Traveling in Ireland Ireland Family Vacations

Adding a birds of prey experience to your Ireland vacation is an educational and exhilarating experience.

In this podcast episode you'll learn a bit about the sport of falconry, the difference between a birds of prey demonstration and a hawk walk, and where you can find these experiences across Ireland.



Full show notes and links to every experience at:

If you're anything like me, your mobile phone is your main mode of communication, the camera you use most often, and your entertainment center. So when you travel you want to use it just like you do at home.







There's only one problem – the cost.







It's not always cheap to use your cell phone in Ireland – but with the proper planning you won't be surprised with a nasty sticker shock on your next bill.















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Tips for Using Your Mobile Phone in Ireland







Roaming and data charges in Ireland can break your budget if you're not careful. These tips will keep you connected affordably.









* Turn your data off when in Ireland! Or keep your phone in airplane mode. Every little ‘ping' counts against your data plan- and international roaming will result in a higher-than-expected bill when you return home.







* Contact your cellular provider and inquire about using your mobile phone in Ireland. Confirm that your device is compatible with GSM (Global System for Mobile) used in Europe, and then inquire about an International calling plan which includes both talk minutes and data. Some providers also have a ‘use it like you do at home' option for an additional cost per day. (More on this below.)TIP: My personal advice on these plans is for one person to use this if a home phone number or text is needed during your trip. Daily costs can add up quickly so supplement others in the group with a portable wifi device.







* Purchase an eSIM or Irish SIM card. If your phone is able, an eSIM is the easiest option. A quick scan of a code, a simple toggle of settings, and you are ready to go! My go-to eSIM provider is Wifi Candy. Easy to set up and great connectivity.A replaceable SIM card- which you put into your phone, removing your local SIM- only works if your phone is unlocked (US phones under contract usually aren't- ask your service provider if yours is unlocked or can be). You can pick up a prepaid SIM card in Ireland at the WH Smith Shop at Dublin or Shannon Airpots, the Left Luggage store in Dublin airport, or at any Tesco, Three, eirMobile, or Vodafone retailers. Learn more about SIM cards here.







* Buy a cheap prepaid phone when you arrive. It's just handy to have a phone – you may need to make quick calls to B&Bs for directions or to make reservations for a tour or dinner you just found out about. If you don't need a ‘smart phone', you can pick up a disposable prepaid phone at Tesco locations throughout Ireland.







*  Rent a mobile wifi unit. Most car rental companies now offer the option of adding a mobile wifi unit to your rental. Their rates, however, are high. For mobile wifi in Ireland I recommend Wifi Candy. Their prices are affordable, and data is unlimited for the duration of your rental. Just set your phone settings to ‘wifi calling' to make phone calls or use a calling app (below).Tip: WifiCandy also offers Call Candy mobile phone rental with up...

Learn more about Ireland's most visited heritage sites in 2023 - as well as my favorite sites (with far fewer visitors) that you might want to add to your itinerary.

You'll hear a bit of history, some interesting tidbits, and even tips for visiting.



Get the full show notes at https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ireland-heritage-sites-2023

In this episode we're delving into what makes Ireland such a fantastic golf destination, sharing some of the best golf courses in Ireland, and learning how my podcast guest, Gerard Bourke, CEO of Ireland Travel Links, can help you plan the golf trip of a lifetime.



Links and more information are found in the full show notes at

Your car rental company may offer a toll pass as a helpful addition to your rental car. But is it necessary in Ireland?

Get my advice on when to decline this service, and when you may want it.



More helpful car rental advice at irelandfamilyvacations.com/carrental

Make the most of your vacation in Ireland by driving yourself! These Ireland driving tips for tourists cover EVERYTHING you need to know!

Driving on the 'wrong' side of the road, roundabouts, narrow Irish roads, and drive time are only a few of the tips.