Plan As Early As Possible:
Ireland has more than one third of the links style of golf course in the world. This makes Ireland one of the highest ranking destinations to come and play golf. It has the land of a thousand welcomes and the food and Guinness the world has yet to match. Did I forget the golf! Sightseeing days on a trip are just heaven in recharging the body and ready to go again. To avoid disappointment I strongly suggest a early planning with us.
Passport:
Coming from Canada or the USA you will have to have your passport with you. Driving license as well, if you’re planning on taking a car!
Choose Your Travelling Partners Carefully:
You will be travelling together for a week or more. Nothing can enhance a vacation more than enjoying the trip with good friends. Everyone in your group should have similar interests and budgets. Your experience will be diminished if you have to make numerous compromises over how much golf you play, where you stay, where you dine, and how long you enjoy the 19th Hole.
Climate:
Ireland has a lot to offer throughout the year. March / April: great deals available, some nice days but temperature a bit low. ( often get some get springs) May / June: the start of early summer and weather is improving constantly. Temperature rising and the beaches are open. August / September: these are the main months for golf and holidays, and demand is high for these months. Planning watch out for members guests competitions, etc. October: some great Indian summers often come in October and further so we’re back to the great special offers available, thus savings are high in this month! For most days in Ireland plan and bring the rain gear or wind breakers in your packing. The experience of Ireland golf tour is unmatched on the links of Ireland.
Handicap Certificates:
Most clubs reserve the right to see your handicap certificate. The handicap limit at most courses is 24 for men and 36 for women. In practice, handicap certificates are seldom if ever requested. However, our advice is to keep any handicap certificate in your golf bag from day one.
Caddies:
Caddies are very much part of a golfing experience in Ireland. If playing the golden gens or the holy grails, I strongly advise a senior Caddie. The cost is about 40 Euros with tip, ranging anywhere from 10 to 30 Euros depending on a job well done and your enjoyment.
Pull Carts/Motorized Carts:
Pull carts available at virtually all clubs at a cost of 3-4 Euros. Motorized carts are starting to become more available to all guests. They are not plentiful so if you need one plan early and reserve on time. Some of the more highly ranked courses such as Links of Ballybunion Old course do not allow driving carts.
Dress Code/Footwear:
On most courses soft spikes are mandatory. Jeans and tee shirts are not allowed and enforced, at times causing embarrassment. Bermuda type shorts can be worn with knee socks. Generally, smart casual attire is acceptable in all areas of the clubhouse.
Money/Cash:
Plan to arrive in Ireland with at least 500 Euros in your pocket. ATM machines are available in most towns and Euros can be charged to your bank account.
Laundry Services:
Laundry services are available in most major Hotels and Guesthouses on your trip. Just ask at reception and this will get looked after for you. Saves a lot of packing.
Golf Balls:
Sounds funny but in the USA you get 2 dozen golf balls for the cost I personally pay for one dozen! 1 dozen Pro V 1 in Ireland costs 60 Euros. (Think of me when you’re buying!)
Golf Shoes:
Make sure your golf shoes are waterproof and if available have a second pair in the golf travel bag.
Ground Transport in Ireland:
Some groups like to self-drive so if this is your choice bring your driving license to Ireland with you. For groups of four on golf or sightseeing we have options of Mercedes Viano and Driver for you and worries on the Irish Roads. All groups of 8 and upwards should take a Coach and Driver is saves money and makes for all round better trip indeed.
Currency:
In Ireland the currency is the Euro. Access to banks is from 10am to 4pm Monday to Friday. You should plan on having at least 500 Euros for each person on arrival into Ireland. ATM’s will look after you from there on.
Sales Tax:
In Ireland we have a sales tax of 21% included into the cost of everyday life. As a visitor you may claim a tax refund on certain items which can amount to a lot of money. Two types of VAT tax exist: 1 If you consume something or use the item you buy the Tax doesn’t apply. 2 If you are bringing something home with you, you are technically exporting this to home, thus you are entitled to a tax refund. Keep your receipts!
Personal Safety:
Crime levels in Ireland are very low but at the same time it is wise to keep expensive jewelry at home.
Electricity:
Electricity is supplied at 220v. A transformer is needed to convert 110v appliances (except for dual-voltage equipment which needs only an adapter). Be advised to bring an international travel adaptor. P.S. Don’t forget the phone charger as well.