IRELAND is a country that dates back to the 13th century and is known for its medieval castles, charming villages, narrow winding roads and warm Irish hospitality. You’ll marvel at the spectacular countryside including a day spent on what’s called “The Ring of Kerry.” Breakfast is included daily plus we have included five typical Irish dinners. One of the highlights will be staying in a 15th century castle for two nights. Don’t miss this popular tour at a great price as the magnificent scenery on this Emerald Isle is world famous and stunningly beautiful!

THE ITINERARY WILL BE AS FOLLOWS:
Nov. 4 Depending on your departure city, everyone will fly overnight on various flights to Dublin, Ireland. Dinner will be served followed by a movie and a few hours of rest as you cross the Atlantic Ocean before touring this most interesting country and learning about the history of Ireland.

Nov. 5 Arrive DUBLIN this morning where you will meet our tour escort at the airport and then transfer to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a “Welcome Reception” to meet other Jehovah’s Witnesses from various parts of the country who will be traveling with you on this tour.

Nov. 6 After breakfast there will be a sightseeing tour of Dublin to see the architectural treasures and to learn the history of the city that goes back more than 1,000 years. There will be an interesting tour of Dublin’s famous library to see one of Ireland’s greatest treasures—The 8th Century Book of Kells. The highlight of the day will be a cruise on the Dublin River.

Nov. 7 Enjoy breakfast at leisure. The entire day will then be free to explore more of the city and O’Connell Street which is the longest pedestrian only walking street for shopping in Ireland. Be sure to visit an Irish pub for some Irish music and traditional food such as corned beef or an Irish pie made with steak and mushrooms, mashed potatoes and peas.

Nov. 8 This morning everyone will board our deluxe motorcoach for a scenic countryside tour passing castles, historic sites and small villages. You will see why Ireland is noted for its “40 Shades of Green.” A stop will be made to visit the 15th century “Blarney Castle” to view the main house and the grounds. This is where the famous Blarney Stone is located on top of the castle tower. (See Awake, 4/22/04, p.18) Next to the castle is the Blarney Mills Outlet, known for its woolens, china, jewelry and other Irish treasures. Continue over the mountains and stay for two nights in the town of Killarney, Ireland’s loveliest city where an Irish dinner is included each evening. If you like, after dinner another highlight will be attending a meeting at the Kingdom Hall to meet some of the local Irish friends.

Nov. 9 An exciting day as you experience one of the most scenic drives in all of Europe around the famous “Ring of Kerry” with its breathtaking views of the lakes, mountains and beaches. Lean about the ancient Irish heritage as you travel on narrow roads along the cliffs over Ireland’s highest mountain range. Visit the quaint villages of Waterville and Sneem before returning to your hotel where dinner is again included. This is Ireland as you have always imagined it!

Nov. 10 Today you will visit Adare, Ireland’s prettiest village known for its thatched cottages and stone walls. Next will be an interesting tour of Bunratty Folk Park that depicts life in Ireland as it once was in the past. Surprise, tonight you will be guests at a Medieval Banquet just as in times past. The Lords and Ladies of the castle will sing and perform during your dinner including wine. This will truly be a night to remember!

Nov. 11 Another day to remember as you drive along the Atlantic coastline to see the spectacular Cliffs of Moher. Both you and your motorcoach will first board a ferry boat for a short ride across the Shannon River. You will then journey across Ireland’s scenic West Coast to the limestone plateau of the Burren that’s compared to the moon’s surface. Next you will be able to walk along the amazing and awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher. These cliffs are a solid wall of rock that rises 700 feet above the pounding surf of the Atlantic Ocean that stretches for five miles offering dramatic views of Ireland’s coastline. You will then travel on winding roads along the cliffs passing some quaint Irish villages before arriving at your hotel in the historical city of Galway where dinner will be on your own.

Nov. 12 Today you will learn about the lives and the working conditions of the people who live in Ireland as you travel through the farmlands. The highlight will be spending this afternoon plus two nights including dinner each evening at the 15th Century Cabra Castle.

Nov. 13 This morning you will depart on a historical tour of Belfast and its harbor and dock area where the Titanic and her sister ships were built. See the landmarks that have played their part in this Victorian city’s colorful development. There will be time for shopping and then you will return to the castle where the afternoon will be free to enjoy the beautiful grounds and its activities. The last highlight will be tonight’s “Farewell Dinner” in the Castle!

Nov. 14 It’s time to depart to the Dublin Airport for the return flight to your hometown city. Traveling with friends from other parts of the country is something you will enjoy as you have now seen the Best of Ireland!