The Ultimate 'Hole in One' Travel Guide to Ireland - Fairways and FunDays - Named Europe's Best Golf Tour Operator - Fairways and ...
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The Ultimate ‘Hole in One’ Travel Guide to Ireland Fairways and FunDays – Named Europe’s Best Golf Tour Operator
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Index Map of Ireland ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 3 About Ireland ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 4 Flags of Ireland ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5 Language ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 5 Time in Ireland ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5 Electricity in Ireland �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5 Currency ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5 Banks, ATM’s, Credit/Debit Cards and Travelers Cheques in Ireland ��������������������������������������������� 6 Telephones in Ireland ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 7 Purchasing an Irish SIM Card and/or Irish Mobile/Cell Phone ������������������������������������������������������ 7 Pre-Departure Checklist �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8 Medical Issues ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 8 Vacation/Travel Insurance ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 9 What to do in case of Emergency during your Tour �������������������������������������������������������������������� 10 The Police in Ireland ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 11 Driving in Ireland ���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 11 Renting a Car in Ireland ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 12 Taxis in Ireland �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 13 Useful Apps to Download before your Tour �������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 14 Pubs and Alcohol in Ireland ������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ 15 Smoking in Ireland �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 16 Weather in Ireland �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 16 Visa and Passport Requirements ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 16 Tipping & Gratuities in Ireland ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17 Questions before or during your Tour ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17 Should I bring my Golf Clubs or Hire Clubs in Ireland? ��������������������������������������������������������������� 17 Golf in Ireland ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 18 Peters Lucky 13 Ireland Travel Tips���������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������19 2
Ireland’s www.fairwaysandfundays.com Great Golf Ballyliffin Glashedy Courses Map of 76 71 7 50 14 18 17 72 82 34 5 0 25Km 25Mi 50Km 50Mi Ireland 66 with Ireland’s Best Golf Tour Operator 28 20 44 Letterkenny Derry 64 60 41 1 38 1 Royal Portrush Dunluce 29 48 Carne 43 78 20 50 Belfast 57 9 6 27 54 Enniskillen 51 13 36 87 Sligo 2 Portstewart Strand 79 4 85 Lahinch Old 21 Irish 50 39 99 Westport 49 30 Cavan 33 Sea Drogheda 5 83 Royal County Down 31 46 33 26 9 3 53 The Golf Course 22 44 at Adare Manor 62 45 50 90 4 10 61 Dublin 24 12 16 Galway Athlone 65 47 75 69 42 8 14 55 3 70 25 43 37 2 96 91 86 29 Portmarnock 15 45 68 81 40 73 24 35 46 Atlantic 47 89 63 95 35 Ballybunion Old 7 41 80 74 32 21 52 75 Ocean Ennis 31 5 19 94 23 56 10 84 4 Limerick Carlow 12 59 88 The K Club Ryder Cup Course 50 18 100 3 1 1 34 27 6 Kilkenny 44 11 Tralee 37 58 92 13 19 11 Tralee Wexford Waterford 26 4 The European Club 30 50 Killarney 23 38 77 49 28 93 97 22 Contact Fairways and FunDays 42 98 3 – Ireland’s Best Golf Tour Operator 48 36 2 25 40 16 d International: +353 45 871110 Celtic 2 15 d Toll Free from US & Canada: 1800-7799810 8 39 e info@fairwaysandfundays.com 17 Cork d 32 50 67 Sea w www.fairwaysandfundays.com d d @fairwaysfundays c facebook.com/fairwaysandfundays Waterville Old Head f fairwaysandfundays Golf Courses Tourist Attractions 1 Adare 26 County Louth 51 Kirkistown Castle 76 Rosapenna (X3) 1 Adare Heritage Village 19 Glendalough 35 Powerscourt House, Gardens and Waterfall 2 Ardglass 27 County Sligo 52 Lahinch (X2) 77 Rosslare 2 Aran Islands 20 Glenveagh National Park 36 Ring of Kerry 3 Arklow 28 Cruit Island 53 Laytown & Bettystown 78 Royal Belfast 3 Blarney Castle & Gardens 21 Guinness Storehouse 37 Rock of Cashel 4 Athlone 29 Donegal 54 Lough Erne 79 Royal County Down (X2) 4 Bunratty Castle 22 Hook Lighthouse 38 Sliabh Liag Cliffs 5 Ballinrobe 30 Dooks 55 Luttrellstown 80 Royal Curragh 5 Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge 23 House of Waterford Crystal 39 Spike Island 6 Ballybunion (X2) 31 Dromoland Castle 56 Macreddin 81 Royal Dublin 6 Céide Fields 24 Irish National Stud & Japanese Gardens 40 St Patrick’s Cathedral 7 Ballyliffin (X2) 32 Druids Glen (X2) 57 Malone 82 Royal Portrush (X2) 7 Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience 25 Jameson Distillery 41 The Burren 8 Bantry Bay 33 Dundalk 58 Mount Juliet 83 Seapoint 8 Clonmacnoise 26 JFK Arboretum 42 The Skellig Experience 9 Belvoir Park 34 Dundrum 59 Mount Wolseley 84 Shannon 9 Connemara National Park 27 Kilkenny Castle 43 Titanic Belfast 10 Blainroe 35 Dun Laoghaire 60 Moyola Park 85 Slieve Russell 10 Croke Park Museum 28 Killarney National Park & 44 Tower Museum Derry 11 Bunclody 36 Enniscrone 61 Moyvalley 86 St. Anne’s 11 Dingle Dolphin Muckross House 45 Trim Castle 12 Carlow 37 Esker Hills 62 Mullingar 87 Strandhill 12 Dublin Zoo 29 Kilmainham Gaol (Jail) 46 Trinity College & The Book of 13 Carne 38 Faithlegg 63 Naas 88 The European Club 13 Dunbrody Famine Ship 30 Knock Basilica Kells 14 Carton House (X2) 39 Farnham Estate 64 Narin & Portnoo 89 The Heritage 14 Dunluce Castle 31 Kylemore Abbey & Garden 47 Tullamore DEW Distillery 15 Castlerock (X2) 40 Fota Island (X2) 65 New Forest 90 The Island 15 Fota Wildlife Park 32 Mizen Head Signal Station 48 Ulster American Folk Park 16 Castlemartyr 41 Galgorm Castle 66 North West 91 The K Club (X2) 16 Galway City Museum 33 Newgrange (aka Brú na Bóinne) 49 Westport House & Gardens 17 Castlerock 42 Galway 67 Old Head 92 Tralee 17 Garnish Island 34 Old Bushmills Distillery 50 Wild Atlantic Way 18 Castletroy 43 Galway Bay 68 Palmerstown Estate 93 Tramore 18 Giants Causeway 19 Ceann Sibeal (Dingle) 44 Glasson 69 Portmarnock Links 94 Trump Ireland Doonbeg 20 Clandeboye 45 Grange 70 Portmarnock 95 Tulfarris Ports Airports 21 Concra Wood 46 Headfort (X2) 71 Portsalon 96 Tullamore 1 Belfast 1 Belfast International 22 Connemara 47 Hermitage 72 Portstewart (X3) 97 Waterford Castle 2 Cork 2 Cork 23 Coollattin 48 Hogs Head 73 Portumna 98 Waterville 3 Dublin 3 Dublin Scan 24 Corballis 49 Killarney (X3) 74 Powerscourt (X2) 99 Westport 4 Rosslare Harbour 4 Ireland West 25 Cork 50 Killeen Castle 75 Rathsallagh 100 Woodenbridge 5 Shannon Me
www.fairwaysandfundays.com About Ireland The island of Ireland is located in the north-western tip of Europe. Ireland is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, with the Celtic Sea to the south, Saint George’s Channel to the south-east and the Irish Sea to the east. The island of Ireland is over 32,000 sq. miles/84,000 sq. km in size. The island is 301 miles/486 km from north to south and 170 miles/275 km from east to west. There are two parts of the island of Ireland: 1. T he Republic of Ireland occupies approximately 80% 2. N orthern Ireland remains part of the United Kingdom of the island of Ireland. The capital and largest city and is located in the northeast of the island of Ireland. is Dublin, which is located on the eastern part of the The population of Northern Ireland is over 1.8 million. island. The population of the Republic of Ireland is Belfast is the capital and largest city in Northern approximately 5 million, 1 million of whom reside Ireland and has a population of over 300,000. in the Dublin area. The head of government is the Established by the Northern Ireland Act 1998 as part Taoiseach (Prime Minister). There is also an elected of the Good Friday Agreement, the Northern Ireland President who serves as the largely ceremonial head Assembly holds responsibility for a range of devolved of state, but with some important powers and duties. policy matters, while other areas are reserved for the The Irish Free State (later to become the Republic of British government. Northern Ireland co-operates Ireland) was formed in 1922 following independence with the Republic of Ireland in several areas, and from British rule. The Republic of Ireland became a the Agreement granted the Republic the ability to member of the United Nations in December 1955. “put forward views and proposals” with “determined It joined the European Economic Community (EEC), efforts to resolve disagreements between the two the predecessor of the European Union, in 1973. The governments.” Republic of Ireland ranks among the top twenty-five wealthiest countries in the world in terms of GDP per capita, and as the twelfth most prosperous country in the world according to The Legatum Prosperity Index 2019. The Irish government has followed a policy of military neutrality through non-alignment since immediately prior to World War II and the country is consequently not a member of NATO, although it is a member in Partnership for Peace. The geography of the island of Ireland comprises relatively low-lying mountains surrounding a central plain, with several navigable rivers extending inland. The earliest evidence of human presence in Ireland is dated at 10,500 BC. Irish culture has had a significant influence on other cultures, especially in the field of literature. Alongside mainstream Western culture, a strong indigenous culture exists, as expressed through Gaelic games, Irish music and the Irish language. 4
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Flags of Ireland Language Republic of Ireland Northern Ireland They say that the Irish have the “gift of the gab” (eloquence) – so what language do we speak? English and Irish (Gaeilge) are the two official languages in the Republic of Ireland while English is the language of Northern Ireland� Everyone on the island of Ireland speaks English� The Gaelic language in Ireland is spoken by locals in rural parts of the west, northwest and south of Ireland� However, residents of these regions also speak English� All road signage in the Republic of Ireland appears in Time in Ireland English and Gaeilge� The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are both in the GMT Time Zone� Electricity in Ireland Daylight Time Saving occurs the last Sunday of every March he power plugs and sockets (the clocks move forward 1 hour) and the last Sunday of in the Republic of Ireland and every October (the clocks move back 1 hour) Northern Ireland are type G� The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz� Currency Republic of Ireland: v The € (Euro) is the currency of the Republic of Ireland� One euro consists of 100 cent� v Notes are €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200 and €500� v Coins are 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2� v Higher denomination notes such as €100, €200 and €500 will not normally be accepted in retail outlets, so bring cash in lower denominations when you’re travelling to Ireland� Northern Ireland: v The GB£ (Pound) is the currency of Northern Ireland� One-pound sterling consists of 100 pence� v Notes are £5, £10, £20, £50 and £100� v Coins are 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2� A fun filled, exhilarating and memorable experience is guaranteed on all our tours 5
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Banks, ATM’s, Credit/Debit Cards and Travellers Cheques in Ireland Banking Services: Credit/Debit Cards: v Banks in Ireland generally open from 9�30am - 4�30pm v Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted throughout the Monday through Friday with a 5pm closing on Thursday� island of Ireland� v Some banks may open on Saturday mornings� v American Express is accepted in some places but not all� v ATM (cash) machines are located at most banks and in v Credit cards can be used for purchases and also to cities, towns and villages, and accept most credit and withdraw cash from ATMs (although this usually is debit cards� Each ATM has a list of card symbols that can accompanied by a fee)� You can also withdraw cash from be used� ATMs with your Mastercard or Visa debit card� Fees will still be charged but at a lower rate to credit cards� Traveller’s Cheques v Ireland uses a “chip and pin” system for debit and credit card transactions� Most retailers will accept swipe cards v Traveller’s Cheques are no longer widely accepted on but please note this is not always guaranteed� the island of Ireland� Most banks won’t accept travellers’ v It is strongly recommended that you notify your bank of cheques, so our advice is to bring cash or cards instead� your travel plans prior to your departure� Ireland - a magical destination to explore 6 with Ireland’s Best Golf Tour Operator
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Telephones in Ireland Purchasing an Irish SIM Card and/or Irish Mobile/Cell Phone There are a number of tips in relation to using a If you are staying in Ireland for a longer vacation or if you intend telephone/mobile phone/cell phone in Ireland: on making numerous calls during your stay in Ireland it may v The international dialling code for the Republic of be worth purchasing an Irish SIM Card and/or Irish Mobile/Cell Ireland is +353� Phone� This is a brief guide on how to do this: v The international dialling code for Northern Ireland v Ensure that your device is “network unlocked” meaning that is +44 the device can support a SIM card from any network (and not v If you are dialling an international number from just the network that you purchased the phone through)� Your either the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland, phone provider will provide you with this information dial “00” before your country code – for example v If your mobile/cell phone is network locked, you will need dial 001 and then the relevant telephone number if to purchase an Irish Mobile/Cell phone� Prices of phones in calling the United States� Ireland start from €40/GB£40 for a basic mobile phone v There are now very few public telephones in v You will then purchase an Irish SIM card (approximately €10/ Ireland� GB£10) which will provide you a contact number during your v Hotels will offer in-room telephones that will allow stay in Ireland you to make international calls� However, the rate v You will need to purchase credit to make calls, send messages charged for this is normally very high� or use internet on this phone� €20/GB£20 of credit will provide v We recommend contacting your mobile/cell phone you with unlimited data and limited number of calls and provider in advance of travelling to Ireland to messages� ascertain if there are any add on packages available v There is no fee for receiving calls on this telephone number when using your phone in Ireland� v There are several mobile/cell phone providers in the Republic v Mobile/cell phone coverage is excellent throughout of Ireland and Northern Ireland� the island of Ireland� 3G coverage is the norm in v Calling a Northern Ireland telephone number from the many rural parts of Ireland and 4G/5G is readily Republic of Ireland (or vice versa) is regarded as an available in all urban areas international call 7
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Pre-Departure Checklist There are a number of essential pre-departure tasks to perform and a number of essential items to bring with you to Ireland. Pre-departure Tasks: Essential items to bring with you: Check that your passport is in Passport date Driving Licence (if renting a car) Ensure that you have a visa to Golf clubs (if golfing) enter Ireland (if required) Golf shoes with soft spikes/spikeless Notify your bank of your travel (if golfing) plans if you plan on using Power adapter (the power plugs and your Debit/Credit card while in sockets are type G. The standard Ireland voltage is 230 V and the standard Take out suitable Vacation/Travel frequency is 50 Hz) Insurance Comfortable footwear Check on the weather forecast Camera in Ireland (www.met.ie) and Sunblock pack accordingly Suitable clothing Contact your mobile/cell phone company to add an international Medication and Prescription for travel package replacement medication (if relevant) Medical Issues Ireland has great healthcare, but there are a few things to v You should always obtain travel insurance to cover any keep in mind before you go� potential overseas medical costs including medical repatriation/evacuation and legal costs, before you travel� Be sure to check for any exclusions that might v If you are bringing medicines with you into Ireland, affect your policy and that the policy covers all the carry them in their original, clearly labelled container, activities you plan on doing in Ireland� You should also along with your prescription or a letter from your doctor� make sure that your travel insurance has medical cover� As a rule of thumb anything over a three-month supply of medicine will be questioned and any syringes or v If you are a resident of an EU country or Iceland, needles, should be declared and explained in a letter Lichtenstein, Norway or Switzerland you should bring a from your doctor� European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), which covers you for most medical care� v There are plenty of pharmacies in Ireland, and they’re a good first stop for travellers seeking medical advice or a local referral� Pharmacies generally operate from 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday, but many pharmacies in urban areas open late and on weekends� v Bring a spare pair of glasses or contact lenses with you and your optical prescription just in case� v As with most of western Europe, there are no vaccinations required to visit Ireland� 8
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Vacation/Travel Insurance We strongly recommend that anyone travelling to Ireland (or to any other country) takes out Travel/Vacation Insurance� There are many firms to choose from and many levels of cover available� The main advantage of taking out Travel/Vacation Insurance is that it offers you (and your family if relevant) protection as well as a sense of security while you are on a foreign land� Most travel insurance policies include: Protective cover against trip cancellation due to Medical costs in the event of injury or illness illness/injury, suffered during the vacation, Loss of luggage, Repatriation if you suffer a serious injury/illness Delayed flights, during the vacation Many Travel Insurance companies also offer cover against Trip Cancellation in the event that for any reason you decide to cancel the vacation� When obtaining a quotation for vacation/travel insurance, you will need to provide the following information: All actions you will engage in during your vacation The travel season that you will be touring Your travel locations (whether travelling to the Your physical health Republic of Ireland and/or Northern Ireland) Any specific prescription medications you are taking It is essential to carefully read the terms and conditions of all Travel/Vacation Insurance policies to ensure that they offer a suitable level of cover� The Unique Fairways and FunDays Pandemic Money Back Guarantee C MONEY BA MI Fairways and FunDays is offer a Money Back Guarantee if your visit to Ireland is affected by Covid-19 CK E PAND or any other Pandemic* Our Pandemic Money back guarantee covers: If your flight to Ireland is cancelled due to a Health If golf courses in Ireland are closed due to Pandemic Government guidance If there is a Government ban in relation to travel to If there is a mandatory quarantine period exceeding Ireland due to a Health Pandemic 24 hours on arrival in Ireland Book your tour to Ireland with complete confidence with Ireland’s Best Golf Tour Operator 9
www.fairwaysandfundays.com What to do in case of Emergency during your Tour In the unlikely event that you require emergency assistance during your time in Ireland (Police, Medical, Fire, Coastal Services etc), call 999 immediately. The 999-emergency number will work in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. When calling emergency services, you In the unlikely event that you do will be asked to provide the following: experience an emergency situation The exact address of the incident on your tour it is imperative to contact or emergency and/or any the emergency services first before noticeable landmarks nearby� contacting our office� Please feel free Directions to the scene of the to contact your designated Fairways emergency and FunDays Tour Director if you The telephone number you are require non-emergency assistance at calling from any time during your tour� Details on the incident itself, the number of persons involved, the description, any visible injuries and knowledge of any pre-existing medical conditions� Try to stay calm and listen to the call taker’s instructions� It is also important to keep your own phone on as the emergency services may need to contact you for further information� 10
www.fairwaysandfundays.com The Police in Ireland There are two police services on the island of Ireland: Republic of Ireland – An Garda Siochana (translated to English means “The Guardians of the Peace”) Northern Ireland – Police Service of Northern Ireland (P�S�N�I�) Police officers are unarmed in the Republic of Ireland while they are armed in Northern Ireland� Police officers in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are always courteous and helpful to visitors� You should immediately call “999” in the event of an emergency that you require the services of the Police (whether in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland)� Driving in Ireland Driving in Ireland is relatively straight forward but there are a Speeding in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland few laws and rules of the road that you need to keep in mind� will result in considerable on the spot fines and/or a court appearance� In Ireland, you drive on the left-hand side of the road� All vehicle occupants are required to wear seat belts at all You must yield to all vehicles coming from your right and times� always turn left on entering a roundabout� Use of mobile/cell phones while driving is strictly You must be at least 17 years old to drive in Ireland� prohibited� Always allow ample time for your journey� At all times, you are required to carry a valid driving If you are travelling a long distance on one day make licence; your car must display both proof of insurance sure to plan a stop/stops on the route� There is always and a motor tax disc and, if the car is over four years somewhere nice to stop in Ireland! old, the National Car Test (NCT) disc must also be Speed limits in the Republic of Ireland are in kilometres� displayed� The speed limits are as follows: The minimum insurance that you must have before you v 50km/h (31mph) in built-up areas, drive a car in Ireland is Third Party cover� v 80km/h (50mph) on regional and local roads, If renting a car, it is recommended that you carry a copy v 100km/h (62mph) on national roads, of your vehicle rental agreement� v 120km/h (74mph) on motorways� In the Republic of Ireland, the traffic light sequence is different to most other European countries� Red is the same and means stop, but straight after the red light comes the green ‘for go’ light� The amber light only comes before a red light to warn us to stop unless it is unsafe to do so� Although Ireland produces some wonderful beers and spirits, drink driving limits are strictly enforced� Whether you are a local or a tourist you must adhere to these regulations� Our recommendation is, don’t drink if driving� 11
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Renting a Car in Ireland In addition to our advice in relation In Ireland, the majority of rental to driving in Ireland, we have some cars are standard shift (manual specific tips in relation to renting a transmission). Automatic cars are car in Ireland available, but you should book well in advance of travelling to avoid Car Hire/Rental companies in disappointment. Ireland are generally based in airports and cities. It is a legal requirement in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern You will need a valid driving Ireland for all children to be seated licence and a credit card to rent a in appropriate child car seats� If vehicle in Ireland. required, these seats should be reserved in advance from your car 9-seater vehicles are the largest rental company� vehicles that you can rent in Ensure that you carefully study the Ireland inclusions of your rental in terms Most rental companies will not of: rent to drivers under 25 but v insurance cover, there is no upper age limit. v mileage allowance, v fuel policy, However, if you are over 75, you v breakdown assistance, will be asked to meet additional v return policy requirements. This information is generally included in the terms Always carefully examine your and conditions on the company’s rental vehicle at collection and website. note any damage that is on the vehicle. Bring any damage to the Try to book in advance to get attention of the staff at the Car better offers or deals and to ensure Rental company BEFORE you availability during high season. depart the rental facility. 12 Ireland - Truly a Golfers paradise!
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Taxis in Ireland It is likely that you will at some stage All hotels, restaurants, tourist require the services of a taxi driver attractions, golf courses and during your time in Ireland. There are activity centres have contact several important points: details for local taxi companies and will be more than willing It is not compulsory to tip taxi Taxis are readily available to order a taxi on your behalf if drivers in Ireland but you may wish throughout the island of Ireland. required. to “round--up” a fare if you are Taxis in Ireland will always be happy with the service received. Taxis are metered in Ireland and clearly marked with a Taxi roof the fare is calculated from this. sign. The registered number of If you anticipate frequently using The meter will be visible at all a taxi during your time in Ireland this taxi will also appear on this stages during your journey. roof sign. you may wish to register for “Free Taxi drivers in Ireland are required Now.” This service allows you to Most taxis in Ireland only accept order taxis from the Free Now App to clearly display their photograph cash. on your smartphone and allows you and credentials in the taxi Taxi drivers are required to issue (normally on the dashboard to the to make payments by Credit/Debit receipts for payment. If after left of steering wheel). Card. payment the taxi driver does not offer you a receipt you may request one. Taxi Ranks are easily identifiable and are normally the best place to get a taxi from. You can “flag down” a taxi that is available. Taxis that are available illuminate their roof sign. Fairways and FunDays offer Free, No Obligation Ireland Vacation Consultations - Contact us Today 13
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Useful Apps to Download before your Tour There are a number of really useful free Apps to download to enhance your experience in Ireland. Most of these Apps are available on iOS and Android: v Fairways and FunDays App – v Free Now – a superb App that v WhatsApp – a superb free Call/ the App of Ireland’s Best Golf allows you to quickly order a taxi Messaging App that will allow Tour Operator filled with helpful and if required pay for this taxi by you to call or message loved information and your complete credit/debit card ones for free using Mobile Data Tour Itinerary! or Wi-Fi v Met Eireann App – a great v Wi-Fi Map App – provides an weather App from Ireland’s v RTE News Now – the news interactive map of the locations of National weather forecast App of the national Irish all free Wi-Fi hotspots service broadcaster allows you to keep up to date with all national v TripAdvisor – an excellent v xe�com – an excellent currency and international news stories, resource to offer advice on places converter App weather and sports to eat, visit, shop etc� 14
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Pubs and Alcohol in Ireland Ireland is famous for its great pubs where you will get to meet locals, enjoy live music, watch sporting events on TV, and in many pubs enjoy delicious traditional cuisine� But there are some points to be aware of: It is an offence to sell alcohol to anyone under the age of 18 and to give alcohol to anyone under the age of 18 unless in a domestic home and with parental consent� Young people under the age of 18 are not allowed in While there is no national legislation prohibiting drinking licensed premises during extended hours (except in in public it is frowned upon� certain circumstances)� It is the responsibility of the licence holder to make sure this does not happen� See the Bars and pubs in the Republic of Ireland are permitted to section below on ‘Children’ for more information� open the following hours: Children (anyone under the age of 18) are only allowed v Monday to Thursday – 10�30 a�m� to 11�30 p�m� in pubs and bars if they are with a parent or guardian for v Friday and Saturday – 10�30 a�m� to 12�30 a�m� restricted hours� v Sunday – 12�30 p�m� to 11�00 p�m� v 10:30am – 9�00pm from October to April Christmas Day is the only day of the year that pubs close v 10�30am – 10�00pm from May to September in the Republic of Ireland Bars and pubs in Northern Ireland are permitted to open 18 is the standard age for persons to remain in a bar/pub the following hours: after these hours� However, some premises extend this to 21 years of age� v Monday to Saturday - 11:30am to 11:00pm Bar staff are entitled to request age verification if they v Sundays and Christmas Day – 12�30pm to 10�00pm believe a person is under the age of 18/21� Passport, v Good Friday – 5�00pm to 11�00pm Driving Licence or National Identity cards are the only documents acceptable for this� Pubs and Bars in Northern Ireland are open every day of Off-licence sales of alcohol is only permitted between the the year� hours of: Certain Pubs and Bars in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland who sell food or who have live v 10�30am - 10�00 pm Monday to Saturday entertainment have extended opening hours� v 12�30pm to 10�00pm Sundays� Whatever your preferences, we’ve got it covered! 15
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Smoking in Ireland Weather in Ireland There is a smoking ban in both the Republic of Ireland and The climate of Ireland is mild, moist and changeable with Northern Ireland meaning it is illegal to smoke in an enclosed abundant rainfall and a lack of temperature extremes� place of work� So everywhere from pubs and restaurants, to Ireland’s climate is defined as a temperate oceanic climate� shops, offices and public transport, are smoke-free� There are exceptions, including some hotels and guesthouses that January and February are the coldest months of the year provide smoking rooms at their discretion� and mean daily air temperatures fall between 4-7 °C (39 - 45 °F) during these months� July and August are the Pubs, nightclubs and hotels generally have a designated warmest, with mean daily temperatures of 17 to 18 °C outdoor smoking area� Make sure to always put your cigarette (63 to 65 °F) near the coast, to 19 to 20 °C (66 to 68 °F) butt in the ashtrays provided or you could face a fine for inland� The sunniest months are May and June, with an littering� average of five to seven hours sunshine per day� Extreme weather events in Ireland are comparatively rare when compared with other countries in the European continent� December has the least number of daylight hours (7 hours 30 minutes per day) while June has the most (17 hours per day)� Met Eireann is the national weather service of Ireland and up to date weather reports can be found on thier website www�met�ie� Visa and Passport Requirements Most people need a valid passport to enter the Republic of Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland� South African Ireland or Northern Ireland but there are some exceptions: visitors can visit the Republic of Ireland without a visa but require a UK visa in order to enter Northern Ireland� v If you are a UK citizen, you can also use official photo v Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has a identification� full list of countries whose citizens do NOT require a visa v If you are an EU citizen, you can also use a national to visit Ireland� If your country is not on this list, contact identity card� your local Irish embassy/consulate before you travel to find out your visa requirements� If you’re planning on travelling Air and sea carriers require some form of photo identification to Northern Ireland, contact your local British embassy/ (usually either a passport or driving licence), so ALWAYS high commission or consular office� check what form of ID is required with your individual airline or ferry company before travelling� v The Short-Stay Visa Waiver Scheme allows visitors from certain countries who have a valid UK visit visa to also visit Visa requirements to enter Ireland depend on your Ireland without the need for an Irish visa� The scheme is citizenship� valid until 31st October 2021� v If you are a citizen of a European Economic Area (EEA) v Please contact INIS (Irish Naturalisation member state (27 countries of the European Union, and Immigration Service) together with Iceland, Norway and Liechtenstein) and www�inis�gov�ie if you are unsure many other countries including USA, Australia, Canada of any issues in relation to and New Zealand, you do not need a visa to visit the Visa Requirements 16
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Tipping & Gratuities in Ireland First and foremost, tipping is NOT compulsory in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland� A tip/gratuity should only be given when you are happy with the service received� If you are happy with the service that you received, this is a guide to an appropriate tip/gratuity: v Hotel Porters - €/£1-2 per bag for v Spa Treatments – 10% of final bill bringing luggage to your room� v Taxi drivers – optional but if you are v Hotel housekeeping – optional but happy with their service you may opt you can leave €/£1-2 per day for to round up your fare to the nearest exceptional service� even amount� v Hotel concierge - €/£1 plus for a v Caddies - €/£10 plus provided concierge who offers great advice that you are happy with their service and service� v Private Tour Driver – if you are v Restaurants where a service charge happy with the service of your driver is not included on your bill – 10-15% €/£10 per person per day is a rough of bill� You can also round up to the estimate of what is regarded as a nearest even amount� reasonable tip/gratuity v Fast Food Restaurant – no tipping v Tour Operator – no tipping required� required Recommending Fairways and v Bartenders – no tipping required FunDays to family and friends is a perfect alternative! v Hair Salon – 10% of final bill Questions before or during your Tour There is no such thing as a silly question. Please contact a member of the Fairways and FunDays team at any time before or during your tour. As Ireland’s Best Golf Tour Operator and given the fact that Ireland is the only destination that we sell, our experienced and passionate team members are best placed to deal with any questions or concerns that you have. Should I bring my Golf Clubs or Hire Clubs in Ireland? If you find that bringing your clubs through airports is too inconvenient and too expensive, there are several options: 1. Clubs 4 Hire: 3. Ship Sticks: www.clubs4hire.com www.shipsticks.com With this company, they deliver the This company will collect your clubs from your home to the first clubs and courier them to Ireland course you will play and collect (and return) – cost is approximately them from the final course you play €350 return – cost is approximately €70 - €90 4. Rent Clubs at each course that per week you play 2. Clubs to Hire: Cost is approximately €/£60 per www.clubstohire.com round� With this company you collect the Pre-booking is essential for any clubs in Dublin or Shannon Airport of the above options� Please on arrival and return them to their note, Fairways and FunDays Airport shop before you depart has no affiliation to any of the Ireland – cost is approximately €70 companies listed above and take - €90 per week no responsibility for the service that they provide� 17
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Golf in Ireland With over 400 golf courses on our small Island, Ireland is A guide price to a caddie fee is Ireland is approximately: truly a golfer’s paradise! Not only has Ireland a considerable number of golf courses which feature amongst the best and v Senior Caddie €/£70 plus tip most famous courses in the world, no other country offers v Double Bag Caddie €/£100 plus tip a uniquely special environment to play golf like Ireland� v Forecaddie €/£100 plus tip Perhaps the biggest appeal of golf in Ireland is the abundance of world class links and parkland courses in such close v Handicap certificates are not required at most courses� proximity� No other destination in the world offers the golfer However, it is essential that all players are aware of proper the opportunity to play the best of both links and parkland golf course etiquette and have adequate golfing skills that courses� don’t impede with other players on the course� We have several key tips in relation to playing golf in Ireland: v It is essential to wear suitable attire on all golf courses� Denim, collarless shirts, sports jerseys and sports shorts v Tee times should be reserved in advance of travelling to are strictly prohibited at all golf courses in Ireland� Ireland� At more famous courses, it is often necessary to reserve tee times up to 12 months in advance of your visit� v Buggies/Carts are available to rent at most golf courses in Ireland� These should be pre-reserved as golf courses v Golf shoes are compulsory on all courses� If your shoes have a limited supply of buggies/carts� An increasing have spikes, only soft spikes are permitted� number of links courses in Ireland do not permit buggies/ carts due to damage caused to the courses and dangers v Caddies are available at most golf courses but must be from high dunes� Some links courses only permit buggies/ booked in advance� With the exception of a small number carts with a medical certificate outlining the players of golf courses caddies are not compulsory� A good requirement for a buggy/cart� caddie will greatly enhance your experience especially when playing links courses where local course knowledge is essential� Fairways and FunDays offer dream Ireland 18 Tours regardless of your group size or budget
www.fairwaysandfundays.com Peter’s ‘Lucky 13’ Ireland Travel Tips As a former Tour Professional who has represented Ireland for many years, it is a great honour for me to again represent Ireland as Director of Golf for Fairways and FunDays. There are few places in the world that offer a selection of world-famous Links and Parkland courses - Ireland is one of these places. However, Ireland offers so much more for the golf traveller. In addition to playing some of the world’s best golf courses, our team always encourage our clients to enjoy the luxurious accommodation, delicious food, spectacular sightseeing and exhilarating evening entertainment that Ireland offers - we call this the “Ireland 24/7 Experience.” These are my “Lucky 13” tips for golf and leisure visitors to Ireland: 1. Make the most of every second of 8. Swing easy when its windy on the your time in Ireland golf course! 2. Plan well in advance to get 9. For links golf leave your lob wedge availability at the iconic courses and at home and love your putter! the best hotels 10. Choose hotels that are in prime 3. Enjoy the unique experience that locations links golf offers 11. Consider taking “The Road Less 4. Play some of Ireland’s Hidden Gems Travelled” in Ireland - don’t be afraid to get lost! 5. Visit a pub where the locals go 12. Don’t try to see all of Ireland in one 6. Don’t be afraid to bring non- visit golfers on your tour - Ireland has something for everyone 13. Get advice from an expert - Ireland is the only destination that we sell. About Peter: 7. Take a Caddie for at least one of Our team are always glad to help your games! Peter Lawrie is one of Ireland’s most whether you are a client or not. successful Tour Professionals of all time� Peter was named Rookie of the Year in 2003 On behalf of Fairways and FunDays, we look forward to welcoming you to Ireland. and joined the likes of Arnold Palmer, Seve We can promise you an unforgettable experience – magical memories are Ballesteros and Bernhard Langer when he guaranteed. won the Spanish Open in 2008� Peter has enjoyed a plethora of Top 10 Tour finishes Mr. Peter Lawrie, and remains one of Irish golf’s most influential Director of Golf, figures� Peter was appointed Director of Golf Fairways and FunDays at Fairways and FunDays in 2019� Contact a member of the experienced Fairways and FunDays team Today 19
Contact Information Fairways and FunDays – Ireland’s Best Golf Tour Operator Telephone: International: +353 45 871110 Toll Free from US & Canada: 1800-7799810 Website: www.fairwaysandfundays.com Email: info@fairwaysandfundays.com Twitter: @fairwaysfundays Facebook: facebook.com/fairwaysandfundays Instagram: instragram.com/fairwaysandfundays Make sure to Tag “Fairways and FunDays” on any of your Social Media posts. We offer a monthly prize for the best photograph in which Fairways and FunDays is tagged. Also, please remember to review Fairways and FunDays on TripAdvisor at the end of your Tour! Fairways and FunDays – Named Europe’s Best Golf Tour Operator
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