Di Princess

Do you think that the Viking insurance is a better deal than USAA or CSA?

Hi,

I am staying in Dublin for one week post-cruise. I am looking at a 1-day tour to Belfast. Thanks for your help.

My question is: Which pick-up point is closest to my apartment at:

20 Summerfield, Irishtown Road, Ringsend, D4 ?

O Connell St pickup point

Pickup point Suffolk Street

Pickup Shelbourne Hotel

Pickup Mespil Hotel

Pickup Burlington Hotel

Ballsbridge Hotel Pickup

I thought that referred to me!

Jazz: That is funny. Refers to me also.

Hello Di Princess,

Once at US airport l gave the porter all the US money l had left a small hand full of dollars a few minutes later he found me a check in and told me if that was l could afford l needed the money more than him and handed my tip back.

Yours Shogun

Hi, Steve,

That is hilarious. Sounds like me, a Scots-Irish Lass in G.B.

Don't panic though, no one will come running after you or shout abuse at you if you forget to tip.

On my first trip to Australia, I took a van from the cruise port to my B&B. I was very shocked (and pissed) that the driver actually was going to hold my luggage hostage for a tip! :eek:

I already had my Aussie Dollars out, and he only took it to the sidewalk. I had to wait and ring the bell and wait for my Hostess to come out and help me bring in my luggage. What a Loser! I should not have tipped him at all.

Jazz: It's called "Vintage Posters."

I liked this one: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ALS1Pl8gTIQ

"Ship Runs Right Into Mountain."

The number 1 bus will take you from Irishtown Road to the city centre in a little under fifteen minutes. The bus goes up Pearse Street before turning into Westmoreland Street and then crossing the Liffey into O'Connell Street. So the Westin Hotel, Westmoreland Street would seem the handiest place to pick up the bus for Johnnie Fox's.

Exactly what I need to know. Thanks a lot. I looked at all the websites for all these venues mentioned and they all seem a bit different, some with dinner or Pub Fare, some with storytelling, and all with wonderful music. :D

I think I will be going out every evening.

BTW, I am thinking that Mairnealach is Gaelic. Is there a translation ? :confused:

Thanks again.

An Irish Princess :cool:

Thanks, Guys.

I have been having hours of fun looking at all these websites. O.K. There is an Express Bus that picks up from the hotels to go to the Johnnie Fox's Pub for 10 Euros Return. So, which hotel is closest to my apartment at:

20 Summerfield, Irishtown Road, Ringsend, D4.

HOTEL LIST

Gresham Hotel on O'Connell Street

Opposite the Westin Hotel on Westmoreland Street

Shelbourne Hotel at 27 St Stephen's Green

Merrion Hotel on Upper Merrion Street

Burlington Hotel on Sussex Road

Radisson SAS Stillorgan on Stillorgan Road

Stillorgan Park Hotel on Stillorgan Road

Bewleys Hotel - Leopardstown, Central Park, Sandyford

Johnnie Fox's Pub, Glencullen Crossroads

I see tours on Viator (and other Tour Operator websites) for evening walking or bus tours to Pubs, Restaurants, or Theatres. Which venue do you think has the best Riverdance & Irish music, singing, as well as dinner or pub grub? I will be there for a week in August. Thanks a lot. ;)

Donna I.

Great photos, Cindy. Thanks, also, for the captions. ;)

Some folks post and fail to caption and it's like, "What the hell am I looking at?"

I will be on the Longship Viking Var in November 2015 but not sure when she was built.

Donna I.

Hello. In London (and Copenhagen) we will be doing a number of free tours with Sandemans and other companies. The tours cost between free and 15 pounds. Can anyone tell me what a typical tip would be for free or low cost tours? Thanks!

HI, LawGirl,

I took the Free Tours in Buenos Aires and I would say that it depends on how many others are on the tour, as well as how long the tour lasts. The morning city tour had a lot of people and it was difficult to hear and very hot. I gave the Guy $10 USD for 2 hours. In the afternoon, I took a different tour and I was the only one to show up at the Park. It was the other tour Guy's Sister. I gave her $40 for 2 hours because it ended up to be a very personalized tour. ;)

In August, I will be taking the tours in Scotland given by the Volunteers in their Tartans and Kilts in mini-buses. I Probably will give $10 an hour (maybe more) and counting on a small group.

I also wanted to add my thanks to you for this great review! It was great to travel with you, and the photos were great! The palace in Vienna reminded me a lot of Versailles! It looks like you had a great trip and I hope to do a similar river cruise in the future but next up is a Viking Rhine cruise for us. Thanks again!

Hi, Skier,

I thought the same thing. It looks a lot like Versailles. I hope to be able to see it next year on Viking Var. ;)

It is really hard to believe that all your fantastic photographs were taken with an i-Phone. Thanks, Attila, and also please thank your Little Sister for her contributions to this wonderful, well-written review. I am on a Viking Var 7-day cruise November 2015, my first river cruise (a Long Ship). ;)

I will be a little spoiled after sailing the British Isles on the Crystal Symphony next August. I must have a balcony so I wish Uniworld had more modern ships with balconies.

On the Star Princess, in New Zealand, I sat on my balcony in the rain as we sailed the Fjords. I have spent hours reading every word of this thread, as well as enjoying the photos. Thanks again for the Fun. :D

Donna

$69, $79, and $112. There are 3 for rent. Look here:

https://www.airbnb.com/s/isle-of-guernsey?checkin=&checkout=&guests=1&source=bb

I am staying in Dublin for a week in August for $64 per night with my own en-suite and private balcony. I have used Air Bnb on 7 trips and never disappointed. A great way to travel.

Donna

http://www.visitguernsey.com/-activities-intransit-limited-tours-for-groups

Intransit Limited - Tours for Groups: Intransit runs popular half day island mini-coach tours, which visit the best and most beautiful places in Guernsey. Specialists in tailor-made coach tours, Intransit offer 7, 16, 22, and 35-seat vehicles. With over 20 years experience in operating ground handling, shore excursions, private hire, and group transport, you can journey in comfort and peace with Intransit. Collection from hotels available and each tour ends in the centre of St Peter Port. For further information please contact. Intransit Limited - Tours for Groups

Telephone: +44 (0) 1481 700066 Email: info@intransit.gg Website: http://www.intransit.gg

COACHES: Intransit Limited. Regular half-day guided coach tours visiting the prettiest places in Guernsey. Tours can be tailor made for groups. Telephone: +44 (0)1481 700066 Email: info@intransit.gg Website: http://www.intransit.gg

Island Coachways: Island Coachways specialises in group transport and has over 30 years experience operating on the island. Services include the largest private hire fleet on the Island, ranging from 16 to 43 seater coaches, and private car hire. From May to September, there is a coach tour programme offering tours including a Guernsey Occupation Tour and one based on The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society. Bespoke tours can also be arranged by appointment.

Telephone: +44 (0) 1481 720210

Email: admin@icw.gg

Website: http://www.islandcoachways.co.uk

http://www.hctgroup.org/the_hct_group/ct_plus_guernsey/ct_plus_guernsey_news/378/New%20summer%20timetable%20for%20consultation.%20

New summer timetable for consultation.

The Environment Department has today published a Gazette Notice informing the public of the proposed timetable for the forthcoming Summer Scheduled Bus Services due to commence on Monday 5th May 2014. Whilst there is no proposed change to the overall network coverage currently provided, there will be a few changes in how these services are delivered. There are also a few other proposed changes as compared to last summer’s schedules and these are also detailed below:

A much improved Route 91 / 92 Around Island Service which has been facilitated by removing the former Route 111 (which operated last summer every other hour between Pleinmont and the Bridge) and the limited Route 91 Around Island Service (operating just four times per day in a clockwise direction only last summer) and replacing it with an hourly frequency on the Routes 91 and 92, providing a total of 17 Around Island services per day (Monday to Saturday) and 9 on a Sunday [additional services may be operated by CT Plus according to availability and demand];

Continuation of the Route 12 first introduced in October 2013 to provide two buses per hour in each direction between Town, The Bridge, L’Islet, L’Ancresse and Pembroke (Monday to Saturday);

Continuation of the additional Route 61 Services introduced in September 2013 to provide two much needed additional services connecting Route de Felconte, Perelle, Richmond and Le Gele Road at peak (AM) and (PM) commuter and College times;

Continuation of the revised commuter and College timings introduced on various other routes in October 2013 and which now ensure that services at peak (am) times for Town workers and students attending the Colleges run to schedule;

Continuation of the late night Friday / Saturday services on Routes 11, 41 and 42 (now extended to the Airport in the west and L’Ancresse in the north as trialled over the current winter timetable) although the majority of these services will now leave the Terminus at around midnight with a single service from the Terminus to the Bridge operating at 00.46 as opposed to 01.49 last Summer;

A reduction in Saturday early morning services resulting in the loss of the following services on Routes 21 (leaving Halfway at 06.25), 41 (leaving Terminus at 07.30 & 08.30), 42 (07.15, 07.45 & 08.15 services replaced by 07.30 and 08.30 services), 51 (leaving Terminus at 07.30), 61 (leaving L’Eree at 06.58) & 71 (leaving Terminus at 07.00) due to poor demand;

A reduction in weekday and Saturday evening services from the Terminus on the following services - Routes 31 (20.00), 51 (21.00) & 81 (21.00) due to poor demand.

Copies of the proposed new timetables can be viewed here.

The closing date for comments to be sent to the Minister, Environment Department prior to a final decision being taken by the Board as to the services that will actually be operated this Summer is Friday 28th March 2014.

Should anyone require further information on or clarification of any of the proposed changes, they can call the Department’s Passenger Transport Section (Tel: 202228) between 9 AM and 5 PM, Monday - Friday. Formal representations regarding the proposed changes can be submitted by e-mail to env@gov.gg or in writing to be delivered to the following address:

The Minister, Environment Department, Sir Charles Frossard House, La Charroterie, St. Peter Port, GUERNSEY GY1 1FH

Thanks, VMAX. I plan on seeing both Titanic Museums. I spent 2 hours in the one in Las Vegas at the Luxor Hotel. It was excellent and got me excited about seeing more. I know they are all over the world but probably the best in Ireland.

Donna (An Irish Princess) ;)

Thank you to all my dear cousins in Ireland for this great information and the Links. Hours of fun reading. I did not realize the Titanic connection. I am crazy about all the Titanic history. ;)

When you all make it to L.A., I shall gladly be your Guide. I once took the "Hollywood Open-Top Tour Bus" when I was taking a Tour-Director course.

Even though I have lived here most of my 77 years on earth, it was a blast, seeing all the gorgeous homes of our Stars. On some of the steep, curving hills in Hollyweird and Bev. Hills, the mini-buses & coaches are not allowed to stop. :eek:

Therefore, the Drivers just drive real slow. :D

HI, DAVE,

Long time since the Royal Princess inaugural. I remember our Good Times together last year.

Carolyn S-B: I have not dry-cleaned anything in about 25 years (since I left Lockheed-California Company in Burbank). In the 60's, we could not wear slacks in the office unless it were a "Slack Suit" with a matching jacket. :eek:Wow! How times have changed.

When I was 18, I lived in Pirmasens, Germany (2 hours south of Frankfurt) for 2-1/2 years. My first daughter was born at the Munchweiler Army Hospital. We wore lots of wool because it was Freezing (says the California Princess). ;)

I have not yet tried it but I bought a product at the supermarket (Vons or Ralphs here in California). It is used for dry cleaning in your DRYER. Do they have dryers on river boats? I will be on my first river cruise next year. Seems like a great idea, even to try at home to see if it works before traveling. Look for it and let us know. :D

Waterford to Cork is about a 90 minute drive, BUT unless someone is arranging car hire right in Dunmore these days, you'd have to get to Waterford first, then pick up a car or catch a bus from Waterford. You're talking 2-3 hours each way with some faffing about. If I were you, I'd do the Cork trip from Dublin when you're under less pressure. You can get the train from Dublin to Cork in 2 hours, 30 minutes, and the trains are comfortable, with free wifi. Book your train ticket over a week in advance for the best rates on http://www.irishrail.ie

You get to book and reserve a specific seat at the same time. If you really want to face in a particular direction, when they show you the seat map, the left hand side of the train is always pointing to Cork, and the right hand side of your screen always points to Dublin (no matter which leg you're booking).

You want to select Dublin (Heuston) to Cork (Kent) on the website. If you book in advance (pick your tickets up at the train station), a return ticket for an adult is around €40.

Sorry, Thoie.

I forgot that I had posted this yesterday - Duh, it's the CruiseHeimers that I get when I need a cruise. Thanks for the information. I had asked my AirBnB Host about how early out I need to book land tours like Dublin to Belfast, etc. and I guess she did not know the answer, nor did she have any advice on Coach, Bus, or Tour Operators from Dublin? What do you recommend? :confused:

How far is Cork from Waterford???

How far is Cork from Dublin ???

These are my only ports in Ireland. TIA

Donna (An Irish Princess)

Thanks, Monkey,

What wonderful photos on that website. I want to climb all over that castle. I know that Wales has the most castles of any place in Europe. I love the Castles.

I am on the 17 August Crystal Symphony from Dover to Dublin. There is only one port in Wales. Is HOLYHEAD close to you ?

Thanks,

Donna (Irish Princess)

Hello,

I will be in Waterford (Dunsmore East) from 8 AM to 6 PM off the Crystal Symphony. How far from Cork is Waterford ? :confused:

I will stay in Dublin for 1 week, post-cruise. How far is Cork from Dublin ? :confused:

Would I be better off to do Cork during my Dublin stay and see Waterford when we stop for that port ??? :confused:

Thank God for the IRISH.

Donna (my Mum was a Wallace) :D

Hi Springlake,

Where did you find the recommendations?

EGG

EGG: Read my Post just prior:

"I think it was Alex from the Churchill Inn that suggested Coastal Cars Airport Services so I booked with them just last night. No deposit needed, just arrival time & date + airline and flight number:

WEBSITE: http://www.coastalcarsairportservices.co.uk/contact-us

On Feb 28, 2014, at 11:04 PM, Coastal Cars <coastalcarsairportservices@gmail.com> wrote:

Hello Donna,

Our price for this transfer would be £108 (cash) or £112 if paying by card.

HI Princess, Thanks for the transfer information. I will contact them. You got an excellent quote and also seem to have a reliable recommendation for the service.

I love your "Royal" name. Great for this trip!! Springlake

Thanks, Springlake. I used to be Princess Di (my 2 initials); however, I forgot my password so had to log in differently. DUH ! :eek:

Therefore, I have a lot more posts than show. :confused: