Frequently Asked Questions
1. How physically fit do I have to be?
There is a lot of flexibility in what activities you choose to participate in, based on what you feel you can do. Climbing Skellig Michael's 600 stone steps requires a certain degree of physical fitness and stamina. Sitting and watching the sun set over the Atlantic does not.
You will be required to carry your own bags up one flight of stairs, as B&Bs don't have elevators.
There will be a lot of walking, sometimes over rough terrain, but again, how much you do is up to you. It's wonderful just being there!
2. Will I be the oldest (or youngest) woman in the group?
Age is just a number. The tour is designed to accommodate women of all ages. If you are curious and engaged, ready to try new things and experience all Ireland has to offer, you're exactly the right age.
3. What should I pack?
As little as possible! Because you will be carrying your own bags, we highly advise you pack light. ONE carry-on sized bag and one large purse or daypack is sufficient for a 9-day tour.
Ireland is casual — you won't need a dress or high heels. You will need "gumboot" type shoes if you want to see Neolithic monuments up close, and a light raincoat is a good idea, too. More information on packing is included in your welcome packet after registration.
4. Should I bring my camera?
Absolutely! Ireland is eye-poppingly beautiful and our bus driver has instructions to pull over as often as possible, particularly at rainbow sightings. The slow pace means there will be plenty of photo time.
5. How much "down time" will we have?
As much or as little as you want. While activities are planned for every day, you always have the option of going your own way for the day. Sleep in, go for a hike, sit on the beach and read. It's your vacation! For example, on the Beara Peninsula there are opportunities for walkers to enjoy the Beara Way, while in Cork there will be free time for shopping and exploring.
6. Will there be shopping opportunities?
Speaking of shopping, this is one of the major differences between how men and women travel. Yes, there will be plenty of shopping opportunities. We will explore small gift shops with local handicrafts as well as major tourist shopping markets so you can stock up on beautiful handmade Aran sweaters. In Cork a visit to the English Market is a must.
7. What if I don't like my roommate?
For solo travelers, every effort will be made to match you up with a suitable roommate, based on the questionnaire you will fill out with your registration. As adults we hope you can work things out, but if not, you will be reassigned.
8. I'm a vegetarian. Will I have trouble finding food?
While Ireland is a meat-centric nation, there are always vegetarian options on the menu. Lunches will be mostly freestyle, and Ireland has the best cheese in the world (don't tell France). And besides, Guinness is a vegetarian "meal in a glass."
9. How much will this trip really cost me?
Please see the registration page for exactly what is included. We've been told that we could make more profit with larger groups, but that's not what we're about. The cost, $1,795, is designed to make Ireland accessible to a wide range of budgets. What you spend beyond that is up to you. Dinners can run from $6 for a bowl of creamy seafood chowder to $30 for a fresh lobster feast. By not including all dinners in the tour cost, we give you flexibility over your budget.
Your biggest discretionary expense will be shopping. A small Belleek vase will only set you back $10, while sweaters run around $100.
We will be happy to discuss your budget with you after registration.
10. I've never traveled anywhere before. Is this a good tour for me?
I can't think of a better way to start traveling than with a small group of supportive women who are as excited about Ireland as you are. Celtic Heart Tours takes all the stress and worry out of trip planning. Just sit back in your leather seat and let us take you on the trip of a lifetime!