Notes from Ireland trip meeting on May 8
Maury Schulte, founder and owner of Tour Resource Consultants, made the presentation. He started this company 20 years ago.
Travel Tips (Additional information is provided in the handout and on the blog)
Plan to arrive at the airport early – you will start the trip with less stress. Our meeting point at the airport will be at the assigned gate. We would like for everyone to wear a purple shirt.
Check with your cell phone carrier to make sure you understand what kind of coverage you have or can purchase prior to departure. Roaming charges can be costly.
You are allowed one checked bag, one carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a purse or backpack). A CPAP machine does not count as one of your items.
Decide where you will keep your passport and put it there every time.
We have been registered with the State Department in case you get some sort of email. They know where we will be staying.
The best way to get currency there is to use your ATM card. Places do not accept dollars. It is best to get an amount of currency and pay for things with that because each time you use your ATM card, your bank will likely charge you. Be sure you check with them and understand what charges you will incur and that they know you will be using your card overseas. The currency in Northern Ireland (Belfast) is the pound and in the Republic of Ireland (most of our trip) it is the euro.
A 3-prong trapezoid adapter is what you need for things like your phone. For other things like a hairdryer, you also need a converter. All the hotels will have hairdryers in the rooms.
Temperatures are likely to be in the 51-68 degree range with high humidity. Pack layers (light sweater, raincoat/poncho). A small collapsible umbrella is also recommended.
Itinerary Notes
On the first Sunday in Belfast, we will be leading in worship in a Methodist church. A circuit of churches will be meeting together that day and we will provide the entire service.
On Monday, in Sligo, if you think a poetry-themed dinner is not for you, Maury suggests that you should wait to pass judgement. J He says it will be a highlight. Mr. Brennan, the historian and his wife, who is a chef, will provide a wonderful evening of food, history and poetry.
Kilkenny has lots of pubs and Irish music. It will be a 10-minute walk from the hotel to the center of town and we will have some free time there.
