IRELAND & SCOTLAND
2009/10 www.BrendanVacations.com
15th-century Ross Castle overlooks the Lower Lake in Killarney
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Welcome Dear Traveler, Taking a vacation to Ireland and Britain is exciting! Wouldn’t it be great if you knew someone who has personally been there to guide you though the experience? For over 40 years, Brendan has been helping travelers plan, book and enjoy their special vacation. Whether it’s on your own, with a guide and a group of like-minded travelers, or a combination of the two, we will help you make it the vacation of your dreams. It starts with your reservation. One of our experts will personally handle all the details, make sure you have the information you need, share ‘insider’ destination secrets and answer your questions. When it comes to Ireland and Britain, my father and I know this part of the world intimately (some would say, better than anybody). My father grew up in Dublin, and I have visited many times, plus we’ve both been to England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales on numerous occasions. We have explored it all, from the famous ‘must see’ sights to little out-of-the-way local favorites. When we design our tours, we do so with the same care and thought that we use for our own personal vacations. Britain and, especially, Ireland hold a very special place in our hearts, and we look forward to sharing them with you. “Taking You Personally” is more than our slogan. It’s the way we want to be treated….so it is the way we want to treat you and every Brendan traveler. We look forward to helping you plan, travel and share all the incredible memories of your vacation. Where do you want to go next? Personally yours,
James Murphy Founder
Gary Murphy President
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No fuel or currency surcharges in 2009, GUARANTEED! See page 11 for details.
IRELAND
& SCOTLAND Vacation Selections INDEPENDENT VACATIONS
GUIDED VACATIONS An in-depth look at a specific region, with an experienced Brendan Tour Director.
Explore Ireland and Great Britain’s favorite cities and towns at your leisure, with independence and flexibility.
Irish Jaunt | 14
Before You Go * Your Choice, Your Vacation Style – Guided Vacations | 6 Independent Travel | 7 Very Accommodating | 8 Extra Nights | 9 Bon Appétit | 10
6 days - Dublin to Shannon
IRELAND
So Many Ways to Save | 11
Treasures of Ireland - South | 16
Self Drive Ireland | 36
Sustainable Tourism | 12
Our Favorite Hotels in Dublin | 40
Terms & Conditions | 64
8 days - Dublin to Shannon
Glimpse of Ireland | 18 9 days - Dublin to Dublin
At Home with the Irish | 20 9 days - Dublin to Dublin
The Best of Ireland & Ashford Castle | 22 9 days - Dublin to Dublin
Irish Pubs & Folklore | 24 10 days - Dublin to Dublin
Country Roads of Ireland | 26 11 days - Dublin to Dublin
All of Ireland | 28 13 days - Dublin to Dublin
The Scots & The Irish | 30 15 days - Glasgow to Dublin
Highlights of Scotland | 32 7 days - Glasgow to Edinburgh
Dublin Break | 42 3 days
Low Airfares & Transfers | 67
Explore Dublin & Beyond | 43 Our Favorite Hotels in Waterford, Kilkenny, Wexford & Cork | 44 Our Favorite Hotels in Killarney | 45 Our Favorite Hotels in Shannon, Limerick, Ennis, Mayo & Donegal | 46 Our Favorite Hotels in Galway & Sligo | 47
* Brendan is a division of the familyowned The Leading Travel Companies, and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability.
GREAT BRITAIN Self Drive Great Britain | 58
Our Favorite Hotels in Northern Ireland | 48
London Break | 61
B&B Gems | 49
Our Favorite Hotels in Edinburgh | 62
Rent an Irish Home | 52 Irish Castles & Manors | 53 Chauffeur Driven Ireland | 56 8 days
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Travel Protection Plan | 66
3 days
Our Favorite Hotels in Glasgow & the Scottish Countryside | 63
Hore Abbey, near the Rock of Cashel, was founded in 1272
Your Choice, Your Vacation Style Guided Vacations Relax with the confidence of knowing you will see all the highlights ... at the right time, the right place, and with the experience of an expert guide. It’s knowing how to get to the front of the line and the best time of day to avoid the crowds. It’s knowing the secrets that make for a completely hassle-free vacation, including the right mix of sightseeing and independent leisure time. Every aspect of your experience has been expertly designed to make the best use of your time. Imagine tempting meals (many including traditional Irish and Scottish cuisine), first class hotels, plus care-
fully selected sightseeing, transfers, even entertainment – all included in your vacation package. Now imagine a concierge, with long-established relationships with local experts throughout Ireland and Scotland, traveling with you the entire time to ensure a stress-free trip – that is who your Tour Director is.
EXPERIENCED GUIDES Our top priority is using the very best Tour Directors, Local Guides and drivers. These knowledgeable, highly experienced professionals are well versed in the history and culture of each destination. They are eager to
Where Quality & Value Meet With the current economic times, you want to know you are getting the most for your money. Everything that is included in your vacation is specifically noted in this brochure – there are no hidden fees. Plus, we offer you a wide range of travel styles and trip durations, allowing you to travel when you want and where you want. Our ultimate goal is to provide the best travel experience and value for your money. And you can travel with the peace of mind that comes from working with a strong and financially secure company.
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share valuable information and insights on all the places you will visit. All of this expertise comes with the peace of mind that you are getting the best value possible. With an everchanging dollar, this is more important than ever. And with so many inclusions (meals, entrance fees, hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling), you can rest assured that there won't be unwanted surprises. So whether you travel on your own, with a partner, family or friends, you can be certain that a Brendan Guided Vacation will guarantee you an unsurpassed travel experience.
Preferred Departures We know many of our clients like to make their travel arrangements well in advance of their vacation. To assist you in booking ahead, we have designated a number of our departures as “preferred,” noted on itinerary pages with a “PD.” The dates we choose as preferred have a reliable booking history and generally operate, so we will run them over other departures. If none of our preferred dates fit with your travel plans, don’t worry! The majority of our Guided Vacations will operate as scheduled, and we will keep an updated list of preferred dates on our website. Plus, we will not reschedule any package within 60 days prior to its departure from May 01-Sep 30.
Independent Travel Customize your vacation by selecting from a wide variety of enticing options. We will help you design your own unique itinerary while giving you all the inside information. And because we buy in such large volume, we can assure you of the
best accommodation value, from hotels to bed and breakfast accommodation to castles and manors! We have included in this brochure a wide selection of rental car, hotel, B&B, castle and manor options for independent travelers. You can design the package of your choice and rest assured your Brendan Specialist will be there to give valuable insight and recommendations. It’s all up to you. You choose the accommodation, type of vehicle (from economy to luxury), sightseeing and transfers that best suit your interest and budget. Plus you decide the days you wish to travel and for how long, and a pace that suits you
Unlock Brendan’s Hidden Treasures & Local Specialties Tour Directors – out of the way sights and experiences that they have come to know and love, and that they want to share with you. These special highlights bring Ireland and Scotland to life in a way you can’t capture traveling on your own. Look for the q symbol in our itineraries.
Sample fine Irish whiskey at Jameson Distillery
With Brendan, you will not only see Ireland and Scotland’s most famous sights, but also some of their “hidden treasures.” These unique highlights are special favorites of our
In addition, Brendan is adding ‘Local Specialties’ in 2009. These unforgettable experiences have been carefully selected to bring even more to your Brendan vacation. Some of our Local Specialties to look forward to include a tour and tasting at the Jameson Whiskey Distillery and a stop at Waterford’s marvelous Crystal Factory in the south of Ireland. Look for a s on itinerary pages to find Local Specialties.
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Ashford Castle
Very Accommodating Brendan understands the importance of a great hotel, and when you travel with us you can rest assured of getting only the best. Your hotel will always be located where you want to be – in a convenient part of town, close to shopping, historic districts, restaurants and public transportation. Brendan staff have personally stayed in or inspected all of the properties we use as part of our continuing quality control program.
LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Many of our hotels are located within walking distance of the city’s highlights, including Dublin’s Grafton Street and the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. Sometimes our hotels are in a scenic location to show off the beauty of an area, such as the Connemara Coast Hotel, overlooking Galway Bay. On our Guided Vacations, Brendan hotels are listed on each tour page. Most are rated First Class (F) or Superior First Class (SF). We also
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use Deluxe (DLX) properties on some itineraries. In locations where there are no hotels that fit these categories, we choose the best available Superior Tourist (ST) and Moderate First Class (MF) hotels. Our ratings are in accordance with the Hotel & Travel Index. • All hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling are included in the price of your guided vacation. • With your travel documents, you will receive a list of hotel addresses, telephone and fax numbers. • Normal check in time is 3:00 p.m. Our star rating is: ### #### #### ##### #####
Tourist Class Superior Tourist or Moderate First Class First Class Superior First Class Deluxe
Extend Your Guided Vacation Extend your stay in Ireland or Scotland for a few extra nights. It’s easy to do with Brendan’s low extra night rates. Each itinerary page lists the name of the hotel where your Guided Vacation starts and ends. Simply find the hotel on this chart to establish the price, and have your Travel Agent request the nights you wish to add. Transfers are not included in these offers, but you can purchase door-to-door transfers between the airport and your hotel. HOTEL
DUBLIN Alexander Hotel Ballsbridge Towers Maldron Cardiff Lane Mespil Radisson SAS St. Helens The Burlington
TWIN
$180 $131 $161 $146 $191 $161
SINGLE
$265 $195 $225 $197 $287 $225
TAXI (approx)
$44 $44 $44 $44 $44 $44
TRANSFER
$69 $69 $69 $69 $69 $69
HOTEL
TWIN
SINGLE
TAXI (approx)
TRANSFER
EDINBURGH Jurys Inn
$164
$228
$30
$75
$96
$138
$40
$75
$110
$163
$55
$67
GLASGOW Jurys Inn Glasgow LIMERICK Greenhills
All prices are in US dollars, are per person, per night, and include a twin-bedded room with private facilities, continental buffet breakfast daily, all taxes and service charges. Rates are subject to change. Taxi fares are approximate. Private transfer prices are per person, one way and by car or minibus. You will be met after clearing customs and escorted to your vehicle. Brendan is not responsible for missed or unused transfers as a result of missed flight connections.
Belini’s Bar at The Burlington, Dublin The Burlington Hotel was renovated in 2008
Alexander Hotel, Dublin Radisson SAS St. Helens, Dublin
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Bon Appétit A memorable dining experience is an important part of any great vacation. Now imagine this treat for every meal on your Guided Vacation. Carefully chosen to provide quality and plenty of variety, many of the dinner entrée choices have an authentic flavor of Ireland or Scotland, so you can indulge in tantalizing new tastes. You will experience theme dinners complete with local entertainment, plus the opportunity to dine in castles,
cabarets, pubs and local guesthouses. Your Tour Director can also offer personal suggestions for dining where the locals frequent, a quiet restaurant for a romantic evening out, or a lively pub where you can dine and raise a pint of Guinness! Look for these symbols to determine the type of meals offered: B D
Breakfast Dinner
“I was raised in Ireland, and one of my favorite memories is my Mam's (mom) home cooking. There is nothing quite like enjoying one of her hot baked scones with strawberry jam and a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top, washed down with a cup of piping hot tea.” Marie Claire Porter Senior Marketing Coordinator Brendan
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So Many Ways to Save BOOK EARLY FOR THE BRENDAN PRICE GUARANTEE With an ever-changing dollar, Brendan’s price guarantee is valuable protection for your money. Once we have received your full deposit, your “Land Only” price is guaranteed – we will absorb any unexpected cost increases (excluding imposed airline fuel surcharges, airline surcharges that are part of the land package and/or government taxes. See pages 64-65 for more information). Plus, we guarantee we will not add fuel or currency surcharges to any of our Guided Vacation coach tours once you have paid your deposit (excluding taxes, charges or levies imposed by governments or their agencies).
EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT – SAVE UP TO 10% The earlier you pay, the more you save! By paying in full for your Guided Vacation, you can save up to 10% off the “Land Only” portion of your vacation. Your savings options are: Pay at least 12 months prior to your departure and SAVE up to 10% Pay at least 10 months prior to your departure and SAVE up to 7.5% Pay at least 6 months prior to your departure and SAVE up to 5% All tours must be booked and paid for in full for this discount to apply. Not valid on Independent Vacations and extra nights. For 2010 pre-registration bookings, payments are to be made according to 2009 brochured prices. For more details, ask your Brendan Specialist.
EXCLUSIVELY FOR OUR REPEAT TRAVELERS – SAVE 5% As a “thank you” to our past clients, Brendan offers a valuable credit of 5% off the “Land/Cruise Only” portion of your next Guided Vacation or River Cruise, taken within two years. This discount is not available retroactively and is valid for two years from the date of your last Brendan Guided Vacation or River Cruise. Only one voucher is available per person, per Guided Vacation/Cruise, per year, and only one voucher can be redeemed against each further Guided Vacation/ Cruise booking. The discount does not apply to independent arrangements (FIT) or Locally Guided Vacations. Other restrictions apply. For discounts on river cruises, please see our 2009 River Cruising brochure.
GREAT SAVINGS FOR YOUNG TRAVELERS Brendan offers a savings of up to 10% off of the “Land Only” price of your Guided Vacation to travelers between
the ages of 5 and 17 years, provided they are accompanied by an adult. On Independent Vacations, we feature special child rates at most of our hotels. These special rates will vary depending on the properties selected. One Young Traveler per room. This discount cannot be combined with our group discounts and does not apply to Independent Vacations and extra nights.
TRAVEL IN A GROUP & SAVE! Sharing your travels with your family and friends makes the trip even more enriching and memorable. Travel with 5 to 8 friends or family members, and everyone will receive a 5% discount off the “Land Only” portion of the Guided Vacation. Even greater discounts are available if you travel with a group of 9 or more on one of our Guided Vacations. In a group of 9 passengers, 1 traveler qualifies for a 50% discount off the “Land Only” portion of the vacation price. In a group of 16 passengers, 1 traveler qualifies for a 100% discount off the “Land Only” portion of the vacation price. If you are traveling with a group on an Independent Vacation, check with your Brendan Group Specialist for savings specific to your planned itinerary. Space is limited to one group per motorcoach. These discounts cannot be combined with our Repeat Traveler Discount, any other rooming, Young Traveler or triple room discounts. They do not apply to Independent Vacations and extra nights. All passengers’ names must be advised at the time of booking to qualify.
PAY LESS FOR YOUR SECOND TOUR Our itineraries are created so that they can be easily combined. When you book two Brendan Guided Vacations of 8 days or longer, you will receive a discount of up to 5% off the “Land Only” portion of the shortest tour. Take three tours and save on two! Ask your travel professional for suggestions. Tours are combinable with second and subsequent additional tours. Tours must be booked at the same time. The discount is per person only and does not apply to Independent Vacations and extra nights.
TRIPLE ACCOMMODATIONS DISCOUNT On many of our itineraries, we offer a reduced “Land Only” rate to three people sharing a room. Triple room savings are listed on the itinerary pages. Triple rooms are usually not larger than a twin-size room. The room can accommodate three people, however it may not have three beds or the third bed may be a rollaway. This discount applies only to itineraries featuring the Triple Room Discount offer, and it is not combinable with the group travel discounts.
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Sustainable Tourism Caring for the places we visit and protecting our environment is important to us at Brendan. When travelling with us, you can be confident you are opting for one of the most environmentally friendly ways to travel, and also that you are helping to support important conservation and sustainable tourism projects around the world.
Travel Lightly Coach travel has been proven to emit less carbon or greenhouse gases on a per passenger basis than either train or car travel*. Brendan’s coach fleet is among the best in Europe and is continually upgraded to adopt the most fuel efficient engines available. Visit our website to find outmore. You can also calculate the carbon footprint of your travel and accommodation on our website and choose to travel ‘carbon neutral’ by offsetting the carbon emissions you can’t reduce at www.brendanvacations.com/sustainabletourism.
SEE THE DIFFERENCE - MAKE A DIFFERENCE Method of Travel Coach** Car* Air
C02 per passenger mile (kg) 0.0365 0.2140 0.2113
Our Conservation Foundation In 2008 we established The Leading Travel Companies Conservation Foundation, a non-profit organization that encourages long-term sustainable tourism. Each year, US$1million goes towards projects around the world. This year our Foundation is undertaking six projects, including a grant to Conservation International to protect three million hectares of Atlantic Forest in Brazil, recognized as one of the world’s most important and highly threatened regions for conservation. The Foundation is also working to support indigenous, sustainable tourism in Australia and funding research and restoration of important cultural and archaeological sites in Venice and Greece. Other projects include funding the development of wildlife research camps in Africa and sponsoring the ‘Tourism for Tomorrow’ awards, which encourage The Leading Travel Companies’ other tourism operators Jeff Element presents a to develop leading cheque for $350,000 to Conservation International’s Vice sustainable tourism President of Development enterprises. To learn Sergio Furman to protect the Atlantic Forest in Brazil from more about the work destruction. supported by the TLTC Conservation FoundaFoundation please visit tion President David Hosking www.tltc.com/foundation is presented a copy of the Venice research report by Venice in Peril’s Nicky Baly.
* Source DEFRA Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Conversion Figures June 2007 http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/business/envrp/pdf/conversion-factors.pdf.
Going “green” for the future
PEFC logo Printer must drop in
We are concerned about our worldwide “family”… and the earth’s future. International tourism provides new and different experiences, which in turn can foster greater understanding, tolerance and compassion, build global communities and raise environmental awareness. In our on-going efforts to become a “greener” company, Brendan’s 2009 brochures have been printed on PEFC certified paper. The PEFC program is committed to promoting sustainable forestry. Program participants practice certified sustainable forestry, and work with loggers and foresters, training them in the best management practices. This commitment ensures the long-term health and sustainability of our forests.
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Peace of Mind Brendan Worldwide Vacations, as a founding and active member of the United States Tour Operators Association (“USTOA”), is required to post $1 Million with USTOA to be used to reimburse, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program, the advance payments of Brendan Worldwide Vacations customers in the unlikely event of Brendan Worldwide Vacations’ bankruptcy, insolvency or cessation of business. Further, you should understand that the $1 Million posted by Brendan Worldwide Vacations may be sufficient to provide only a partial recovery of the advance payments received by Brendan Worldwide Vacations. Complete details of the USTOA Travelers Assistance Program may be obtained by writing to USTOA at 275 Madison Avenue, Suite 2014, NY, NY 10016, by email to
[email protected] or by visiting their website at www.USTOA.com.
The traveling public has always been concerned about the protection of their advance bookings. As part of Brendan’s commitment to providing our customers with peace of mind in all dealings with Brendan, we have provided First Horizons Merchant Services, our credit card processor, with a Letter of Credit in excess of $20 Million to underwrite all credit card transactions that are placed directly with Brendan. Advanced bookings paid with major credit cards are covered under this commitment. This is another in the many commitments we have made to ensure all our Brendan customers’ traveling experience is more secure.
Guided Vacations
Beautiful Birr Castle is the private home of Lord and Lady Rosse
Irish Jaunt
6 DAYS AIR & LAND 5 DAYS DUBLIN/SHANNON
$799 land only
Along the magical Ring of Kerry
DAY 1 Depart USA* Board your overnight transatlantic flight. YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES • Airport transfers on days 2 and 6, see page 67 • Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling • 4 breakfasts (B) and 1 dinner with choice of entree and coffee or tea (D) • Farewell Irish Coffee • Services of a professional Irish Driver/Guide • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and emergency restroom • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable
s q - See page 7
DAY 2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Welcome to Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital city! At 2 p.m., your voyage of discovery begins on a city tour with a local guide that brings to life Dublin’s grand architectural treasures and history stretching back more than 1,000 years. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, tour Dublin’s beautiful Georgian squares, walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to its famed library and its truly unique world treasure – the 8th century Book of Kells. Later, meet your Tour Director for a Welcome Drink, then join the “Dublin Literary Pub Crawl.” You are transported away from everyday life to the richness of Ireland’s famous writers including IRELAND 1 DUBLIN Joyce, Shaw, Yeats, Rathbaun Wilde, Beckett and • Farm Cliffs Behan. Each group Dromoland of Moher • Castle option • Cashel • is led by actors on a trail SHANNON 1 LIMERICK from pub to pub – no props, no lights, no make-up, just the voice KILLARNEY and personality of the 2 •Blarney Ring actor. Nothing like it of Kerry exists anywhere else in the world.
•
➤
••
BRENDAN HOTELS Dublin
Ballsbridge Towers (SF)
Killarney
Killarney Towers (SF)
Limerick
Greenhills (F)
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➤
P
• Portfolio of travel documents
DAY 3 Dublin / Blarney / Killarney After driving through the Curragh, the heart of Ireland’s equestrian country, view the unforgettable Rock of Cashel. The dramatic limestone rock crowned with secular and religious buildings dominates the flat countryside for miles around. Travel on to County Cork and the village of Blarney. There is time to stop at Blarney Woollen Mills to shop and to visit Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Your Tour Director will also reveal a hidden treasure q today. Then on to bustling Killarney. The town on the lakes is famous for its lively pubs and open, cheerful atmosphere, full of what the Irish call “craic!” – Gaelic for fun. (B,D)
•
P
from
Kiss the stone at Blarney Castle
DAY 4 The Ring of Kerry Travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as The Ring of Kerry. Stopping at Torc Waterfall for photos, there is a chance to join a leisurely hike with a qualified guide. You will walk along the lakeshore and past the farmlands of the Muckross Estate, admiring the splendid scenery. Walk by West Meadow Bay and visit Muckross Abbey. For those who do not want to join the hike, the motorcoach will return you to Killarney, where the rest of the day is at leisure. (B)
DAY 5 Killarney / Cliffs of Moher / Limerick s This morning, cross the Shannon estuary by ferry and enter County Clare to walk along the Cliffs of Moher. Then north across the Burren. Drop in for refreshments at Rathbaun Farm and to meet a farming family as they carry out their everyday chores. Watch as the farmer shears a sheep and maneuvers his flock with the help of his dog. Next, on to Limerick for a Farewell Irish Coffee at your hotel. Tonight, why not attend an optional Medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle. (B)
NOTE: The walk is about 2½-3 hours long and travels over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit and have good walking shoes, sunscreen and raingear.
DAY 6 Limerick / Depart Shannon Your homebound flight arrives the same day. A transfer to the Radisson Airport Hotel in Dublin is also available, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m. Extra nights can be booked in Limerick or Dublin. (B)
SPEND YOUR LAST NIGHT
IN A CASTLE!
TOUR BRIJ DEPARTURES & PRICES per person
Why not spend your last night in Ireland at an historic and luxurious castle? Breathtaking Dromoland Castle is a Renaissance structure built in the 16th century, and was once the royal seat of the O'Brien clan. Set on a 375-acre estate, the Castle retains priceless reminders of a magnificent past with its woodcarvings, stone statuary, hand-carved paneling, and fine antique furnishings. Your stay at the castle includes a full Irish breakfast. You will be picked up and transferred to Shannon Airport.
Twin
May 15-Sep 30 Oct 01-31
Single
Triple
$265 $490 $350 $670 $265 $490
$320 $400 $320
Book early, space is limited.
Return to USA
Land Only*
Depart USA
Sat Apr 04
Thu Apr 09
Sat Apr 11
Thu Apr 16
$825 $825 $825 $825 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875 $875
Sat Apr 18
Thu Apr 23
Sat Apr 25 PD
Thu Apr 30
Sat May 02
Thu May 07
Sat May 09 PD
Thu May 14
Sat May 16
Thu May 21
Sat May 23 PD
Thu May 28
Sat May 30
Thu Jun 04
Sat Jun 06 PD
Thu Jun 11
Sat Jun 13 PD
Thu Jun 18
Sat Jun 20 PD
Thu Jun 25
Sat Jun 27
Thu Jul
02
Sat Jul
04
Thu Jul
09
Sat Jul
11 PD
Thu Jul
16
Sat Jul
18
Thu Jul
23
Sat Jul
25 PD
Thu Jul
30
Sat Aug 01
Thu Aug 06
Sat Aug 08 PD
Thu Aug 13
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat Aug 15
Thu Aug 20
Sat Aug 22 PD
Thu Aug 27
$875 $875 $875 $899 $899 $899 $899 $835 $835 $835 $799 $719 $719 $719
Sat Aug 29
Thu Sep 03
Sat Sep 05 PD
Thu Sep 10
Sat Sep 12 PD
Thu Sep 17
Sat Sep 19 PD
Thu Sep 24
Sat Sep 26
Thu Oct 01
Sat Oct 03 PD
Thu Oct 08
Sat Oct 10
Thu Oct 15
Sat Oct 17
Thu Oct 22
Sat Oct 24 PD
Thu Oct 29
Sat Nov 07 §
Thu Nov 12
Sat Nov 21 §
Thu Nov 26
Mon Dec 28 §
Sat
Jan 02
2010 Sat Feb 13 §
Thu Feb 18
Sat Mar 13 §
Thu Mar 18
Sat Mar 27 §
Thu Apr 01
$719 $719 $719
Single room supplement: $270. Triple room reduction per person: $10. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $85; 10 months $65; 6 months $40. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $40. Young Traveler Discount: $85.
PRICE PER PERSON Apr 01-May 14
Depart USA
§ Winter departures – tour code WRIJ. Nov ‘09-Mar ‘10 departures are subject to itinerary, hotel, discount and price modifications. Details will be available in Jun 2009.
Holiday departures: Thanksgiving Nov 21; New Year’s Eve Dec 28; St. Patrick’s Day Mar 13, ‘10. PD Preferred Departures. See page 6.
* Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
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Treasures of Ireland-South
8 DAYS AIR & LAND 7 DAYS DUBLIN/SHANNON from
$1299 land only One of the beautiful lakes of Killarney
DAY 1 Depart USA* Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
• Airport transfers on days 2 and 8, see page 67 • Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling • 6 breakfasts (B) and 3 three-course dinners with choice of entrée and coffee or tea (D) • Services of a professional Irish Tour Director • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and emergency restroom • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable • Portfolio of travel documents
DAY 3 Tour Historic Dublin Welcome to Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital city! Glimpse Viking and medieval times as you pass by Christ Church to stately St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a legacy of religious power from the 12th century. On then to the seat of learning at the heart of Dublin – Trinity College. Walk across IRELAND the cobbled squares to the DUBLIN old library and see one of 2 Dromoland Ireland’s greatest treasures – Castle the famed 8th centuryBook option Glendalough • Cliffs of Moher • of Kells. The remainder • 1 LIMERICK of your day is at leisure. Shannon Perhaps, explore the city’s stylish shops, galleries and • Waterford museums, stroll through a KILLARNEY Waterford Crystal Factory Blarney 2 park or relax in a café or • Ring CORK 1 pub. (B) of Kerry ➤
••
Cork
Ballsbridge Towers (SF) Montenotte Hotel Cork (SF)
Killarney
Scotts Hotel (SF)
Limerick
Greenhills (F)
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••
➤
Dublin
P
BRENDAN HOTELS
•
•
P
s q - See page 7
DAY 2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Welcome to Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital city! Spend the afternoon relaxing or start exploring on your own. This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner with your traveling companions. (D)
P
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
DAY 4 Dublin / Glendalough / Waterford / Cork s Travel to the monastic ruins at Glendalough, then on to ancient Waterford. At the renowned Waterford Crystal Factory, watch master craftsmen at work in the centuries-old tradition of glassblowing and engraving. Then, stroll through the splendid showrooms. On your way to bustling Cork, see a hidden treasure q. After dinner, a local historian will share adventurous tales of the sea and Cork’s history, ever entwined with great ships and majestic liners. You will also hear about Cobh, the last port of call for the ill-fated RMS Titanic. (B,D)
DAY 5 Cork / Cobh / Blarney Castle / Killarney Today visit Cobh. The Heritage Centre brings the Queenstown (as Cobh was once named) story of emigration to life. Then on to Blarney. There is time to browse through Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for Irish knitwear and crafts. Don't miss the chance to walk across to Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. On to the market town of Killarney. (B)
SPEND THE LAST NIGHT OF YOUR VACATION
IN A CASTLE!
DAY 6 The Ring of Kerry Travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as The Ring of Kerry. It is undoubtedly one of the most magical places in all Ireland. Here mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Stopping at Torc Waterfall for photos, there is a chance to join a leisurely hike with a qualified guide. You will walk along the lakeshore and past the farmlands of the Muckross Estate, admiring the scenery. Walk by West Meadow Bay and visit Muckross Abbey. For those who do not want to join the hike, the motorcoach will return you to Killarney, where the balance of the day is free. (B,D)
NOTE: The walk is about 2½-3 hours long and travels over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit and have good walking shoes, sunscreen and raingear.
What better way to end your vacation than staying in one of Ireland’s finest castle hotels? Dromoland Castle offers deluxe accommodation, breathtaking scenery, absolute luxury and exceptional service. It is one of the few castle hotels that can trace its ownership back through history to Gaelic Irish families of royal heritage. DAYS 1-7 Same as tour BRSD. In the afternoon you will be dropped off at Dromoland Castle. Enjoy fine dining in the Earl of Thomand Restaurant this evening. (D) DAY 8 You will be picked up and transferred to Shannon airport. (B)
PRICE PER PERSON Apr 01-May 14 May 15-Sep 30 Oct 01-31
Twin
Single
Triple
$430 $525 $430
$660 $825 $660
$490 $575 $490
Breakfast, dinner and private transfer included. Space is limited and may not be available on all departures.
DAY 7 Killarney / Cliffs of Moher / Limerick Departing Killarney, cross the Shannon estuary by ferry and enter County Clare to
Trinity College Library, the largest in Dublin
walk along the Cliffs of Moher: a magical vista awaits you. Afterward, head to your hotel in Limerick. Tonight, why not attend an optional Medieval Castle Banquet. (B) DAY 8 Limerick / Depart Shannon You will be transferred to the airport in Shannon for your homebound flight. A transfer to the Radisson Airport Hotel in Dublin is also available, arriving at approximately 4:30 p.m. Extra nights can be booked in Limerick or Dublin. (B)
TOUR BRSD DEPARTURES & PRICES per person Depart USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat Apr 25 PD
Sat
May 02
Sat May 02
Sat
May 09
Sat May 09 PD
Sat
May 16
Sat May 16
Sat
May 23
Sat May 23 PD
Sat
May 30
Sat May 30
Sat
Jun 06
Sat Jun 06 PD
Sat
Jun 13
Sat Jun 13 PD
Sat
Jun 20
Sat Jun 20 PD
Sat
Jun 27
Sat Jun 27 PD
Sat
Jul
04
Sat Jul
04
Sat
Jul
11
Sat Jul
11 PD
Sat
Jul
18
Sat Jul
18 PD
Sat
Jul
25
Sat Jul
25 PD
Sat
Aug 01
$1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299
Depart USA
Return to USA
Sat Aug 01
Sat
Aug 08
Sat Aug 08 PD
Sat
Aug 15
Sat Aug 15 PD
Sat
Aug 22
Sat Aug 22 PD
Sat
Aug 29
Sat Aug 29
Sat
Sep 05
Sat Sep 05 PD
Sat
Sep 12
Sat Sep 12 PD
Sat
Sep 19
Sat Sep 19 PD
Sat
Sep 26
Sat Sep 26 PD
Sat
Oct 03
Sat Oct 03 PD
Sat
Oct 10
Sat Oct 10
Sat
Oct 17
Sat Oct 17 PD
Sat
Oct 24
Sat Oct 24
Sat
Oct 31
Land Only*
$1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1325 $1325 $1325 $1325 $1299 $1299 $1299 $1299
Single room supplement: $340. Triple room reduction per person: $30. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $130; 10 months $95; 6 months $65. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $65. Young Traveler Discount: $130. PD Preferred Departures. See page 6.
* Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 17
Glimpse of Ireland 9 DAYS AIR & LAND 8 DAYS DUBLIN/DUBLIN from
$1599 land only Lakeside Kylemore Abbey
• 7 breakfasts (B), 1 morning coffee (MC) at Rathbaun Farm and 5 three-course dinners with choice of entrée and coffee or tea (D) • Services of a professional Irish Tour Director • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and emergency restroom • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable
s q - See page 7 • Portfolio of travel documents
Dublin
The Burlington (SF)
Ballina
Downhill House Hotel (F)
Connemara
Connemara Coast Hotel (SF)
Limerick
Radisson Limerick (SF)
Killarney
Killarney Towers (SF)
Waterford
Dooleys (F)
18 | www.BrendanVacations.com
DAY 3 Dublin / The Midlands / Sligo / Ballina Cross midland Ireland and visit one of the country’s fine old manors, Strokestown Park House in County Roscommon. This grand estate, built in the 18th century, has been carefully restored and still has its original furnishings. The Famine Museum is located in the former Stable Yards of the house.
Knock
BALLINA Kylemore Abbey
•
• 1
•
Strokestown Park House
•
••
Galway
• • •
CONNEMARA Cliffs of Moher
1
1 1
• • Rathbaun Farm 1
DUBLIN
IRELAND
LIMERICK
• 1
Ring of Kerry
• 1
KILLARNEY
P
BRENDAN HOTELS
DAY 2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Welcome to Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital! At 2 p.m. your voyage of discovery begins on a city tour with a local guide. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in 1190, tour Dublin’s beautiful Georgian squares, walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to its famed library and its truly unique world treasure – the 8th century Book of Kells. This evening, join your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Drink to toast the start of a great vacation.
P
• Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
It was designed to commemorate The Great Irish Famine of the 1840's, now regarded as the single greatest social disaster of 19th century Europe. The museum is intended to help balance the history of the "Big House." Continue on to County Mayo to visit the Shrine at Knock. In 1879, the figures of Mary, St. Joseph and St. John are reported to have miraculously appeared here in a vision to 15 local people. Then continue to your hotel in quiet the village of Ballina. Dinner and conversation at your hotel is a perfect end to the day’s sightseeing. (B,D)
➤
• Airport transfers on days 2 and 9, see page 67
DAY 1 Depart USA* Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
➤
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
Blarney
•
WATERFORD
Waterford Crystal Factory
DAY 4 Ballina / Connemara Travel via Castlebar to the picturesque town of Westport. Enjoy some free time to browse before setting out for Connemara, Ireland’s historic western province. Next visit Kylemore Abbey, a castellated neo-Gothic mansion, occupied today by the Irish Benedictine community of nuns. A hidden treasure q will also be revealed. Continue your tour of splendid Connemara, where whitewashed cottages are scattered over a land of rocky mountains, sparkling brooks and rivers. This evening, dine and relax at your elegant hotel as the sun sets over Galway Bay. (B,D) DAY 5 Connemara / Galway / Cliffs of Moher / Limerick s This morning visit the impressive Galway Cathedral before dropping in for refreshments at Rathbaun Farm. Meet a farming family as they carry out their everyday chores. Watch as the farmer shears a sheep and maneuvers his flock with the help of his dog. Next, cross the Burren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape. Travel west to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher rising approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves: the view is truly outstanding. A celebrated medieval castle banquet is an option for tonight’s festivities. (B,MC) DAY 6 Limerick / Ring of Kerry / Killarney Drive to Adare, renowned as the “prettiest village in Ireland” with its thatched cottages and stone walls. Then follow the road that winds around the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as The Ring of Kerry. Poets, painters, and musicians have all tried to capture its elusive charm. On to Killarney. (B,D) DAY 7 Killarney / Blarney / Waterford Your first stop today is in the village of Blarney. There is time to browse through Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for Irish knitwear and crafts. Don't miss the chance to walk across to Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone that bestows the gift of eloquence. Then on to the ancient Viking town of Waterford, known for its colorful terrace houses, cafés and pubs overlooking the quayside. (B,D)
Enchanting Connemara with its stone fences and peaceful homes
DAY 8 Waterford / Dublin s Begin your day at the Waterford Crystal Factory. On your guidedtour, admire the ancient skills of local craftsmen as they carefully turn molten glass into the most exquisite crystal. Afterwards, wander
through the showrooms and perhaps find an heirloom for future generations for your own family! Then, meet local Jack Burtchaell for a stroll around Ireland's oldest city. See the cathedrals and national monuments, and hear about a gallery of rogues and rascals, all delivered in a witty, entertaining style by a master storyteller. Jack wears his scholarship lightly, and you will enjoy the time spent with someone very special in a city which has a history to match his telling of it. Afterwards, return to Dublin. This evening, join newfound friends for a Farewell Dinner with traditional Irish entertainment. (B,D) DAY 9 Depart Dublin Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
TOUR BRED DEPARTURES & PRICES per person Depart USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat Feb 07 §
Sun Feb 15
Sat Feb 14 §
Sun Feb 22
Sat Feb 28 §
Sun Mar 08
Sat Mar 07 §
Sun Mar 15
Sat Mar 14 §
Sun Mar 22
Sat Mar 21 §
Sun Mar 29
Sat Mar 28 §
Sun Apr 05
Sat Apr 04
Sun Apr 12
Sat Apr 11
Sun Apr 19
Sat Apr 18 PD
Sun Apr 26
Sat Apr 25 PD
Sun May 03
Sat May 02
Sun May 10
Sat May 09
Sun May 17
Sat May 16 PD
Sun May 24
Sat May 23 PD
Sun May 31
Sat May 30 PD
Sun Jun 07
Sat Jun 06 PD
Sun Jun 14
Sat Jun 13 PD
Sun Jun 21
Sat Jun 20 PD
Sun Jun 28
Sat Jun 27 PD
Sun Jul
05
Sat Jul
04
Sun Jul
12
Sat Jul
11 PD
Sun Jul
19
$1375 $1375 $1399 $1399 $1399 $1399 $1425 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1625 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635
Depart USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat Jul
18
Sun Jul
Sat Jul
25 PD
Sun Aug 02
26
Sat Aug 01 PD
Sun Aug 09
Sat Aug 08 PD
Sun Aug 16
Sat Aug 15 PD
Sun Aug 23
Sat Aug 22
Sun Aug 30
Sat Aug 29
Sun Sep 06
Sat Sep 05 PD
Sun Sep 13
Sat Sep 12 PD
Sun Sep 20
Sat Sep 19 PD
Sun Oct 27
Sat Sep 26 PD
Sun Oct 04
Sat Oct 03 PD
Sun Oct 11
Sat Oct 10
Sun Oct 18
Sat Oct 17 PD
Sun Oct 25
Sat Oct 24
Sun Nov 01
Sat Oct 31
Sun Nov 08
Sat Nov 07 §
Sun Nov 15
$1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1635 $1650 $1650 $1650 $1650 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1439
2010 Sat Feb 27 §
Sun Mar 07
Sat Mar 13 §
Sun Mar 21
Sat Mar 20 §
Sun Mar 28
Sat Mar 27 §
Sun Apr 04
$1439 $1439 $1439 $1439
Single room supplement: $410 (Feb 07-Mar 28), $400. Triple room reduction per person: $40 (Feb 07-Mar 28), $35. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $160; 10 months $120; 6 months $80. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $80. Young Traveler Discount: $160. § Winter departures – tour code WRED. Nov 07, ‘09-Mar 28, ‘10 departures are subject to itinerary, hotel, discount and price modifications. Details will be available in Jun 2009.
Holiday departures: St. Patrick’s Day Mar 14, ‘09, Mar 13, ‘10. PD Preferred Departures. See page 6.
* Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 19
At Home with the Irish 9 DAYS AIR & LAND 8 DAYS DUBLIN/DUBLIN
$1575 land only
• Airport transfers on days 2 and 9, see page 67 • Accommodations in hotels and B&B’s in twin-bedded rooms with private bath or shower as listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling • 7 breakfasts (B), 1 morning coffee (MC) at Rathbaun Farm and 5 threecourse dinners with choice of entrée and coffee or tea (D) • Services of a professional Irish Tour Director • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and emergency restroom • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable
s q - See page 7
BRENDAN HOTELS
Ballyshannon Connemara
Ballsbridge Towers (SF) or The Burlington (SF) B&B accommodation with private bath Connemara Coast (SF) B&B accommodation with private bath
Waterford
B&B accommodation with private bath
20 | www.BrendanVacations.com
DAY 2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Dublin is one of Europe’s liveliest cities. At 2 p.m., a city tour brings Dublin’s history to life. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, see Dublin’s beautiful Georgian squares, walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to its famed library and its truly unique world treasure – the 8th century Book of Kells. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner with lively Irish entertainment. (D) DAY 3 Dublin / Ballyshannon Your Tour Director will share a hidden treasure q today. Travel north via Kells and Cavan to Belleek. Watch skilled craftsmen design and produce fine china of renowned delicacy at the Belleek China Factory. Then continue on to your comfortable B&B for the night. Be sure of a hearty welcome and delicious meal from your Ballyshannon host. (B,D)
•
BALLYSHANNON Drumcliff
1
• • Belleek
Knock Cong Abbey
• Cavan • Kells
•
• Galway 1• • Rathbaun Farm
••
•
CONNEMARA Cliffs of Moher
IRELAND
Shannon Estuary
KILLARNEY
• 2
Ring of Kerry
1 1
DUBLIN
•
➤
Killarney
DAY 4 Ballyshannon / Connemara Bid your own farewell to W.B. Yeats at Drumcliff churchyard where his simple tombstone reads: "Cast a cold eye / On life, on death / Horseman, pass by!" Continue through the dramatic West Country. On to Knock, a humble village that attracts pilgrims from all over the world ever since local residents experienced Marian apparitions in 1879. Travel on to the picturesque village of Cong, the setting of the 1951 classic, The Quiet Man. Next tour Cong Abbey, an
P
Dublin
DAY 1 Depart USA* Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
➤
• Portfolio of travel documents
A local farmer and his herd in County Mayo
•
Blarney
➤
• Kilkenny
•
P
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
➤
from
1 WATERFORD Waterford Crystal Factory
Augustinian abbey founded in the 12th century. Enjoy the drive through Connemara, where whitewashed cottages are scattered over a land of rocky mountains, sparkling brooks and rivers. Dinner tonight is at your hotel. (B,D)
and kiss the magical stone that bestows the gift of eloquence. Next is Waterford, for a visit the famous Waterford Crystal Factory and Showrooms. Here ancient skills, often handed from one generation of local family to the next, lovingly turn molten glass into exquisite crystal. Spend the night in the hospitality of local Waterford B&Bs. (B,D)
DAY 5 Connemara / Galway / Cliffs of Moher / Killarney s This morning visit Galway Cathedral before dropping in for refreshments at Rathbaun Farm. Meet a farming family as they carry out their everyday chores. Watch as the farmer shears a sheep and maneuvers his flock with the help of his dog. Next, cross the Burren, a stark and barren landscape dotted with rare flora. Travel west to the Cliffs of Moher rising approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. Later cross the Shannon estuary by ferry before setting off for Killarney. This evening, savor dinner at a local restaurant. (B,MC,D) DAY 6 The Ring of Kerry The road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as The Ring of Kerry, is undoubtedly one of the most magical places in all Ireland. Here mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Stopping at Torc Waterfall for photos, there is a chance to join a leisurely hike with a qualified guide. You will walk along the lakeshore and past the farmlands of the Muckross Estate, admiring the spectacular scenery. Walk by West Meadow Bay and visit Muckross Abbey. For those who do not want to join the hike, the motorcoach will return you to Killarney, where the balance of the day is free. (B)
NOTE: The walk is about 2½-3 hours long and travels over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit and have good walking shoes, sunscreen and raingear. DAY 7 Killarney / Blarney / Waterford s Your first stop today is in the village of Blarney. There is time to browse through Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for Irish knitwear and crafts. Don't miss the chance to walk across to Blarney Castle
DAY 8 Waterford / Kilkenny / Dublin Kilkenny is undoubtedly Ireland’s loveliest inland city. It rose to prominence in the 14th century, when the Irish Parliament often met at Kilkenny Castle. Enjoy a guided tour of the Castle and some free time to explore this medieval city. Return to Dublin where the evening is free to relax at your beautiful hotel or you may attend an optional farewell show of song, dance and dinner all topped off with Dublin’s wit. (B) Arthur Guinness began brewing beer in 1759, with the knowledge of how to make a ‘fine ale’ passed down to him from his father. It wasn’t until 1799 that he created the formula for Guinness Stout as we know it today. Don’t miss the chance to mix with the locals at a traditional pub and enjoy a pint!
DAY 9 Depart Dublin Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
TOUR BRGH DEPARTURES & PRICES per person Depart USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat Apr 11
Sun Apr 19
Sat Apr 18
Sun Apr 26
Sat Apr 25 PD
Sun May 03
Sat May 02 PD
Sun May 10
Sat May 09 PD
Sun May 17
Sat May 16 PD
Sun May 24
Sat May 23
Sun May 31
Sat May 30 PD
Sun Jun 07
Sat Jun 06
Sun Jun 14
Sat Jun 13 PD
Sun Jun 21
Sat Jun 20
Sun Jun 28
Sat Jun 27 PD
Sun Jul
05
Sat Jul
04
Sun Jul
12
Sat Jul
11 PD
Sun Jul
19
Sat Jul
18 PD
Sun Jul
26
$1575 $1575 $1575 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599
Depart USA
Sat Jul
Return to USA
25
Sun Aug 02
Sat Aug 01 PD
Sun Aug 09
Sat Aug 08 PD
Sun Aug 16
Sat Aug 15
Sun Aug 23
Sat Aug 22
Sun Aug 30
Sat Aug 29
Sun Sep 06
Sat Sep 05 PD
Sun Sep 13
Sat Sep 12 PD
Sun Sep 20
Sat Sep 19 PD
Sun Sep 27
Sat Sep 26 PD
Sun Oct 04
Sat Oct 03 PD
Sun Oct 11
Sat Oct 10
Sun Oct 18
Sat Oct 17
Sun Oct 25
Sat Oct 24
Sun Nov 01
Land Only*
$1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1625 $1625 $1625 $1625 $1599 $1599 $1599 $1599
Single room supplement: $320. Triple room reduction per person: $20. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $160; 10 months $120; 6 months $80. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $80. Young Traveler Discount: $160. PD Preferred Departures. See page 6. * Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 21
The Best of Ireland & Ashford Castle 9 DAYS AIR & LAND 8 DAYS DUBLIN/DUBLIN from
$2135 land only Spend an unforgettable night at the deluxe Ashford Castle, built in the 13th century
DAY 1 Depart USA* Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
• Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling • 7 breakfasts (B), afternoon tea (AT) at Rathbaun Farm and 5 three-course dinners with choice of entrée and coffee or tea (D) • Services of a professional Irish Tour Director • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and restroom facilities • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable • Portfolio of travel documents
Dublin Killarney Connemara Cong
The Burlington (SF) Scotts Hotel (SF) Connemara Coast (SF) Ashford Castle (DLX)
22 | www.BrendanVacations.com
••
IRELAND
•• • 1
Kylemore Abbey
2
CONNEMARA Cliffs of Moher
•
➤
KILLARNEY
• 2
Ring of Kerry
•• 1 1
Rathbaun Farm
➤
BRENDAN HOTELS
DAY 3 Dublin / Blarney / Killarney Drive through the Curragh, the heart of Ireland's horse country. Stop at the Rock of Cashel, an impressive pre-Christian settlement. The dramatic limestone rock, crowned with
CONG
Ashford Castle
• Blarney
DUBLIN
P
s q - See page 7
DAY 2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Welcome to Dublin! At 2 p.m. your voyage of discovery begins on a city tour with your Tour Director that brings to life Dublin’s architectural treasures and history stretching back more than 1,000 years. Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in 1190, tour Dublin’s beautiful Georgian squares, walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to its famed library and see its truly unique world treasure – the 8th century Book of Kells. Back at your hotel, join your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Drink Killary Fjord and Dinner. (D) Excursion
P
• Airport transfers on days 2 and 9, see page 67
➤
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
secular and religious buildings, dominates the flat countryside for miles around. A local guide will point out some of the cathedrals and historic sites on an orientation tour. Then continue on to the village of Blarney. There is time to browse through Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for Irish knitwear and crafts. Don’t miss the chance to walk across to Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Afterwards, head to colorful Killarney. The town on the lakes is famous for its lively pubs and open, cheerful atmosphere, of what the Irish call ‘craic!’ – Gaelic for fun. (B,D)
DAY 4 The Ring of Kerry Excursion Travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as The Ring of Kerry. It is undoubtedly one of the most magical places in all Ireland. Here mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Stopping at Torc Waterfall for photos, there is a chance to join a leisurely hike with a qualified guide. You will walk along the lakeshore and past the farmlands of the Muckross Estate, admiring the spectacular scenery. Walk by West Meadow Bay and visit Muckross Abbey. For those who do not want to join the hike, the motorcoach will return you to Killarney, where the balance of the day is free. (B) NOTE: The walk is about 2½-3 hours long and travels over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers need to be fit, have good walking shoes, sunscreen and raingear.
DAY 5 Killarney / Cliffs of Moher / Connemara s This morning cross the Shannon estuary by ferry and enter County Clare. Stop for a walk along the Cliffs of Moher, rising approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. Then travel north across the Burren, a suddenly stark and barren landscape. Drop in for afternoon tea at Rathbaun Farm and meet a Galway farming family as they carry out their everyday chores. Watch as the farmer shears a sheep and maneuvers his flock with the help of his dog. Next, on to tour Galway, "City of the Tribes," including lovely Galway Cathedral. The rest of your day is free. (B,AT,D) DAY 6 Killary Fjord Excursion Head out for Killary Fjord, boasting some of the finest scenery in Ireland. At Killary Harbour, board a boat for a cruise through the calm waters of the bay. As you relax on board, enjoy the uninterrupted views of the harbor, bay and the mountains beyond. Later, returning to your hotel, stop at lakeside Kylemore Abbey, a castellated neo-Gothic mansion, occupied today by a Benedictine community of nuns who came from Ypres after World War I. (B,D)
The lakes of Killarney
DAY 7 Connemara / Cong (Ashford Castle) Today experience Connemara, a land of rocky mountains, sparkling brooks and rushing rivers. Your Tour Director will also reveal a hidden treasure q. Then, drive on to Cong, a village with a deliberate old-world feel, and the setting for The Quiet Man, filmed here in the 1950s and starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara. Cong is also where you enter into the grounds of majestic Ashford Castle. Ashford Castle provides a romantic backdrop in superior surrounds, offering guests both relaxation and comfort. There are many opportunities to explore the vast estate with fishing on Lough Corrib, equestrian pursuits, golf, falconry and trail walking. Or simply relax in the castle’s luxurious interiors and enjoy your
favorite novel or pamper yourself at the Spa. Dining at Ashford Castle ranks among the finest culinary experiences in the world. An inspired use of seasonal ingredients and an innovative menu await you at dinner tonight. (jacket and tie required for men) (B,D) DAY 8 Cong / Dublin Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning and perhaps a stroll on the estate. Then cross the midlands to Dublin where the balance of the day is free for independent activities. (B) DAY 9 Depart Dublin Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
TOUR BRAC DEPARTURES & PRICES per person Depart USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat Apr 25 PD
Sun May 03
Sat May 09
Sun May 17
Sat May 16 PD
Sun May 24
Sat Jun 06 PD
Sun Jun 14
Sat Jun 13 PD
Sun Jun 21
Sat Jun 20 PD
Sun Jun 28
Sat Jun 27 PD
Sun Jul
05
Sat Jul
04
Sun Jul
12
Sat Jul
11 PD
Sun Jul
19
Sat Jul
18
Sun Jul
26
$2135 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150
Depart USA
Return to USA
Sat Aug 01 PD
Sun Aug 09
Sat Aug 08
Sun Aug 16
Sat Aug 15 PD
Sun Aug 23
Sat Aug 29
Sun Sep 06
Sat Sep 05 PD
Sun Sep 13
Sat Sep 12 PD
Sun Sep 20
Sat Sep 19 PD
Sun Sep 27
Sat Sep 26
Sun Oct 04
Sat Oct 03
Sun Oct 11
Land Only*
$2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150 $2150
Single room supplement: $700. Triple rooms not available. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $215; 10 months $160; 6 months $105. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $107. Young Traveler Discount: $215. PD Preferred Departures. See page 6.
* Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 23
Irish Pubs & Folklore
10 DAYS AIR & LAND 9 DAYS DUBLIN/DUBLIN from
$1965 land only Drop by a friendly local pub for a pint of Guinness or a taste of Jameson's fine whiskey
• Airport transfers on days 2 and 10, see page 67 • Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling • 8 breakfasts (B), 1 morning coffee (MC), 1 lunch and 3 dinners (D) • Services of a professional Irish Tour Director • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and emergency restroom • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable
s q - See page 7 • Portfolio of travel documents
Dublin Galway
Alexander Hotel (SF) Jurys Inn (MF)
Killarney
Killarney Towers (SF)
Kilkenny
Pembroke Hotel (SF)
Dublin
Radisson SAS St. Helens (DLX)
24 | www.BrendanVacations.com
DAY 4 Dublin / Galway s Depart Dublin and travel through the midlands to Locke’s Distillery in Kilbeggan. Established in 1757, Locke’s is the oldest licensed pot-still distillery in the world. Now open as a museum,
DAY 3 Dublin Pass Christ Church on the way to St. Patrick's Cathedral. Then on to the seat of learning at the heart of IRELAND Dublin – Trinity College. Kylemore Abbey Walk across the cobbled • GALWAY Connemara squares to the old library 2 Excursion and see one of Ireland's • Rathbaun Farm greatest treasures – Cliffs of Moher • the famed 8th century Shannon Book of Kells. Your Tour Estuary Director will also reveal ➤ a hidden treasure q. KILLARNEY 2 Spend the rest of your • Blarney Ring day exploring the city on of Kerry your own. This evening,
•
•
•• 2 1
• 1
DUBLIN
KILKENNY
P
BRENDAN HOTELS
DAY 2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Welcome to Dublin! Spend the afternoon relaxing or travel to the Guinness Storehouse and discover what goes into making a pint of Guinness. Hear how it has traveled to 150 countries and how the famous brew has been advertised over the years. The journey ends on the roof in the Gravity Bar with a pint. Tonight, have a Welcome Drink at the traditional Irish pub in the Mont Clare Hotel.
➤
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
meet at 7:15 p.m. in the Duke Pub and join the “Dublin Literary Pub Crawl.” You are transported away from everyday life to the richness of Ireland’s famous writers, including Joyce, O’Casey, Yeats and Behan. Each group is led by actors on a trail from pub to pub – no props, no lights, no make-up, just the voice and personality of the actor. Nothing like it exists anywhere else in the world. (B)
P
DAY 1 Depart USA*
guided tours follow the process from the grinding of the grain to the casking of the final product. Learn about the lives and the working conditions of the people who toiled here. At the end of the tour, you are treated to a complimentary sample of six-year-old Lockes Irish Whiskey. Next, on to tour Galway, including Galway Cathedral. (B,D) DAY 5 Connemara Excursion In the west of Ireland, the beautiful mountains of Galway and Mayo drop down the coast. Visit Kylemore Abbey, a castellated neo-Gothic mansion, occupied by an Irish Benedictine community of nuns. The balance of the evening is free to explore Galways' pubs. (B) DAY 6 Galway / Cliffs of Moher / Killarney s Stop for morning coffee at Rathbaun Farm. See an Irish farming family carrying out their everyday chores. Continue to the Burren, a lunar-like area petrified in carboniferous limestone. Stop at the Cliffs of Moher, one of the outstanding features of County Clare. Moving on, cross the wide Shannon Estuary on the Tarbert Ferry and visit the Flying Boat Museum at Foynes. Foynes is also the birthplace of Irish Coffee. There is time to sample the famous beverage before continuing to Killarney. (B,MC,D)
throughout Ireland, having won the award of 'National Pub of the Year' a record four times along with 'Super Pub of the Year.' (B) DAY 9 Kilkenny / Dublin Travel through Ireland’s horse country to The Irish National Stud. A guided tour
shows you the stallion boxes, foaling unit and museum. Return to Dublin with some time for last minute shopping. Tonight enjoy a traditional Irish evening with dinner, song and dance. (B,D) DAY 10 Depart Dublin (B)
ABOUT DUBLIN PUBS At one time Dublin had over 4000 pubs where locals could indulge in their favorite tipple. As time passed, laws came into being to control the number of pubs in the city. Now Dublin has almost 750 licensed pubs. The Dublin pub is far from being a mere drinking emporium. Each has its own special character, and many have developed far-flung reputations for specializing in specific aspects of Irish culture - traditional music, song & dance, sports, literature and local cuisine. All, however, are centers of Irish community life, where the art of conversation finds effortless expression and no one remains a stranger for long. There are many traditional pubs just a stone’s throw away from your hotel. O’Donoghue’s, a landmark pub established in 1789, is known for its original Victorian interior, plus it has also been the setting for a host of famous musicians throughout the years. It is a favorite haunt of local Dubliners, who enjoy the real Irish music experience this pub offers seven nights a week. Other pubs close by which are worth having a pint in include Toners, Foleys and Doheny & Nesbitts, where you are guaranteed a memorable experience.
TOUR BRPF DEPARTURES & PRICES per person Depart USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Fri
Mar 13 PD
Sun Mar 22
Fri
Apr 17
Sun Apr 26
DAY 7 The Ring of Kerry Travel the road that winds around the Iveragh Peninsula, better known as “The Ring of Kerry.” Claiming the best views in Ireland, stop off at the Scarriff Inn, half way round “The Ring” for a light lunch. Later, take a jaunting car ride along the lake to the 19th century Muckross House and Folk Museum. (B,L)
Fri
Apr 24 PD
Sun May 03
Fri
May 01
Sun May 10
Fri
May 08
Sun May 17
Fri
May 15 PD
Sun May 24
Fri
May 22 PD
Sun May 31
Fri
May 29 PD
Sun Jun 07
Fri
Jun 05
Sun Jun 14
Fri
Jun 12 PD
Sun Jun 21
Fri
Jun 19
Sun Jun 28
Fri
Jun 26 PD
Sun Jul
05
Fri
Jul
03
Sun Jul
12
Fri
Jul
10
Sun Jul
19
DAY 8 Killarney / Blarney / Kilkenny Your first stop today is in the village of Blarney. There is time to browse through Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for Irish knitwear and crafts. Don’t miss Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Then on to Kilkenny. Walk with a local guide for an introduction to the medieval city. Stop in at Langton’s Bar, known
Fri
Jul
17 PD
Sun Jul
26
Fri
Jul
24
Sun Aug 02
Fri
Jul
31
Sun Aug 09
$1965 $1965 $1965 $2050 $2065 $2065 $2065 $2065 $2065 $2065 $2065 $2050 $2050 $2050 $2050 $2050 $2050
Depart USA
Return to USA
Fri
Aug 07 PD
Sun Aug 16
Fri
Aug 14
Sun Aug 23
Fri
Aug 21
Sun Aug 30
Fri
Aug 28
Sun Sep 06
Fri
Sep 04 PD
Sun Sep 13
Fri
Sep 11 PD
Sun Sep 20
Fri
Sep 18 PD
Sun Sep 27
Fri
Sep 25
Sun Oct 04
Fri
Oct 02
Sun Oct 11
Fri
Oct 09
Sun Oct 18
Fri
Oct 16
Sun Oct 25
Fri
Oct 23
Sun Nov 01
Land Only*
$2050 $2050 $2050 $2065 $2065 $2065 $2065 $2050 $2025 $2025 $1999 $1999
2010 Fri
Feb 26 §
Sun Mar 07
Fri
Mar 12 §
Sun Mar 21
Fri
Mar 26 §
Sun Apr 04
$1799 $1799 $1799
Single room supplement: $575. Triple room reduction per person: $35. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $200; 10 months $150; 6 months $100. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $103. Young Traveler Discount: $200. § Winter departures – tour code WRPF. Nov ‘09-Apr ‘10 departures are subject to itinerary, hotel, discount and price modifications. Details will be available in Jun 2009. Holiday departures: St Patrick’s Day Mar 13, ‘09, Mar 12, ‘10. PD Preferred Departures. See page 6. * Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 25
Country Roads of Ireland 11 DAYS AIR & LAND 10 DAYS DUBLIN/DUBLIN from
$1950 land only Follow the country roads near Killarney
• 9 full Irish breakfasts (B) and 5 three course dinners with choice of entrée and coffee or tea (D) • Services of a professional Irish Tour Director • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and emergency restroom • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable
s q - See page 7
BRENDAN HOTELS Dublin Sligo
Radisson SAS (SF) B&B accommodation with private bath
Killarney
Eviston House (F)
Kilkenny
Pembroke Hotel (SF)
26 | www.BrendanVacations.com
Lough Gill
•
IRELAND
GALWAY
•
Cliffs of Moher
•• 1
Ring of Kerry
• 2
•••
Rathbaun Farm
KILKENNY KILLARNEY
DUBLIN
2 1
➤
Galway
Mespil Hotel (F) or Maldron (F)
DAY 3 Dublin Pass by Christ Church on the way to stately St. Patrick's Cathedral. Then on to the seat of learning at the heart of Dublin – Trinity College. Walk across the cobbled squares to the Old Library and see one of Ireland's greatest treasures – the famed 8th century Book of
••
•
Glendalough
• 1
• Waterford •
Blarney
P
• Portfolio of travel documents
Knock
P
• Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling
DAY 2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Welcome to Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital city! Spend the afternoon relaxing or DAY 4 travel to the Guinness Storehouse and Dublin / Sligo discover what goes into making a pint of Leave Dublin and travel across the Guinness. Also learn how Guinness has country to County Roscommon to visit traveled to 150 countries and how the Strokestown Park House. This grand famous brew has been advertised over estate, built in the 18th century, has been carefully restored and still has its original the years. The journey ends on the roof furnishings. The Famine Museum, located in the Gravity Bar with a pint and a specin the former stable yards, was designed tacular view of Dublin. This evening, get to know your fellow travelers over a Welcome Dinner featuring traditional Irish Lissadell House • SLIGO 2 entertainment. (D) Strokestown Park House
➤
• Airport transfers on days 2 and 11, see page 67
Kells. Spend the rest of your day exploring the city's stylish shops, Georgian squares, galleries and museums or find a corner in a café or pub to relax and people watch. (B)
➤
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
DAY 1 Depart USA* Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
to commemorate the Great Irish Famine of the 1840’s. The museum is intended to help balance the history of the "Big House." Next, on to Sligo, described by William Butler Yeats as the “land of heart’s desire.” During your stay here, visit the poet’s grave in a quiet churchyard at Drumcliff. (B,D) DAY 5 Yeat’s Sligo & Lissadell House & Gardens Excursion Visit the Holy Well at Tubbernault. In the 1700’s when Catholics were banned from practicing their religion, these wells were used to hold secret masses and baptisms. Then drive along Lough Gill with its tiny island of Innisfree. On to Lissadell House and Gardens, the former home of Countess Markievicz. Hear the story of this remarkable woman of determination, idealism and self-sacrifice in the pursuit of freedom for the Irish people. She was the first woman to be elected to Westminster Parliament in London and the first women to be elected to and serve in the Irish Parliament. You will also find a hidden treasure q today. Returning to Sligo, the rest of the day is at leisure. (B) DAY 6 Sligo / Galway s Your first stop this morning is in Knock, a humble village where in 1879 the figures of Mary, mother of Jesus, St. Joseph and St. John the Evangelist were reported to have appeared in a vision before 15 local people. Then on to Galway, the “City of the Tribes,” to see Galway Cathedral. Stop at thatched Rathbaun Farm and meet an Irish farming family. The farmer will shear a sheep and maneuver his flock with his dog. You will have the opportunity to meet Frances, the lady of the house, during dinner and share in her tempting recipes. Later settle in as guests of Irish families in their homes. (B,D) DAY 7 Galway / Killarney Head out to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, one of the outstanding features of County Clare. Thrill to the view approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. Moving on, cross the wide Shannon estuary on the Tarbert Ferry, arriving in Killarney, set at the foot of the beautiful MacGillicuddy Reeks. (B,D)
The rolling green farmland of Ireland
DAY 8 Ring of Kerry Excursion Travel the road that winds around the stunning Iveragh Peninsula, better known as “The Ring of Kerry.” Stopping at Torc Waterfall for photos, there is a chance to join a leisurely hike with a qualified guide. You will walk along the lakeshore, past farmlands and West Meadow Bay, and visit Muckross Abbey. For those who do not want to join the hike, the motorcoach will return you to Killarney. Later, take a jaunting car ride along the lake to the 19th century Muckross House and Folk Museum. (B)
NOTE: The walk is about 2½-3 hours long and travels over wooded paths and lakeshore trails. While there are no mountains to climb, walkers would need to be fit and have good walking shoes, sunscreen and raingear. DAY 9 Killarney / Blarney / Kilkenny Your first stop today is in the village of Blarney. There is time to browse through Blarney Woolen Mills to shop for Irish knitwear and crafts. Don’t miss Blarney Castle, with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Next on to Kilkenny. Stop to visit imposing Kilkenny Castle, built in the 13th century. The balance of the day is at leisure. (B,D) DAY 10 Kilkenny / Waterford / Dublin s Begin your day with a visit to the Waterford Crystal Factory. Next is Glendalough with its monastic ruins. Then on through the Wicklow Mountains
to Dublin in time for last minute shopping. Tonight, perhaps enjoy an optional dinner in one of Dublin's fine restaurants, followed by a drive along the coast. (B) DAY 11 Depart Dublin Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
TOUR BRCR DEPARTURES & PRICES per person Leave USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat May 16 PD
Tue May 26
Sat May 23
Tue Jun 02
Sat May 30 PD
Tue Jun 09
Sat Jun 13
Tue Jun 23
Sat Jun 20 PD
Tue Jun 30
Sat Jun 27
Tue Jul
07
Sat Jul
11 PD
Tue Jul
21
Sat Jul
25
Tue Aug 04
Sat Aug 08 PD
Tue Aug 18
Sat Aug 22
Tue Sep 01
Sat Sep 05 PD
Tue Sep 15
Sat Sep 12 PD
Tue Sep 22
Sat Sep 19 PD
Tue Sep 29
Sat Sep 26
Tue Oct 06
Sat Oct 03
Tue Oct 13
$1950 $1950 $1950 $1950 $1950 $1950 $1950 $1950 $1950 $1950 $1975 $1975 $1975 $1975 $1975
Single room supplement: $420. Triple room reduction per person: $50. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $195; 10 months $145; 6 months $95. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $95. Young Traveler Discount: $195. PD Preferred Departures. See page 6.
* Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 27
All of Ireland 13 DAYS AIR & LAND 12 DAYS DUBLIN/DUBLIN from
$2399 land only Ireland, truly “forty shades of green”
• Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling • 11 breakfasts (B), 1 afternoon tea (AT) and 7 dinners with choice of entree and coffee or tea (D) • Services of a professional Irish Tour Director • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and emergency restroom • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable • Portfolio of travel documents
Dublin Waterford Killarney Letterkenny Ballygally
Dooleys (F) Killarney Plaza (SF) Connemara Coast (SF) Radisson SAS (SF) Ballygally Castle (MF)
Belfast
Jurys Inn Belfast (F)
Dublin
The Burlington (SF)
28 | www.BrendanVacations.com
••
LETTERKENNY
• • Drumcliff • Glenveagh Nat’l Park Belleek
Clonalis House
2
Derry
1
BELFAST
Downpatrick
•
• Knowth
••
CONNEMARA
Cliffs of Moher
BALLYGALLY
••
N. IRELAND
IRELAND
•• • 2
•
•1
1 1
Galway Rathbaun Farm
DUBLIN
• Glendalough
•
➤
Connemara
Radisson SAS St. Helens (DLX)
DAY 3 Dublin / Glendalough / Waterford s Travel to the monastic ruins at Glendalough. Continue on to Waterford with its colorful terrace houses, cafés and bars overlooking the quayside. At the Waterford Crystal Factory, watch master craftsmen at work in the centuries-old tradition of
Giant's Causeway North Antrim
KILLARNEY
• 2
Ring of Kerry
•
Blarney
• Midleton
P
BRENDAN HOTELS
DAY 2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel. At 2 p.m. join your fellow travelers for a city tour. Pass Christ Church on your way to stately St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Then on to Trinity College. Walk across the cobbled squares to the old library and see one of Ireland’s greatest treasures – the 8th century Book of Kells. Tonight join your Tour Director and fellow travelers for welcome drink at your hotel.
➤
s q - See page 7
glassblowing and engraving, and browse through the splendid showrooms for your own special treasure. Then, meet local Jack Burtchaell for a stroll around Ireland's oldest city. See the cathedrals and national monuments, and hear about a gallery of rogues and rascals, all delivered in a witty, entertaining style by a master storyteller. (B,D)
P
• Airport transfers on days 2 and 13, see page 67
DAY 1 Depart USA* Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
➤
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES
• 1
WATERFORD
DAY 4 Waterford / The Jameson Experience / Blarney / Killarney s Your first stop this morning is a the Old Midleton Distillery, home of Jameson Irish whiskey. See the Distillers cottage, giant waterwheel and the largest Pot Still in the world. Visit the old Cooperage and then complete the experience in the only way possible, with a whiskey tasting session in the Jameson Bar. Next is Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Stroll across to the Blarney Woollen Mills to shop for fine Irish knitwear and handicrafts. Then on to Killarney, famous for its cheerful atmosphere. (B,D) DAY 5 The Ring of Kerry Travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as “The Ring of Kerry.” Here mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. Afterward, you are free to stroll through Killarney town and browse in the shops or relax in a pub. (B) DAY 6 Killarney / Cliffs of Moher / Galway / Connemara s This morning, travel to the Cliffs of Moher, rising approximately 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves. Then travel north across the Burren. Drop in at Rathbaun Farm for afternoon tea and to meet an Irish farming family as they carry out their everyday chores. Continue on to medieval Galway. Tour the city and visit lovely Galway Cathedral. Later, at your hotel on the coast, why not enjoy a stroll along the seashore and take in the magnificent views of Galway Bay. (B,AT,D) DAY 7 Connemara at Leisure A full day at leisure to explore Connemara. You might want to take an optional excursion to the enchanted island of Inis Mor, the largest of the Aran Islands. (B) DAY 8 Connemara / Yeat’s Sligo / Letterkenny Stop at the Victorian mansion Clonalis House, ancestral home of the O’Connor’s, descendants of the last
High Kings of Ireland. In County Sligo, bid your own farewell to W.B. Yeats, Ireland’s great poet, at quiet Drumcliff churchyard where his simple tombstone reads: "Cast a cold eye / On life, on death / Horseman, pass by!" Travel north to Belleek and watch skilled craftsmen design and produce fine china at the Belleek China Factory. Tonight enjoy a warm welcome to Letterkenny in the heart of Donegal. (B,D) DAY 9 Glenveagh National Park Excursion Covering nearly 14,000 acres, this park encompasses Lough Veagh and Poisoned Glen, a marshy valley enclosed by dramatic cliffs. The park also protects the largest herd of red deer in the country. Take a guided tour of sumptuous Glenveagh Castle or just stroll through the formal gardens and rhododendron woods. (B,D) DAY 10 Letterkenny / Derry / Giants Causeway / Ballygally Your Tour Director will share a hidden treasure q today. Visit Derry, one of the longest continuously inhabited places in Ireland. Join your local guide on a walking tour of the city walls. Dating from 1613, they make Derry the only city in Ireland
completely encircled by walls. Next, on to the Giant’s Causeway. There is time to walk on this volcanic formation, sometimes referred to as the "eighth wonder of the world." Then head to your castle hotel, Ballygally. (B,D) DAY 11 Ballygally / North Antrim / Belfast This morning explore the white cliffs and wide idyllic bays of North Antrim. Continue to Belfast and enjoy a living history tour of the city with a local guide. See the landmarks that have played their part in this Victorian city’s colorful development – City Hall, the Harland & Wolff shipyard where the Titanic was built and more. The evening is at leisure. (B) DAY 12 Belfast / Dublin Head south from Belfast. At Downpatrick, visit Down Cathedral and Saint Patrick's grave. Next, stop at the Heritage Centre at Bru-na-Boinne and visit the aweinspiring Neolithic tombs at Knowth. Then on to Dublin for a festive Farewell Dinner with entertainment. (B,D) DAY 13 Depart Dublin Transfer to the airport. (B)
TOUR BRGT DEPARTURES & PRICES per person Depart USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat Apr 18
Thu Apr 30
Sat Apr 25 PD
Thu May 07
Sat May 02
Thu May 14
Sat May 09 PD
Thu May 21
Sat May 16
Thu May 28
Sat May 23 PD
Thu Jun 04
Sat May 30
Thu Jun 11
Sat Jun 06 PD
Thu Jun 18
Sat Jun 13
Thu Jun 25
Sat Jun 20
Thu Jul
02
Sat Jun 27 PD
Thu Jul
09
Sat Jul
04
Thu Jul
16
Sat Jul
11 PD
Thu Jul
23
Sat Jul
18
Thu Jul
30
$2399 $2399 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499
Depart USA
Sat Jul
Return to USA
25 PD
Thu Aug 06
Sat Aug 01
Thu Aug 13
Sat Aug 08 PD
Thu Aug 20
Sat Aug 15 PD
Thu Aug 27
Sat Aug 22
Thu Sep 03
Sat Aug 29
Thu Sep 10
Sat Sep 05 PD
Thu Sep 17
Sat Sep 12 PD
Thu Sep 24
Sat Sep 19 PD
Thu Oct 01
Sat Sep 26 PD
Thu Oct 08
Sat Oct 03 PD
Thu Oct 15
Sat Oct 10
Thu Oct 22
Sat Oct 17
Thu Oct 29
Sat Oct 24
Thu Nov 05
Land Only*
$2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2499 $2525 $2525 $2525 $2525 $2450 $2450 $2450 $2450
Single room supplement: $710. Triple room reduction per person: $80. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $240; 10 months $180; 6 months $120. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $120. Young Traveler Discount: $240. PD Preferred Departures. See page 6.
* Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 29
The Scots & The Irish 15 DAYS AIR & LAND 14 DAYS GLASGOW/DUBLIN from
$2775 land only
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES • Airport transfers on days 2 and 15, see page 67 • Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling • 13 breakfasts (B), 1 morning coffee (MC) at Rathbaun Farm and 8 threecourse dinners with choice of entrée and coffee or tea (D) • Services of a professional Irish Tour Director • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and emergency restroom • Ferry Stranraer/Belfast • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable
s q - See page 7 • Tickets to the Military Tattoo on departures Aug 08-22
DAY 1 Depart USA* DAY 2 Arrive in Glasgow, Scotland Welcome to Glasgow! At 2:30, meet your Tour Director for an orientation drive around Glasgow. Tonight, enjoy a delicious Welcome Dinner with your traveling companions. (D)
Shakespeare’s Macbeth who was promised the Thanedom of Cawdor by the witches. Then on to the battlefields of Culloden, where in 1746 the Jacobite cause, with Bonnie Prince Charlie’s leadership, perished. Visit the Glen Ord whisky distillery, then enjoy some free time in Inverness, the Highland capital. (B,D)
DAY 5 DAY 3 Aviemore / Edinburgh Glasgow / Aviemore Drive through Royal Deeside and pass Today is dedicated to the rugged beauty Balmoral estate, the Queen’s private of Scotland’s glens, lochs and isles. Highland residence. Stop for photos at En route from Glasgow, stop Craithie Church, which the Royal Family at Loch Lomond and enjoy a cruise on this “bonnie” loch. Continue on via Rannoch SCOTLAND Moor, Glen Coe, and Fort Inverness •• Cawdor Castle 2 AVIEMORE William nestled beneath Ben Fort William • Balmoral Nevis, Britain’s highest moun••Braemar Loch Lomond tain. Take an opportunity to 2 EDINBURGH GLASGOW 1 view Loch Ness, the home Giant's Causeway of the mysterious monster • Moffat LETTERKENNY 1 • • Stranraer “Nessie.” You’ll also find a 1 hidden treasure q. Continue BELFAST Connemara to Aviemore. (B,D) IRELAND Excursion
• • • ➤
• Portfolio of travel documents
Commercial fishing is a major industry on the Dingle Peninsula
Aviemore Belfast
Jurys Inn Edinburgh (F) Europa Belfast (SF) Radisson SAS (SF)
Connemara
Connemara Coast (SF)
Killarney Dublin
Killarney Towers (SF) Ballsbridge Towers (SF)
30 | www.BrendanVacations.com
DAY 4 Highlands Excursion s Visit Cawdor Castle this morning, famous for its associations with
••
••• • • • • • ••
CONNEMARA
2
Tarbert Dingle Excursion
Galway
Rathbaun Farm
Cliffs of Moher
2
2
KILLARNEY
Cashel Blarney
P
Letterkenny
➤
Edinburgh
Jurys Inn Glasgow (F) Macdonalds Highland Resort (F)
➤
Glasgow
➤
P
BRENDAN HOTELS
DUBLIN
attends when they are in Scotland. Call in at the village of Braemar, then on to St. Andrews, whose Royal & Ancient Golf Club has given us the rules of golfing. Continue to Edinburgh. Why not attend an optional Scottish evening including dinner, Highland dancers, bagpipers and the Ceremony of the Haggis? (B) DAY 6 Majestic Edinburgh With your local guide, tour this regal city from Edinburgh Castle to the Royal Mile to fairy-tale Holyrood Palace. Your afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore more on your own, shop for traditional tartans, or sample some fish and chips at a local 'takeaway.' (B)
NOTE: Tickets to the Military Tattoo are included on Aug 08-22 departures. DAY 7 Edinburgh / Belfast, Ireland Motor south through the picturesque Scottish countryside, stopping at Moffat Tartan Mills, before arriving in Stranraer. Enjoy the ferry crossing of the North Channel to Ireland. (B,D) DAY 8 Belfast / North Antrim / Letterkenny The Titanic’s sad story begins in Belfast, where she was designed and built. This morning, visit the Thompson Dock & Pump House, where the Titanic had its last fit out, for an interactive experience. Then, on a city tour, your guide takes you through the landmarks that have played their part in Belfast’s historic development. Next explore the white cliffs and wide bays of North Antrim, some of the sheltered Nine Glens and the incredible Giant's Causeway. Continue to your hotel in the town of Letterkenny. (B,D) DAY 9 Letterkenny / Connemara Join your local guide on a walking tour of the Derry city walls. Then travel south to Galway, the "City of Tribes." Your orientation tour here includes stately Galway Cathedral. Afterwards, head to the coast and your hotel, beautifully situated overlooking Galway Bay. (B,D) DAY 10 Connemara Excursion Today you tour Connemara, a wild land
of rocky mountains, sparkling brooks, and rivers. Stop at lakeside Kylemore Abbey, a castellated neo-Gothic mansion, occupied today by the Irish Benedictine community of nuns who came from Ypres after World War I. Then on to Clifden, one of the prettiest towns in Connemara. Travel through bogland and villages to the Connemara Marble Factory and learn of the origin and uses of the area’s splendid marble. (B,D) DAY 11 Connemara / Cliffs of Moher / Killarney s Drop in for coffee at Rathbaun Farm. Meet an Irish farming family as they carry out their everyday chores. Continue west across the Burren to see the Cliffs of Moher, rising approximately 700 feet above the Atlantic. Later, take the Tarbert ferry across the Shannon estuary and continue your journey to Killarney. (B,MC,D) DAY 12 Dingle Peninsula Excursion Head out today to the beautiful Dingle Peninsula. Here, majestic hills soar green and purple over unspoiled valleys, glittering mountain streams tumble down to lakes and golden beaches stretch for miles. This peninsula is a Gaeltacht, an
area where the Irish language is preserved. Learn about the Blasket Islands at the Blasket Centre. There is time to explore the town of Dingle, a colorful fishing port. You will also find a hidden treasure q. Return to Killarney where the rest of the day is free. (B) DAY 13 Killarney / Blarney / Dublin Your first visit today is Blarney Castle with its magical stone which gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. There’s time for a stop at the Blarney Woollen Mills to shop for Waterford Crystal and fine Irish handicrafts. On to Cashel to view the Rock of Cashel. The dramatic limestone rock crowned with secular and religious building dominates the flat countryside for miles around. Continue to Dublin. (B) DAY 14 Tour Historic Dublin During your morning city tour, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, see Dublin’s Georgian squares, and walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to its famed library and the 8th century Book of Kells. Your afternoon is at leisure. (B) DAY 15 Depart Dublin (B)
TOUR BRBS DEPARTURES & PRICES per person Leave USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat Apr 18
Sat May 02
Sat Apr 25
Sat May 09
Sat May 02
Sat May 16
Sat May 09 PD
Sat May 23
Sat May 16
Sat May 30
Sat May 23 PD
Sat Jun 06
Sat May 30
Sat Jun 13
Sat Jun 06 PD
Sat Jun 20
Sat Jun 13
Sat Jun 27
Sat Jun 20 PD
Sat Jul
04
Sat Jun 27
Sat Jul
11
Sat Jul
04
Sat Jul
18
Sat Jul
11 PD
Sat Jul
25
Sat Jul
18
Sat Aug 01
$2775 $2850 $2850 $2850 $2850 $2850 $2850 $2850 $2850 $2850 $2850 $2875 $2875 $2875
Leave USA
Sat Jul
Return to USA
25
Sat Aug 08
Sat Aug 01
Sat Aug 15
Sat Aug 08† PD
Sat Aug 22
Sat Aug 15† PD
Sat Aug 29
Sat Aug 22† PD
Sat Sep 05
Sat Aug 29
Sat Sep 12
Sat Sep 05 PD
Sat Sep 19
Sat Sep 12 PD
Sat Sep 26
Sat Sep 19
Sat Oct 03
Sat Sep 26 PD
Sat Oct 10
Sat Oct 03
Sat Oct 17
Sat Oct 10
Sat Oct 24
Sat Oct 17
Sat Oct 31
Land Only*
$2875 $2875 $2950 $2950 $2950 $2865 $2875 $2875 $2875 $2825 $2825 $2775 $2775
Single room supplement: $800. Triple room reduction per person: $100. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $280; 10 months $210; 6 months $140. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $150. Young Traveler Discount: $280. † Military Tattoo in Edinburgh. PD Preferred Departures. See page 6.
* Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 31
Highlights of Scotland
7 DAYS AIR & LAND 6 DAYS GLASGOW/EDINBURGH
from
$1125 land only
Ben Nevis – Britain’s highest mountain
DAY 1 Depart USA* Board your overnight transatlantic flight. YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES • Airport transfers in Glasgow on day 2 and in Edinburgh on day 7, see page 67 • Twin-bedded rooms in hotels listed or similar; hotel taxes, service charges, and tips for baggage handling • 5 breakfasts (B) and 3 three-course dinners with choice of entrée and coffee or tea (D) • Services of a professional Tour Director • Private deluxe motorcoach with airconditioning, reclining seats, and emergency restroom • Sightseeing, special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable
s q - See page 7 • Tickets to the Military Tattoo on departures Aug 08-22
DAY 2 Arrive in Glasgow, Scotland Welcome to Glasgow! At 2:30 p.m., meet your Tour Director for an orientation drive around Glasgow. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Dinner. (D) DAY 3 Glasgow / Aviemore Today is dedicated to the rugged beauty of Scotland’s glens, lochs and isles as you make your way to Aviemore. En route from Glasgow, stop at Loch Lomond and enjoy a cruise on this “bonnie” loch. Continue on via Rannoch Moor, Glen Coe, and Fort William nestled beneath Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest mountain. Take an opportunity to view Loch Ness, the home of the mysterious monster “Nessie.” Your Tour Director will also reveal a hidden treasure q today. Continue to Aviemore. (B,D)
Bonnie Prince Charlie’s leadership, perished. Visit Glen Ord whisky distillery, then enjoy some free time in Inverness, the Highland capital. (B,D) DAY 5 Aviemore / Edinburgh Drive through Royal Deeside and pass Balmoral estate, the Queen’s private Highland residence. Stop in the village of Braemar, then on to St. Andrews, whose Royal & Ancient Golf Club has given us the rules of golfing. Continue to Edinburgh, the “Prince of Cities.” Why not attend an optional Scottish evening including dinner, Highland dancers, bagpipers and the Ceremony of the Haggis? (B)
Castle •••Cawdor Culloden •
Inverness Loch Ness
• Portfolio of travel documents
Glasgow
Jurys Inn Edinburgh (F)
32 | www.BrendanVacations.com
AVIEMORE
Braemar
• •
Fort William Glen Coe
➤ Loch Lomond
Balmoral
• St. Andrews
•
GLASGOW
• • 1
2
P
Edinburgh
Jurys Inn Glasgow (F) Macdonald Highland Resort (F)
DAY 4 Highlands Excursion s Visit Cawdor Castle this morning, famous for its associations with Shakespeare’s Macbeth who was promised the Thanedom of Cawdor by the witches. Then on to the battlefields of Culloden, where in 1746 the Jacobite cause, with
P
Aviemore
2
➤
BRENDAN HOTELS
•• •
EDINBURGH
SCOTLAND
One of Scotland’s famous bagpipers at Loch Lomond
DAY 6 Edinburgh With your local guide, tour this regal city from Edinburgh Castle to the Royal Mile to fairy-tale Holyrood Palace. Your afternoon and evening are at leisure to explore more on your own, shop for traditional tartans, or sample some fish and chips at a local 'takeaway.' (B)
NOTE: Tickets to the Military Tattoo are included on Aug 08-22 departures.
“Scotland is great! I love the scenery, the history, the people – everything. I took my son there last year, and now he can’t wait to go back! One of our favorite stops was at St. Andrews to see the Old Course.” Robert Benson Brendan Reservations Agent - Europe
DAY 7 Depart Edinburgh Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
The spectacular Military Tattoo held in August each year
TOUR BRBT DEPARTURES & PRICES per person Depart USA
Return to USA
Land Only*
Sat Apr 18
Fri
Apr 24
Sat Apr 25
Fri
May 01
Sat May 02
Fri
May 08
Sat May 09 PD
Fri
May 15
Sat May 16
Fri
May 22
Sat May 23 PD
Fri
May 29
Sat May 30
Fri
Jun 05
Sat Jun 06 PD
Fri
Jun 12
Sat Jun 13
Fri
Jun 19
Sat Jun 20 PD
Fri
Jun 26
Sat Jun 27
Fri
Jul
03
Sat Jul
04
Fri
Jul
10
Sat Jul
11 PD
Fri
Jul
17
Sat Jul
18
Fri
Jul
24
$1125 $1125 $1125 $1125 $1125 $1125 $1125 $1125 $1125 $1125 $1125 $1150 $1150 $1150
Depart USA
Sat Jul
Return to USA
Land Only*
25
Fri
Jul
Sat Aug 01
Fri
Aug 07
31
Sat Aug 08† PD
Fri
Aug 14
Sat Aug 15† PD
Fri
Aug 21
Sat Aug 22† PD
Fri
Aug 28
Sat Aug 29
Fri
Sep 04
Sat Sep 05 PD
Fri
Sep 11
Sat Sep 12 PD
Fri
Sep 18
Sat Sep 19
Fri
Sep 25
Sat Sep 26 PD
Fri
Oct 02
Sat Oct 03
Fri
Oct 09
Sat Oct 10
Fri
Oct 16
Sat Oct 17
Fri
Oct 23
$1150 $1150 $1225 $1225 $1225 $1135 $1160 $1160 $1160 $1160 $1160 $1160 $1160
Single room supplement: $275. Triple room reduction per person: $45. Early Payment Discount: 12 months $115; 10 months $85; 6 months $55. 2nd Vacation Discount: up to $60. Young Traveler Discount: $115. † Military Tattoo in Edinburgh.
PD Preferred Departures. See page 6.
* Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 33
Independent Vacations Ireland
Cliffs of Moher
-1
-4
-3
Be lfa st
-5
Ro ssl are Sh Ha an rb no ou nA Wa ri rp ter 10 ort for d -1 1 -1 2
Kil lar ne y
T
N
O
Sligo
N7
1
Garnish Island
BE
P EN ARA
INS
ry Bant
Bay
N22
4
Waterford
Blarney Dungarvan Woolen Old Midleton Mills Distillery
S
LO
N1 1
Wicklow
Kilkenny Castle & Gardens
Waterford Castle
1 N1
Wexford
MAP KEY
N30
N2
5
WATERFORD Waterford Crystal Factory
Irish Nat'l Heritage Park Wexford
ROSSLARE
Bantry
Cork
Midleton
0
Kilometers
90
0
Miles
54
1
Celtic Sea
rges Geo St.
Major Road
A3 A96
Natural Feature
Nat'l Park
IRELAND
Kinsale N7
Motorway
Ancient Site
N25
CORK
Powerscourt Gardens
N
K
T
M
N9
W
8 N1
2
N2
N25
Blarney Castle
ULA
Clonmel
Mallow
N72 Ja u ntin g
KENMARE
Tipperary
N8
RI N G O F KERRY
KILKENNY
N8
KILLARNEY
0
Kilkenny
Rock of Cashel
Dun Laoghaire
Wicklow
N11
N7
S.Dublin
W Avoca .
0
Dingle
4
DUBLIN
Glendalough
Carlow
Cashel
Kerry
Crag Cave
N8
Sea
N8
Tralee
N2
Limerick
Laois Carlow
LIMERICK
N20
Adare Manor
KILDARE
Portlaoise
N10
H
T
N21
Kildare
National Stud Japanese Gardens
N7
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
N69
2
M4
N7
N7
Gallarus Oratory
Great Blasket Islands
N5
NEWMARKET ON FERGUS
Irish
Fingal
N4
Tullamore
Dromoland Castle
SHANNON
Drogheda Trim
Mullingar
Lough Derg
Clare
Shannon
DINGLE PENINSULA
Offaly
Newgrange
N6
N6
N1
7 7 N6
Ennis
Meath
N2
R
N
5
Westmeath Athlone
Dundalk
Louth N1
B
U
R
E
N5
Clonmacnoise
Rathbaun Farm
8
es
Tarbert Ferry
A2
Isl
E
N6
Dunguaire
Cliffs of Moher
Cavan
Cavan
Lough Ree
Galway
Down
Newry
N3
Galway Bay
M1
N4
Ar an
Monaghan
Longford
Aughnanure
Dun Aengus
Bangor
BELFAST
ARMAGH
Longford
Roscommon
GALWAY
M2
N2
Lough Corrib
N59
5
Armagh
A4
N3
C
N5
N4
N N O Ashford Castle
Clifden
Fermanagh
6
Roscommon
Lough Mask
Larne
A50
Lough Neagh
Carrick-onShannon
A AR
IRELAND
R
Blacklion
Knock
EM
E
Tyrone
N4
Croagh Patrick Kylemore Abbey N59
Londonderry
Lough Erne
Belleek N1
N5
Westport
T
Ulster American Folk Park
Leitrim
Clew Bay
A6
S A5
N
5
59
Mayo
Clare I.
N1
Co ts YeaSLIGO
Ballina
NORTHERN
Omagh
ay gal B try Done un
M A Y O
Achill I.
L
Lifford 5 N1
Red = kilometers • Black = miles
Antrim
DERRY
U
DONEGAL
N59
Coleraine
A2
D
275 171 135 235 84 146 193 82 153 120 51 95
A
G
N9
Kil ke nn y
R
198 123 100 62 137 85 48 30
E
L
IC
-9
A Aran I.
Giant's Carrick-a-rede Causeway Rope Bridge Portrush Bushmills
6
A24
-7
Ga lw ay
H
172 107 193 120 274 170 92 57 220 137
ANTRIM COAST
N5
A1
-6
Co rk
-8
C
219 136 117 73 309 192 163 101 222 138 158 98
Tory I.
E
222 138 204 127 309 192 407 253 391 243 283 176 357 222
G
Do ne ga Du l bli n
A
De rry
E
69 43 237 147 272 169 335 208 441 274 397 247 351 218 383 238
IL
428 266 402 250 257 160 209 130 148 92 87 54 208 129 129 80 126 78
Jura SCOTLAND Islay
M
424 264 117 73 180 112 167 104 306 190 284 177 436 271 330 205 346 215 333 207
Atlantic
H
227 141 219 136 209 130 183 114 126 76 93 58 126 78 232 144 209 130 134 83 174 108
IS
At hlo ne
IR
-2
North
Points Of Interest
l nne a h C
Castle / Manor Museum Fishguard Religeous Site
WALES
Ferry
www.BrendanVacations.com | 35
Self Drive Ireland
Independent Travel
Explore the quaint villages and uncrowded country roads on your Self Drive vacation
Self Drive
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES • B&B vouchers for each night, including private bath • Pre-booked hotels, castles and manors and select B&B’s • Full Irish breakfast each day • Car type of your choice • Unlimited Mileage, Collision Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP) and Value Added Tax (VAT) • All taxes for accommodations • Two-for-one admission to Waterford Crystal Factory Tour and Showroom; King John’s Castle; Knappogue Castle and Walled Gardens; Craggaunowen • Map of Ireland including 10% discount at Blarney Woollen Mills • Discount vouchers to Midleton and Jameson Distilleries, and at the Connemara Marble Factory Gift Shop
FEATURING B&B, HOTEL, CASTLE AND MANOR STAYS A self-drive vacation allows you to plan your own itinerary, select your overnight stops and choose the type of accommodation best suited to you. There is no better way to travel for those who really want to meet the Irish and absorb the local culture. You can start your vacation in Dublin, Shannon or Belfast. You can pick up your car when you arrive or wait until you are leaving the city to begin traveling the countryside. For the balance of your vacation, Brendan will provide you with vouchers for any combination of accommodations you select, B&B’s and any preconfirmed hotels, manors or castles we have booked, as well as a country map and an accommodation directory.
Counties of
Londonderry
Donegal
Ireland
Antrim Tyrone
Fermanagh
Sligo
Mayo
• Full documentation, including a complete listing of accommodations, touring map and accommodation vouchers, is in your possession before your departure
Monaghan
Louth
Roscommon Longford
Galway
Meath Fingal
Westmeath
S.Dublin Kildare
Offaly Laois
Clare
Wicklow Carlow
Tipperary
Kilkenny
Waterford
Kerry
Down
Leitrim Cavan
Limerick
36 | www.BrendanVacations.com
Armagh
Cork
Wexford
ENHANCE YOUR SIGHTSEEING To help your dollar go further in Ireland you can book these special sightseeing trips at a discounted price before leaving the United States. Use your sightseeing options at anytime during your vacation. RING OF KERRY Enjoy 110 miles of breathtaking scenery of crashing seas and rugged cliffs. Along the way, stop in quaint villages. Price Per Person: $36 HOP-ON-HOP-OFF DUBLIN TOUR See the geography and hear the history of the city in your mind before exploring it on your own. Price Per Person: $23 RATHBAUN FARM A visit to a working Irish farm for an included home-cooked lunch and an introduction to Irish farm life. Price Per Person: $26
Buy all 3 tours and save! Price Per Person includes: $80
CHOOSE YOUR ACCOMMODATION MIX & MATCH BED & BREAKFAST (Farmhouses and Town & Country homes)
If you prefer discovering the local way of life in an informal and relaxed atmosphere, then this is the choice for you. You will find that some homes are hundreds of years old, while others were just built. You can choose from over 2,000 B&Bs located throughout Ireland. Rest assured that the homes are routinely inspected to ensure high standards of cleanliness and comfort and all have been approved by the Irish Tourist Board. All homes provide private bathroom facilities. If you purchase open B&B vouchers, we encourage you to pre-book as much as possible to avoid disappoint-
For those of you traveling between Ireland and the UK why not take advantage of the convenient Irish Ferries. There are 4 sailings daily between Dublin and Holyhead, Wales (crossing time of 2-3.5 hrs depending on ferry type). There are also two daily sailings between Rosslare and Pembroke, Wales (crossing time of 3 hrs, 45 mins). Ask your Brendan Specialist for rates and schedules. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Bunratty Castle Banquet
ment especially during the busy summer season. This can be done on-line by contacting the B&B’s directly via a website you receive from your Brendan Specialist once you are paid in full and before you even receive your travel documents. In addition, we also offer you a selection of preferred B&B’s that Brendan can pre-book for you (see pages 49-51).
B&B PASS PRICES PER PERSON FROM Jan 01-May 31 Oct 01-Dec 31 Jun 01-Sep 30 Bed & Breakfast
$64
$67
A VARIETY OF HOTELS Many travelers prefer hotels, and Brendan can pre-book a good selection of more than 250 hotels throughout Ireland. These
MEDIEVAL BANQUETS AND IRISH NIGHTS Pre-book with Brendan and avoid disappointment. During your vacation, experience legendary Irish hospitality, music and storytelling while feasting on excellent food. These nights are very popular, and we recommend you purchase these one-of-a-kind evenings before leaving the United States. BUNRATTY CASTLE BANQUET Step back to medieval times as the Lords and Ladies of the castle escort you to the Great Hall where you enjoy a 5-course meal with pitchers of wine. Price Per Person from: $92 BUNRATTY FOLK PARK IRISH NIGHT It is easy to imagine that you are in a village setting of 150 years ago, enjoying a family-style meal, storytelling, dancing and singing. Price Per Person: $75 (Apr-Oct)
lodgings offer great variety and a full Irish breakfast is included. You will find the hotels vary in personality from historic with old world charm to modern with many conveniences, while others are peaceful country inns (see pages 40-48 for our preferred properties). If you would like to sample B&B’s for a few nights – no problem – request the number of nights you wish to stay in B&B accommodations when you request your hotel nights. A list of B&Bs will accompany your documents. CASTLES AND MANORS Why not experience the luxury of an Irish castle? Enjoy the graceful serenity of a Manor house hotel rich in history and character. It is essential that you allow Brendan to pre-book your selections to any of these special kinds of properties before your trip to avoid disappointment (see pages 53-55).
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW • We recommend you pre-book hotel accommodations for any nights you stay in Dublin. • To avoid disappointments during high season, we recommend you pre-book B&B accommodations. Hotel and castles must always be pre-booked; see pages 40-55. • Unused, lost or stolen vouchers cannot be refunded or reissued. • One way rentals are permitted between all locations in Ireland at no extra charge as long as rental length is two days or longer. One-way drop off charge to Northern Ireland is 125 Euro plus VAT. Minimum three day rental required. GPS and infants seats available at an extra charge • Minimum driver age limit is 25 and strictly enforced. There is no maximum age limit. NOT INCLUDED: Accommodation supplements; phone calls for onward reservations, insurance deductibles, delivery, collection, additional drivers, fuel, vehicle license fee of up to Euro 1.32 plus tax per day, airport location fee of up to Euro 25 plus tax per rental, and location surcharge of Euro 20 plus tax per rental (Limerick City location only)
Bunratty Folk Park Irish Night
www.BrendanVacations.com | 37
Opel Astra
Opel Zafira
The Irish coastline is packed with secret coves, craggy headlands and sea cliffs
BOOK BY MARCH 31, 2009 & SAVE UP TO 15% OFF SELECT VEHICLES
PRICES PER CAR PER DAY Car Category
Group
Model
USA Equivalent
Luggage Capacity
Rate Max # of Adults
Per Car, Per Day*
MANUAL Economy
EBMN
Opel Corsa 3 door
N/A
1 large 1 small
4
$21
Economy
EDMN
Opel Corsa 4 door
N/A
1 large 1 small
4
$22
Compact
CDMN
Opel Astra
Ford Focus
1 large 1 medium
5
$26
Compact
CDMR
Toyota Corolla with A/C
Toyota Corolla
2 large 1 meduim
5
$28
Compact Wagon
CWMR
Peugeot 307 Estate with A/C
Volvo V50 Wagon
2 large 2 medium
5
$40
Intermediate IDMN
Opel Vectra
Ford Fusion
2 large 2 medium
5
$32
Intermediate
IDMR
Opel Vectra with A/C
Ford Fusion
2 large 2 medium
5
$38
Mini Van
SVMN
Opel Zafira 1.6
Dodge Journey
2 large 2 medium
5-7
$59
EDAN
Opel Corsa 2 door
N/A
1 large 2 small
4
$35
ASK ABOUT OUR FULLY INCLUSIVE RATES & SAVE BEFORE YOU GO! In addition to the great rates listed on this page that include Collision Waiver, Theft Protection and Unlimited Mileage, you can take advantage of our Fully Inclusive rates. This also includes Vehicle License Fee (VLF), one additional driver and any premium location fees. Ask your Brendan Specialist for details.
APPROXIMATE DRIVE TIME (driving at normal speeds)
AUTOMATIC Economy
Londonderry •
BELFAST
Compact
CDAR
Opel Astra 1.4 with A/C
Ford Focus
2 large 1 small
5
$38
Intermediate
IDAR
Opel Vectra 1.6 4 door with A/C
Ford Fusion
2 large 2 small
5
$48
4.5 hrs
Full Size
FDAR
Saab 9.3 4 door with A/C
Saab 9.5 or Volvo S40
2 large 2 medium
5
$99
Premium
PDAR
Saab 9.5 4 door with A/C
Saab 9.5 or Volvo S60
2 large 2 medium
5
$106
Mini Van
SVAR
Opel Zafira 1.6 with A/C
Dodge Journey
2 large 2 medium
P P
Ring of Kerry
1.5 hrs
DUBLIN
P
hrs • Dun.5 Laoghaire • Ferry to Holyhead, Wales
3.5 hrs
3 hrs
2.5 hrs
3.5 hrs
$85
* Prices based on low season (Apr 01-07; Apr 13-30; Oct 01-Dec 09; Jan 03-March 29, 2010) 6-7 day rental and include Collision Waiver (CDW), Theft Protection (TP), Unlimited Mileage (T&M) and Value Added Tax (VAT). Rentals for shorter (minimum 1 day) or longer periods available. Supplements apply for other times of the year. Luggage capacity based on maximum number of passengers (fewer passengers = more space for luggage). Ask about seasonal specials.
P
Ferry to Stranraer, Scotland
2.5 hrs
3.5 hrs
Galway •
Shannon •
5-7
•
IRELAND
Killarney •
38 | www.BrendanVacations.com
2 hrs
P
.5 hrs
•
P
•
Cork
Waterford 3 hrs
• Rosslare Ferry to Fishguard, Wales
To Help Plan Your Ireland Self Drive Vacation, Here Are a Few of Our Favorite Sample Itineraries Ireland’s Southern Charms - Minimum 6 days, ideal 7 or 8 days DAY 1 Arrive in Dublin. Must see's – Trinity College Library, Guinness Storehouse, Molly Malone Statue
P
IRELAND
DUBLIN
• 1
P
Dromoland Castle
• •• Adare Manor
• • • • ••
SHANNON 1 Foynes 1
1
1 KILKENNY
DAY 3 Cork. En route visit the Rock of Cashel. Must see's – the English market, St . Finbar's Cathedral, Queenstown Story at Cobh
Rock of Cashel
Jameson Distillery
KILLARNEY CORK
DAY 2 Kilkenny. En route visit the National Stud Farm in Kildare. Must see's – Kilkenny Castle, the Design Centre, Langton’s Pub
DAY 4 Killarney. En route visit the Jameson Distillery at Midleton. Must see's – the Dingle Peninsula, ride in a Jaunting Car, Killarney National Park DAY 5 Shannon Area. En route visit the Flying Boat Museum at Foyne’s. This is ideal for a fairy-tale ending at Dromoland Castle or Adare Manor. Must see's – Bunratty Castle, Durty Nelly’s, King John’s Castle DAY 6 Return Home
Ireland Coast to Coast - Minimum 10 days, ideal 12 or 14 days NORTH ANTRIM COAST
••
DAY 1 Arrive in Dublin. Must see's – St Patricks Cathedral, Kilmainham Gaol, St Stephen’s Green
1
LONDONDERRY 1
SLIGO 1 Knock
Newgrange
DUBLIN
••• 1 1
•
•
•
IRELAND
GALWAY 1 Cliffs of Moher
1 BELFAST
P
•
•
N. IRELAND
P
•
•
➤
Belleek China Factory
Powerscourt Gardens
➤
• Glendalough
•
KILLARNEY
•Blarney
DAY 3 North Antrim Coast. Take the scenic coastal road. Must see's – Giants Causeway, Bushmills Distillery, Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge DAY 4 Londonderry. Coastal drive. Must see's – Derry City Walls, Tower Museum, the Guildhall
•
1 WATERFORD
1
DAY 2 Belfast. En route visit the Neolithic tombs at Newgrange. Must see's – City Hall, Albert’s Memorial Clock, the Crown Liquor Saloon
Castle
DAY 5 Sligo. En route visit the Belleek China Factory. Must see's – Drumcliff Churchyard, Lissadell House, Lough Gill
DAY 6 Galway. En route visit visit Westport or Knock. Must see's – Galway Bay, Kylemore Abbey, The Old Bog Road DAY 7 Killarney. En route visit the Cliffs of Moher. Must see's – the Ring of Kerry, Killarney Lakes, Muckross House DAY 8 Waterford. En route visit Blarney Castle. Must see's – Waterford Crystal Factory, Reginald’s Tower, City Hall DAY 9 Dublin. En route visit Glendalough and Powerscourt Gardens. Must see's – Dublin Castle, Temple Bar, Oscar Wilde in Merrion Square DAY 10 Return Home
Ireland’s Country Roads - Minimum 7 days, ideal 8 or 9 days DAY 1 Arrive in Dublin. Must see's – Malahide Castle, City Hall, Phoenix Park
WICKLOW 1
The Burren
• 1
KILLARNEY
1 1
•
IRELAND
➤
• Tarbert • Ferry
•• •
Clonmacnoise
P
P
•
GALWAY 1
DUBLIN
•
1 WATERFORD
•Blarney Castle
DAY 2 Wicklow/Wexford Area. En route visit the Mount Usher Gardens. Must see's – Avondale House, Hook Head Lighthouse, Dunbrody Famine Ship DAY 3 Waterford/Cork Area. En route visit the Youghal Lighthouse. Must see's – Kinsale, Charles Fort, Fota Island
Must see's – Dingle, the Blasket Islands, Tralee DAY 5 Galway. En route take the Tarbert Ferry and see the Burren. Must see's – An Spideal, the Aran Islands, the Spanish Arch DAY 6 Dublin. En route visit Clonmacnoise. Must see's – Old Jameson Distillery, National Art Gallery, Dublinia at Christchurch DAY 7 Return Home
DAY 4 Killarney. En route kiss the Blarney Stone.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 39
Dublin Our Favorite Hotels
MOUNT HERBERT HOTEL
###
JURYS INN CUSTOM HOUSE
###
BW ASHLING
####
Located near the Lansdowne Road Stadium • 168 rooms with TV, a hairdryer, phone, coffee/tea making facilities and more • Restaurant and bar on site
Set along the Liffey River • 239 rooms with a TV, hairdryer, phone, coffee/tea tray and more • Restaurant, coffee shop and bar on site
Near the Guinness Storehouse • 65 rooms with a TV, tea/coffee maker, hairdryer and more • Restaurant on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $86
TRIPLE N/A
TWIN $97
TRIPLE $71
TWIN $84
####
JURYS INN PARNELL
####
GRAFTON CAPITAL
SINGLE $136
ACADEMY PLAZA
SINGLE $162
SINGLE $144
TRIPLE $78
####
Nestled in the center of the city • 285 rooms with A/C, a TV, wireless internet access, hairdryer and more • A bar and two restaurants are located on site
Located near O’Connell Street and Grafton Street • 253 rooms with A/C, a TV, phone, hairdryer and more • Choice of restaurants and bars on site
Situated near St. Stephen’s Green • Close to popular shopping spots • 75 rooms with a TV, hairdryer, safe, phone and more • Restaurant located on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $84
TWIN $88
TRIPLE $70
TWIN $94
####
ALEXANDER HOTEL
SINGLE $164
TRIPLE $83
SINGLE $160
SINGLE $164
TRIPLE $86
MOST POPULA R
MONT CLARE
####
CAMDEN COURT
####
Near Trinity College • 80 rooms with A/C, a TV, safe, hairdryer, coffee/tea making facilities and more • Restaurant and bar on site
246 rooms with a TV, hairdryer, tea/coffee tray and more • Indoor pool • Fitness center • Solarium • Restaurant and bar on site
Located in the center of the city, close to entertainment • 102 rooms with standard amenities • Jacuzzi • Fitness center • Restaurant on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $100
TWIN $104
TWIN $110
SINGLE $182
40 | www.BrendanVacations.com
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $170
TRIPLE $101
SINGLE $214
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
TRIPLE $108
Dublin Our Favorite Hotels
DAVENPORT HOTEL
####
CLARION IFSC
AIRPORT TRANSFERS STARTING AT $14 P/P (based on 2 passengers)
####
BALLSBRIDGE COURT
#####
Near Merrion Square • 114 rooms with A/C, TV, a hairdryer, coffee/tea tray and more • Fitness center • Restaurant and bar located on site
163 rooms with A/C, internet access, minibar, safe and more • Indoor pool • Sauna • Fitness center • Bar, lounge and restaurant located on site
Near Grafton Street and St. Stephens Green • 188 rooms with a TV, 24-hour room service, minibar and more • Pool • Sauna • Bar and bistro on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $110
TWIN $129
TWIN $105
SINGLE $214
TRIPLE $108
SINGLE $209
TRIPLE $125
SINGLE $165
TRIPLE N/A
STAFF FAVORIT E
BROOKS HOTEL
#####
DYLAN HOTEL
#####
THE WESTIN
#####
Near Grafton Street • 98 rooms with A/C, a TV, minibar and more • Sauna • Fitness room • Restaurant and bar on site • Live piano music at the Café lounge
Located away from the bustle of the city • 44 rooms with a TV, A/C, minibar, safe and more • Recreational activities nearby • Restaurant and bar on site
Near Grafton Street • 163 rooms with A/C, minibar, phone, hairdryer and more • Fitness center • Nearby golf course • Restaurant and bar on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
RICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $154
TWIN $199
TWIN $208
SINGLE $274
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $359
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $372
TRIPLE N/A
AWARD WINNIN G
THE WESTBURY HOTEL
#####
FOUR SEASONS
#####
THE MERRION
#####
In the city center just steps from Grafton Street • 204 rooms with cable TV, A/C, minibar and more • Sauna • Fitness room • Restaurant and bar on site
Stroll to Herbert Park • 197 rooms with a safe, hairdryer and more • Spa • Fitness center • Lap pool and whirlpool • Restaurant on site
142 rooms with A/C, safe, minibar, hairdryer, wireless internet connection and more • Spa with fitness center and pool • Restaurant and bar on site
RICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
RICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
RICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $224
TWIN $230
TWIN $314
SINGLE $399
TRIPLE N/A
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
SINGLE $420
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $579
TRIPLE N/A
www.BrendanVacations.com | 41
Dublin Break 3 DAYS DUBLIN/DUBLIN
from
$269 land only
Independent Travel Travel any Day
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES • Airport transfers in Dublin on days 1 and 3; see page 67 • Twin-bedded rooms in your select centrally located hotel or similar; hotel taxes and service charges
You might want to visit Trinity College
• 2 breakfasts (B) • Services of a local host • Dublin Hop-On-Hop-Off city tour • Portfolio of travel documents
BRENDAN HOTELS SUPERIOR TOURIST CLASS BW Ashling
FIRST CLASS Alexander Hotel or Davenport Hotel
DELUXE Dylan Hotel
DAY 1 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Welcome to the vibrant Irish capital! Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure to begin exploring on your own. DAY 2 Dublin Discover Dublin your own way on a HopOn-Hop-Off journey through the city on an open-top, double decker bus. There are 23 stops along the way, including Trinty College, the National Gallery, St. Stephens Green, Temple Bar, Dublin
Castle, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Guinness Storehouse, the Old Jameson Distillery and the Writers Museum. You decide which sights you want to view from the coach and which you want to see up close. Your tour ticket includes discounts at some of the most popular attractions. The total duration of the tour if you decide not to get off the coach is approximately 1½ hours. (B) DAY 3 Depart Dublin You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Stop for a pint at a local pub
TOUR FDB DEPARTURES & LAND ONLY PRICES per person from Twin
Superior Tourist Class First Class Deluxe
Single
Triple
$269 $399 $257 $315 $523 $297 $505 $1037 N/A
Travel any day.
For extra nights in Dublin, ask your Brendan Specialist. * Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
42 | www.BrendanVacations.com
Explore Dublin & Beyond DUBLIN PASS
OLD JAMESON DISTILLERY
A great way to see Dublin! This pass guarantees access to 30 of the most popular of the city’s attractions and sights, often including special offers and discounts.
Discover the history of this Irish Whiskey Distillery and how just three ingredients – water, barley and yeast – are combined to form the golden spirit. Then, enjoy a Jameson Signature drink.
LENGTH: 1, 2, 3 OR 6 DAY PASSES PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $64-$153
LENGTH: 1 HR PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $17
ABBEY TAVERN Enjoy an evening at the Abbey Tavern. This is not a cabaret, but a lively informal show reflecting Ireland’s wealth of music and song, served with a 5-course Irish dinner.
DUBLIN HOP-ON-HOP-OFF Entertaining guides will take you to famous sites such as Dublin Castle, Trinity College, The Guinness Storehouse and more. Pick up the tour at more than 20 stops every 15-20 minutes and travel at your leisure. PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $25
DUBLIN BAY & CASTLE TOUR
Experience the true taste of Guinness at this museum showcasing the history of “The Black Stuff.” Learn how the world famous drink is brewed and enjoy a free pint in the Gravity Bar. LENGTH: 1 HR PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $17
CORK, BLARNEY CASTLE & THE QUEENSTOWN STORY
DUBLIN GHOST BUS
LENGTH: 14 HRS PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $175
A spellbinding trip of Dublin to unsettle your nerves! Travel with a live storyteller, and learn about Bram Stoker, the creator of Dracula, the Walking Gallows and the Ghost of Dr. Clossy. LENGTH: 2 HRS, 15 MINS PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $42
RING OF KERRY Travel to Killarney by train. Then a motorcoach takes you along the beautiful Ring of Kerry. View Dingle Bay, the Macgillicuddy Reeks and more. Return to Dublin by train. LENGTH: 14 HRS PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $175
GIANT’S CAUSEWAY, GLENS OF ANTRIM & WILD ATLANTIC COAST Take the train to Belfast, then coach to the beautiful Antrim Coast, crossing the Glens of Antrim. Then, on to the world famous Giant’s Causeway. Later take the train back to Dublin.
PAT LIDDY’S WALKING TOURS
GUINNESS STOREHOUSE
LENGTH: 7 HRS PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $49
LENGTH: 2 HRS PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $88 (NOV-FEB) $98 (MAR-OCT)
LENGTH: 32 HRS PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $68
LENGTH: 24- 22 HRS PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $17
Visit the ancient tombs of Newgrange. They predate the Egyptian Pyramids by 1,000 years. Other highlights include the site of the Battle of Boyne and the Old High Crosses at Monasterboice.
A full day journey by rail. Travel to Cork. From here, coach to Blarney Castle with its magical stone granting the gift of eloquence. Next, visit Cobh, the last port of call for the doomed Titanic. Then, return to Dublin.
Leaving Dublin, head out to the seaside town of Malahide. Visit historic Malahide Castle. As you return to Dublin, stop at Howth Head and enjoy the splendid view.
Experience the 2000-year-old city of Dublin on a walking tour. See the city’s beautiful architecture, ancient city walls and backstreets alive with history, heritage and culture. Choose from five different themes.
VALLEY OF THE KINGS (NEWGRANGE) TOUR
LENGTH: 142 HOURS PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $175
The coach’s interior is decorated in a unique gothic style
Giant’s Causeway - a UNESCO World Heritage Site
WICKLOW MOUNTAINS, VALLEYS AND LAKES Travel into the beautiful Wicklow Mountains. Stop to visit Avoca Village, then on to Glendalough. This monastic settlement was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Later, return to Dublin. LENGTH: 72 HRS PRICE PER PERSON FROM: $46
www.BrendanVacations.com | 43
Waterford, Kilkenny, Wexford & Cork Our Favorite Hotels
FAITHLEGG HOUSE HOTEL Waterford ####
KILKENNY RIVERCOURT HOTEL, Kilkenny ####
100 rooms with phone, TV, hairdryer and more • Close to many tourist attractions • Restaurant and bar on site • Horseback riding, golf and surfing nearby
82 rooms with TV, phone and more • Restaurant and bar on site • Spa • Pool • Tennis courts • Gym • Golf course
90 rooms with TV, phone, tea/coffee making facilities and more • Riverview Bar and Riverside Restaurant on site • Pool • Gym • Jacuzzi
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $100
TWIN $118
TWIN $90
GRANVILLE HOTEL Waterford
###
SINGLE $150
TRIPLE $98
SINGLE $178
TRIPLE $110
SINGLE $150
TRIPLE N/A
####
KILKENNY ORMOND HOTEL, Kilkenny #####
WHITES OF WEXFORD HOTEL, Wexford ####
74 rooms with A/C, TV, iron, tea/coffee making facilities and more • Restaurant and bar on site • Pool and health facilities located next door at her sister hotel
118 rooms with minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer, 24-hour room service and more • Pool • Fitness center • Health club and spa • Restaurant and lounge
Centrally located in the historic area of the city • 157 rooms with A/C, TV, hairdryer, phone and more • Hydropool • Sauna • Spa • Restaurant and bar on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $100
TWIN $124
TWIN $90
PEMBROKE HOTEL Kilkenny
SINGLE $140
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $174
TRIPLE $100
SINGLE $140
TRIPLE $88
SILVER SPRINGS MORAN HOTEL, Cork ####
IMPERIAL HOTEL CORK Cork ####
JURYS CORK HOTEL Cork #####
109 rooms with TV, phone, tea/coffee making facilities and more • Spa • Indoor pool • Jacuzzi • Golf nearby • Restaurant on site
Near shopping and dining • Rooms feature a TV, tea/coffee making facilities, hairdryer and more • Restaurants and a bar on site • Relax in the salon and spa
Situated on the banks of River Lee • 182 rooms with A/C, tea/coffee tray, TV, hairdryer and more • Indoor pool • Sauna • Gym • Bar, bistro and coffee bar
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $103
TWIN $110
TWIN $112
SINGLE $183
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TRIPLE $90
SINGLE $174
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $212
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
TRIPLE $102
Killarney Our Favorite Hotels MOST POPULA R
DARBY O’GILLS Killarney
###
ARBUTUS Killarney
###
KILLARNEY TOWERS Killarney ####
Close to Killarney town center • 43 rooms with hairdryer, TV, phone and more • Restaurant and bar on site
Historic hotel in the center of the town • 35 rooms with standard amenities • On-site restaurant and bar
Located near horseback riding and a golf course • 169 rooms with TV, hairdryer, safe, iron and more • Pool • Gym • Sauna • Restaurant and bar on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $60
TWIN $88
TWIN $54
SINGLE $90
TRIPLE $56
SINGLE $130
TRIPLE $80
SINGLE $94
TRIPLE N/A
STAFF FAVORIT E
THE MALTON Killarney
####
KILLARNEY PLAZA Killarney
#####
CAHERNANE HOUSE HOTEL Killarney #####
Set on 6 acres of private land • 172 rooms with TV, hairdryer, 24-hour room service and more • Sauna • Pool • Jacuzzi • Garden • Restaurant and bar on site
68 rooms with A/C, safe, TV, hairdryer and more • Fitness center • Sauna • Restaurant and bar on site • Golf course nearby • Walk to shops
17th-century manor house • 48 luxury rooms with standard amenities • Tennis and croquet • Restaurant and bar located on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $100
TWIN $95
TWIN $165
SINGLE $158
TRIPLE $94
SINGLE $172
TRIPLE $95
KILLARNEY PARK HOTEL Killarney #####
AGHADOE HEIGHTS HOTEL Killarney #####
Central location • 68 rooms with standard amenities • Spa • Health club with sauna, plunge pool and more • Restaurant and Garden Bar on site • Golf nearby
Country setting • Splendid views of the lakes and mountains of Killarney • 74 rooms with A/C, hairdryer, internet access and more • Spa • Restaurant on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $142
TWIN $200
SINGLE $284
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $399
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
TRIPLE $174
SINGLE $227
TRIPLE $131
“A self-drive vacation is ideal for those who want to set their own pace and itinerary. The left-hand driving is straightforward with an automatic transmission. And how lost can you get on an island anyway? So you take a wrong turn. That "wrong" turn could easily become the gem of your trip. The warmth and hospitality of the Irish people will take good care of you.” Sharman West Brendan Reservations Agent – Europe
www.BrendanVacations.com | 45
Shannon, Limerick , Ennis Mayo & Donegal Our Favorite Hotels
OAKWOOD ARMS Shannon
####
PARK INN SHANNON AIRPORT Shannon ####
THE GEORGE HOTEL Limerick ####
Close to Shannon Airport and Bunratty Castle • 100 rooms with cable TV, phone, tea/coffee maker and hairdryer • Sauna • Restaurant and bar on site
114 rooms with phone, tea/coffee making facilities and more • Restaurant and Blairs Bar located on site • Walk to Shannon Airport
Lovely boutique hotel, close to King John’s Castle • 128 rooms with TV, A/C, safe and more • Restaurant and bar on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $68
TRIPLE N/A
TWIN $99
TWIN $85
####
OLD GROUND HOTEL Ennis ####
BREAFFY HOUSE RESORT Mayo ###
Set on the Shannon River • 158 rooms with A/C, TV, minibar, hairdryer, 24-hour room service and more • Indoor pool • Gym • Sauna • Restaurant, bar and lounge
85 rooms with TV, phone, hairdryer, tea/ coffee making facilities and more • Bar and restaurant on site • Garden • Golf nearby
125 rooms with hairdryer, satellite TV, tea/coffee maker and more • Golf • Pool • Gym • Spa • Restaurant on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $90
TWIN $108
TWIN $85
SINGLE $108
CLARION LIMERICK Limerick
SINGLE $156
TRIPLE $86
CLEW BAY HOTEL Mayo
###
SINGLE $144
SINGLE $158
MILL PARK Donegal
TRIPLE N/A
TRIPLE $104
###
SINGLE $127
SINGLE $127
SANDHOUSE Donegal
TRIPLE $81
TRIPLE $81
#####
Located city center, close to popular attractions • 48 rooms with TV, phone, coffee/tea making facilities, hairdryer and more • Bar and two restaurants on site
115 rooms with wireless internet access, TV, hairdryer, phone and more • Granary Restaurant and Café Bar on site • Fitness center • Pool • Steam room • Golf nearby
Overlooks Donegal Bay • 60 rooms with TV, hairdryer, 24-hour room service and more • Pool • Restaurant and bar on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $95
TWIN $110
TWIN $170
SINGLE $144
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TRIPLE $82
SINGLE $158
TRIPLE $92
SINGLE $232
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
TRIPLE $136
Galway & Sligo Our Favorite Hotels GREAT LOCATIO N
BW FLANNERYS Galway
####
JURYS INN GALWAY Galway
####
DAYS HOTEL Galway
####
Minutes from the city center • 136 rooms with hairdryer, TV, phone and more • Restaurant and bar
Close to Galway Bay and the Spanish Arch • 130 rooms with satellite TV, hairdryer, phone, tea/coffee tray and more • Restaurant, bar and coffee shop
311 rooms with safe, hairdryer, TV and more • Leisure club featuring a pool, workout equipment and steam room • Restaurant and bar
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $56
TWIN $79
TWIN $100
SINGLE $96
TRIPLE $52
SINGLE $142
TRIPLE $58
SINGLE $150
TRIPLE $96
MOST POPULA R
CONNEMARA COAST Galway #####
THE TWELVE HOTEL Galway #####
THE G HOTEL Galway
Located near the city center and Galway Bay shores • 115 rooms with hairdryer, coffee/tea making facilities and more • A pub and two restaurants
Boutique hotel • 48 rooms with TV, minibar, hairdryer, phone, tea/coffee making facilities and more • Wellness center • Restaurant and bar located on site
101 rooms with A/C, TV, safe, in-room bar and more • Spa featuring a fitness center and sauna • Restaurant and bar
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $108
TWIN $120
TWIN $160
SINGLE $182
TRIPLE $104
SINGLE $220
TRIPLE $110
SINGLE $280
#####
TRIPLE N/A
Be sure to visit Kylemore Abbey during your stay in County Galway
CLARION SLIGO Sligo
####
238 rooms with TV, minibar, coffee/tea making facilities, 24-hour room service and more • Restaurant, bar and lounge • SanoVitae Health and Fitness Club • Pool PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM TWIN $90
SINGLE $144
TRIPLE $86
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
www.BrendanVacations.com | 47
Northern Ireland Our Favorite Hotels
DAYS INN Belfast
###
JURYS INN BELFAST Belfast
###
EUROPA HOTEL Belfast
####
Situated in the shopping, business and entertainment districts • 250 rooms with phone, tea/coffee tray, TV, hairdryer and more • Restaurant and bar
Set next to the Belfast Opera House • 190 rooms with satellite TV, tea/coffee tray, internet access, hairdryer and more • Restaurant and bar on site
Situated city center close to shopping, entertainment and museums • 240 rooms with TV, wireless internet access, hairdryer and more • Piano Bar and restaurant
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $93
TWIN $98
TWIN $115
SINGLE $142
CULLODEN Belfast
TRIPLE N/A
#####
SINGLE $174
RAMADA DA VINCI Derry
TRIPLE $93
###
SINGLE $183
CITY HOTEL Derry
TRIPLE N/A
####
Set in 12 acres of gardens • 79 elegant rooms with many amenities • Spa Health Club with pool, fitness room, jacuzzi and more • On-site restaurants
Enjoy a short stroll along the riverfront and you will find yourself at the town center • 70 rooms with TV, hairdryer, phone and more • Restaurant and bar on site
Located on the River Foyle • 145 rooms with hairdryer, iron, minibar, TV and more • Pool • Jacuzzi • Gym • Restaurant on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $204
TWIN $93
TWIN $104
SINGLE $299
MARINE HOTEL Antrim Coast
TRIPLE N/A
###
SINGLE $175
TRIPLE $85
Historic property just steps from the beach • 44 rooms with cable TV, A/C, hairdryer and more • Restaurant and bar on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $89
TWIN $87
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TRIPLE $74
TRIPLE $98
BALLYGALLY CASTLE Antrim Coast ####
Close to many popular city attractions • 31 rooms with TV, phone and more • Pool • Sauna • Fitness room • Bar located on site SINGLE $129
SINGLE $153
SINGLE $142
TRIPLE N/A
Sea Pink Thrift in bloom at Dunluce Castle
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
Bed & Breakfast Gems 24 ●
25 ●
23 ● • DONEGAL
• 1
BALLYKNOCKEN HOUSE Wicklow A charming, ivy-clad Victorian house • 6 rooms with tea making facilities, TV and more • Garden • Golf course and horse riding nearby
22 ●
• 2
KILLIANE Wexford 8 rooms each featuring a TV, electric blanket, hairdryer and more • On-site driving range • Homemade yogurt and bread included with hot breakfast
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $110
TWIN $100
SINGLE $168
TRIPLE $96
•
SINGLE $140
•
Enjoy a walk by the river • Near Mount Juliet Golf Club • 3 guest rooms • TV lounge • Experience life on a dairy farm
21 20 18 ● ● 19● GALWAY ● • 17 ●● 16
SHANNON AIRPORT
15 ● 14 ●
• LIMERICK 6 ●
● 5 9 ● 12•● ● 10 CORK 11 ● • ● 8 ● 7 ●
KILLARNEY
TRIPLE $100
4 SUNCREST Waterford
3 KNOCKANORE Kilkenny
• KNOCK
13
• DUBLIN WICKLOW
1 • ●
3 ● 2 ● ● • 4 • WEXFORD
WATERFORD
•
5 NEWTON FARM Waterford
6 rooms with tea making facilities, TV and more • Garden • Golf course and horseback riding nearby
A charming working farm • Individually decorated rooms • Sauna • Tennis court • Beaches, stables and golf courses nearby
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $70
TWIN $70
TWIN $70
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
•
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
•
•
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $100
TWIN $80
TWIN $80
6 GLASHA Waterford
7 LOCHINVER FARMHOUSE Cork
Individually decorated rooms with TV, tea/coffee making facilities and more • Conservatory • Gardens • Horseback riding, walking trails and golf are nearby SINGLE $120
TRIPLE $80
5 rooms with hairdryer, electric blanket, clock radio and more • TV in the sitting room • Garden • Near golf and horseback riding SINGLE $104
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
TRIPLE $80
8 ARDFIELD Cork
Rooms feature power showers, a TV, hairdryer and more • Lounge with a fireplace • Sport horse farm • Special diets catered to SINGLE $104
TRIPLE $74
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Bed & Breakfast Gems •
9 ALDERHAVEN COUNTRY HOME Killarney
Visit the Ring of Kerry or Killarney National Park, both a short distance away • Rooms with hairdryer and TV • Look out at the farm pasture as you enjoy breakfast
•
10 LOCH LEIN COUNTRY HOUSE Killarney
25 rooms with standard amenities • Enjoy a day of fishing on the Killarney Lakes • Legends Restaurant • Golf courses and boating nearby
•
11 CILLCEARN Killarney
Venture to the Ross Castle and take a boat tour around the Lakes of Killarney • Rooms with a hairdryer and TV • Kitchen facilities available for guest use
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $70
TWIN $100
TWIN $70
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
•
12 CARRIGLEA HOUSE Killarney
Close to the Lakes of Killarney and the National Park • 8 spacious rooms with a hairdryer, TV and more • Breathtaking views of the Killarney mountains
SINGLE $160
TRIPLE $100
•
13 FLEMINGSTOWN HOUSE Limerick
5 en-suite rooms with a hairdryer, tea/ coffee making facilities and more • Enjoy homemade meals • Modern working farm
SINGLE $100
TRIPLE $70
•
14 BRIAR LODGE Bunratty
Close to Ennis and Limerick • 5 en-suite rooms with hairdryer, coffee/tea tray and more • TV lounge, wireless internet access and garden available for guest use
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $70
TWIN $110
TWIN $70
SINGLE $100
TRIPLE $70
•
15 CAHERGAL FARMHOUSE Shannon
Short distance from the local golf club and Dromoland Castle • Rooms with a hairdryer, TV and more • Garden and lounge • Tennis court
SINGLE $130
TRIPLE $90
•
16 CLAREVIEW HOUSE Galway
5 well-equipped guest rooms • Home cooked breakfast, dinner available if requested • Conservatory • Wander around the farm
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
•
17 ST. JUDES Galway
Close to Galway • Walking trails, golf, tennis and more nearby • 6 en-suite rooms with cable TV and more • Ask your hosts about lunch and dinner
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $70
TWIN $80
TWIN $70
SINGLE $99
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TRIPLE $70
SINGLE $110
TRIPLE $75
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
Bed & Breakfast Gems •
18 CLARE VILLA Galway
•
19 FOUR WINDS LODGE Galway
Near Galway's city center and the beach • Comfortable, en suite guest rooms with hairdryer and more • Golf, tennis and Leisureland are all located nearby
Overlooks Galway Bay • Rooms feature a coffee/tea tray, hairdryer and TV • Near Galway's city center, beaches and more • Private garden • Conservatory
•
20 DAN O’HARA’S FARMHOUSE Galway
6 en-suite rooms each with a TV, tea tray and more • Sitting room • Access to the Heritage Center • Hillwalking, golf and horse riding nearby
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $70
TWIN $70
TWIN $76
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
•
21 ST. RUTH’S FARMHOUSE Roscommon
Visit the Roscommon County Museum • 5 rooms with a hairdryer, electric blanket and more • Garden • Guest lounge with fireplace
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
•
SINGLE $106
TRIPLE $76
•
23 ARDLANN Donegal
22 CUANEEN HOUSE Mayo
Breathtaking views of the nearby Clew Bay, Croagh Patrick and Achill Island • 6 rooms with en-suite facilities • Homemade breakfast to start your day
Guest rooms offer panoramic views and are equipped with a hairdryer, TV, tea tray and more • Close to golf, horseback riding, the beach and walking paths
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $70
TWIN $70
TWIN $70
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
•
24 KILLENNAN HOUSE Derry
3 rooms with a hairdryer, alarm clock and more • TV lounge • Visit the Tower Museum to learn about the history of Derry • Activities along the River Foyle
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
25 GLENLEARY FARMHOUSE Antrim Coast
4 rooms with a TV, hairdryer and more • Visit Bushmills Distillery or a nearby beach • Take a tour of the farm and see cattle, pigs and sheep • Game room PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $70
TWIN $70
TRIPLE $70
TRIPLE $70
•
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM SINGLE $99
SINGLE $99
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
SINGLE $99
TRIPLE $70
Meet the locals at an Irish Pub
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Rent an Irish Home Letterkenny
8 ●
SLIGO WESTPORT
• 1
ARD NA MARA HOLIDAY HOME A short walk to Dingle town center • 3 and 4 bedroom self-catering homes with kitchen, dishwasher, washer/dryer, central heating, stereo, linens, towels and more • Private gardens
•
•
•DERRY •
Armagh
MUCKROSS HOLIDAY VILLAGE
•
4 3 ● ● Bunratty
SHANNON AIRPORT
••
LIMERICK
•TRALEE 1 •● Dingle KILLARNEY 2• Waterville ●
• Tullow 7 • ●
Kilkenny
• WATERFORD
• Kenmare
•
6 ● 5 ●
PRICE PER WEEK FROM: $706
PRICE PER WEEK FROM: $622
•
•
•
PRICE PER WEEK FROM: $499
PRICE PER WEEK FROM: $675
PRICE PER WEEK FROM: $499
•
•
•
PRICE PER WEEK FROM: $607
PRICE PER WEEK FROM: $956
PRICE PER WEEK FROM: $540
3 DOOLIN HOLIDAY HOMES
Golf course nearby • Close to shopping and other city attractions • 3 bedroom homes with linens, towels, TV, washer/ dryer, iron, fully equipped kitchen and more • Tennis court • Garden
6 SHEEN VIEW HOLIDAY HOME
Situated along the Kenmare Bay Estuary • Two golf courses nearby • 12 homes each with 3 bedrooms, amenities include a TV, fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, DVD player and more
52 | www.BrendanVacations.com
4 CASTLE GARDENS HOLIDAY HOME
3 and 4 bedroom homes with a TV, fireplace, fully equipped kitchen and more • Access to pool, sauna, gym and game room • Restaurant on site
7 WOLSELEY HOLIDAY HOME
Self-catering 4 bedroom homes with a fully equipped kitchen, cable TV, a phone and more • On site pool, gym, jacuzzi and sauna • Enjoy on site golf, horseback riding and river cruising
– Includes all taxes –
Bere Island
BELFAST
• DUBLIN
•
Lahinch
•
•
GALWAY
2
Minutes from the Muckross House and Gardens as well as the Lakes of Killarney • 35 self-catering homes either 3 or 4 bedrooms with a TV, kitchen, washer/dryer, dishwasher and more
•
•
5 BARLEY COVE BEACH HOLIDAY
Located along the Blue Flag Beach • 18 self-catering homes with 2 and 3 bedrooms include a TV, microwave, central heating, washer/dryer, linens and more • Restaurant and pub on site
8 RED DOOR LUXURY APARTMENTS
10 self-catering apartments able to sleep 6 guests include a fully equipped kitchen, a TV, fireplace, washer/dryer and more • Beaches and golf nearby
Irish Castles & Manors DERRY
•
DONEGAL SLIGO
• 1
FITZPATRICK CASTLE Co. Dublin #### Close to Dublin • 113 rooms with modern amenities • Indoor pool • Gym • Sauna • PJ’s Restaurant and Dungeon Bar and Grill on site
• 2
CLONTARF CASTLE Co. Dublin ##### Close to Dublin • 111 rooms with standard amenities • Gym • Fahrenheit Grill, Knights Bar and Indigo Lounge all on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $116
TWIN $145
SINGLE $174
TRIPLE $106
•
3 DUNBOYNE CASTLE HOTEL Co. Dublin ####
145 rooms with cable TV, minibar, coffee maker and more • Fitness center • Spa • Restaurant and bar on site
16 ● 8 ●
SINGLE $260
TRIPLE $125
•
4 CABRA CASTLE HOTEL Co. Cavan ####
Historic property dating back to 1768 • 86 richly designed rooms • 9 hole golf course, free to guests • Excellent dining and pub on site
●•
SHANNON AIRPORT TRALEE
BELFAST
4 ●
3 ● 2 ● DUBLIN
•
GALWAY
1 ● 22 ●
15 ● 18 ●
23 ●
• LIMERICK
13 ● 12 ● 11 ● 20 ●
•
•
14 • MAYO ● 21
•
WEXFORD
WATERFORD
•9 5 ● ● •KILLARNEY● KENMARE CORK•17 • 10 ●● 19
•
•●6 ●7•
5 DINGLE BENNERS Co. Kerry
####
52 rooms with satellite TV, tea/coffee making facilities and more • Traditional Irish restaurant and bar on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $98
TWIN $132
TWIN $114
SINGLE $147
TRIPLE N/A
•
SINGLE $193
TRIPLE $110
SINGLE $174
TRIPLE $96
•
•
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $134
TWIN $188
TWIN $166
6 WATERFORD CASTLE Co. Waterford #####
Situated on an 18-hole golf course • Nearby fishing and walking tours • 19 rooms with standard amenities • Archery • Tennis • Restaurant and lounge SINGLE $268
TRIPLE $172
7 DUNBRODY COUNTRY HOUSE Co. Wexford #####
Located on 200 acres of lush parkland • 22 rooms with a TV, hairdryer and more • Spa • Cooking school • Restaurant
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
SINGLE $376
TRIPLE N/A
8 BALLYNAHINCH CASTLE Co. Galway ####
Set on 450 acres of rivers and trees • 40 rooms with a TV, phone and more • Owenmore Restaurant with views of the Ballynahinch River SINGLE $226
TRIPLE $133
www.BrendanVacations.com | 53
Irish Castles & Manors STAFF FAVORIT E
•
9 BALLYSEEDE CASTLE Co. Kerry ####
Located on 30 acres of private land, surrounded by the woodlands and lush gardens • 23 rooms with a TV, hairdryer, robe and more • On site restaurant
•
10 SHEEN FALLS LODGE Co. Kerry #####
66 rooms with TV, hairdryer and more • Bar and two restaurants • Health spa with gym, indoor pool and sauna
•
11 ADARE MANOR Co. Limerick
#####
62 well equipped guest rooms • 18-hole golf course • Spa • Cocktail lounge and restaurant on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $127
TWIN $234
TWIN $166
SINGLE $188
TRIPLE $106
•
12 DUNRAVEN ARMS HOTEL Co. Limerick ####
A charming old world property • Guest rooms are individually designed and well equipped • Excellent restaurant and piano bar • Pool, gym and steam room
SINGLE $411
•
13 GLIN CASTLE Co. Limerick
TRIPLE $209
####
Wander around the 500 acres of gardens and learn about the flowers that call this area home • 15 rooms with standard amenities • Restaurant on site
SINGLE $332
TRIPLE $190
•
14 ASHFORD CASTLE Co. Mayo #####
83 rooms with a TV, hairdryer, phone and more • 9-hole golf course on the 350 acres of private land • Choice of bars and restaurants on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $132
TWIN $228
TWIN $256
SINGLE $193
TRIPLE $110
SINGLE $455
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $477
TRIPLE $317
UNIQUE STAY
•
15 KINNITTY CASTLE Co. Offaly ####
Located on the Slieve Bloom Mountains • 37 rooms with standard amenities • Spa • 2 bars and 3 restaurants on site
•
16 ABBEYGLEN CASTLE Co. Galway ####
30 rooms with a hairdryer, phone and more • Relaxation and beauty center • Restaurant on site • Tennis • Pitch & Putt Golf • Overlooks Clifden Bay
•
17 HAYFIELD MANOR Co. Cork #####
88 rooms with A/C, a TV, 24-hour room service, safe and more • Beautique and Elemis Spa • Choice of 2 restaurants
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $118
TWIN $132
TWIN $146
SINGLE $186
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TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $193
TRIPLE $110
SINGLE $272
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
TRIPLE $206
Irish Castles & Manors AWARD WINNIN G
MOST POPULA R
•
18 DROMOLAND CASTLE Co. Clare #####
99 rooms with deluxe amenities • Golf club with 18-hole course • Spa • Excellent restaurants and a bar on site
•
19 PARK HOTEL KENMARE Co. Kerry #####
46 rooms with a TV and other deluxe amenities • Lap pool • Spa • Bar and dining room on site • 18-hole golf course
•
20 THE MUSTARD SEED Co. Limerick #####
18 rooms with a TV, hairdryer and more • On site restaurant uses fresh produce from the gardens • Enjoy nearby horseback riding
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $157
TWIN $256
TWIN $140
SINGLE $274
TRIPLE $227
•
21 ZETLAND CASTLE Co. Galway ####
19 individually decorated rooms with a hairdryer, TV, phone, wireless internet connection and more • Tennis courts • Billiards room • Dining on site
SINGLE $344
TRIPLE $235
•
22 RITZ CARLTON POWERSCOURT Co. Wicklow #####
200 rooms with A/C, a TV, hairdryer, 24-hour room service and more • Spa • 2 golf courses • Restaurants and bars
SINGLE $208
•
23 LYRATH ESTATE Co. Kilkenny
TRIPLE $132
####
Close to the city where you can enjoy many attractions • 137 rooms with A/C, a TV, minibar and more • Spa and health club • Restaurant and bar on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $132
TWIN $186
TWIN $118
SINGLE $193
TRIPLE $111
SINGLE $372
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $176
TRIPLE $98
Castle Island in Lough Key Forest Park
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
www.BrendanVacations.com | 55
Chauffeur Driven Ireland DAY 1 Depart USA* Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
8 DAYS AIR & LAND 7 DAYS DUBLIN/SHANNON from
$3995 land only
Independent Travel Travel any Day
BRENDAN GOLD’S TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES • Airport transfers on days 2 and 8 • Accommodations in hotels listed; hotel taxes, service charges and tips for baggage handling • Breakfast daily (B) • Transportation in a chauffeur driven Mercedes Benz; your Irish chauffeur is your guide • Special features and scenic highlights as indicated in the itinerary, including admission charges where applicable • Portfolio of travel documents
BRENDAN HOTELS Dublin Killarney
Waterford Castle (DLX) Aghadoe Height Hotel & Spa (DLX)
Boyne Valley
P
Newmarket-on-Fergus Dromoland Castle (DLX)
IRELAND
• 2DUBLIN DROMOLAND CASTLE Glendalough
••
•• •Adare
P
➤
1
Shannon Foynes
•
WATERFORD
KILLARNEY Ring of Kerry
• 2
• 1
•
Blarney
56 | www.BrendanVacations.com
DAY 3 Boyne Valley Excursion Travel to the Boyne Valley in County Meath. This river valley was the cradle of Irish civilization and supported a sophisticated society in Neolithic times. Witness this when you stop at the Bru-na-Boinne Centre to visit one of the most important Neolithic tombs at Knowth or Newgrange. Return to the city, where the balance of the day is at your leisure. (B) DAY 4 Dublin / Waterford En route to Wexford visit Powerscourt, whose glorious formal gardens overlook a dramatic view of the Sugarloaf Mountain. Also stop at Glendalough, "Valley of the Two Lakes," famous for its early monastic ruins and scenic setting. Continue to the ancient town of Waterford with its colorful terrace houses, cafés and bars overlooking the quayside. Enjoy a night in Waterford Castle, set on its own private island on the River Suir. (B)
Brooks Hotel - deluxe room (SF)
Waterford
DAY 2 Arrive in Dublin, Ireland Welcome to Dublin! Upon arrival, you are met and transferred to your hotel by your chauffeur. This afternoon, your voyage of discovery begins with a city tour. Visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, founded in 1190, tour Dublin's beautiful Georgian squares, walk the cobbled courtyards of Trinity College to its famed library and its unique world treasure – the 8th century Book of Kells. The rest of the day is free.
DAY 5 Waterford / Killarney Your day starts with a visit to Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift of eloquence for a kiss. Stroll across to the Blarney Woollen Mills to shop for fine traditional knitwear and crafts. Then journey on to the charming town of Killarney. (B)
DAY 6 The Ring of Kerry A scenic day includes a drive along the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula and through the villages of Killorgin, Cahirciveen, Waterville and Sneem. This is one of Ireland’s loveliest districts, with spectacular land and seascapes. (B) DAY 7 Killarney / Dromoland Castle Pass through pastoral farmlands, stopping at the Flying Boat Museum in Foynes. On to the picturesque village of Adare, then continue to Dromoland Castle. This elegant 16th century baronial castle features luxurious accommodation in a splendid setting. (B) DAY 8 Dromoland / Depart Shannon Transfer to Shannon Airport. Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
MEET YOUR CHAUFFEUR Your Irish chauffeur is a highly trained professional and will enrich your travel experience with a wealth of expert knowledge. Departure times and a flexible, relaxing balance between driving and sightseeing can be mutually agreed upon each day. In addition, advice on restaurants, entertainment, and more is readily available.
TOUR CDI DEPARTURES & LAND ONLY PRICES* per person from Twin
Single
$3995
$7165
Travel any day. Based on a minimum of 2 passengers traveling. You can modify this itinerary to suit your interests. * Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
Independent Vacations Great Britain
Trooping the Colour is an impressive display
Self Drive Great Britain – Go as you please
Independent Travel Self Drive
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES • B&B and Hotel vouchers for each night • Pre-booked hotels, castles and manors • Full English breakfast each day; Continental breakfast in London • Car type of your choice • Unlimited Mileage, Collision Waiver (DLW), Theft Protection (TLW) and Value Added Tax (VAT) • All taxes for accommodations • Full documentation, including a complete listing of accommodations, touring map and accommodation vouchers, is in your possession before your departure
Ford Mondeo
58 | www.BrendanVacations.com
Drive the country roads of Scotland
FEATURING TOWN & COUNTRY B&Bs, COUNTRY INNS, MANSIONS AND MANORS – HOW IT WORKS Select your preferred categories of accommodation. You can take each day as you please, but we recommend you prebook accommodation before you leave the USA via access of a website which your Brendan Specialist will advise upon full payment. You can choose between country pubs, inns, B&B’s and hotels depending upon your purchase. In addition your travel documents will include a complete list of the accommodations with photos, descriptions and full instructions for last-minute bookings. We encourage you to prebook as much as possible in advance to avoid disappointment especially during the busy summer season. There is no minimum stay at each property and a child receives a discount when sharing with two adults.
WHO SHOULD PURCHASE THIS PROGRAM Open dated vouchers are designed for flexible travelers who: a) Like to maximize their options b) Have flexible expectations of their itinerary c) Want the security of having already budgeted for accommodations before leaving the USA Open dated vouchers are not suitable when you definitely need to stay at one particular inn, hotel or castle. Under these circumstances, we recommend you choose a property from our vast selection of hotels throughout the U.K. Ask your Brendan Specialist for details or refer to our Europe City Breaks 2009 brochure or Brendanvacations.com.
CHOOSE YOUR ACCOMMODATION THAT BEST SUITS YOUR BUDGET BED & BREAKFAST COLLECTION Choose from over 700 superb B&Bs, private homes and guesthouses throughout Britain. You will receive an e-voucher number for standard rooms that include a traditional English breakfast (continental breakfast in London) Most homes will have private facilities available for a nominal supplement of £5.00 per person per night, payable at check-in. Your overnight might be at a working farm, period cottage, homes that are hundreds of years old or a traditional B&B in a suburb. SILVER AND GOLD LEVEL Over 400 additional B&Bs offer accommodation with private and ensuite bathroom facilities in a variety of styles. These can range from the traditional to contemporary to mansion and manors. Simply upgrade your bronze voucher with a supplement paid to your host to stay at a Silver or Gold level B&B. INNS AND HOTEL COLLECTION We have selected over 900 of Britain's finest inns, pub hotels and hotels, each offering the best in service, cleanliness and comfort. They range in size and style, from country inns to modern city center hotels. They are priced at five different levels depending on amenities and locations. You purchase Bronze level e-vouchers, which generally include country inns with as little as 10 rooms, features private bathroom, a restaurant and bar and typically rate as 3 star accommodation. A supplement paid locally to an inn or hotel in addition to your Bronze voucher allows you to stay
in Silver, Gold, Platinum or Diamond level properties. These supplements, as outlined on this page for your convenience, are fixed amounts so you can determine what a good portion of your vacation budget will be before you even leave home. MIX AND MATCH
B&B’s are clean, comfortable and a great way to meet the locals
It is our belief that the best way to get the flavor of any country is to stay in different kinds of accommodation. These programs offer that flexibility. Just purchase vouchers for each program (B&B’s, Hotels and Inns) to enjoy the ambience of the country to its fullest. Your Brendan Specialist will be able to assist you in planning the best itinerary to suit your needs.
ACCOMMODATION PASS PRICES PER PERSON FROM
The Rubens at the Palace, London
Rate
Bed & Breakfast Collection with shared facilities
$66
Supplements (pay directly to the property or when you book online)
Single Silver Gold Edinburgh during Military Tattoo
In Pounds
Approx U.S. Equivalent*
£10.00 £10.00 £15.00 £7.50
$18 $18 $28 $14
Inns & Hotels Collection Inns with private facilities
$84
Supplements (pay directly to the property or when you book online) Single Silver Gold Platinum Diamond
£15.00 £3.50 £8.50 £12.50 £15.00
$28 $7 $16 $23 $28
THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW • We suggest your first night as well as properties in London, Stratford, Bath, and Edinburgh properties be pre-booked. This should be requested at time of booking to avoid disappointment. These hotels are not part of the Go-As-YouPlease fly drive program. • Driver age minimum limit is 21. Drivers between the ages of 21-24 are restricted to specific car groups. No restrictions on drivers older than 25 years. There is no maximum age limit in London, Manchester, Edinburgh or Glasgow. Some UK cities do impose maximum age limits. Check with your Brendan Specialist.
We strongly advise that you make your booking as far in advance as possible particularly during busy summer periods and during the UK bank holidays.
*Based on exchange rates in Oct 2008.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 59
ASK ABOUT OUR FULLY INCLUSIVE RATES & SAVE BEFORE YOU GO! In addition to the great rates listed on this page that include Collision Waiver, Theft Protection and Unlimited Mileage, you can take advantage of our Fully Inclusive rates. This also includes Vehicle License Fee (VLF) and any premium location fees. Ask your Brendan Specialist for details. Ford Focus
Vauxhaul Zafira BOOK BY MARCH 31, 2009 & SAVE UP TO 15% OFF SELECT VEHICLES
PRICES PER CAR PER DAY Car Category
Group
Model
USA Equivalent
Luggage Capacity
Rate Max # of Adults
Per Car, Per Day*
(driving at normal speeds)
Highlands
P
Inverness •
MANUAL Mini
MCMN
Ford Ka
Toyota Yaris
2 small
2-4
Economy
ECMN
Vauxhall Corsa 3 door
Chevy Aveo
1 large 1 small
2-4
$35 $37
Compact
CCMR
Vauxhall Astra 3 door with A/C
Saturn Astra
1 large 1 meduim
4
$45
Compact
APPROXIMATE DRIVE TIME
CDMR
Ford Focus 4 door with A/C
Ford Focus
• Aberdeen
2.5 hrs
4 hrs
P Glasgow
• St. Andrews • P EDINBURGH
1.5 hrs
• 1 hr
3 hrs
P
• Newcastle
• Stranraer
1 large 1 meduim
4
$46
Ferry to Belfast, Ireland
Lake District
3 hrs
5.5 hrs
Intermediate
IDMR
Vauxhall Vectra 5 door with A/C
Saturn Aura
2 large 2 medium
5
$58
Standard
SDMR
Ford Mondeo 5 door with A/C
Pontiac Grand Prix
2 large 2 medium
5
$71
Holyhead
Ferry to•
Dun Laoghaire, Ireland
3 hrs
CWMR
Vauxhaul Astra Estate with A/C
Ford Escort Wagon
2 large 3 small
4-5
$68
Mid-size Wagon
IWMR
Ford Mondeo Estate with A/C
Ford Contour Wagon
4 large 2 medium
5
$70
Mini Van
IVMR
Vauxhall Zafira 1.8 7 seater with A/C
New Dodge Journey
2 large 2 small
5-7
$71
Compact
CCAR
Vauxhall Astra 5 door with A/C
Chevy Cobalt
1 large 1 medium
4
$57
Standard
SDAR
Vauxhall Vectra 5 door with A/C
Ford Fusion
2 large 2 medium
5
$78
Full-size
FCAR
Saab 9.5 4 door with A/C
Saab 9.5 or Volvo S60
2 large 2 medium
5
$93
Van
FVAR
Volkswagan Sharan 2.0 with A/C
Chevy Uplander
1 large 1 small
7
$166
Full-size Wagon
FWAR
Saab 9.5 Estate 5 door with A/C
Saab 9.5 Wagon
4 large 2 medium
5
$99
Standard Elite
SSAR
Mercedes C220
Mercedes C300
2 large 2 medium
5
$130
Full-size Elite
FXAR
Mercedes E280
Mercedes E320
2 large 2 medium
5
$161
Ferry to Fishguard Rosslare, CARDIFF Ireland
Plymouth •
AUTOMATIC
Vauxhall Astra
* Prices are valid Apr 01, 2009-Mar 31, 2010, for a 7 day rental and include Collision Waiver (DLW), Theft Protection (TLW), Unlimited Mileage (T&M) and Value Added Tax (VAT). Rentals for shorter (minimum 1 day) or longer periods available. Luggage capacity based on maximum number of passengers (fewer passengers = more space for luggage). Ask about seasonal specials.
•
Volkswagan Sharan
P
• Manchester 3 hrs
5.5 hrs 3.5 hrs
•
Compact Wagon
60 | www.BrendanVacations.com
P
3 hrs
4 hrs
P
2.5 hrs • 1.5 hrs LONDON Oxford • 2 hrs • Dover 2 hrs 4.5 hrs 2 hrs • 4.5 hrs Brighton
London Break 3 DAYS LONDON/LONDON
from
$315 land only
Independent Travel Travel any Day
YOUR TRAVEL VALUE INCLUDES • National Express Dot2Dot airport transfers in London on days 1 and 3 • Twin-bedded rooms in your select centrally located hotel or similar; hotel taxes and service charges • 2 breakfasts (B)
Cavalry Life Guards have protected the Royal family since 1660
• Services of a local host • London Hop-On-Hop-Off city tour • Portfolio of travel documents
BRENDAN HOTELS SUPERIOR TOURIST CLASS Jurys Inn Islington or Jurys Inn Chelsea
FIRST CLASS The Rubens at the Palace
DELUXE Egerton House Hotel
DAY 1 Arrive in London, England Welcome to the lively British capital! Upon arrival at Heathrow Airport, proceed to the Dot2Dot Reception Desk for your hotel transfer. The rest of the day is at leisure to begin exploring the city on your own. DAY 2 London Discover London your own way on a Hop-On-Hop-Off journey through the city on a open-top, double decker bus. This is
the Original London Sightseeing tour. There are more than 70 stops along the way, including Piccadilly Circus, Trafalgar Square, Marble Arch, National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, St. Paul’s Cathedral and more. You decide which sights you want to view from the coach and which you want to see more closely (admission charges not included). (B) DAY 3 Depart London You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Egerton House Hotel (Deluxe)
TOUR FLN DEPARTURES & LAND ONLY PRICES* per person from
Apr 01, ‘09-Mar 31, ‘10
Superior Tourist Class ‡ Twin Single Triple
Twin
$315 $505
$515
$294
First Class ‡ Single Triple
$741
$419
Twin
Deluxe ‡ Single Triple
$781 $1359 $921
Travel any day.
For extra nights in London, ask your Brendan Specialist. ‡ Above prices are based on transfers from Heathrow Airport. A supplement applies for transfers from Gatwick. Private transfers are available for an additional charge.
* Your Brendan Specialist will quote you the lowest airfare available from your hometown at the time of booking.
www.BrendanVacations.com | 61
Edinburgh Our Favorite Hotels
PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFERS STARTING AT $58 P/P (based on 2 passengers)
GREAT VALUE
PARLIAMENT HOUSE HOTEL
###
JURYS INN EDINBURGH
####
THISTLE EDINBURGH
####
53 rooms with wireless internet access, a TV, minibar, hairdryer and more • Restaurant and bar on site • Near major city attractions
Visit the Edinburgh Castle or spend the day shopping in town • 186 rooms with a hairdryer, satellite TV, tea/coffee tray and more • Restaurant, café and bar on site
Explore all of the wonderful attractions of the city • 143 rooms with a phone, TV, hairdryer, internet access and more • Breakfast room on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $121
TRIPLE N/A
TWIN $91
TWIN $107
####
ROYAL TERRACE
SINGLE $242
OLD WAVERLY
SINGLE $167
TRIPLE $76
####
SINGLE $196
THE CARLTON
TRIPLE N/A
####
Scottish Parliament and Holyrood Palace nearby • 85 rooms with 24-hour room service, and standard amenities • Bar and restaurant on site
107 rooms with a hairdryer, phone, TV and more • Health and Leisure Club on site with heated indoor pool, steam room and sauna • Restaurant
189 rooms with a TV, hairdryer, wireless internet access and more • Gym • Indoor pool • Restaurant on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $135
TWIN $131
TWIN $178
SINGLE $270
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $189
TRIPLE $124
AWARD WINNIN G
SINGLE $252
TRIPLE N/A
OPTIONAL TOURS Pre-book your optional tours with Brendan to save and avoid disappointment.
DALHOUSIE CASTLE
#####
THE BALMORAL
#####
13th century Scottish castle set in wooded parklands • 36 individually designed rooms have a TV, hairdryer and more • 2 restaurants
188 rooms with luxurious amenities • Spa with pool, gym and more • On-site restaurant • Museums, cathedrals and other attractions nearby
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $177
TWIN $428
SINGLE $354
62 | www.BrendanVacations.com
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $645
TRIPLE $295
Description
Price
Edinburgh Bus Tour - Hop-OnHop-Off – Daily, Year round
$22
Loch Ness and The Highlands Tour Daily, Mar 31-Oct 28; Full day
$78
Stirling Castle, Loch Lomond & Glengoyne Distillery Daily, Mar 31-Oct 28; Full day
$78
Oban & Western Highlands Daily, Mar 31-Oct 28; Full day
$78
Optional tour prices are per person.
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
Glasgow & The Scottish Countryside Our Favorite Hotels
JURYS INN GLASGOW Glasgow
###
RAMADA GLASGOW Glasgow
PRIVATE AIRPORT TRANSFERS STARTING AT $71 P/P (based on 2 passengers)
###
BALLACHULISH HOTEL Glencoe/Fort William ###
Within walking distance to many city attractions • 321 rooms with a TV, hairdryer, internet access, A/C and more • Restaurant and bar on site
Enjoy local shopping or visit the Science Center • 108 rooms with satellite TV, internet access, aa hairdryer, phone and more • Restaurant and bar on site
Explore the area by horseback • Set in a tranquil area of Scotland, where you can relax and unwind • 53 rooms with standard amenities • Restaurant on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $76
TWIN $94
TWIN $114
SINGLE $136
TRIPLE $71
SINGLE $157
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $190
TRIPLE N/A
MACDONALD RUSACKS St. Andrews ####
LOCHARDIL HOUSE Inverness
59 rooms with standard amenities • Hydro sauna • Pool • Fitness room • Restaurant on site • Close to golf courses
Near St. Andrews Golf Course • 68 rooms with satellite TV, a hairdryer, tea/coffee making facilities, phone and more • Restaurant and bar on site
Close to the town of Iverness • 28 rooms with wireless internet access, a hairdryer, satellite TV, tea/coffee making facilities and more • Restaurant on site
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $114
TWIN $204
TRIPLE N/A
TWIN $114
####
STONEFIELD CASTLE Loch Fyne #####
ISLES OF GLENCOE Glencoe/Fort William
SINGLE $190
###
TRIPLE N/A
DRUMOSSIE HOTEL Inverness
####
SINGLE $370
BUCHANAN ARMS Loch Lomond
SINGLE $203
####
TRIPLE N/A
Countryside setting not far from Inverness • 44 rooms with satellite TV, a minibar, phone, internet access and more • Restaurant on site
Located near Loch Lomond • 52 rooms with a TV, phone, hairdryer and more • Pool • Squash courts • Gym • Sauna • On-site restaurant, bar and lounge
Near the village of Tarbet • 33 well appointed rooms • Beautiful gardens • Excellent restaurant and bars • Golf, walking trails and horseback riding
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
PRICE PER PERSON PER NIGHT FROM
TWIN $139
TWIN $88
TWIN $114
SINGLE $235
TRIPLE N/A
SINGLE $147
– Includes breakfast and all taxes –
TRIPLE $88
SINGLE $177
TRIPLE N/A
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Terms & Conditions DEPOSIT & FINAL PAYMENT A non-refundable deposit of $200 per person per program is required within 7 days of booking. Certain products may have additional deposit requirements. This will be advised at the time of booking or on your invoice. The deposit forms part of your final payment, which is due at least 45 days prior to departure. If we do not receive final payment by the specified date, we reserve the right to cancel the reservation. In the case of billing errors, we reserve the right to reinvoice with correct pricing. Charge card payments require certain information. Third party charge cards are not accepted. REVISION FEES A handling fee of $30 per transaction will be charged for any alterations or revisions. Name changes or corrections to clients’ names after air tickets have been issued are subject to airline revision fees. Courier delivery costs will also apply if any changes are necessary within five weeks prior to departure. A change of program date or itinerary within 45 days of departure will be treated as a cancellation and new booking; regular cancellation fees apply. SPECIAL HANDLING FEES Bookings made within 30 days of departure may incur special handling fees. CANCELLATIONS & CANCELLATION FEES All cancellations must be advised in writing. The following per person cancellation fees apply: 46+ days prior to departure: Full deposit 45-22 days prior to departure: 25% of total price 21-8 days prior to departure: 30% of total price 7-1 day(s) prior to departure: 50% of total price On departure day or later: 100% of total price “Departure day” is considered the date Brendan services begin.
NOTE: Should a passenger sharing a room cancel, the remaining passenger(s) will be charged an occupancy upgrade. If the cancellation fees are less than the required deposit, the entire deposit amount applies as the cancellation fee. Cancellation charges apply to extra nights prior to and after the program. Flight changes after deposit has been received or flight cancellations after tickets are issued incur airline revision/ cancellation fees. Air-inclusive programs cancelled after receipt of tickets will be processed after return of tickets to Brendan. Lost ticket replacement can take up to one year and processing fees will be assessed. NOTE: Additional penalties may apply from certain hotels and service providers.
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Additional fees will apply for any air tickets already issued. If Brendan cancels a program, we will re-book passengers on the same program with a different departure date or a similar program. All rebookings are subject to availability. If that program is unacceptable, Brendan will refund all monies paid to Brendan by your travel agent; there is no additional liability. Brendan cannot assume responsibility for any additional costs or fees relating to the issuance and/or cancellation of air tickets or other travel arrangements not made through Brendan. NON-REFUNDABLE AIR TICKETS Not all of our departures are guaranteed to operate. If you are purchasing a non-refundable air ticket, please make sure that your travel agent explains the difficulties associated with nonrefundable airfares. Brendan cannot be held responsible for any change/ cancellation penalties associated with these non-refundable airfares. REFUNDS FOR UNUSED SERVICES No refunds will be made for unused services once travel arrangements have commenced. In the event of your withdrawal from a tour after commencement for reasons of illness, you must obtain a medical certificate in support of any insurance claim. We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including but not limited to, missed meals or sightseeing. SERVICE INQUIRIES AFTER THE PROGRAM If after the program you wish to inquire about any services provided, please ensure that all correspondence relating to those services is received by Brendan within 60 days after the program completion date. To expedite processing, please email all correspondence to:
[email protected] PASSPORTS & VISAS A valid passport is required of all program participants. It must be valid at least six months after date of return to the U.S. Your travel agent can help you obtain the necessary forms for passport application. Non-U.S. citizens must consult with the appropriate consulates to determine if any visas are needed. It is suggested that all passengers, regardless of the passport they hold, check with the appropriate consulates of the countries being visited to determine if any visas are needed. Securing any needed visas is the responsibility of the passenger. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS Passengers should check with the consulates and/or the local health boards for the latest health requirements. TRAVELERS NEEDING SPECIAL ASSISTANCE Any disability requiring special attention must be advised in writing to Brendan
at the time of booking. Passengers with disabilities are welcome on Brendan’s programs, provided they are accompanied by a qualified and physically-able companion capable of providing all assistance required, and do not require special assistance from Brendan’s personnel. Brendan reserves the right to refuse to carry anyone it is felt cannot cope with the requirements of coach travel and who may require services and facilities that Brendan cannot guarantee will be available.You agree to not hold Brendan responsible for any decisions made by them or any service provider to refuse to carry you, provide any facilities or accommodation to you or to provide any service to you. Motorcoaches and mini-buses or vans are not equipped with wheelchair ramps. Please note that motorized wheelchairs/scooters are not allowed on our vacation programs. YOUNG PROGRAM PARTICIPANTS Brendan welcomes children five years of age and older on guided programs. There are no age restrictions for independent travel. Program participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. If a child will be traveling with adults other than parents, or with only one parent, it is the passenger’s responsibility to contact the appropriate consulates and the applicable airlines to ensure children have the required documentation for traveling outside the U.S. PROGRAM ARRANGEMENTS To ensure congenial membership, Brendan reserves the right to accept or reject any person as a participant and to expel any participant whose conduct is deemed incompatible with the interests of the group. PROGRAM PRICES Program prices are per person, based on two persons sharing a room. All prices are based on rates (including foreign exchange rates) known at the time of printing. Prices, including taxes and fees, are subject to increase without notice, if such rates change prior to departure. If the total price increases by more than 10%, you may cancel within 7 days after we notify you of the increase. We reserve the right to recover from you increases in airline-imposed fuel surcharges and in taxes, charges or levies imposed by any government or its agencies, up to and including the first day of travel. AIRLINE PRICES Airfare pricing is not guaranteed until paid in full and Brendan issues the ticket(s). We reserve the right to recover from you increases in airline-imposed fuel surcharges and any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any government or its agencies. NOTE: Brendan is unable to supply ticket copies after departure. AIRLINE FUEL SURCHARGES & AIR-RELATED TAXES, FEES AND RESTRICTIONS All quoted land & round-trip air prices include airline fuel surcharges. However, as noted above, we reserve the right to
recover from you increases in those surcharges. Additional air related taxes and fees apply, including: U.S. and International Arrival and Departure Charges of Europe: up to $220; September 11th Security Fee: charged at $2.50 per enplanement in the U.S., up to $5.00 per one way trip or $10.00 for more than four enplanements; Passenger Facility Charges up to $18.00 per passenger; U.S. Flight Segment Tax: For each Domestic segment (takeoff and landing) a charge of $3.50; U.S. Customs Fee: $5.50 is charged to each passenger arriving from outside the U.S. customs territory, excluding Canada, Mexico and U.S. Caribbean; Immigration Fee: $7.00 is charged for travel from any international point into the U.S.; Agricultural Inspection Fee: $5.00 per passenger is charged for travel from any international point except Canada into the U.S. This information is also found at BrendanVacations.com/airfarerules. Additional air-related taxes and fees will be passed on to each passenger by Brendan. Any additional fees charged by the airlines, such as baggage handling, seat selections, and/or any other services are the sole responsibility of the passenger. Additional air-related restrictions apply. See BrendanVacations.com/airfarerules for details. HOTEL ACCOMMODATIONS Prices per person are based on two persons sharing a twin-bedded room with a private bath or shower. When booking triple rooms, please note that the request is based on sharing the existing bedding (two beds) in a twinbedded standard room or maybe a “roll-away” bed. Availability of triple rooms is limited. Please note that single rooms may be smaller than twin-bedded rooms. Substitute hotels may be used at certain times and will be of a similar standard wherever possible. There are a limited number of “twin-shared” rooms available with our Guaranteed Room Share Service. Please note it is standard policy that hotel rooms are available for check-in after 3 p.m. Early hotel check-in requires a pre-night be booked and paid for. Passengers who are members of Hotel Frequent Traveler programs are not entitled to earn points with any of the hotels featured. MEALS Any special meal requirements will be made on a REQUEST basis only. Brendan cannot guarantee special meal requests nor will it assume any responsibility or liability if passengers’ special meal requests are not fulfilled. BAGGAGE Porterage for one suitcase on vacation is included in the price. Airport porterage at the beginning and end of the vacation is not included. Due to limited coach capacity, this bag should have dimensions not exceeding 30” x 18” x 10” and weight not exceeding 50 lbs. Airlines may have additional baggage restrictions and may impose additional
Ireland
charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. We regret that we are unable to accept a second suitcase, or any luggage exceeding these limits on most programs. Where a second suitcase is accepted, a US$3 charge per day will be collected by your Tour Director. Wheeled carry-ons are not allowed on motorcoaches. We recommend you consult your air carrier, as size and weight limitations vary from airline to airline. Brendan is not responsible for additional fees imposed by air carriers. No responsibility is accepted for loss of or damage to baggage or any of the passenger’s belongings. Baggage insurance is recommended. TIPS All tips are included for services on tour provided by dining room waiters, room maids and hotel porters. HOLIDAYS During local or national holidays, certain facilities such as museums, restaurants, sightseeing tours and shopping may be limited or not available. Alternatives will be offered whenever possible. SMOKING Smoking is not allowed on motorcoaches, mini-buses or vans. ITINERARY VARIATIONS If program improvements can be made or if unforeseen circumstances beyond our control make changes necessary, we reserve the right to vary itineraries and to substitute hotels. At certain peak periods, duplicate departures may operate and sometimes in reverse order, in which case hotels may vary from those stated on the itinerary pages. TRAVEL DOCUMENTS Travel documents, including air tickets, are sent via UPS within two weeks of commencement of Brendan’s services, provided full payment has been received. A documentation fee of $15 per booking/per address will be charged for delivery. A $30 charge per booking is added for documents requested more than two weeks before departure. To request expedited 2-day delivery for documents within the continental U.S. at any time, a $30 charge per booking can be added for FedEx delivery. Please advise at time of reservation if you prefer regular ground delivery or 2-day delivery. Payment received 30 days or less prior to departure requires bank clearance before documents are sent. NOT INCLUDED IN PROGRAM PRICES Airfares (unless you purchase a land & air package), air-related taxes and fees (these are stated separately for land & air packages), baggage charges collected at check-in, passport and visa fees, insurances of all kinds, laundry, phone calls, beverages, meals not detailed in the itinerary, tips to Tour Directors, motorcoach drivers and local guides/hosts, items of a personal nature,
Ireland
excess baggage, optional excursions, etc. On Self Drive vacations, price does not include accommodation supplements, phone calls for onward reservations, extra insurance and insurance deductibles, delivery, collection, licensing fees, some one-way rental car fees, additional charges at certain pick-up points, taxes, additional drivers and gasoline. The price also does not cover costs and expenses, including the return to your home, if you leave the program at your own volition, or due to illness, or as a consequence of official action by the government of any country visited. Any domestic and international departure or arrival taxes, security charges, and other types of taxes or charges imposed by airlines, airports, governments, etc. are not included in the price. Any additional fees charged by the airlines, such as baggage handling, seat selections and/or any other services are the sole responsibility of the passenger(s). PHOTOGRAPHS & MAPS Photographs show places in geographic areas, but are not necessarily included in the program. Maps shown on the itinerary pages are for general information and may not accurately reflect actual routings. SAFETY Please be aware that during your participation in programs operated by Brendan, certain risks & dangers may arise beyond our control including, but not limited to, the hazards of traveling in undeveloped areas; travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft or other means of transportation; the forces of nature; political unrest; and accident or illness in remote regions without means of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. Brendan will not have liability regarding provision of medical care or the adequacy of any care that may be rendered. It is understood that Brendan will use its best efforts to ensure that adequate measures are taken. TRAVEL INSURANCE It is strongly recommended that all passengers take out comprehensive travel insurance including international air, cancellation and medical coverage. This may be arranged through your travel agent or Brendan. Brendan’s Travel Protection premium is not refundable once purchased. IMPORTANT - RESPONSIBILITY These programs are under the management and operation of Brendan Worldwide Vacations, Chatsworth, CA and Bray, Ireland (hereinafter referred to as the “Operator”). They are responsible to you in making arrangements for the services offered in this brochure, including transportation, sightseeing and hotel accommodation. The carriers, hotels/lodges and other suppliers providing services are independent contractors and are not principals, agents, employers, employees, representatives, partners or joint venturers of the Operator or its affiliates. The
program participant agrees that neither the Operator nor its affiliates shall be liable for any acts, errors, omissions, representations, warranties, breaches or negligence of those independent contractors, and is not liable for any injury, illness, damage, loss, accident, death, delay or expense occasioned by any supplier providing services, any insurer or insurance administrator under the Travel Protection Plan, or of any other person, or from any occurrence or condition beyond the control of the Operator. The Operator is not liable for any act, error, omission, negligence or misconduct of any third party, or any injury, damage or loss related thereto. All certificates and other travel documents for services issued by the Operator are subject to the terms and conditions specified by the supplier thereof, and to the laws of the countries in which the services are rendered. All itineraries and fares may be affected by alterations or delays in the air or surface transportation services of the various countries. Brendan reserves the right to withdraw any program and to make such alterations in the itineraries as may be found desirable for the convenience of guests or the proper operations of the program. If the services included in the program cannot be supplied or there are changes in an itinerary or accommodation for any reason, the Operator will arrange for the provision of comparable services, when possible. The Operator reserves the right to cancel, advance or postpone any program at any time, and shall not be liable for any loss whatsoever to participants by reason of any such cancellation, advancement or postponement. In the event of cancellation by Brendan, the participants’ only right of recourse shall be to a refund of monies paid to Brendan by your travel agent in connection with the program. Every effort is made to ensure brochure accuracy at the time of going to press. Brendan is not responsible for omissions, printing and/or typographical errors in brochures, on Internet sites, correspondence or invoices or in any other media where such information may be presented. We reserve the right to make corrections as required. Data protection: In order to process your tour booking, Brendan will need to use personal information for you and other passengers included in your booking, which may include passenger’s name, address, phone number and sensitive information such as health, medical, dietary, mobility, religious or other special requirements. This personal information may be passed on to other suppliers for your travel arrangements in addition to public authorities (such as customs and immigration), security and credit checking organizations, and otherwise as required by law. The Terms and Conditions stated herein, including the referenced documents, (collectively, this “Agreement”) is the
entire agreement between the Operator and you related to the present bookings by you and supersedes all prior discussions and agreements, oral and written, related to the current matter. The payment of a deposit and/ or the issuance of tickets or vouchers shall be deemed as your acceptance of this Agreement. This Agreement is entered into by the parties in Los Angeles County California, and shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without regard to conflicts of law principles. In the event that any legal or equitable action is initiated concerning this Agreement, or any obligation or duties related thereto, the exclusive venue of such action shall be solely in the Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County, California or in the U.S. District Court, Central District of California. It is agreed that any action must be filed within one year following the scheduled date of completion of the program. It is understood that the Operator will be accepting the participant’s booking in reliance upon such party’s acceptance of this Agreement. No person, other than an authorized representative of the Operator by a document in writing, is authorized to vary, add or waive any term or condition in this brochure, including any term or condition set forth in the preceding provisions. EFFECTIVE DATES January 1 through December 31, 2009.
NOTE: Terms & conditions are subject to change. Please refer to www.brendanvacations.com/termsandconditions for updated policies. CST#2084503-20 Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California. We are a participant in the State of California’s Travel Consumer Restitution Fund. California consumers may be eligible for refund payments for losses of $50 or more to a registered seller of travel who participates in the state refund program. You are eligible to seek refund payments if you have suffered losses as a result of the bankruptcy, cessation of operations, insolvency, or material failure of a seller of travel to provide the transportation or travel services contracted for. If you have filed a consumer complaint against a seller of travel with the Attorney General’s Office and would like to seek a refund, you should file your Claim for Refunds separately with the Travel Consumer Restitution Corporation. By state law, the refunds apply only to claimants who were located in California at the time of the sale and must be filed within one year from the scheduled date of travel completion. Refund claims must be filed directly with the nonprofit Travel Consumer Restitution Corporation, which operates independently and is not part of the Attorney General’s Office. In seeking a refund from the Travel Consumer Restitution Fund, consumers waive their right to bring another claim in court, including small claims court, against the seller of travel.
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Ireland 10/15/08
Brendan Worldwide Vacations Travel Protection Plan Providing You With “Any Reason” Cancellation Flexibility And Peace Of Mind While You Travel Designed Exclusively With The Following: SECTION I: Travel Arrangement Protection Provided by Brendan Worldwide Vacations*
SECTION II: Travel Insurance Benefits Underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company***
Trip Cancellation: Up to Total Trip Cost Reimburses the non-refundable Brendan Worldwide Vacations cancellation penalties imposed if you must cancel your trip for a covered reason such as illness, injury or death to you, a traveling companion or an immediate family member. Other reasons for cancellation include Common Carrier-caused delays due to inclement weather, jury duty, subpoena, or a documented traffic accident en route to departure, and other reasons as cited in the plan description.
Baggage Protection: Up to $2,500 If your baggage or personal property is lost, stolen, or damaged, the plan will cover up to $2,500. If your bags are delayed or misdirected for more than 24 hours, the plan will reimburse you up to $500 for the purchase of necessary personal items.
The Brendan Worldwide Vacations “Any Reason” Cancellation Waiver** With the Brendan Worldwide Vacations “Any Reason” Cancellation Waiver, Brendan Worldwide Vacations will provide you with 100% of the cancellation charges in the form of a future travel credit certificate, should you cancel your tour more than 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure for any reason that is not eligible for cash reimbursement under the Trip Cancellation section of the Travel Protection Plan. Cancellation charges are reimbursed in the form of a Brendan Worldwide Vacations Travel Certificate allowing you a two year credit to travel with us at a later date! Please note that to be eligible for the “Any Reason” Cancellation Waiver, you must enroll and pay for the plan within two days of your initial trip deposit. The certificate is non-transferrable, non-refundable and may not be redeemed for cash. The future travel certificate does not include airfare cancellation charges for air arrangements unless those arrangements were provided by Brendan Worldwide Vacations. Trip Interruption: Up to Total Trip Cost If you have to leave your vacation unexpectedly (again, for covered reasons such as illness as described above), you will be reimbursed up to your total trip cost for the unused, non-refundable portion of your travel arrangements, plus the cost of returning home. Trip Delay: Up to $1,000 ($150/day) If you miss the departure of your tour due to carrier-caused delays or other covered reasons, the plan reimburses you for additional accommodations, meals and “catch-up” transportation expenses.
Medical & Dental Expenses: Up to $50,000 Should you become injured or sick during your vacation, the plan will reimburse you up to $50,000 for necessary medical expenses for up to one year from the date of your accident or illness or emergency dental treatment incurred during your tour. This coverage is especially important, as Medicare and many private insurance policies generally do not cover you outside of the U.S., and many HMO’s do not cover you outside their provider area. Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation: Up to $50,000 In the event that a covered illness or injury requires air or ground transportation to a specialized facility or to return home, the plan provides up to $50,000 in covered medical services and supplies (coordinated by our 24-hour Assistance provider, to help ensure your safe transport). The plan also provides payment for transportation of mortal remains in the event of death that occurs during the tour. SECTION III: Emergency Assistance Services Provided by On Call International 24-Hour Worldwide Emergency Assistance One toll-free telephone call gives you access to On Call International, a worldwide network of medical and travel-related professionals who will work together to solve your medical or travel-related problem.
Priced starting at
$129 † per person † The plan cost is non-refundable and will vary depending upon destination and cost of arrangements.
*For NY residents, Section I Travel Arrangement Protection (Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption & Trip Delay) is underwritten by underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, Ohio. **For NY residents only, the “Any Reason” Cancellation Waiver may be purchased separately from the Brendan Worldwide Vacations Travel Protection Plan. Contact 1-877-722-2195 for details. ***Section II Travel Insurance Benefits, Policy Number MZ0911063H0000A, are underwritten by Stonebridge Casualty Insurance Company, Columbus, Ohio: NAIC #10952 (all states except as otherwise noted) Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5000. In CA, CT, HI, NE, NH, PA, TN and TX Policy/Certificate Form series TAHC5100 and TAHC5200. In IL, IN, KS, LA, OR, OH, VT, WA and WY Policy Forms TAHC5100IPS and TAHC5200IPS. While the above is not a complete description – a full plan description detailing the terms, conditions and exclusions will be sent to you – we have highlighted just a few of the plan benefits. If you have any Travel Protection Plan questions, or would like to request a copy of the plan description, please call our plan administrator, BerkelyCare, at 1-877-846-8875. You may also view the plan at www.brendanvacations.com. The Brendan Worldwide Vacations Travel Protection Plan is provided in addition to other applicable indemnity or insurance programs, where permitted by law and shall apply only after benefits have been paid. This plan was designed and is administered by BerkelyCareSM.
BerkelyCare
IN CALIFORNIA: BerkelyCareSM is a service mark of Aon Direct Insurance Administrators, CA Insurance License # 0795465. IN ALL OTHER STATES: BerkelyCareSM is a division of Affinity Insurance Services, Inc. in all states other than CA, except: AIS Affinity Insurance Agency, Inc. in MN and OK and AIS Affinity Insurance Agency in NY. 5864684
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Book with Brendan for Low Airfares BOOK YOUR AIRFARE TO IRELAND & GREAT BRITAIN WITH BRENDAN At Brendan, we are committed to providing the very best in service and airfares for our passengers. Airlines today change their fares almost daily, so we show “land only” prices on tour pages. We will quote you the very best airfare available to Brendan on the day you make your tour reservation.
HOW WE SELECT YOUR FLIGHTS Brendan will always try to book nonstop or direct air flights. If these flights are unavailable at the time you make your reservation, we may suggest a connecting flight or fly you from a nearby alternate city. In the case that no flights are available on your requested day of travel, we may offer air on another day, which will add extra nights to your vacation. Your Brendan Specialist can book these extra nights for you (extra nights and transfers will be at your expense). Once air is confirmed, your travel agent can contact the carrier for any service requests, such as special meals.
AIR BOOKING GUIDELINES For up-to-the-minute air prices, ask your Brendan Specialist. Please use your exact first and last names as they appear on your passport. Once air is confirmed, any change to flights, flight schedules or the spelling of passengers' names incurs a $30 revision fee. Any change to the spelling of a name requires that we cancel the incorrectly spelled reservation and try to reserve the same flights. Any changes after Brendan issues air tickets are also subject to airline revision fees. Airfares are not guaranteed until paid in full and ticketed. Airfares, taxes and fees, fuel surcharges, airline regulations and flight schedules are subject to change without notice.
Airport Transfers Airport Transfers in Ireland & Scotland Brendan passengers receive complimentary transfers in Ireland and Scotland gateway cities on the arrival and departure days of their Guided Vacation, at the times listed below. If you are not purchasing your air through Brendan, please be sure that your Travel Agent reserves your flights to coordinate with the transfer times shown. Passengers whose flight times do not coincide with these transfer times or who have pre/post hotel accommodation(s) booked with Brendan may purchase a transfer. In all cases, flight details must be provided to Brendan at least 21 days before departure.
Independent Vacations* You can purchase either shuttle or private transfers from Brendan. Ask your Brendan Specialist for details. City
Arrival transfers depart the airport
Departure transfers arrive at the airport
Dublin
7:00, 9:30, 12:00 7:30, 9:30, 11:30 tour BRPF, page 24 - 8:00, 11:00, 13:30
Edinburgh
9:00, 11:00, 13:00
7:00, 9:00
City Glasgow Limerick to Shannon
Arrival transfers depart the airport
Departure transfers arrive at the airport
9:00, 11:00, 13:00 7:00, 9:00 tours BRBS, page 30 and BRBT, page 32 - 8:00, 10:30, 12:00 – 7:30, 10:00
Transfer Conditions: 1. Your flights must be booked by Brendan or detailed flight information given to Brendan no less than 21 days prior to departure. Once transfers are booked they cannot be changed. 2. You must stay at a hotel booked by Brendan on the night of your arrival and the night prior to your departure. 3. Brendan includes only one inbound and one outbound transfer. 4. In the event of flight delays outside of Brendan’s control, transfers will be considered cancelled. 5. All transfers are based on group transfers. No refund is available for missed transfers or for passengers not using this service. 6. In the case of unforeseen events (such as road or rail work, strikes or demonstrations), Brendan will not be responsible for delayed or cancelled transfers. * London Heathrow Airport: National Express Dot2Dot will pick up and drop off at Brendan’s hotels in time to meet all flights to/from London’s Heathrow Airport. For guests arriving at the Dot2Dot desk after 10:00 p.m., please use the courtesy phone to arrange your transfer to your Brendan hotel. Gatwick Airport: Passengers who have booked a Brendan Independent vacation package with air and who are arriving at London’s Gatwick Airport are provided with a Gatwick Express train voucher. The Gatwick Express train journey from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria Station (or vice versa) takes 30 minutes. Passengers will then be met and transferred to their Brendan hotel (or vice versa).
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Printed in USA / October 2008 / BPWA150-10A / 57104
For Personal Service A Proud Member of
(800) 421-8446 | www.BrendanVacations.com Brendan is a division of the family-owned The Leading Travel Companies, and is renowned and trusted for its outstanding quality, service, value, reliability and financial stability.
SEE YOUR PROFESSIONAL TRAVEL AGENT