Episodes
141
Sept. 19, 2024
What to Eat in Ireland: A Guide to Eating Well on Your Vacation
Discover what to eat in Ireland, from traditional Irish foods to memorable food experiences, plus tips for allergies, picky eaters, and dining well.
230
Sept. 12, 2024
Discover Ireland’s Hidden Charms: Fall and Winter Travel Insights
Are you considering a visit to Ireland in the off-season? It's a terrific time to explore the Emerald Isle! In addition to Ireland's well-known attractions you'll also find unique festivals, smaller crowds, and plenty of extraordinary experiences. Jody and her guest Orla Kelly, sales & marketing director at Ireland Chauffeur Travel, share all the reasons you should consider Ireland in the 'off-season' including festivals, luxury stays, and the amazing irish culture! Fill show notes, including li...
229
Sept. 5, 2024
Encounters with Irish Mythology – Amazing Irish Experiences
Irish mythology is rich with stories that have been passed down through generations, featuring a mix of heroic tales, tragic love stories, and epic battles. These stories are deeply rooted in Irish culture and have influenced literature, art, and even modern popular culture. They are celebrated for their richness, complexity, and the way they reflect the ancient beliefs and values of Ireland. This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of th...
228
Aug. 29, 2024
Can You Collect VAT Refund If You Aren’t Flying Directly Home from Ireland?
How to collect your Ireland VAT refund if you aren't traveling directly home from Ireland. Plus: Is it worth the trouble?
Aug. 22, 2024
Getting Up to Shenanigans in Kilkenny
Known as the medieval capital of Ireland, Kilkenny offers visitors a unique blend of ancient stories, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. As you wander through the narrow alleyways, you can't help but feel transported to another time, where each street corner holds a door to a new tale waiting to be discovered. Kilkenny Castle was built at a fording point of the River Nore in 1159AD by William Marshall. This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Nevin Cody, owner of Shenanigans Wal...
229
Aug. 8, 2024
Best Ireland Car Rentals for Families & Groups
Choosing a rental car in Ireland for a group of 5 or more can be tough. Not only do you have to make sure everyone will fit - but you also have to think about how much luggage the vehicle can carry. Breaking down the 'math' of Irish car size and how many people they will hold. If you are nervous about driving in Ireland be sure to check out Tripiamo's Driving in Ireland Guide & save $5 with code IFV through 12/31/2024 https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/tripiamo
225
Aug. 7, 2024
The Byrne Brothers – Live from Iowa Irish Fest (podcast)
Enjoy this fun chat with the insanely talented Byrne Brothers. This family act, originally from County Donegal, has quite a story to tell! Plus- they share their favorite spots in Ireland.
224
Aug. 6, 2024
Singer/ Songwriter Enda Reilly – Live from Iowa Irish Fest (podcast)
Singer and songwriter Enda Reilly joins Jody for a chat live from the Iowa Irish Fest. Irish poetry, the Sullivan Brothers, and Irish geology.
223
Aug. 5, 2024
Irish Rebel Songs with Davy Holden – Live from Iowa Irish Fest (podcast)
Davy Holden joins Jody live at the Iowa Irish Fest to talk about Irish rebel songs.
222
Aug. 4, 2024
Michael Londra – Live from Iowa Irish Fest (Podcast)
Michael Londra, celebrated Irish Tenor and host of Ireland with Michael on PBS, sits down with Jody at Iowa Irish Fest to chat about his show, tours, and favorite spots in County Wexford.
221
Aug. 1, 2024
Powerscourt Estate: The Crown Jewel of County Wicklow
Known as the Garden of Ireland, County Wicklow offers an array of stunning landscapes and attractions, but the crown jewel is undoubtedly the Powerscourt Estate. Powerscourt Estate ticks so many boxes for visitors to Ireland. - For those staying in Dublin it is a perfect day trip from the city. - I love the Powerscourt Hotel as a first night's stay - after a long international flight there is nothing so good as a comfortable bed! - The hotel is also terrific for a final night if you have an afte...
220
July 25, 2024
Tips for Attending an Irish Festival
Irish festivals are filled with music, banter, tasty food, and plenty of fun. It's a great way to experience Irish culture without a passport!
115
July 18, 2024
The Irish Dance Experience in Galway
Want to learn an Irish jig during your Ireland vacation? Siobhan Manson, former lead dancer with Riverdance has created The Irish Dance Experience in Galway where you can learn some traditional Irish dancing as well as some fancy footwork!
219
July 11, 2024
Dublin With Kids from Toddler to Teen: Family Friendly Attractions, Activities & Eateries
If you're planning a family visit to Dublin these tips will guide you to the best places to take the kids. Whether you have toddlers or teens, you'll learn about the best attractions, activities & tasty meals in the capital city. Full show notes with links to all locations at Ireland Family Vacations: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-with-kids-family-friendly-attractions-activities-eateries/regions-and-counties/dublin/
218
July 4, 2024
Here’s How to Do Laundry During Your Ireland Vacation
If your Ireland vacation is longer than 10 days you'll probably need to do laundry. These are the best ways to do laundry in Ireland so you don't miss too much touring time.
217
June 27, 2024
3 Important Documents to Check BEFORE Your Ireland Vacation
Before traveling to Ireland the most important documents to verify are your passport, driver's license, and travel insurance coverages. Listen to get the tips on what you MUST check before leaving home.
216
June 20, 2024
How Not to Look Like a Tourist in Ireland
Tips & tricks to blend in with the locals during your Ireland vacation. Tourist mistakes to avoid & how to immerse yourself in the Irish experience. Full show notes & links at:
215
June 13, 2024
Afternoon Tea in Ireland – Amazing Ireland Experiences
The kettle is always on! Learn about afternoon tea in Ireland. What you can expect, a few terrific places to enjoy the occasion, and a tip on how to gain access to a castle hotel - even when you aren't staying on the property! Full show notes at https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/afternoon-tea-in-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/
May 30, 2024
Visiting Inis Mór and the Aran Islands
Of all the islands off the shores of Ireland, the Aran Islands may be the most well known. About the Aran Islands Located off the west coast of Ireland, the Aran Islands are accessible by ferry from County Galway, Rossaveel year-round or Galway City from March thru September, and Doolin from March thru mid-September. There are 3 Aran Islands: Inis Oírr (Inisheer), the smallest island and closest to Ireland. Inis Meáin (Inishmaan), the middle and least visited island. Inis Mór (Inishmore), the...
212
May 23, 2024
What Must be Booked in Advance in Ireland?
When planning an Ireland vacation there are a few things that MUST be booked in advance of your trip and not left to chance. From accommodations to attractions and experiences to tours, these are the things you need to arrange prior to arriving in Ireland.
254
May 20, 2024
The Ultimate Guide to Multigenerational Family Travel in Ireland
Of all the trips I assist with, multigenerational vacations may be my favorite. Firstly, I love knowing that I am helping an extended family create the trip of a lifetime! Any child-grandparent interaction is special, so with the added magic of Ireland you know it is going to be amazing. It's also great for the parents as they might get to enjoy a child-free night or two! But more fun for me, is helping the family choose accommodations, attractions, and sites to visit that fit their interests ...
211
May 16, 2024
How Much Touring Can You Do in One Day in Ireland?
How Much Touring Can You Do in One Day in Ireland? The answer will vary based on where you are and how much driving you plan to do. In this podcast Jody offers advice for how much time to spend in Ireland's most popular locations, as well as day trip advice from Dublin, Galway, Doolin, Kilkenny, and Killarney. Visit the complete show notes to download free reference materials to help you plan your Ireland vacation.
210
May 9, 2024
County Limerick: Beyond the Tourist Trail
County Limerick can often feel 'untouched' by tourists. Medieval towns, ancient history, and tranquil countryside await the curious visitor. Today's guest is Brendan Skelly, co-owner of Bronze & Boru, and exceptional driver guide service based in Limerick. Brendan offers a primer of the county that will hopefully entice you to spend a bit of time in County Limerick.
209
May 3, 2024
Birds of Prey Demonstrations and Hawk Walks – Amazing Ireland Experiences
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: