ESCAPE FROM WINTER'S SNOWS AND CHILLS - THINK SPRING IN IRELAND

 BOOK NOW FOR THE MERRY MONTH OF MAY IN IRELAND

     Winter is in full force now, but Spring is just around the corner in the Emerald Isle. From May 17-23, travel writer Patricia Preston, author of 15 books on Ireland, will lead a Springtime in Ireland tour, focusing on the scenic southern coast, warmed by the Gulf Stream, from Waterford to Kinsale, Bantry and Killarney. The tour price of $1,799 provides all sightseeing, 4-star hotel accommodations, most meals, entertainment and round-trip airfare from NY/JFK*.
     May is a “wow” month in Ireland - fuchsia, rhododendron, hydrangea and wild flowers bloom on the roadside, gardens burst with new colors, baby lambs and calves romp on the hillsides, the festival season begins, and daylight lasts till around 10 p.m.
     The itinerary presents a range of activities - step back in time at 13th century Cahir Castle, learn how Waterford Crystal is made, kiss the Blarney Stone, cruise on Kinsale Harbor, ride in a horse-drawn cart through Killarney National Park, savor the subtropical environment of Bantry Bay, take a walking tour of Waterford with local guide, watch as sheep dogs round up the sheep on the Kerry hillsides, hear the Irish language spoken, and join in traditional Irish music and dance .
     Accommodations are provided at four centrally-located hotels in scenic settings: Tower Hotel, Waterford, on the River Suir; Trident Hotel; Kinsale on Kinsale Harbor, Maritime Hotel, Bantry, overlooking Bantry Bay; and the Malton Hotel, Killarney, surrounded by gardens and mountains.__
     During the trip, Pat operates a unique online “Blog” so folks back home can follow the tour's progress each day in Ireland in words and pictures.  The “Blog” also enables family and friends to post comments about what is going on back home.
     The tour is specially planned to require only one week off from work - departing on a Sunday and returning the following Saturday. The price includes 4-star hotels for five nights, most meals, luxury motorcoach transport provided by CIE Tours, and all sightseeing admissions and entertainment.  
     For more information, contact Pat Preston at 22 Tee Lane, Red Hook, NY 12571; tel. 845-758-1232 or email patpreston@mac.com, or get all the details including photos online at www.IrelandExpert.com.

* Price quoted is based on current group airfare via Aer Lingus, effective until February 15, and does not include departure taxes. Airfare is subject to change, if booked after February 15.