The best magazine
- 1). In the first step of your planning process, you will want to book your travel arrangements. Since getting there and back is a major part of any vacation, we'll start with some money saving travel tips:* Check into the availability of free tickets through your airline frequent flyer program. If you don't have enough for all of your tickets, even one or two free tickets can offer great money savings. Also, consider coach class instead of business or first class tickets. If you have the flexibility, try flying standby for another wave to save money on tickets.* Some credit card companies offer free tickets or miles through their customer rewards programs. Check your bank for more information.* Flights in the middle of the week, or on off hours can offer lower ticket prices. * Flying into a less popular destination such a Belfast can sometimes reduce your ticket cost. * Check for fare specials offered by the airlines on their websites or through travel agents.* Sometimes you can get a flight / hotel or flight / car rental package for additional cost savings.
- 2). Once you have confirmed your travel plans, you will want to focus on how you will get around during your vacation. If you're planning on staying in a major city such as Dublin or Cork, you can usually rely on public transportation to get around. There are cabs on every corner, great city bus systems and even commuter trains to get you around for very little money. Check for free airport service available from your hotel to save money on this expense. Traveling outside the major metropolitan areas will require a little more planning. Unlike most European countries, the commuter rail system is not as extensive in the country or between cities. You can use the rail system for major trips, but venturing out into the countryside will require a rental car. Most of the major rental agencies are represented in the bigger cities and offer a wide variety of choices. To save money, you can rent by the week or for the weekend. Rental insurance can be very expensive, but is usually a necessary item. Check with your credit card company to see if they provide insurance on rentals charged to their card. This can often save you hundreds of dollars on an extended rental. You can also skip the expensive prepaid gas option, but be sure to fill up before you return the car.
- 3). Confirming your lodging plans will be the next step in your planning process. Again, do some research prior to your trip to avoid paying more than necessary. * Ireland has an extensive network of Bed & Breakfasts. There is also a B&B association that offers prepaid coupons for B&B's in their network. This allows you to pay for your lodging up front and lock in the cost. With the fluctuating value of the American Dollar, this can be helpful. There are typically several levels of accommodations that offer various price points.* In most of the major cities you can find a selection of international chain hotels. If you are already a member of a customer rewards program, check into the possibility of free nights during your trip. Also, if you book several nights during your trip with the same chain, you can often get a discount. If you can't find any deals, don't hesitate to contact the hotel manager directly to inquire about discounts or special local deals. * Local hotels and smaller chains can also be a great place to search out a bargain. These types of hotels are often owner operated and rely on a steady income from travelers. Slow seasons or downturns in the economy can affect them more so than larger chains. Often they are willing to offer a discount to generate business. Again, contain the managers and inquire about a discount.
- 4). Of course you will have to eat during your trip, so your next step will be to think about your culinary options. Dining is typically a major part of any vacation and can be an expensive item if not well managed. Below are some tips to eating well on a budget:* Stay in B&B's or hotels that offer a complimentary breakfast. The Irish breakfast is usually a large undertaking and can help hold you over until early afternoon.* For midday meals, try eating in a pub for a great local meal at a reasonable cost. Find out where locals eat for the best deal.* Local deli's or food shops can offer a selection of meats, cheeses, crackers, bread and wine to put together a picnic lunch. This allows you to conserve money and stop at any scenic location you find for lunch and a wonderful view. * Purchase an inexpensive cooler for use in your rental car. Pack this with drinks, fruit and other snacks to avoid spending money at high priced restaurants or markets in busy tourist areas. * For an evening meal, again try the local pub. You might be surprised at the quality of food and the low cost. You can also save money by asking your hotel staff for dining suggestions away from the tourist crowd.
- 5). Following these simple steps will help you plan a fun and cost conscience vacation, while allowing you to enjoy the sights with much less stress.
How to Visit Ireland on a Budget
Source: ...