY CASTLE HOTEL HHH Bunratty
PARK INN BY RADISSON SHANNON AIRPORT HHH Shannon
In the heart of the countryside, adjacent to Durty Nelly’s Pub
Within walking distance of Shannon Airport
80 rooms feature A/C and free WiFi Bar, restaurant, and 24-hour room service Gym, pool, and Spa
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Single $90
114 rooms feature A/C, a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, and free WiFi
Triple $46
Bar and restaurant
Twin $50
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $66 Single $117 Triple $58
Dry cleaning services and laundry
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Galway
ARDILAUN HOTEL HHHH
THE G HOTEL HHHHH In the heart of Galway City 101 rooms and suites with A/C, a minibar, safe, and free WiFi Bar, 3 lounges, and a restaurant 24-hour room service and afternoon tea
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $138 Single $247 Triple N/A
CONNEMARA COAST HHHH
A modern hotel situated on spacious private grounds in the leafy suburb of Taylors Hill, near Galway city center
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
125 rooms offer coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, TV, and free Wi-Fi
Single $124
Twin $83 Triple $77
Located in the town of Furbo, about 7 miles from Galway City and on the shores of Galway Bay
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
142 superior rooms and suites offer a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $113
Spa
Leisure Club with aerobics studio, gym, pool, and steam room
2 bars and 2 restaurants
GALWAY BAY HOTEL HHHH
HOTEL MEYRICK HHHH
THE TWELVE HOTEL HHHH
An award-winning hotel overlooking Galway Bay 153 rooms feature coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, free wired Internet access, and TV Bar, café, and restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $122 Single $163 Triple $118
Gym and pool
An old-world hotel overlooking Eyre Square, in the city center 99 elegant rooms feature stylish décor, TV, and free WiFi Bar, lounge serving afternoon tea and restaurant
Single $190 Triple $110
Spa and 2 tennis courts
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A boutique hotel just 5 miles west of Galway
Single $187
48 guest rooms and suites offer A/C, iPod dock, safe, TV, and free WiFi
Triple N/A
Bar, bistro, and restaurant
Twin $124
Gym and Spa
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $89 Single $163 Triple $78
Voya & Le Petite Spa Treatments Free parking
FLANNERY’S HOTEL HHH Not far from the Royal Tara China Factory and the city center 134 rooms and suites offer a coffee/tea maker, writing desk, TV, and free WiFi
HARBOUR HOTEL HHH PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Set overlooking Galway Bay and the Spanish Arch
Twin $55
96 rooms have a coffee/tea maker, Twin $60 ironing, TV, and free WiFi
Single $90
Seafood Bar and Grill
Single $119
130 rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, flat-screen TV, and wired Internet (fee)
Fitness center, jacuzzi, Spa, and steam room
Triple N/A
Bar, coffee bar, and restaurant
Bar, lounge, bistro, private dining, Triple $53 and restaurant 24-hour secure parking
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Not far from Eyre Square and Shop Street
JURYS INN GALWAY HHH
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $65 Single $125 Triple $49
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
Cong, Westport, Ballina, Sligo & Donegal
LISLOUGHREY LODGE HHHH Cong Set on 10 acres overlooking Lough Corrib 50 individually designed rooms and suites offer luxury bedding, DVD player, and free WiFi Bar and restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
CARLTON ATLANTIC COAST HHHH Westport
HOTEL WESTPORT HHHH Westport
Set on Clew Bay, not far from the town center
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A modern hotel with classic décor in central Westport
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
129 rooms with a coffee/tea maker, Twin $45 hair dryer, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $80
85 rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, free newspaper, TV, and free WiFi Twin $49
Single $159
Bar and restaurant
Single $91
Bar and restaurant
Single $70
Triple* $98
Pool, sauna, and Spa
Triple $42
Gym and Spa with splash pool, sauna, and steam room
Triple $45
* Lakeview suite
DOWNHILL HOUSE HOTEL HHH Ballina
THE GLASSHOUSE HHHH Sligo
Set in landscaped gardens on the banks of the River Brosna
Overlooking the Garravogue River PRICE PER PERSON PER near downtown Sligo
On the edge of Sligo, in a quiet parkland setting
116 rooms and suites offer A/C, a coffee/tea maker, safe, and free WiFi
Twin $67
136 rooms offer a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Single $134
Bar and restaurant
Triple N/A
Gym; great base for touring Yeats’ Triple $64 country
60 rooms with a coffee/tea maker, TV, and free WiFi
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $64
Bar and restaurant
Single $107
Leisure club with pool and jacuzzi
Triple $57
2 bars, restaurant and 24-hour room service
SLIGO PARK HOTEL HHHH Sligo NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $70 Single $132
Free underground parking
HARVEY’S POINT HHHH Donegal
REDCASTLE OCEANFRONT, GOLF & SPA HOTEL HHHH Donegal
MILL PARK HOTEL HHHH Donegal PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
74 rooms have a coffee/tea maker, safe, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $132
115 rooms feature a hairdryer, room service, TV, and free WiFi
Single $263
Bar and restaurant
Single $120
93 rooms and suites offer a hairdryer, iron, TV, and free WiFi
Bar, restaurant, and wine bar
Triple* $152
Gym, jacuzzi, pool, and Spa
Triple $74
Bar and restaurant
* Executive suite
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
Situated in Donegal town overlooking the Bay
Overlooking Lough Foyle on the Inishowen Peninsula
Family-owned property situated about 4 miles from Donegal town, on the shores of Lough Eske
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $74
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $75 Single $120 Triple $71
Gym, pool, and Spa
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A I RPORT TRANS F ERS
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
Belfast starting at $152 per vehicle (private) $218 per vehicle (Mercedes – private) $266 per vehicle (Viano – private)
Belfast
HILTON BELFAST HHHHH
FITZWILLIAM HOTEL HHHHH Set in the heart of the city, near shopping and attractions
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
City center, in the heart of the city’s “Golden Mile,” next to the Grand Opera House
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
272 comfortable rooms offer A/C, a minibar, superior soundproofing, and TV
Twin $90
Twin $102
209 comfortable rooms feature A/C, a coffee/tea maker and more Twin $106
Single $187
Bar and restaurant
Single $195
Triple N/A
Triple N/A
24-hour room service
Fitness room, free WiFi in public areas
RADISSON BLU BELFAST HHHH
JURYS INN BELFAST HHH
In the revitalized Gasworks area near local attractions including Belfast Castle
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Located in city center beside the fabled Belfast Opera House
120 comfortable rooms and suites feature A/C, a hairdryer, ironing, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $95
130 comfortable rooms and suites feature A/C, minibar, safe, TV, and free WiFi Bar and restaurant
190 rooms feature a coffee/tea maker, TV, and WiFi (fee)
Single $145 Triple $80
Bar, piano bar, restaurant, free WiFi in limited public areas
PARK INN BY RADISSON HHH PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
City center near Victoria Square, within walking distance of dining and historic buildings
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $84
145 rooms feature A/C, a safe, and free WiFi
Twin $82
Bar and restaurant
Triple $74
Single $170
Bar and restaurant
Single $166
Triple $88
WiFi in public areas (fee)
Triple $80
Bar and restaurant
Single $140
Gym, sauna, and steam room
EXPLORE BELFAST
BELFAST CASTLE OVERLOOKING BELFAST LOUGH
PRICE PER PERSON FROM: Belfast Hop-On Hop-Off
$21
Giant’s Causeway
$41
Titanic Experience
$25
Belfast Titanic Walking Tour
$24
GIANT’S CAUSEWAY
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5 minute walk to city center, on the banks of the Lagan River
EUROPA HOTEL HHHH
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
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Antrim Coast, Londonderry & Northern Ireland’s Countryside
BALLYGALLY CASTLE HHHH Antrim Coast
LONDONDERRY ARMS HHH Antrim Coast
MAGHERABUOY HOUSE HOTEL HHH Antrim Coast
Located on the Coast Road 52 miles northwest of Belfast. At the foot of the famous 9 Glens of Antrim
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Set 32 miles north of Belfast, a historic hotel situated in the picturesque Glens of Antrim
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $82
44 rooms feature contemporary décor, a coffee/tea maker, and sitting area
35 individually decorated rooms feature a hairdryer, tea maker, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $60
Single $140 Triple $77
On the North Antrim coast, at the southern outskirts of Portrush
Single $85
55 non-smoking rooms with a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Triple $45
Bakery, bistro, and restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $50 Single $100 Triple $50
2 restaurants
Bar, lounge, and restaurant Free WiFi in public areas
CITY HOTEL DERRY HHHH Londonderry
RAMADA PORTRUSH HHH Antrim Coast
On the banks of the River Foyle and minutes from the Derry Walls
EVERGLADES HOTEL HHHH Londonderry PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Overlooking the rugged hills of Donegal, on the South bank of the River Foyle
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $73
64 rooms and suites offer a coffee/tea maker, safe, iPad dock, and TV
Twin $70
Not far from Dunluce Castle and the Giant’s Causeway, 60 miles northwest of Belfast
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
69 non-smoking rooms have a hairdryer, TV, and WiFi (fee)
Twin $93
158 rooms and suites with A/C, a coffee/tea maker, and free WiFi
Single $144
Bar and restaurant
Single $135
Bar and restaurant
Triple $86
Gym, pool, and steam room
Triple $57
Single $117 Triple $66
Bar and restaurant Free WiFi in public areas
EXPLORE londonderry londondERRY WALKING TOUR
TOWER HOTEL DERRY HHHH Londonderry Located within the historic city walls 93 rooms and suites feature a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, and TV Bar and restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $82 Single $151 Triple $65
Join a local guide for a stroll along the 17th-century city walls, taking in views of the city. On to see St. Columbs Cathedral, built in 1633, and the Guildhall. Next are the awe-inspiring Bogside Murals and the Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall, commemorating the siege of the city in 1689.
GUILDHALL, THE HEART OF LONDONDERRY
Operates: Daily; 1 hour Price Per Person From: $12
Free parking and free WiFi in public areas
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
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Bed & Breakfast Gems
•• • • 37 36
DERRY
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DONEGAL
N. Ireland
SLIGO
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2 PEMBROKE TOWNHOUSE Dublin
1 KILRONAN HOUSE Dublin A 19th-century building in the Georgian quarter, near St. Stephen’s Green and lively Grafton Street
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A Georgian townhouse set in the Ballsbridge area in the heart of the city
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $84
Twin $53
23 en suite rooms have a coffee/ tea tray, hairdryer, and more
Single $149
48 en suite rooms feature a hairdryer, safe, TV, and free WiFi
Triple $75
Breakfast room, drawing room
Single $105 Triple $52
Breakfast room and lounge Free WiFi
BELFAST
I r e l a n d33
29
30 25 24 27 GALWAY 26 28
CLIFDEN
23 21 20 22 SHANNON P LIMERICK AIRPORT 19 8
18
2
4
5
6
DUBLIN WICKLOW
KILKENNY 9
7
11
10
1
3
KILLARNEY
17 14 13 15 16
P
31
WEXFORD
WATERFORD
CORK
12
3 BALLYKNOCKEN HOUSE Wicklow
4 BUNGALOW FARMHOUSE B&B Freshford, Kilkenny
5 DUNROMIN Kilkenny
A charming, ivy-clad Victorian house built in the 1850s and set on a 350-acre farm, an hours drive from Dublin and 15 minutes west of Wicklow
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Located on a working cattle, sheep, and horse farm about 10 miles northwest of Kilkenny
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
19th-century farmhouse within walking distance of the city’s medieval center
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $83
Twin $50
5 en suite rooms with a hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $61
Single $64
7 rooms with en suite facilities, and free wired Internet access
Triple $71
4 en suite bedrooms with electric blankets, a hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Triple $49
Dining room, lounge
Triple $61
Single $132
Single $89
Restaurants and golf nearby
Cooking school, garden
6 NEWTOWN FARM Waterford A working farm near the seaside village of Ardmore
7 ROSEWOOD B&B Waterford PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A modern home, just a 5 minute drive from Waterford City
Single $87 Triple $45
Guest rooms have beautiful views, Twin $45 a hairdryer, and free WiFi Sauna, tennis court
Prices include breakfast and all taxes. 78
8 GLASHA FARMHOUSE Waterford PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A working dairy farm set in the countryside, away from busy roads
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Single $87
Pub and restaurant nearby
Triple $45
En suite rooms have a coffee/tea tray, electric blankets, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $70
Garden and private parking
4 en suite rooms with a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi Twin $46
Gardens, conservatory and walking trails
Single $85 Triple $70
Bed & Breakfast Gems
9 KILLIANE CASTLE FARMHOUSE Wexford
10 ARDFIELD FARMHOUSE Cork
A peaceful 17th century house located 3 miles south of Wexford • 8 en suite rooms have a hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi • Gardens and tennis
A horse farm residence just a 10 minute drive south of Cork • 4 en suite rooms with countryside views, featuring a hairdryer, power shower, and TV • Guest lounge with a coffee/tea maker and patio garden • Visit the horse stables and paddocks • Stay 2 nights and take an optional cooking class
Prices from: Twin $75; Single $110; Triple $62
Prices from: Twin $77; Single $103; Triple $75
11 WESTWOOD COUNTRY HOUSE Blarney
12 DROMCLOC HOUSE Bantry, West Cork
This property is close to Blarney Castle and a 30 minute drive to Cork city • 4 rooms with a coffee/tea maker, hair dryer, TV, and free WiFi • Complimentary scones and tea upon arrival, and golf nearby
A charming property on a working dairy farm • 6 rooms offer a hair dryer, TV, and free Wi-Fi • Tennis, fishing, and golf Prices from: Twin $50; Single $64; Triple $43
Prices from: Twin $51; Single $71; Triple $45
KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK
13 ALDERHAVEN COUNTRY HOME Killarney
14 CARRIGLEA HOUSE Killarney
15 CILLCEARN Killarney
A secluded Tudor-style house, a 5 minute drive or 20 minute walk to Killarney • Rooms feature a hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
19th-century residence 2 miles from Killarney and adjacent to the National Park • En suite rooms have a hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi • Guest lounge • Working farm
Located in a quiet neighborhood 1.5 miles from the center of town • All bedrooms have a hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi • Sitting room and kitchen facilities available for guest use
Prices from: Twin $53; Single $80; Triple $48
Prices from: Twin $43; Single $50; Triple $41
Prices from: Twin $53; Single $80; Triple $53
16 LOCH LEIN COUNTRY HOUSE Killarney
17 CARRIG COUNTRY HOUSE Killorglin, Ring of Kerry
A modern country house in Killarney’s Lake District, at the gateway to the Ring of Kerry and close to national parks and golf courses • 25 spacious, comfortable rooms are non-smoking and have a bath with a separate shower and more • Bar and restaurant with panoramic views • Free WiFi in public areas
Located on the banks of Caragh Lake • 17 en suite rooms have antique furnishings and free WiFi • Restaurant and gardens
Prices from: Twin $100; Single $199; Triple $67
Prices from: Twin $54; Single $107; Triple N/A
Prices include breakfast and all taxes. 79
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
Bed & Breakfast Gems
18 EMLAGH COUNTRY HOUSE Dingle
19 FLEMINGSTOWN HOUSE Kilmlock, Co. Limerick
20 BRIAR LODGE Bunratty
A deluxe country house overlooking the ocean, just minutes from the Dingle town center • 10 en suite rooms with A/C, a safe, and TV • CD, library, and free WiFi in public areas
An award-winning luxury B&B about an hours drive south of ShannonAirport • 5 en suite rooms have a hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi • Dinner can be arranged
Close to Bunratty Castle and a great base for touring the midwest of Ireland • 5 en suite rooms with a coffee/tea tray and hairdryer • Gardens, guest TV lounge, and free WiFi
Prices from: Twin $119; Single $175; Triple N/A
Prices from: Twin $103; Single $134; Triple $93
Prices from: Twin $43; Single $64; Triple N/A
21 CAHERGAL FARMHOUSE Bunratty
22 PARK HOUSE Bunratty
23 CARRYGERRY COUNTRY HOUSE Newmarket-on-Fergus
In Newmarket-on-Fergus, conveniently near Bunratty • En suite guest rooms are equipped with a hairdryer, power shower, TV, and free WiFi • Garden, horseback riding, and tennis
Not far from Bunratty Castle & Folk Park • 6 comfortable, en suite rooms offer a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi • Landscaped gardens, parking, and sitting room
An 18th-century country house, just a 10 minute drive from Shannon Airport • 11 en suite rooms are custom decorated and have free WiFi • Restaurant
Prices from: Twin $65; Single $98; Triple $52
Prices from: Twin $50; Single $71; Triple $43
24 ALMARA HOUSE Galway
25 CLARE VILLA Galway
26 ST. JUDES Galway
Set in the suburbs of Galway, just minutes from the city center • 4 tastefully decorated, en suite rooms feature a hairdryer, hospitality tray, mini-fridge, TV, and free WiFi
A modern house in the Salthill area of Galway, just steps from the beach • Comfortable guest rooms are equipped with a hairdryer and free WiFi • Golf, Leisureland, tennis and other activities are nearby
A restored 1920s property, close to Galway • 6 en suite rooms with cable TV, power showers, and free WiFi • Golf and horseback riding, walking trails nearby
Prices from: Twin $43; Single $57; Triple $43
Prices from: Twin $62; Single $83; Triple $62
Prices from: Twin $60; Single $85; Triple $60
27 FOURWINDS LODGE Galway
28 CLAREVIEW HOUSE Kinvara, Co. Galway
29 DAN O’HARA’S HOMESTEAD Clifden
Overlooking Galway Bay, 2 miles from the city center • Comfortable rooms are tastefully furnished and have free WiFi • Conservatory, private gardens
Just 2 miles east of Kinvara and a 30 minute drive south of Galway • 5 comfortable, en suite rooms with a hairdryer and free WiFi • Dinner available
En suite rooms have a power shower, TV, and free WiFi • Sitting room, free access to the Heritage Center and farm • 2-night baking, walking and cycling packages available
Prices from: Twin $62; Single $87; Triple $62
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Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
Prices from: Twin $46; Single $91; Triple $46
Prices from: Twin $77; Single $107; Triple $71
Prices from: Twin $62; Single $87; Triple $62
Bed & Breakfast Gems
30 ST. RUTH’S FARMHOUSE Athlone, Co. Westmeath
31 LOUGH OWEL LODGE Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
32 CUANEEN HOUSE Louisburgh, Co. Mayo
A working dairy and sheep farm about 1 ½ hours east of Galway
In a rural setting, a 5 minute drive PRICE PER from the market town of Mullingar PERSON PER
Lovely setting overlooking Croagh PRICE PER PERSON PER Patrick and Carramore Beach
5 guest rooms are individually decorated and have free WiFi
4 comfortable, en suite rooms offer free WiFi
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
5 comfortable en suite rooms with electric blankets, a hairdryer, Twin $52 Single $77 and free WiFi Garden and parking
Organic farm with sheep and cows
Triple $52
33 NEWGRANGE LODGE Donore, Co. Meath
34 LISDANAR Glenties, Co. Donegal
On 7 acres, with views of the Boyne Valley and River
In a quiet setting not far from the Glenties town center
En suite rooms have A/C, power showers and more BBQ and recreational areas, free WiFi in public areas
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $47 Single $64 Triple $38
NIGHT FROM: Twin $54 Single $82 Triple $54
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Originally a Victorian grand manor house
Twin $72
Single $97
Single $99
3 guest suites have coffee/tea facilities, a TV, and free Wi-Fi
Triple $66
Triple $68
Just 3 miles from Coleraine 4 ensuite rooms with a coffee/tea tray, TV, and free WiFi
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A 19th-century mansion near the Coleraine town center
Evening meals and a tour of the farm can be arranged
Twin $43 Triple $43
Garden, laundry service, parking, and WiFi *Family Room
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
Triple $42
A family-run Bed & Breakfast five minutes from Londonderry’s city center
37 BREEZEMOUNT HOUSE Antrim Coast
Single $60
Single $60
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
36 GLENLEARY FARMHOUSE Antrim Coast
10 rooms offer a hairdryer, tea tray, and TV
Twin $45
35 TROY HALL Londonderry
4 en suite rooms offer a coffee/tea Twin $74 tray, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi Conservatory, gardens, patio, sitting room
Convenient for boat trips to Clare Island, surfing and hill walks
NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $52 Single $52 Triple $119*
“I loved staying in B&Bs – it was so much fun! The rooms were all comfortable, and the homeowners were so friendly, I really felt like I was part of the family, not a guest. And the breakfasts were amazing! Ireland isn’t just the land of ‘forty shades of green,’ it’s the land of great cooks. I can’t wait to go back and visit again.” Tilila Pomee Reservations Brendan Vacations
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yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
Irish Castles & Manors DERRY
•• •
N. Ireland
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DONEGAL
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BELFAST
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25
DUNBOYNE CASTLE HOTEL HHHH Co. Meath
BARBERSTOWN CASTLE HHHH Co. Kildare
Located 11 miles from Dublin, on 2 acres of manicured lawns and gardens
This 13th century castle is set on 20 acres just outside of Dublin
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PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $95
145 spacious rooms and suites feature a power shower, free WiFi, Single $137 and more Triple $86 2 bars, a lounge and restaurant
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58 uniquely designed rooms provide the highest standard in comfort and have free WiFi Restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $135 Single $213 Triple N/A
Non-smoking establishment
Gym, 24-hour room service, and Spa
3 THE POWERSCOURT RESORT & SPA HHHHH Co. Wicklow
4 THE K CLUB HHHHH Straffan, Co. Kildare
A Palladian woodland estate 23 miles south of Dublin
A luxurious country house hotel just 17 miles from Dublin
200 rooms and suites have A/C and free WiFi Bar, lounge, restaurant, and wine bar
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
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15
KILLARNEY
14
WEXFORD
WATERFORD
CORK
5 CARTON HOUSE HHHH Straffan, Co. Kildare PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER A historic Palladian house is 14 miles from Dublin’s city center PERSON PER
Single $333
24-hour concierge, art collection, garden, 2 golf courses, and Spa
Triple N/A
Bar and 2 restaurants
Twin $167
NIGHT FROM: Twin $124 Single $196 Triple $124
2 championship golf courses and a luxury Spa
7 BALLYFIN HHHHH Co. Laois PRICE PER An all-inclusive luxury property set by the Slieve Bloom Mountains PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: 40 miles west of Kildare
15 spacious rooms and suites have deluxe amenities and free WiFi
Twin $560
Library bar and fine dining restaurant
Bar and restaurant, all meals and drinks included in room rates
Triple N/A
Tennis court, nature trails, and guided walks available
Garden walks, gym, pool, and Spa treatments
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
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Bar and restaurants
Twin $75 37 rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, ironing, laundry facilities, Single $146 and TV Triple N/A
KILKENNY
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Single $356
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
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17
165 tastefully decorated rooms feature a coffee/tea maker, minibar, DVD, and TV
Triple $151
8
10
DUBLIN
3
7
LIMERICK
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2
4
6
SHANNON SHANNON AIRPORT AIRPORT 19 P 20
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1
5
GALWAY
69 rooms and suites offer modern amenities including free WiFi
6 KINNITY CASTLE HHHH Co. Offaly
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27
22
Twin $178
2 golf courses, pool, Spa, and 24-hour room service
This gothic revival castle, dating back to the 13th century, 10 miles east of Birr
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23 24
Single $655
8 LYRATH ESTATE HHHH Co. Kilkenny PRICE PER Amid 170 acres of mature parkland, 1 mile from Kilkenny city PERSON PER
137 rooms offer A/C, heating, a TV, and free WiFi
NIGHT FROM: Twin $107
2 bars and 2 restaurants
Single $185
Gym, jacuzzi, pool, and Spa
Triple $102
Irish Castles & Manors
9 MOUNT JULIET HHHHH Co. Kilkenny 20 minutes from Kilkenny 57 rooms, suites and lodges are graciously appointed Bar and 2 restaurants Gym, pool, sauna, Spa, and free WiFi in public areas
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $113 Single $196 Triple N/A
10 CASHEL PALACE HOTEL HHHH Co. Tipperary
11 DUNBRODY COUNTRY HOUSE HHHH Co. Wexford
A Queen Anne-style home set at the foot of the Rock of Cashel
Set just minutes from Waterford, on 300 acres of parkland
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
23 individually decorated rooms are well appointed and offer free WiFi Twin $86 Bar, restaurant, and 24-hour room service
Fishing, golf, horseback riding, walking trails
Afternoon tea, fishing, gardens, library, and walking trails
12 WATERFORD CASTLE HHHH Co. Waterford
13 HAYFIELD MANOR HHHHH Co. Cork
A superior 4-star property on a private island
Beautifully set in walled gardens, just outside of Cork’s city center
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Single $105
22 individually styled rooms offer a CD/DVD player, fresh fruit daily, Twin $140 Single $170 hairdryer, and more
Triple N/A
2 restaurants
Triple* $159
Cooking school, Spa, and free WiFi *Deluxe room
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
14 PARK HOTEL KENMARE HHHHH Co. Kerry PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
In the charming town of Kenmare
PRICE PER PERSON PER
Twin $132
46 rooms and suites are individually NIGHT FROM: decorated and feature a CD player, Twin $199 DVD, TV, free WiFi and more
Single $250
Bar and restaurant
Single $254
Triple N/A
Triple N/A
Fitness room, jacuzzi, pool, and Spa
12-seat cinema, croquet, lap pool, Spa, tennis, walking and bike trails
15 SHEEN FALLS LODGE HHHHH Co. Kerry
16 BALLYSEEDE CASTLE HHHH Co. Kerry
17 THE MUSTARD SEED AT ECHO LODGE HHHH Co. Limerick
Situated on 300 picturesque acres PRICE PER PERSON PER of woodlands near Kenmare, NIGHT FROM: overlooking Kenmare Bay
Near Tralee, on 30 acres with gardens and woodlands
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER A superior property on 10 acres of gardens in Ireland’s southwest, PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: 10 minutes from Adare
Twin $75
18 rooms offer fine amenities
Twin $175
Single $144
Renowned restaurant
Single $210
Gardens, library, lounge, and free WiFi in public areas
Triple N/A
14 deluxe bedrooms and 5 suites with modern comforts Restaurant with a wine cellar Private ferry service to/from Waterford, 18-hole golf course, and free WiFi in public areas
66 spacious rooms and suites offer superb views and fine amenities including free WiFi
Single $105
88 spacious rooms and suites offer A/C, a hairdryer, safe, tea/ coffee tray, TV, and free WiFi
Triple N/A
2 restaurants and a wine cellar
Twin $95
Twin $155
23 rooms have a hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Single $206
Bar and restaurant
Triple $154
Triple $69 Conveniently located near the attractions and activities of Tralee
Bar, lounge, and restaurant Art gallery, falconry, fishing, garden, gym, pool, and Spa
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
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Irish Castles & Manors
18 ADARE MANOR HHHHH Co. Limerick
19 DROMOLAND CASTLE HHHHH Co. Clare
Set in the charming town of Adare on PRICE PER PERSON PER 840 acres of gardens and parkland
In an ideal location, just 8 miles from Shannon Airport, on a stunning 330-acre estate
62 well-appointed rooms and suites are equipped with marble bathrooms, a hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $153
Spacious guest rooms and suites feature American socket converters, a hairdryer, safe, signature slippers and bathrobe, a TV, and free WiFi
Single $305
Bar and 2 restaurants
Single $320
Triple N/A
Archery, estate walks, falconry, golf, horseback riding, leisure center with jacuzzi, pool, sauna, Spa, and tennis
Triple* $218
NIGHT FROM:
Bar and 2 restaurants 24-hour concierge, boutique, golf course, and Spa
The castle dates back to the 16th century
Twin $160
*Deluxe room
20 THE LODGE AT DOONBEG HHHHH Co. Clare
21 ASHFORD CASTLE HHHHH Co. Galway
Minutes from Doonbeg village
A legendary castle hotel on 350 acres of manicured lawns and woodlands at the northern end of Lough Corrib
189 rooms and suites each have their own personality and style, offering first class amenities
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $105
Bar and restaurant
Single $210
Gym, 18-hole golf course, Spa, and free WiFi in public areas
Triple* $204
Once the estate of the Guinness family
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $125
83 rooms and suites feature a safe, TV, and writing desk
Single $249
Bar and 2 restaurants Drawing room, equestrian center, estate walks, falconry, 9-hole golf course, lake cruising, Spa, and free WiFi in public areas
Triple $124
*Courtyard 2 bedroom suite
22 GLENLO ABBEY HHHHH Co. Galway A distinguished hotel just 2 miles from central Galway, perfect for touring the west of Ireland 46 rooms and suites offer a hairdryer, clothes press, safe, TV, and free WiFi
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
24 BALLYNAHINCH CASTLE HHHH Co. Galway
In the west, near the village of Clifden
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
On 450 private acres of woodlands in the heart of idyllic Connemara
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $150
Triple $80
40 comfortable guest rooms and suites offer first class amenities including free WiFi
Single $170
45 beautiful rooms with central heat, Twin $95 a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, DVD Single $185 player, TV, and free WiFi
Triple N/A
Bar and restaurant
Twin $92
Bar and 2 restaurants 9 hole golf course offering superb views of Lough Corrib
Prices include breakfast and all taxes. 84
23 ABBEYGLEN CASTLE HHHH Co. Galway
Lounge, pitch and putt, tennis, Spa, and walking trail
Pub and restaurant with a seasonal menu Bicycle rentals, fishing, tennis, and walking and hiking trails
Single $212 Triple $137
Irish Castles & Manors
25 KNOCKRANNY HOUSE HHHH Co. Mayo
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LOUGH RYNN CASTLE HHHH Co. Leitrim
27 CABRA CASTLE HHHH Co. Cavan
Located in Westport, just minutes PRICE PER PERSON PER from the town center
Stunning and secluded location on the shores of Lough Rynn
PRICE PER Historic property dating back to 1760, 54 miles northwest of Dublin PERSON PER
110 spacious rooms and suites are elegantly furnished and are equipped with modern amenities including free WiFi
42 individually designed rooms showcase original furnishings and have A/C, a hairdryer, DVD player, and TV
NIGHT FROM: Twin $115 Single $175 Triple $109
Award-winning restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Single $168
80 individually designed rooms and suites have a coffee/tea maker, TV, and free WiFi
Triple N/A
Bar and restaurant
Twin $85
Their Sandstone Restaurant features fresh local produce
Fitness suite, pool, and Spa
NIGHT FROM: Twin $80 Single $140 Triple $75
9-hole golf course
Free WiFi in public areas
28 CASTLE LESLIE HHHH Co. Monaghan Set on 1,000 acres, with woodlands PRICE PER and lakes, 75 miles north of Dublin PERSON PER 50 castle and lodge rooms designed with period furnishings Bar and restaurant
NIGHT FROM: Twin $80 Single $159
Cooking school, fishing, horseback Triple $78 riding, kayaking, walking trails, and free WiFi in lobby and bar
29 SOLIS LOUGH ESKE CASTLE HHHHH Co. Donegal
30 LOUGH ERNE HHHHH Co. Fermanagh
Located just outside of Donegal town, on 43 acres of forest woodland
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Set on a private 600 acre peninsula, minutes from Enniskillen town center
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
96 guest rooms and suites feature dual voltage sockets, a safe, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $136
120 rooms and suites with a coffee/ tea tray, safe, and free WiFi
Twin $92
Single $272 Triple N/A
Bar and 3 restaurants
Triple N/A
2 bars and a restaurant
Single $181
Afternoon tea, golf, helicopter tours, and walking paths
Indoor pool and Spa
“Staying in an Irish castle is truly an amazing experience. The castle itself was gorgeous, and the art, furnishings and woodwork inside were exquisite. Now I know how Princess Kate feels!”
MANOR COUNTRY HOUSE HHHH Co. Fermanagh 31
An historic country retreat just north of Eniskillen, with lovely views of Lough Erne
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $113 81 rooms feature a coffee/tea maker and other modern amenities Single $166
Afternoon tea, 2 bars, and a restaurant
Triple $57
Fitness center and Spa
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
CULLODEN ESTATE & SPA HHHHH Co. Belfast (Holywood) 32
On 12 acres overlooking Belfast Lough, just 7 miles northeast of Belfast
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
79 rooms feature a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, robe and slippers, and TV
Twin $213
Hilda Hernandez Service Desk Brendan Vacations
Single $326 Triple N/A
Afternoon tea, lounge, and restaurant Health club, Jacuzzi, indoor pool, full-service Spa, and free WiFi in public areas
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DRIVE THE SCENIC ROADS OF SCOTLAND
Scotland SelfDrive
FEATURING B&B, Home, country inn, and hOTEL STAYS YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES >> Discover B&B, Hotel and Inn open vouchers >> Pre-booked hotels, castles and manors available for selection >> Full breakfast each day >> Car type of your choice >> Unlimited Mileage, Collision Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), Value Added Tax (VAT at 20%), Airport Location Service Charge and Vehicle Licensing Fee >> All taxes for accommodations >> Detailed road map of Scotland provided at the Hertz pick-up counter
A Self Drive vacation is a great way to immerse yourself in a new land, really getting to know the cities, towns, countryside, and people. Plus, you have the flexibility to travel at your own pace and in your own way. First, choose the car type that suits you. We offer everything from mini to full-size vehicles. You can pick up your car in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Belfast, or London. Next, select your preferred categories of accommodation. You can take each day as you please, but we recommend you pre-book accommodations in areas you “must” visit before you leave the U.S. Your Brendan Specialist will provide you the website address to do this when your booking is paid in full. This is most important during July and August when accommodations may be fully booked. You can choose between country pubs, inns, B&B’s and hotels. In addition, you will have access to an online brochure with a complete list of the accommodations with photos, descriptions, and full instructions for last-minute bookings.
Visit BrendanVacations.com
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We encourage you to pre-book as early as possible to avoid disappointment. There is no minimum stay at any property, and a child receives a discount when sharing with two adults.
WHO SHOULD PURCHASE THIS PROGRAM? Open-dated vouchers are designed for travelers who: a) Have flexible expectations of their itinerary b) Want to have already-budgeted-for accommodations before leaving the U.S. c) Like to keep their options open Open-dated vouchers are not suitable when you definitely need to stay at a particular inn or hotel. Under these circumstances, we recommend you choose a property from our selection of hotels throughout Scotland. Ask your Brendan Specialist for details, and refer to pages 90-92 and 94-96 in this brochure.
“Scotland is such a wonderfully scenic country, with beautiful lakes, wide moors, vibrant cities, and charming towns. Don’t miss the Loch Lomond cruise – it was a real highlight. And the Underground Vaults in Edinburgh were a kick! My kids loved them. We all thought Dalhousie Castle was great. With the suits of armor, stone walls, and crenellated towers, our stay there was like going back in time.” Gordon Dirker Director of Sales Brendan Vacations
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294 184 62 39 659 412
MAP KEY
ORKNE Y ISLANDS
Mainland
KIRKWALL
Castle / Manor Museum
SCRABSTER SCRABSTER
Isle of Lewis
Religious Site
JOHN O' GROATS
THURSO
Ferry
9
he
H
M
in
eb
ch
STORNOWAY
r
T
A
te
35
F ray
A95
an
ni
do
le Ca
FORT WILLIAM
C
Loch Ness
9
A
96
AVIEMORE
A
A86
A90
D S L A N l a G H I n a H
irth
Culloden Battlefield
87
KYLEAKIN
Mo
A
BROADFORD
A96
INVERNESS
KYLE
82
Isle of Skye
A
Ou
A8
North Uist
Sea of the Hebrides
A82 A8
A7
77 A
A9
PEEBLES
A7
6
BERWICK
Holy Island
Tweed Valley
D S A N W L O L
Alnwick Castle
A
68
M74
DUMFRIES
Bamburgh Castle
JEDBURGH
7
A
ALNWICK
A1
STRANRAER
CARSTAIRS
A1
TO BELFAST, NO. IRELAND
Forth
EDINBURGH
M8
M77
02
3
f Firth o
M9
8
78
A AYR
ST ANDREWS
M90 AIRTH
A71
Isle of Arran
DUNDEE
STIRLING
Loch Lomond
G L AS G OW
A8
P E RT H
A6
Islay
Loch Fyne
9
CRIANLARICH
INVERARAY
Jura
SCOTL AND
2
A
Kerrera OBAN A85 n Seil r Loch Awe o rt h o f L
A84
Fi
Y
North Sea
0
A9
PITLOCHRY
2
Irish Sea
Loch Linnhe
TR
A8
ROB ROY COUN
Isle of Mull Iona
ABERDEEN
Balmoral Estate
Ben Nevis GLENCOE
Hadrian's Wall
5
A7
A69
CARLISLE
95
A5
KESWICK Ullswater
A68
M6
KILOMETERS MILES
160 100
Dove Cottage
LAKE DISTRICT
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE
HEXHAM
PENRITH
BUTTERMERE
0
Points Of Interest
Hoy
ULLAPOOL
South Uist
0
N11
Nat'l Park
STROMNESS
RED = KILOMETERS • BLACK = MILES
d ri
M4
Major Road
Ancient Site
307 192 469 518 293 324
es
Motorway
Natural Feature
A66
AMBLESIDE
A1
WINDERMERE
Windermere
NORTH WHITBY YORK MO ORS
SCARBOROUGH
A170
65 LANCASTER
MIDDLESBROUGH
STAITHES
A
BEAT RIX POT T ER COUNTRY
UNITED KINGDOM
DURHAM
A19
624 390 627 392 886 554 299 187 163 102 259 162 158 99 349 218
H
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G EA
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A1
A64
87
CHOOSE the ACCOMMODATION that best suits your budget
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW
BED & BREAKFAST COLLECTION
• We suggest your first night as well as properties in Edinburgh, Glasgow, London, and Castles and Manors be pre-booked. This should be requested at the time of booking to avoid disappointment. These hotels are not part of the voucher program (see pages 90-92 and 94-98 for our hotel selections).
Choose from hundreds of superb B&Bs, private homes, and guesthouses throughout Scotland. You will receive an e-voucher number for standard or Bronze level rooms including a full breakfast. Most homes will have private facilities available for a nominal supplement of £5.00 per person, per night, payable at check-in. To upgrade from Bronze level to Silver or Gold, a supplement will be paid directly to the property upon arrival. Your overnight might be at a working farm, a period cottage, a home that is hundreds of years old, a traditional B&B in a suburb or a manor home (there are different pricing levels depending on locations and property amenities). Accommodations are described in detail online. You will receive the web address when your booking is fully paid. We suggest that you print the pages for the areas where you plan on traveling before you leave the US.
HOTEL & INN COLLECTION We have selected hundreds of Scotland’s finest inns, pub hotels, and hotels, each offering the best in service, cleanliness, and comfort. They range in size and style from country inns to modern city center hotels. They are priced at four different levels depending on amenities and locations. You purchase Bronze level e-vouchers, which generally include country inns with as few as 10 rooms and feature private bathrooms, a restaurant and bar. These typically rate as 3 star accommodations. To upgrade, a supplement paid locally to a hotel or inn in addition to your Bronze e-voucher allows you to stay in Silver, Gold, or Platinum level properties. These supplements, outlined on this page for your convenience, are fixed amounts so you can determine what a good portion of your vacation budget will be before you even leave home.
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MIX & MATCH It is our belief that the best way to get the flavor of any country is to stay in different kinds of accommodation. These programs offer that flexibility. Just purchase vouchers for each program (B&B’s and Hotels & Inns) to enjoy the ambience of Scotland to its fullest. Your Brendan Specialist will be able to assist you in planning the best itinerary to suit your interests.
ACCOMMODATION PASS PRICES PER PERSON FROM Discover Bed & Breakfast Collection child
• Open-dated vouchers are not suitable when a confirmed booking is required months in advance. • Minimum driver age is 23 years. Drivers over 75 years must drive on a regular basis, provide a note from their doctor that they are in good health and a statement from their insurance company that they have not been in an accident in the past five years.
adult (4-13 yrs)
Bronze with shared facilities
$67
$33*
NOT INCLUDED
* One child sharing with 2 adults.
Supplements (paid directly to the property) Approx US
Bronze (en suite) Single Silver Gold Edinburgh during Military Tattoo
In Pounds
Equivalent*
£5 $9 £15 $25 £10 $17 £15 $25 £7.50 $13
Accommodation supplements, phone calls for onward reservations, additional optional insurances (including reducing deductible costs), one-way drop fees in certain cities, young driver and additional driver charges where applicable, refueling charges, and VAT charges on additional fees where applicable. Additional local fees and restrictions may apply.
* Based on exchange rates in September 2013.
Discover Hotels & Inns Collection child
adult (4-12 yrs)
Bronze Inns with shared facilities
$85
free*
* One child up to 12 years sharing with 2 adults stays free; breakfast paid directly to the hotel.
Supplements (paid directly to the property) Approx US
Single Silver Gold Platinum
In Pounds
Equivalent*
£15 $25 £5 $9 £10 $17 £15 $25
* Based on exchange rates in September 2013.
THURSO
2.5 hrs
2.5 hrs ULLAPOOL
2.5 hrs ISLE OF SKYE
Kia Cee’d
P
1.5 hrs
INVERNESS
2 hrs
BROADFORD
P
3 hrs
HIGHLANDS
ABERDEEN
2.5 hrs FORT WILLIAM
1.8 hrs 45 min ISLE OF MULL
2.5 hrs
OBAN
Scotland 1.5 hrs
2.5 hrs Ford Focus
2.5 hrs
4 hrs
P
P
30 min
EDINBURGH
1 hr
GLASGOW
45 min
1 hr
PEEBLES
2 hrs Ferry to FERRY TO Belfast, IRELAND Ireland BELFAST,
ST. ANDREWS
3 hrs
SCOTTISH BORDERS
STRANRAER
Ford Galaxy
AUTOMATIC
MANUAL
PRICES PER CAR PER DAY FROM Car Class
Car type (or similar)
US Equivalent
Luggage Capacity
Mini
Kia Picanto
Smart Car
1 medium, 2 small
Economy
Vauxhall Corsa
Hyundai Accent
1 large, 2 small
Compact
Ford Focus
Ford Focus
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia
Ford Fusion
Compact
Kia Cee’d
Intermediate
VW Jetta
Full Size (minivan) Premium
Max # of Adults
Per Car, Per Day*
2-3
$40
4
$45
1 large, 2 small
4-5
$52
2 large, 2 small
4-5
$63
Mazda 6
1 large, 2 small
4-5
$75
VW Jetta
2 large, 1 small
4-5
$87
Ford Galaxy
Toyota Sienna
2 large, 1 small
5-6
$192
Audi A4
Volvo XC90
2 large, 2 small
4-5
$140
* Prices are per day for a 7-day rental based on low season, and include Unlimited Mileage (UM), Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), Vehicle Licensing Fee (VLF) and Government Imposed Taxes (VAT) of 20%. Rentals for shorter (minimum 3 days) and longer periods available. Does not include fuel, additional drivers, underage driver fees, GPS costs, Windscreen and Tire Waiver (WTW), Personal Accident Insurance (PAI), any additional equipment such as child seats and airport fees. Luggage capacity based on maximum number of passengers (fewer p assengers = more space for luggage). Lower Exclusive rates also available which include only Unlimited Mileage (UM) and Government Imposed Taxes (VAT) of 20%.
89
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
A I RPORT TRANS F ERS Glasgow starting at $142 per vehicle (private)
Glasgow
HILTON GLASGOW HHHHH Not far from the city center, close to transportation
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Holiday Inn Theatreland HHHH
A stylish, modern hotel across from PRICE PER PERSON PER Glasgow Central Train Station
NIGHT FROM:
Ideally situated in the trendy city center Theatreland district, steps from the city’s attractions
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $76
Triple* $109
118 rooms offer high quality accommodation, and free WiFi (limited)
319 modern rooms and suites offer Twin $98 A/C, a coffee/tea tray, Internet Single $179 access (fee), and LCD TV
247 rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, safe, floor-to-ceiling windows, and Twin $101 Single $182 free WiFi
Bar, restaurants, and 24-hour room service
2 bars and a restaurant
Triple $82
MARKS HOTEL HHHH In the heart of Glasgow’s city center, near bus & rail stations 103 boutique rooms feature A/C, a coffee/tea maker, desk, plasma TV, and free WiFi Bar and grill
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
*Family room
24-hour computer center and laundry facilities
MILLENNIUM HOTEL HHHH
THISTLE GLASGOW HHHH
Central, by George Square and the Queen Street Rail Station
Single $122
116 stylish rooms and suites have a coffee/tea tray, safe, satellite TV, and WiFi (fee)
Triple N/A
Bar, lounge, and restaurant
Twin $67
Single $133 Triple N/A
A bar and breakfast room
Concierge services and free access to fitness center
Fitness center, pool, Spa, and free WiFi in public areas
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
In Glasgow’s city center, near the Central Train Station
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Single $109
300 rooms and suites offer A/C, a coffee/tea tray, LCD TV, safe, and WiFi (fee)
Triple* $62
Bar, restaurant, 24-hr room service Triple $90
Twin $55
Twin $101 Single $189
24-hour front desk
*Suite
Health Club with pool
JURYS INN HHH
MERCURE GLASGOW CITY HHH
RAMADA GLASGOW AIRPORT HOTEL HHH
Near George Square, not far from the Central Station
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Close to Glasgow Airport, with transport connections to the city center
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Twin $80
This city center property overlooks the River Clyde
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $66
91 rooms offer a coffee/tea tray, TV, and free WiFi
Single $129
Bar and restaurant
Single $136
108 rooms feature a coffee/tea maker, ironing facilities, and TV
Twin $65
Coffee shop and pub Laundry, dry cleaning facilities and WiFi in public areas (fee)
Triple $61
24-hour room service, parking
Triple N/A
Bar and restaurant
Triple $53
321 rooms feature A/C, a coffee/ tea maker, hairdryer, andTV
Prices include breakfast and all taxes. 90
RADISSON BLU GLASGOW HHHHH
24-hour front desk and airport shuttle, and free WiFi in public areas
Single $120
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
A I RPORT TRANS F ERS Edinburgh starting at $7 per person (seat in van) $141 per vehicle (private)
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Triple N/A
Elliot’s Bar and Restaurant
St
Single $350
187 rooms and suites with A/C, a coffee/tea tray, safe, and free WiFi
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Health Club, pool, and Spa
Within walking distance of bars, cinema, and restaurants
St
Georg
Pl
Triple $164
ry
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University of Edinburgh
George Sq Ln
m
2 bars and 2 restaurants
t
Pl
Between Calton Hill and the Waverley Train Station
Single $330
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te Pot
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A boutique hotel, not far from Waverley train station
Twin $175
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On Princes Street in the city center
75 rooms offer coffee machine, iPod docking station, large windows, TV, and free WiFi
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5 APEX WATERLOO PLACE HHHHH
Twin $167
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St
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4 THE GLASSHOUSE AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION H★HHH
254 rooms and suites feature a coffee maker, hairdryer, minibar, TV, and WiFi (fee)
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Sou
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Pl
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PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
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3 CALEDONIAN - A WALDORF ASTORIA HOTEL HHHHH PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Calto
Waverley Train Station
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Archibald Pl
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St
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11
Lauriston Pl
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To l l c r o s s ss cro Br oll o
T st We Th or n yb a uk
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5
Tron Sq
Ca nd lem ak
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C A LT O N HILL
A900
C al
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20
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Edinburgh Central Library
Leopold P A900
St Mary's Catholic House
19
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O l d To w n St Giles Cathedral
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22
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Bread St
B700
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Bank of Scotland N or t h Bank St d Pl n u Mo New College
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A700
16
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Triple N/A
Health Club and Spa, lounge
Usher Hall
le Te r
Ea
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Ja m
21
National Gallery of Scotland
Edinburgh Castle
st
Scottish National lyde St C Portrait Gallery
St Rose uth L n o St S
Rose
Royal Scottish Academy
t
6
Twin $177 Single $353
n uth L St So
c es S Prin
le mp Se
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
R ose
3
al Sq
Morrison St
St
To Airport
Fest iv
B700
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N e w T o w n George
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QUEEN STREET GARDENS
eric Fred
Nort
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St
St Hope
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Rose
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Pl
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St
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• • • • • 15
B901
L Yor k
Ln n St Dubli
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Hill S
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Row eriot
s mys We
St Hill
Georg
Sq
St
to gh ou Br
St
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Brasserie, 24-hr room service
S India
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Qu ee ns fe
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69 deluxe rooms and suites offer a coffee/tea tray, safe, TV, and free WiFi
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Triple N/A
St
ton ugh Bro
St ony Bar Ln y St Alban
P York
H
Single $385
lli Wi
Overlooking Edinburgh Castle and Waverley Station
Pl
St C
Twin $206
Qu ee ns fe
2 THE SCOTSMAN HHHHH
ir c us
Ln
PRICE PER PERSON PER Pl slie NIGHT FROM:
t te S C h arlo
Health Club and Spa with gym, indoor pool, and sauna
t nd S berla hum Nort
ter
Mora y
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Bars and restaurants
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188 spacious rooms and suites featuring modern amenities, WiFi (fee)
lC
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On Princes Street, next to Waverley Train Station
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17
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THE BALMORAL HHHHH 1
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Stockbridge
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Edinburgh
Gif
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $105 Single $200 Triple N/A
Gym, pool and sauna
2 acre rooftop garden
Prices include breakfast and all taxes. 91
ar dP for
YO U R P E R S O N A L LY S E L E C T E D H O T E L S
Edinburgh
6 HILTON EDINBURGH GROSVENOR ★★★★★
7 APEX INTERNATIONAL HOTEL ★★★★
8 THE CARLTON HOTEL ★★★★
In the West End, close to the Haymarket Train Station • 184 rooms with a coffee/tea tray, Hilton Serenity bedding, and LCD TV • Bar and restaurant • Free WiFi in lobby
Central, in historic Grassmarket, near the Royal Mile & Princes Street • 175 contemporary rooms with a coffee maker, TV, and free WiFi • Gym and indoor pool
Overlooking The Royal Mile • 189 rooms have a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer,TV, and free WiFi • Bar and brasserie • Fitness center, hot tub, pool, and sauna • Spa treatments and squash courts
Prices from: Twin $102; Single $204; Triple N/A
Prices from: Twin $93; Single $176; Triple N/A
Prices from: Twin $101; Single $165; N/A triple
9 CROWNE PLAZA THE ROXBURGHE ★★★★
10 MACDONALD HOLYROOD HOTEL ★★★★
11 RADISSON BLU EDINBURGH ★★★★
Centrally located in New Town, overlooking Charlotte Square • 198 rooms with A/C, a coffee/ tea tray, and LCD TV, and free WiFi • Bar and restaurant • Gym, pool, and Spa
Central, in historic Old Town, close to Arthur’s Seat • 156 elegant rooms and suites offer A/C, a coffee/tea tray, safe, TV, and free WiFi • Piano bar and restaurant • Gym, pool, and Spa
Prices from: Twin $91; Single $181; Triple $86
Prices from: Twin $82; Single $150; Triple N/A
In the heart of Scotland’s capital on the historic Royal Mile • 238 spacious rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, minibar, TV, and free wired Internet • Bar and restaurant • Health Club with pool, gym, and sauna • Parking Prices from: Twin $131; Single $220; Triple N/A
12 APEX CITY HOTEL ★★★★
13 GRASSMARKET HOTEL ★★★
14 JURYS INN ★★★
In central and historic Old Town, behind Edinburgh Castle • 119 stylish rooms with a coffee/tea maker, TV, and free WiFi • Bar, restaurant, 24-hour room service • Castle-view sitting areas
Centrally located near the Castle and the Royal Mile, at Grassmarket Square • 44 cozy guest rooms are equipped with a coffee/tea tray, iPod dock, and TV • Free WiFi in public areas
This hotel is located in the Old Town, just off the Royal Mile • 186 rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, hair dryer, TV, and wired Internet (fee) • Coffee bar and restaurant • Dry cleaning & laundry facilities
Prices from: Twin $93; $170 Single; Triple N/A
Prices from: Twin $63; Single $102; Triple $57
Prices from: Twin $94; Single $185; Triple $89
OTHER FAVORITE HOTELS 16 SHERATON GRAND HOTEL & SPA
HHHHH
Twin $199; Single $350; Triple N/A 17 CHANNINGS HOTEL
HHHH
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92
HHH
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Adjacent to Murrayfield Stadium, a short bus ride to the city center • 59 rooms are equipped with a coffee/tea maker, ironing board, TV, and free WiFi • Bar and restaurant • 24-hour concierge, private parking
19 KING JAMES THISTLE HOTEL
HHHH
Twin $105; Single $187; Triple N/A
Twin $105; Single $210; Triple $97
23 QUALITY HOTEL
Twin $82; Single $163; Triple N/A
HHHH
Ù
Twin $68; Single $136; Triple N/A
18 INN ON THE MILE
20 THE KNIGHT RESIDENCE
PRINCESS STREET HHHH
Twin $95; Single $158; Triple $86
15 MURRAYFIELD HOTEL & HOUSE ★★★
Prices from: Twin $82; Single $164; Triple N/A
21 MERCURE EDINBURGH
22 THE POINT
Twin $85; Single $168; Triple N/A
HHHH
EDINBURGH AIRPORT HHH
Ù
Twin $75; Single $150; Triple $50
Ù Free WiFi (see page 103)
All hotel prices include breakfast and all taxes.
o p t i o n a l S I G H T S E E IN G
Explore
Edinburgh & Glasgow
HOP-ON HOP-OFF CITY SIGHTSEEING
WEST HIGHLANDS LOCHS & CASTLES
Operates: Daily; valid 24 hours; 24 stops every 20 minutes (entrance fees not included) Price Per Person From: $22
Take in the superb ruins of Kilchurn Castle, stunningly situated at the head of Loch Awe, then on to see splendid Inveraray Castle.
EDINBURGH PASS
Operates: Daily; 9 a.m.; 10 hours Price Per Person From: $74
This pass guarantees access to 30 popular Edinburgh attractions, often including special offers and discounts. Operates: Daily; 1 day pass Price Per Person From: $62
ROYAL YACHT BRITANNIA
The Royal Yacht Britannia was the Royal family’s personal ship from 1953 to 1997. Take self-guided audio tour and learn about life on board this magnificent vessel.
SECRETS OF THE ROYAL MILE Let your expert guide reveal the history of this fascinating street. Operates: Daily, except holidays; 2:15 p.m.; 1½ hours Price Per Person From: $57
HISTORIC VAULTS TOUR
The Underground Vaults are said to be “the most haunted place in Britain.”
Operates: Daily, except holidays; open Jul-Sep, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Apr-Jun and Oct, 10 a.m.4 p.m.; rest of year, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; 1½ hours Price Per Person From: $60
Operates: Daily; Apr-Sep, 12 p.m., 2 p.m. & 4 p.m; Oct-Mar, 2 p.m. (Fri, Sat, Sun) & 4 p.m.; 1¼ hours Price Per Person From: $57
PRESTONFIELD HOUSE SCOTTISH EVENING
tHE SCOTCH WHISKY EXPERIENCE
An unforgettable evening of Scottish m usic, costume, bagpipes, fiddles, and dance in the historic setting of Prestonfield House. Operates: Sun-Fri, May-Oct Show & Dinner: 7 p.m.; 3 hours Price Per Person: $95 Show Only: 8 p.m.; 2 hours Price Per Person: $82
HOLYROOD PALACE
Visit the official Scotland residence of Her Majesty the Queen. This was once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots, and is still lavishly furnished and has exquisite gardens. Operates: Daily, except Dec 25-26 & during Royal Visits; open Apr-Oct, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Nov-Mar, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; 1½ hours Price Per Person From: $66
HIGHLAND LOCHS, GLENS & WHISKY
Head out to see the lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and forests of the Highlands. Stop at a whisky distillery and learn the secrets of making this amber nectar. Operates: Daily; 10 a.m.; 10 hours Price Per Person From: $74
Become part of the whisky making process on this interactive tour with an expert whisky advisor. Operates: Daily; open 10 a.m.-5 p.m., tours every 20 minutes; 1 hour Price Per Person From: $26
ST. ANDREWS & THE FISHING VILLAGES OF FIFE Travel through the fishing villages of the medieval kingdom of Fife. Then, on to St. Andrews, where golf was “born.” Operates: Daily; 9:30 a.m.; 8½ hours Price Per Person From: $66
LOCH LOMOND explorer
View majestic Stirling Castle, the impressive Wallace Monument, Trossachs National Park, Loch Lomond, and Doune Castle on this full-day tour. Operates: Wed, Fri and Sun; 8:45 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Price Per Person From: $65
LOCH NESS explorer
Cross wild Rannoch Moor to Glencoe, and on to Loch Ness. Operates: Daily; 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Price Per Person From: $72
the highlands & edinburgh’s Military Tattoo performance
Head into the Highlands, to Trossachs National Park. Follow the shoreline of Loch Earn, then stop at a whisky distillery. After a tour and taste of the “water of life,” take a woodland walk to the Black Linn Falls. Then, back to Edinburgh, where tonight you will attend the Military Tattoo. Operates: Mon-Sat; Aug 1-23; 8:15 a.m.-5:30 p.m., plus evening Tattoo (ticket included) Price Per Person From: $149
Highland Games Tour
Experience the excitement of the Highland Games, as atheletes toss the caber and throw the hammer. Operates: Per the Games Program; ask for details; 8:15 a.m.-6 p.m. (Braemar Games program 8 a.m.-9 p.m.) Price Per Person From: $72
Glasgow HOP-ON HOP-OFF CITY SIGHTSEEING Operates: Daily; 24 stops every 20 minutes (entrance fees not included) Price Per Person From: $21
LOCH LOMOND CRUISE Operates: Daily Price Per Person From: $50
STIRLING CASTLE, LOCH LOMOND NATIONAL PARK & WHISKY TOUr
Visit splendid Stirling Castle, then take in the scenery of Loch Lomond National Park. Finally, stop at a whisky distillery and learn how this warming beverage is created. Operates: Daily; 9 a.m.; 9 hours Price Per Person From: $74
OBAN, GLENCOE, WEST HIGHLAND lochs & CASTLES
Head north into the Highlands, see the ruins of Kilchurn Castle and Inverary Castle, then take in Oban and Glencoe. Operates: Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat; 9 a.m.;10 hours Price Per Person From: $68 93
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
Scottish Countryside
ROCPOOL RESERVE HHHHH Inverness An exclusive hideaway in the center of Inverness 11 rooms offer a coffee/tea machine, emperor-size beds, iPod docking station, LCD TV, and free WiFi
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
BEST WESTERN LOCHARDIL HOUSE HHHH Inverness-shire
MERCURE INVERNESS HHH Inverness
Close to the town of Inverness, near the famed Ness Islands
Centrally located, overlooking the PRICE PER PERSON PER River Ness
Single $337
28 rooms with a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, satellite TV, and free WiFi
Triple N/A
Bar and restaurant
Twin $207
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $91 Single $150 Triple N/A
106 rooms offer a coffee/tea tray, flat-screen TV, and free WiFi
NIGHT FROM: Twin $80 Single $152
Bar, restaurant, and 24-hour room service
Triple N/A
Bar and restaurant
ROYAL HIGHLAND HOTEL HHH Inverness
OLD COURSE HOTEL, GOLF RESORT & SPA HHHHH St. Andrews
CALEDONIAN THISTLE ABERDEEN HHHH Aberdeen
In the Inverness city center
Bordering the 17th Road Hole of the Old Course
City center, near the Aberdeen Rail Station
84 spacious rooms offer satellite TV and free WiFi Bar, café, and restaurant 24-hour front desk and free parking
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Single $115
144 luxurious rooms and suites offer modern amenities including WiFi (fee)
Triple $83
Choice of bars and restaurants
Twin $87
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Single $385
83 rooms and suites offer A/C, a coffee/tea tray, safe, TV, and WiFi (fee)
Triple N/A
Café bar, 24-hour room service
Twin $228
Golf and Spa
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $63 Single $110 Triple N/A
Free private parking
OTHER FAVORITE HOTELS Inverness KINGS MILL HOTEL
HHHH
Between Edinburgh and Glasgow, PRICE PER PERSON PER near the Firth of Forth 101 rooms and suites feature a coffee/tea, TV, and WiFi (fee)
NIGHT FROM: Twin $96
Bar, café, and restaurant
Single $167
Gym, pool, tennis, and Spa
Triple N/A
24-hour room service, parking
Prices include breakfast and all taxes. 94
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Twin $91; Single $159; Triple $69
Twin $77; Single $150; Triple N/A
MACDONALD NEW DRUMOSSIE HOTEL
Perthshire (Kenmore) KENMORE HOTEL
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Twin $118; Single $210; Triple N/A
MACDONALD INCHYRA GRANGE HOTEL HHHH Stirling area
Perthshire (Perth) MERCURE PERTH
NEWTON HOTEL (Nairn)
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Twin $122; Single $140; Triple N/A
BEN WYVIS
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Twin $77; Single $124; Triple $73
St. Andrews FAIRMONT ST. ANDREWS
Twin $186; Single $371; Triple N/A HHH
Twin $57; Single $80; Triple $38
GLEN MHOR HOTEL AND APARTMENTS Twin $59; Single $117; Triple N/A
BW INVERNESS PALACE Twin $97; Single $167; Triple N/A
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RUFFLETS COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL
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Twin $71; Single $140; Triple $110*
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Aberdeen COPTHORNE ABERDEEN Twin $98; Single $173; Triple N/A
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yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
Scottish Countryside
BROADFORD HOTEL HHHH Isle of Skye (Broadford)
DUNOLLIE HOTEL HHH Isle of Skye (Broadford)
CALEDONIAN HOTEL HH Ullapool
Situated in the village of Broadford, PRICE PER PERSON PER overlooking Broadford Bay
Set overlooking Broadford Bay, near the Cullin Hills
Original home of Drambuie
Twin $72
80 stylish rooms with a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, and TV
Single $143
Bar and restaurant
Single $68
Triple $70
Free WiFi in lounge
Triple $48
Rooms have a coffee/tea tray, TV, and free WiFi 2 bars and a restaurant
NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $55
Overlooks Ullapool harbor and its PRICE PER PERSON PER colorful fishing boats 83 rooms have standard amenities Bar, restaurant, and room service Parking and free WiFi in public areas
ARROCHAR HOTEL HHH Loch Lomond
Situated on the beautiful Burgh of PRICE PER Caithness in the center of Thurso PERSON PER
A former 19th-century coaching inn set on the shores of Loch Long, newly renovated in 2013
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Overlooking Oban Bay; a great base for touring the West Highlands
NIGHT FROM:
Twin $51 Single $55 Triple $43
OBAN CALEDONIAN HHH Oban
ROYAL HOTEL HHH Thurso 103 rooms offer a coffee/tea tray, TV, and free WiFi
NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Single $91
76 rooms offer standard amenities, including free WiFi
Twin $78
Bar and restaurant
Single $156
59 rooms offer standard amenities, Twin $58 Single $99 including free WiFi
Parking
Triple N/A
Lounge bar and restaurant
Triple N/A
Café and restaurant
Twin $74
Triple N/A
Originally opened in 1882
Parking
OTHER FAVORITE HOTELS Isle of Mull ISLE OF MULL HOTEL & SPA
HHH
Isle of Skye DUISDALE HOUSE HOTEL
HHHH
Twin $175; Single $350; Triple N/A
BALLACHULISH HOTEL HHH Ft. William (Ballachulish)
TORAVAIG HOUSE HOTEL HHH
Lochside, between Fort William and Oban
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
SKEABOST COUNTRY HOUSE
Twin $57
Peebles MACDONALD CARDONA GOLF & SPA
Bar and bistro
Single $97
Use of the pool and fitness room at a nearby sister hotel
Triple N/A
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
Oban ISLE OF ERISKA HOTEL GOLF & SPA HHHHH
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Twin $57; Single $113; Triple N/A
Twin $135; Single $262; Triple N/A
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Ft. William THE MOORINGS
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Twin $113; Single $202; Triple N/A
Twin $131; Single $263; Triple N/A
Twin $154; Single $308; Triple N/A
HHHH
Twin $93; Single $157; Triple N/A
Twin $54; Single $58; Triple $47
53 rooms have a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Troon THE MARINE HOTEL
ISLE OF GLENCOE
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Twin $65; Single $130; Triple $55
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yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
Scottish Castles & Manors THURSO
•
AIRTH CASTLE HHHH Airth
Beautiful 13th-century castle just a few miles south of Edinburgh
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
A 14th-century castle set in 14 acres of parkland near the River Forth, in Stirlingshire
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
36 rooms and suites with a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $140 Single $279
125 rooms with a tea/coffee tray, TV, and free WiFi
Twin $105
Triple $129
Bar and restaurant
Triple $101
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Falconry, Spa and walks
3 FERNIE CASTLE HHHH St. Andrews
4 ATHOLL PALACE HOTEL HHHH Perthshire (Pitlochry)
5 TULLOCH CASTLE HHHH Rosshire (Inverness)
PRICE PER Overlooking the small town of Pitlochry, in the Scottish Highlands PERSON PER
On the edge of Dingwall, just 15 miles north of Inverness 20 well-appointed rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, TV, and more
This 450-year-old castle, on 17 acres of woodlands, has its own loch
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Not far from major cities
Twin $112
106 unique rooms and suites offer a coffee/tea tray, TV, and free WiFi Twin $82
20 rooms are equipped with a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, and TV
Single $112
Bar, lounge, and restaurant
Single $99
Bar and restaurant
Single $271
Triple N/A
Fishing, gardens, golf, museum, Spa, and tennis
Triple $76
9 and 18 hole golf courses and free WiFi in public areas
Triple $131
Bar, lounge, and restaurant
NIGHT FROM:
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM: Twin $136
Parking, golf, falconry, and fishing
6 INVERLOCHY CASTLE HHHHH Fort William
7 CAMERON HOUSE HHHHH Loch Lomond
Set in the picturesque countryside, PRICE PER PERSON PER just 4 miles from Fort William
In a scenic setting at the south tip PRICE PER PERSON PER of sparkling Loch Lomond
A Baronial castle overlooking Loch PRICE PER PERSON PER Fyne, near the village of Tarbert
17 rooms offer a DVD player, safe, TV, and free WiFi
132 rooms and suites offer a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, iPod docking station, safe, TV, and free WiFi
Single $219
32 spacious 1- and 2-bedroom suites offer a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, TV, and free WiFi
Triple N/A
Afternoon tea, bar, and restaurant
NIGHT FROM: Twin $219
Afternoon tea and restaurant
Single $367
Falconry, garden, and tennis
Triple N/A
Bar and restaurants Archery, mountain biking, croquet
96
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
8 STONEFIELD CASTLE HHHH Tarbert (Loch Fyne) NIGHT FROM: Twin $110
60 acres of woodlands and gardens, billiard room, and library
NIGHT FROM: Twin $119 Single $189 Triple N/A
yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
A I RPORT TRANS F ERS Heathrow starting at $38 per person (seat in van) $153 per vehicle (private)
London
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PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
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5 THE CUMBERLAND HHHHH
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4 RADISSON BLU HAMPSHIRE HHHHH
A luxury hotel with contemporary PRICE PER decor just off fashionable Piccadilly PERSON PER
This hotel is located in the heart of London’s theater area
404 spacious rooms and suites have A/C, a power shower, TV with 400 free channels, and free WiFi
Twin $210
124 rooms with a coffee/tea maker, minibar, safe, TV, and free WiFi
Single $408
Bar, café, and restaurant
Single $439
Triple N/A
Rooftop terrace and concierge services
Triple N/A
NIGHT FROM:
Bar and restaurant 24-hour reception, casino, gym, and Spa
Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
*Deluxe room
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
Located where Oxford Street meets Park Lane, opposite Hyde Park
Twin $243
Twin $152 1019 deluxe rooms offer modern amenities including A/C, a coffee/ Single $280 tea tray, safe, TV, and free WiFi Triple $125
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM:
2 bars, a brasserie, and restaurant Gym, 24-hour room service
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yo u r p e r s o n a l ly s e l e c t e d h o t e l s
London
6 RADISSON BLU EDWARDIAN VANDERBILT ★★★★★
7 THE RUBENS AT THE PALACE ★★★★★
8 THE CAESAR HOTEL ★★★★
In South Kensington, near the Natural History Museum • 215 rooms and suites with A/C, a coffee/tea tray, safe, TV, and free WiFi • Bars and restaurant • Gym • 24-hour room service
Opposite Buckingham Palace, not far from Victoria Station • 161 rooms and suites are equipped with A/C, a coffee/tea tray, safe, TV, and free WiFi • 2 bars, a lounge and 2 restaurants • 24-hour room service
In a residential area, near Paddington Station and Hyde Park • 140 rooms feature A/C, a coffee/tea tray, safe, TV, and free WiFi • Bar and restaurant • 24-hour room service
Prices from: Twin $103; Single $166; Triple N/A
Prices from: Twin $191; Single $338; Triple $191
Prices from: Twin $103; Single $187; Triple $100
9 THE CHARING CROSS HOTEL ★★★★
10 THE GROSVENOR ★★★★
11 THISTLE KENSINGTON GARDENS ★★★★
Near The Strand and Trafalgar Square • 239 rooms and suites feature A/C, a coffee/tea tray, iPod dock station, TV, and free WiFi • Bar, lounge, and restaurant • Gym • 24-hour room service
A 19th-century Victorian railway station, refurbished as a first class hotel • Connected to Victoria Station • 357 rooms offer A/C, a coffee/tea tray, iPod dock, safe, TV, and free WiFi • Lounge and 2 restaurants
Prices from: Twin $147; Single $283; Triple N/A
Prices from: Twin $140; Single $257; Triple N/A
A contemporary hotel very close to Hyde Park and scenic Kensington Gardens • 175 rooms feature A/C, a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, safe, TV, and free WiFi • Bar and restaurant • Nearby Bayswater and Queensway Underground stations Prices from: Twin $129; Single $292; Triple $124
12 THISTLE ROYAL TRAFALGAR ★★★★
13 HOLIDAY VILLA ★★★
14 ST. GILES LONDON ★★★
This hotel features contemporary décor and is just a short walk from Trafalgar Square and the theater district • 108 rooms offer A/C, a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, safe, TV, and free WiFi • Bar and restaurant • Concierge services • 24-hour room service
In Bayswater, not far from Kensington Gardens • 75 rooms offer a coffee/tea maker, hairdryer, and TV • Bar and restaurant • Spa and wellness center, free WiFi in lobby
Near the British Museum, not far from West End theatres • 705 rooms and suites offer a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer, safe, TV, and WiFi (fee) • Bar, coffee shop, and restaurants • 24-hour reception
Prices from: Twin $66; Single $112; Triple $63
Prices from: Twin $96; Single $152; Triple $94
Prices from: Twin $164; Single $315; Triple N/A
OTHER personally selected HOTELS 15 CHESTERFIELD MAYFAIR HOTEL
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Twin $213; Single $361; Triple $328* *Jr. suite
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16 THE MONTAGUE ON THE GARDEN
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20 PARK PLAZA
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21 PARK PLAZA COUNTY HALL
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Twin $202; Single $325; Triple $208 17 GUOMANS TOWER HOTEL
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18 CROWNE PLAZA KENSINGTON
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22 BEST WESTERN PHOENIX
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Twin $164; Single $315; Triple N/A 23 IBIS EARLS COURT
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Twin $129; Single $245; Triple $113 19 HILTON KENSINGTON
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Twin $146; Single $292; Triple N/A
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Twin $120; Single $235; Triple $111
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Twin $108; Single $203; Triple $103
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Twin $126; Single $246; Triple $123
Twin $93; Single $175; Triple $91 Many other central London, Heathrow and Gatwick hotels and apartments available. Ask your Brendan Specialist for details. Free WiFi (see page 103)
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Prices include breakfast and all taxes.
o p t i o n a l S I G H T S E E IN G
Explore
London & Beyond
THE LONDON PASS
The London Pass gives you free entry into over 55 top London attractions. Another bonus is discounts for many restaurants and shops. Plus, commission-free currency exchange, and free phone rental and incoming calls. Price Per Person From: Adult – 1 Day $86; 2 Days $109; 3 Days $130; 6 Days $173 Child – 1 Day $55; 2 Days $80; 3 Days $88; 6 Days $121 Attractions subject to change. Transportation to/from and between attractions is not included. Passes with transportation included are available, ask your Brendan Specialist for details and prices.
THE ORIGINAL LONDON SIGHTSEEING TOUR
See all the top sights on a Hop-On HopOff open top bus tour (entrances fees not included). Operates: Daily; valid 24 hours; 90+ stops every 15-20 min Price Per Person From: Adult $43; Child (2-16) $21
RIVER RED ROVER 1 DAY HOP-ON HOP-OFF PASS
Cruise on the Thames, getting on and off at four different stops. Operates: Daily; Apr-Jun; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Price Per Person From: Adult $21; Child (5-16 years) $12
LONDON EYE
MAJESTIC LONDON See Westminster Abbey, the Tower of London, take a Thames River Cruise and more. Operates: Daily; 8:45 a.m.-6 p.m. Price Per Person From: $120
WINDSOR CASTLE, STONEHENGE & GEORGIAN BATH Visit Windsor Castle’s State Apartments, Stonehenge and Georgian Bath. Operates: Daily; 8:45 a.m.-8 p.m. Price Per Person From: $127
BLENHEIM PALACE & THE COTSWOLDS WITH LUNCH Visit the Blenheim Palace State Rooms, and drive through the charming Cotswolds. Operates: Fri, Sat, Sun; May-Sep; 8:45 a.m.7 p.m. Price Per Person From: $131
SALISBURY CATHEDRAL, STONEHENGE & GEORGIAN BATH Visit beautiful Salisbury Cathedral. Then on to ancient Stonehenge. Finally, tour the Roman Baths in the city of Bath.
Operates: Daily; 8:45 a.m.-7 p.m. Price Per Person From: $131
LEEDS CASTLE, CANTERBURY CATHEDRAL & THE WHITE CLIFFS OF DOVER Visit Leeds Castle then Canterbury Cathedral. On to see the stunning White Cliffs of Dover. Operates: Tue-Sat; 8:45 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Price Per Person From: $131
Full Day Rail Tours EDINBURGH - THE ROYAL CITY Travel by train to Edinburgh, enjoy a Hop-On Hop-Off city tour, and visit Edinburgh Castle. Later return to London by train. Operates: Mon-Thu; 6:30 a.m.-10:15 p.m., departs from Kings Cross Station Price Per Person From: Unescorted Standard Class $270; First Class $377
Operates: Daily; 8:45 a.m.-7 p.m. Price Per Person From: $131
London SHOWBOAT Enjoy dinner and a lively show as you cruise through London.
Ride 443 feet into the sky on the famous London Eye.
Operates: Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun; 7:30 p.m.11 p.m.
Operates: Operates: Daily; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. (varies)
Price Per Person From: $118
Price Per Person From: Adult $34; Child (3-16) $17
WARWICK CASTLE, STRATFORD UPON AVON, OXFORD & THE COTSWOLDS Visit Warwick Castle and Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford. Drive through the Cotswolds and stop in Oxford.
THE MAGIC OF PARIS Ride the high-speed Eurostar to Paris. Take a Hop-On Hop-Off coach tour of the city. Later, take the Eurostar back to London. Operates: Mon-Sat; 6 a.m.-10 p.m. Price Per Person From: Unescorted - Standard Class $294; Premier Class $552. Escorted - Standard Class $373; Premier Class $653
Royal LONDON A morning panoramic tour of city highlights. Operates: Daily; 8:45 a.m.-12 noon Price Per Person: Adult $47; Child (2-16) $39
WARTIME LONDON Board a 1930s-40s era motorcoach and see sites that were heavily damaged by bombs, visit the Imperial War Museum and more on this moving trip through time. Operates: Apr-Oct, Tue, Thu and Sat; 8:45 a.m.5 p.m. Price Per Person From: $ 44
Theatre Packages
Price Per Person From: $203
We have combined dinner at a favorite London restaurant and a ticket to one of London’s popular productions. Shows include “Jersey Boys,” “Wicked,” “Les Miserables,” “The Lion KIng,” and “Mamma Mia!” (as of Sep 1, 2013). Other shows available. Your Brendan Specialist will advise dates, times and availability. Prices are subject to change and based on the lowest show ticket and dinner price. Tickets cannot be sold on an individual basis.
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Brendan Vacations is proud to be part of a joint initiative by The Travel Corporation family of brands that collectively support TreadRight, a non-profit organization working to ensure the destinations we visit remain vibrant for future generations of travelers. Established in 2008, TreadRight has committed more than $1.5 million to sustainable tourism projects worldwide, including annually supporting the World Travel & Tourism Council’s Tourism for Tomorrow Awards. To learn more about the projects that TreadRight is involved with, please visit www.treadright.org
Going “Green” for the Future Imagine driving along the absolute edge of western Europe, exploring a 1,500-mile coastline dotted with beaches, harbors, headlands, and stunning viewpoints as it winds from Cork to Donegal. This is the “Wild Atlantic Way,” one of the world’s great long-distance driving routes. Its scenic highlights are spectacular, and it also brings you up close and personal with Ireland’s unique culture and people as it travels through Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) areas.
We are concerned about our WorldWide “family” ... the earth’s future Brendan Vacations, as part of The Travel Corporation, is proud to be using 100% recycled paper for the body of all our travel catalogs. Some of the positive impacts of this include: • Saving more than 54,000* trees per year • Reducing landfill waste that produces harmful greenhouse gases In addition, the paper used is rated “Excellent” by the World Wildlife Fund’s (WWF) environmental benchmarking tool. We are proud to commit to using one of the most environmentallyfriendly, coated, recycled papers on Planet Earth. * Calculation based on data from the Environmental Defense Network.
Look for [WAW logo] on itinerary pages to find vacations that highlight the Wild Atlantic Way and [TRight logo] denoting trips visiting the Giant’s Causeway, part of our work with the TreadRight Foundation. 100
Brendan Vacations shares the coverage available under the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program with affiliates of TravCorp USA, Inc. who, as an Active Member of the USTOA, is required to post $1 Million with USTOA to be used to reimburse, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the USTOA $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program, the advance payments of Brendan Vacations’ customers in the unlikely event of Brendan Vacations’ bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business. Further, you should understand that the $1 Million posted byTravCorp USA, Inc. and shared among its affiliates may be sufficient to provide only a partial recovery of the advance payments received by Brendan Vacations. More details of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program and a list of affiliates may be obtained by writing to USTOA at 345 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1801, New York, New York 10001, or by email to information@ustoa.com or by visiting their website at www.USTOA.com.
connect with past, present, & future brendan guests! check us out on:
BrendanVacations.com/fans financial protection - US$20 million your peace of mind guarantee The traveling public has always been concerned about the protection of their advanced bookings. As part of Brendan’s commitment to providing our customers with peace of mind in all dealings with Brendan Vacations, Travcorp Financial Services Limited has provided a letter of credit to Brendan Vacations of US$20 Million in respect of all customers traveling with Brendan Vacations.
facebook.com/brendanvacationsfanpage twitter.com/brendanvacation Take a look at past guest reviews and forums before you go.
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TERMS & CONDITIONS DEPOSIT & FINAL PAYMENT A non-refundable deposit of $200 per person per program is required within 3 days of booking (7 days for Locally Hosted and C ustomized Vacations). An additional non-refundable deposit for air booked in conjunction with your Guided Vacation is also due at this time. Certain other products may have additional d eposit requirements; this will be advised at the time of booking or on your invoice. The d eposit forms part of your final payment, which is due at least 45 days prior to departure. Payment of the deposit and/or full payment indicates acceptance of our Terms and Conditions (in the case where a credit card is used, this is true whether or not the appropriate draft has actually been signed). If we do not receive final payment by the specified date, we reserve the right to cancel the reservation. Payment in full is required at the time of booking for reservations made less than 45 days prior to the vacation departure. In the case of computer or human billing errors, we reserve the right to re-invoice with correct pricing. For Locally Hosted and Customized Vacations, payment in full for airfare from your U.S. gateway to your vacation destination is required at the time of booking flights. Upon receipt of full air payment, your airfare, taxes and fuel surcharges are final, regardless of any future price fluctuations. Credit Card Bookings: Brendan should be advised of the credit card number when making the reservation. Credit card payments require certain information. Third party charge cards require additional information. Early Payment Discounts are applied at the time of booking. If full payment is not received by the date stated on the invoice, the discount will be removed and the booking will be re-priced. Discounts are not valid on all itineraries or departure dates, and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Your Travel Agent shall hold all monies for each person on the booking until it is confirmed. When confirmed, your Travel Agent shall provide the money held to Brendan. You consent to us depositing monies received by us as required by law. We will be entitled to keep any interest earned. You consent that all monies paid to us whether through your Travel Agent, by deposit or otherwise, may be disbursed by us as and when we see fit. HANDLING & REVISION FEES A fee of $35 per person will be charged for any change made after a booking is confirmed. Any changes risk the loss of air space or increased airfares. Name changes or corrections will be treated as a cancellation of air; all normal air cancellation fees will apply. A change of program date or itinerary within 45 days of departure* will be treated as a cancellation and new booking; regular cancellation fees apply. Bookings made within 21 days of departure incur special handling fees. CANCELLATIONS & CANCELLATION FEES All cancellations must be advised in writing via email or letter to Guest Services. The following per person cancellation fees apply: Guided Vacations 45+ days prior to departure day*: Full deposit‡; 44-22 days prior to departure day*: 25% of total price‡; 21-8 days prior to departure day*: 30% of total price‡; 7-1 day(s) prior to departure day*: 50% of total price‡; On departure day* or later: 100% of total price‡. Locally Hosted & Customized Vacations 45+ days prior to departure day*: Full deposit‡; 44-22 days prior to departure day*: 25% of total price‡; 21-4 days prior to departure day*: 50% of total price‡; 3 days or less: 100% of total price‡. ‡ Plus the Travel Protection Plan’s insurance premium, if purchased * “Departure day” is considered the date Brendan services begin. These fees are in addition to any cancellation fees that may be levied by your Travel Agent. Should a passenger sharing a room cancel, the remaining passenger(s) will be charged for a single (or twin share) room. Extra night accommodations on Guided Vacations that are cancelled within 14 days of the date reserved will incur a 100% cancellation fee. Otherwise, the following fees apply: 46 days or more: $30 per person 45-22 days: up to 25% of pre/post nights 21-15 days: up to 75% of pre/post nights
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GUIDED VACATION CANCELLATION Brendan reserves the right to cancel or re-schedule any departure in accordance with operating requirements or circumstances beyond its control. Brendan will try to rebook the same or a similar vacation and, where flights have been confirmed by Brendan, will attempt to confirm an air schedule for the new dates, subject to availability. If there is a d ifference in cost, it will be at the guest’s expense or savings. If the alternative trip is not accepted within 7 days, we will refund all monies paid to Brendan and will be under no further obligation or liability. If cancellation is made any time prior to departure, Brendan’s only liability will be to refund to the passenger the amount it has received for the booking. Brendan is not liable for any other travel arrangements affected due to our cancellations or any cancellation penalties incurred on any other travel arrangements including air tickets purchased separately. If purchasing a non-refundable air ticket, please make sure that your Travel Agent explains the difficulties associated with these. Brendan cannot be held responsible for any change/cancellation penalties associated with non-refundable airfares. REFUNDS FOR UNUSED SERVICES No refunds will be made for unused services once travel has commenced. If you leave your vacation early due to illness, you must obtain a medical certificate in support of any insurance claim. We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a program, including but not limited to, missed meals or sightseeing. Employees of any domestic or overseas service supplier are not authorized to indicate or make refunds without respect to Brendan’s stated Terms and C onditions. SERVICE INQUIRIES If you have a complaint while on v acation, inform your Travel Director/local host immediately. If the matter cannot be resolved after his/her best efforts or if after the program you wish to inquire about any services provided, please ensure that all correspondence relating to those services is received by Brendan within 60 days after the pro gram completion date. Email all correspondence to: guestservices@brendanvacations.com and include your booking number. AIR INFORMATION In addition to the non-refundable deposit, the following cancellation charges apply for airline arrangements made by Brendan:
as soon after booking as possible, but not less than 21 days prior to departure. You must advise Brendan of any changes to your flight schedule as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in missing the transfer. If flight/change information is received too late, we cannot guarantee the service provider can be advised. You must stay at a hotel booked by Brendan on the night of your arrival and the night prior to your departure. In the event of flight delays, missed flights and/or missed transfers, transfers will be considered cancelled. Passengers will need to arrange their own transportation to the hotel or to join the vacation in progress. No refund is available for missed/cancelled transfers or for passengers not using this service. In the case of unforeseen events (such as but not limited to road or rail work, strikes or demonstrations), Brendan will not be responsible for delayed or cancelled transfers. PASSPORTS & VISAS A valid machine-readable passport is required of all program participants. It must be valid at least six months after your date of return to the U.S. Some programs require passport details be provided at the time of booking. Brendan will not be r esponsible for delays in confirmation or disruption to passengers’ travel plans should these details not be provided at that time. Securing visas is the r esponsibility of the guest. ALL travelers should check with the consulates of the countries being visited to determine if any visas are needed. See BrendanVacations.com for more details. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS Passengers should check with the c onsulates and/or the local health boards for the latest health requirements. YOUNG PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS Brendan welcomes children five years of age and older on Guided Vacations. There are no age restrictions on Locally Hosted or Customized programs. Travelers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. If a child will be traveling with adults other than parents, or with only one parent, it is the passenger’s responsibility to con tact the appropriate consulates and the applicable airlines to ensure children have the required documentation for traveling outside the U.S.
• Prior to Airline Ticketing: service fee $50.00 per person.
PROGRAM ARRANGEMENTS Brendan strives to provide an enjoyable and safe travel experience for all. We welcome passengers with special needs or disabilities. However, please note the following:
• After Airline Ticketing: service fee $75.00 per person plus any airline imposed penalties which may be up to 100% of the air ticket value.
• Passengers are required to advise Brendan at the time of booking of any physical, medical or other special needs that require accommodation.
Airline Availability: Where possible Brendan will offer a choice of schedules and airfares. Some schedules may contain multiple connections and/ or airlines. The schedule of guests’ choice may not be the lowest fare offered. Once your air schedule is confirmed, any alterations risk the loss of air space and/or increased airfares. Air tickets issued by Brendan are subject to restrictions. Any and all changes to air tickets issued by Brendan must be processed through Brendan. Change p enalties vary depending on the airline.
• All guests must ensure they are medically and physically fit for travel. Brendan may impose any requirements necessary for the safe operation of the program. Brendan may also exclude an individual from participating in a tour or an activity if that individual’s participation poses a direct threat to health or safety.
Brendan does not hold block space and cannot guarantee air availability. Seats are limited in our contracted class of service and are not available on every flight. During peak travel times, there may not be any availability. If we book and ticket a published airfare for you, there is a $75 per person service fee. Guests traveling with other guests but originating in different gateway cities might not be c onfirmed on the same airline or routing. Flight delays and itinerary or schedule changes are the sole responsibility of and under the control of the airline. Brendan reserves the right to offer alternative schedules for itineraries affected by airlines’ changes of flight schedules and equipment. Airline Arrangements: Seat assignments and special meals can be requested at the time of booking. Brendan cannot guarantee confirmation of preferences. Not all airlines o ffer pre-assigned seats and some may charge for pre-assigned seats. Any additional charge will be at guests’ expense. Where pre-assigned seats are not offered or different seats are desired, guests are requested to contact airline(s) directly and to re confirm their request with the airline 30 days prior to departure. Seating is solely under the control of the airline and subject to change up until departure. Frequent Flyer Miles can be accrued on most air carriers, but upgrades using mileage are not permitted. Some airfares may not be eligible to accrue Frequent Flier Miles/Points. AIRPORT TRANSFERS Your flights must be booked by Brendan or detailed flight information provided to Brendan
• Brendan does not provide personal devices (such as wheelchairs, eye glasses, or hearing aids) or services of a personal nature (such as pushing a wheelchair or help in eating, t oileting or dressing). A companion capable of providing such assistance must accompany any passenger who requires services of a personal nature. • Brendan does not employ medical personnel. Any necessary medical a ttention will be provided by a local facility at the passenger’s expense. Brendan is not r esponsible or liable for any losses or costs incurred as a result of medical services obtained while on tour, or for the quality of the care or services received. Passengers should be aware some vacation programs include rough terrain, extensive walking over cobblestone streets, uneven pavement, steps and locations which may not be easily accessible or accessible by wheelchair. During the program, we may make arrangements with carriers, hotels and other independent suppliers to provide travel services. These parties are independent entities over which Brendan has no control. We cannot guarantee disability access or accommodations for passengers traveling on international tours. Many Optional Excursions are operated by independent third party suppliers, not Brendan. Your contract will be with the operator of the excursion. We are not responsible for providing the excursion, or anything that happens during the excursion. Some involve outdoor activities and/or can be physically demanding. You must make your own decisions about excursions and participate only in activities that suit your physical ability. We recommend you check whether any insurance you have also includes your participation in adventure activities you may undertake.
We provide the best services possible, and in doing so will not tolerate abusive or aggressive behavior from guests. We will not deal with and may terminate the vacation of anyone assaulting our company representatives, or who continue to be verbally abusive or aggressive when asked to behave reasonably. When you make a booking, you accept responsibility for the proper conduct of all members of your party. Brendan may, in its sole discretion, decline the booking of any passenger or remove any passenger who cannot comply or refuses to comply with Brendan’s Terms and Conditions or whose behavior, in the opinion of Brendan or our suppliers, may cause damage, danger, distress, or disruption to people or property. Full cancellation charges will apply. Brendan is not responsible for any costs incurred in the event a passenger is removed from a trip, excursion, aircraft, ship or train. Passengers agree not to hold Brendan or any of its related entities liable for actions taken under these Terms and Conditions. If you damage property or an accommodation in which you are staying, you must reimburse the property owner or accommodation provider for the cost of the damage before the end of your stay (if the cost has been established or as soon as it has been established if later). You must indemnify us for the full amount of any claim (including legal costs) made against us. Criminal proceedings may be instigated. Note: Many hotels, restaurants, trains, cruise ships, and other venues are 100% smoke free. TRAVEL DIRECTORS Guided Vacations are conducted in English by a professional Travel Director. If there are 15 guests or fewer traveling on a guided departure, Brendan reserves the right to operate this departure on an individual basis with private transfers and individual arrangements. On Locally Hosted Vacations there is a local host instead of a Travel Director. TOURING Most touring is on an air-conditioned motorcoach. Brendan uses a daily seat rotation system, and seats cannot be booked on coaches. Also there is a strict no-alcohol, no-smoking policy on board coaches, mini-buses and vans. Regular stops are made on traveling days. PROGRAM PRICES All prices are in US dollars unless otherwise specified. The availability of vacation prices in this catalog is limited; for current prices please visit BrendanVacations.com or call 1-800-421-8446. Rates shown are for low season; higher rates are available for other dates. Prices are based on costs, charges, tariffs, rates, taxes, levies and exchange rates as of September 2013 and are subject to increase before full payment to account for variations in these factors. Your consent to this potential increase may be required at the time of your deposit. If, before full payment, the total vacation price increases by more than 10%, guests have the right to cancel within 7 days of notification of the new price, without penalty. (These guarantees do not apply to pre-registered bookings or departures where prices are still subject to confirmation. In exchange for these guarantees, no refund will be made if costs are reduced.) AIR-RELATED TAXES, FEES AND RESTRICTIONS The TSA/Homeland Security Administration requires Brendan to collect passenger’s personal information before travel. Deposit and/or full payment will not be accepted for any booking until these details are received: • Passenger’s full name as it appears on the passport (including middle name) • Date of birth • Gender • Redress Number, if applicable For more information, please see www.tsa.gov. Incomplete or inaccurate information may result in additional charges payable directly to the airline or, in the worst-case scenario, you may be denied boarding. International and intra-vacation airfares (if any) will be provided upon booking, will be based on round-trip purchase, and will include fuel surcharges imposed by the airlines and any additional air-related taxes and fees. If the customer is notified of the potential for a price increase prior to the time that the full amount agreed upon has been paid and customer’s written consent prior to accepting any payment has been obtained, we reserve the right to recover from you increases in those surcharges. Any a dditional air-related taxes and fees, such as seat selection, baggage handling (see BrendanVacations. com/travel-resources/know-before-you-go and scroll down to luggage), and/or any other services
are the sole responsibility of the customer(s). Additional air-related restrictions may apply. NOTE: Some countries charge a separate entry, departure or reciprocity tax that is collected at the airport and usually paid for in local currency. Please ask your Travel Agent or check with the consulates of the countries being visited for current information. HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Prices are per person and based on two persons sharing a twin-bedded room with private bath or shower. When booking triple rooms, please note that this is based on sharing the existing bedding in a twin-bedded standard room; triples may have 2 double beds, 1 double bed and 1 rollaway, or the extra bed may be a foldaway or sofa bed (cost of rollaway not included). Availability of triple rooms is limited and in some cases may require reserving a deluxe room or suite. Note that single rooms are generally smaller than twin-bedded rooms and that hotel standards, facilities and services provided may vary from those in the US and are often local in style. Non-smoking rooms cannot be guaranteed. Hotels on CostSavers may not be centrally located. Substitute hotels may be used at certain times and will be of similar standard whenever possible. Such changes are deemed not to be a major change to the itinerary, and no compensation will be payable to guests. If extra night accommodations are not at the hotel where the vacation starts/ends, transfer between hotels is at the travelers’ expense. Smoking in a nonsmoking room may result in a fine. Passengers who are members of Hotel Frequent Traveler programs are not entitled to earn points. WiFi Free WiFi is available in many Brendan hotel rooms. When such a service is not available, free WiFi may be available in public areas of the hotels, such as main lobbies and lounges. Free WiFi may be time limited; a charge will apply if the time limit is exceeded. Free WiFi is widely available on the coaches, using the cellular phone network. As a result, the connection will be slower than standard broadband and at times may not be available. WiFi may be limited or unavailable in some areas. MEALS Any special meal requirements will be made on a REQUEST basis only. Brendan cannot guarantee special meal requests nor will it assume any responsibility or liability if special meal requests are not fulfilled. Be My Guest experiences take place in exclusive locations. In the unlikely event that our local hosts are unable to welcome us, we will attempt to find an alternate experience or a highlight meal will be provided in place of the Be My Guest dining. BAGGAGE Baggage handling at hotels for one suitcase per person on Guided Vacations is included in the program price. Due to limited coach capacity, this single bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30”x18”x10” (76x46x25cm) and weight not exceeding 50 lbs (23kg). A charge of US$6 per traveling day will be collected by the Travel Director if a second piece of baggage is carried, or if the suitcase exceeds the established weight and/or dimensions. It cannot be guaranteed that more than one suitcase will be accepted on the coach. Airlines may impose stricter weight and size limits for luggage and may also charge fees for checked baggage, including the first checked bag. Please check with your airline(s) directly for the most current baggage regulations and related fees (see BrendanVacations.com/travel-resources/ know-before-you-go and scroll down to luggage). Brendan is not responsible for a dditional fees imposed by air carriers. Hand luggage should be one piece per person and is limited in size (not exceeding 12”x11”x6” or 30x28x14 cm) so it will fit under your coach seat or in the small overhead shelf. These are the responsibility of each program member. Note that luggage with telescopic handles and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartments and can therefore not be accepted as carry-on luggage for safety reasons. Brendan will not accept liability for any loss or damage to baggage or any of the passenger’s belongings. Passengers should report any lost items to the Travel Director who will assist in completing a lost property form that can be used for any insurance claim in this matter. Brendan cannot assist in locating any lost items once the passenger has returned home. Baggage handling is not included on Locally Hosted or Customized Vacations. TIPS On Guided Vacations, all tips are included for services provided by dining room waiters, hotel porters and housekeepers. Gratuities for the Travel Director and motorcoach driver are not included. No tipping is included on Locally Hosted or Customized programs.
HOLIDAYS & ITINERARY VARIATIONS Brendan constantly strives to improve itineraries and features. If such improvements can be made, or unforeseen circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary, we reserve the right to vary itineraries and to substitute hotels. Religious festivals, holidays, trade fairs or other events occasionally cause changes from scheduled hotels and activities, and certain facilities such as museums, sightseeing tours, and shopping may be limited. Similarly, holidays, closing days and other circumstances may necessitate a change in the day of the week for scheduled meals, sightseeing or other activities. D epartures in early and late seasons are potentially operated in cool weather conditions. As a result, slight itinerary variations may occur, and certain activities may not be available. If you feel your enjoyment might be diminished by such limitations, please check with your Travel Agent or National Tourist Office before selecting a specific departure. On Locally Hosted and Customized Vacations, sightseeing and other services may be provided by third parties, in which case transportation and itineraries may vary. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Travel documents will be sent via UPS (or regular mail) 21 days prior to departure*, provided full payment has been received. A shipment fee of $10 per address will be charged for each additional delivery address. If final payment is not received when due, costs to courier documents are the responsibility of the guest. Payments received 30 days or less prior to departure* require bank clearance before documents are sent. For Customized and Locally Hosted Vacations, there is a $10 fee to mail the travel documents; you can opt to have them sent electronically at no charge instead. There is a $35 documentation charge if you need your documents earlier than the above time frame. A charge of $35 will be applied if you/your Travel Agent request documents to be sent overnight within the continental U.S. Outside of the continental U.S., the minimum charge is $50. The actual cost will be advised at the time of booking. NOT INCLUDED IN PROGRAM PRICES Airfares, air-related taxes, surcharges and fees (unless you purchase a land and air package from Brendan); additional fees charged by airlines, such as checked and/or excess baggage (see BrendanVacations.com/travel-resources/knowbefore-you-go and scroll down to luggage), seat selection and/or any other services; airport transfers in London (unless you purchase a land and air package from Brendan); passport and visa fees; insurances of all kinds; laundry; phone calls; beverages; meals not detailed in the itinerary; discretionary tips/gratuities to Travel Directors, Driver/Guides, local hosts, motorcoach drivers and local city/attraction guides; tips/gratuities on board ferries, trains or cruise ships; porterage at train stations; items of a personal nature; excess baggage; optional excursions, WiFi charges where not included, etc. Additional taxes and surcharges may be collected by foreign government and non-government entities. The program price also does not cover costs and expenses such as the return to your home if you leave the trip at your own volition, due to illness or changes where not included as a consequence of official action by the government of any country visited. PHOTOGRAPHS & MAPS Photographs show places in geographic areas,but may not necessarily be included in the program. Maps are for general information and may not reflect actual routings. SAFETY Please be aware that during your participation in programs operated by Brendan, certain risks and dangers may arise beyond our control including, but not limited to, the hazards of traveling in undeveloped areas; travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft or other means of transportation; the forces of nature; political unrest; and accident or illness in remote regions without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. Brendan will not have liability regarding provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. Brendan will use its best efforts to ensure that adequate measures are taken. TRAVEL INSURANCE It is strongly recommended that all passengers take out comprehensive travel insurance including international air, cancellation and medical coverage. This may be arranged through your travel agent or Brendan. Brendan’s Travel Protection premiums are not refundable or transferable once purchased. Brendan makes no representation or guarantees c oncerning reimbursements of funds paid by you under any insurance claim. IMPORTANT – RESPONSIBILITY These programs are under the management of Brendan Vacations, Los Angeles, CA and operated by Brendan International Holdings Ltd., Ireland;
Kompas Holidays, Fort Lauderdale, FL, and Hertz Car Rental, Park Ridge, NJ, (hereinafter referred to as the “Operators”) Operators undertake the following duties: 1. The Operators shall be responsible to the passenger for supplying the services and accommodations described in this brochure, except where such services cannot be supplied or the itinerary used is changed due to delays or other causes of whatever kind or nature beyond the control of the Operators. In such circumstances, the Operators will do their best to supply comparable services, accommodations and itineraries and there shall be no refund in this connection. 2. This catalog represents the entire agreement between the passenger and the above mentioned Operators. 3. In the absence of their own negligence, neither the Operators nor their agents or co-operating organizations shall be responsible for any cancellations or for acts of any other service providers concerned, diversions or substitution of equipment or any act, variation, postponement, omission or default whatsoever by air carriers, land carriers, hoteliers or hotels, transportation companies, or any other persons providing any of the services and accommodations to passengers including any results thereof, such as changes in services, accommodations or facilities necessitated by same. Nor shall they be liable for any loss or damage to baggage or property, or for injury, illness or death, or for any damages or claims whatsoever arising from loss, negligence or delay from the act, error, omission default or negligence of any person not its direct employee or under its exclusive control, including any act, error, omission, default, or negligence of any country, government or governmental authority, officer or employee. All baggage and personal effects are at all times and in all circumstances at the risk of the participant. Baggage insurance is recommended. Upon return to the United States, if lost articles are found and returned to the owner, a minimum service fee of $50 will be charged. The carriers, accommodation and other suppliers providing services are independent contractors and are not agents, employees, servants or joint venturers of the operators or their affiliates. All certificates and other travel documents for services issued by the operators are subject to the terms and c onditions specified by the carriers and suppliers and to the laws of the countries in which the services are supplied. Carriage by sea is subject to the Carrier’s Conditions of Carriage which are expressly incorporated into this contract, copies of which are available upon request. The Operators are not responsible for any criminal conduct by third parties. 4. Where the passenger occupies a motorcoach seat fitted with a safety belt, neither the Operators nor their agents or co-operating organizations or service providers concerned will be liable for any injury, illness or death or any loss or damages or claims whatsoever arising from any accident or incident, if the safety belt is not being worn at the time of such accident or incident. 5. Transportation companies, airlines etc. are not to be held responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board planes, transportation or conveyances. We rely on international convention which may apply to the services provided by us, our suppliers or agents with respect to any claim of any nature brought by you against us as a result of the provision of those services. International conventions which apply may include: Warsaw Convention 1929, (as amended by Hague Protocol and Montreal Protocol) in relation to air travel, or Montreal Convention; the Berne Convention for rail travel; Athens Convention 1974 for carriage by sea; the Geneva Convention for carriage by road and the Paris Convention 1962 for Hotels. We are to be regarded as having all benefit of these conventions on limiting our liability in relation to any claim for death, injury, loss, damage and delay to passengers and luggage. Enrollment in and payment for a vacation package shall constitute agreement and acceptance by the p assenger of the terms and conditions set forth in this brochure which cannot be varied except in writing by an officer of the Company. 6. The agreement arising between the passenger and the Operators under this brochure and the booking made by the passenger shall be governed by the law of the State of California, which shall have exclusive jurisdiction in the case of any dispute between the parties. 7. In the case of computer or human billing errors we reserve the right to re-invoice participants with correct billing.
8. Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to press; however Brendan cannot be held responsible for printing or typographical errors, or errors arising from unforeseen circumstances. OTHER CONDITIONS & ACCEPTANCE It is your responsibility to comply with the terms, conditions and requirements of any service provider, country or governmental authority, and to bear any costs or losses incurred as a consequence of you not complying with them. The person initializing or modifying the booking shall be deemed to have accepted these booking conditions. Data Protection In order to process your booking, Brendan will need to use personal information for you and other passengers included in your booking. This personal information may include each passenger’s name, address, phone number, email address, passport number, credit/debit card number and sensitive information such as health, medical, dietary, mobility, religious or other special requirements. This personal information may be passed on to other suppliers of your travel arrangements in addition to public authorities (such as customs and immigration), security and credit checking organizations, and otherwise as required by law. Similarly, we may also need to provide personal information to contractors who provide services to or for us (e.g., sending mail, processing payments, providing marketing assistance). This may involve sending personal information (including sensitive information) to other countries that may not afford the same level of protection of personal information. We may also use the personal information you provide us to review and improve the vacation packages and services that we offer, and to contact you (by post, email and/or telephone) about other vacation packages and services offered by Brendan that you may be interested in. If you don’t want to receive this information, or if you want a copy of the personal information we hold about you, write to us at: BRENDAN VACATIONS, 17323 Ventura Blvd., Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 91316. Brendan may charge a fee for supplying you with this information as permitted by law. EFFECTIVE DATES January 1 through December 31, 2014. Terms and conditions are subject to change. Please refer to www.BrendanVacations.com/ termsandconditions for updated policies. CST#2084503-20 Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. We are a participant in the State of California’s Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. Passengers who purchase from within California: This transaction is covered by the California Travel Consumer Restitution Fund (TCRF) if the p assenger is located in California at the time of payment. Eligible passengers may file a claim with TCRF if the passenger is owed a refund of more than $50 for transportation or travel services which the seller of travel failed to forward to a proper provider or such money was not refunded to you when required. The maximum amount which may be paid by the TCRF to any one passenger is the total amount paid on behalf of the passenger to the seller of travel, not to exceed $15,000. A claim must be submitted to the TCRF within 12 months after the scheduled completion date of the travel. A claim must include sufficient documentation to prove your claim and a $35 processing fee. Claimants must agree to waive their right to other civil remedies against a registered participating seller of travel for matters arising out of a sale for which you file a TCRF claim. You may request a claim form by writing to: Travel Consumer Restitution Corporation, P.O. Box 6001, Larkspur, CA 949776001; or by faxing a request to: (415) 256-9756. Passengers purchasing from outside of C alifornia: This transaction is not covered by the California Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. This business is a participant in the United States Tour Operators Association’s (USTOA) Consumer Travel Protection Plan. You may make a claim to this Plan if you are owed a refund. The Plan covers losses for transportation or travel services that were not delivered or not refunded when required. A passenger may make a claim against the Plan within 12 months from when the passenger learns of the loss. USTOA’s total liability for all possible consumer claims from this seller of travel’s customers is limited to $1,000,000. To obtain information on how to make a claim against the plan, the passenger should contact USTOA at 345 Seventh Avenue, Suite 1801, New York, New York 10001, or by email to information@USTOA. com or by visiting their website at www.USTOA. com. The maximum amount of any claim you, the passenger, can make against the plan is the total amount you have paid to date for this trip.
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Our Guided Vacations cover the world
Europe, USA (including Hawaii), Canada, South & Central America, Australia, New Zealand and Asia 155 Guided Vacations to choose from including At Leisure, Family Experiences and CostSaver
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BrendanVacations.com or ca l l tol l - f re e
(800) 687-1002
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(800) 421-8446
for reservations and personal service: Please see your preferred travel agent, who is best qualified to provide vacation advice. DRIVEN BY SERVICE
Brendan is a division of the family-owned The Travel Corporation, and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability. Visit TheTravelCorporation.com Printed in USA / September 2013 / BPWA200K / 57424