The Grand Southwest - Food, Arts, Shopping

I've been approached by many to create a tour of Ireland that is not only relaxed and laid-back but highlights a region and gives folks an in-depth feeling for the local culture. This is quite a challenge but I've finally come up with what I think is the perfect tour of Ireland, concentrating on the Southwest with the little touches that are often overlooked by larger groups.

Limited to just 14 people, you will experience Ireland on a small coach with personalized service from Gene, my driver in Ireland and friend. Gene is from the Bantry region of Cork and offers an insight into this region like no other so you'll walk away from this tour not only for a love of Ireland but an appreciation for the people.

Accommodations are so important when traveling so I have arranged some of the best accommodations in Ireland that you could ever want, without breaking the budget. Many of these hotels are centrally located, ensuring you can explore the surrounding town on your own rather than secluded in a hotel outside of town. Two exceptions here are Seaview House in Ballylickey -- you'll be plenty tired and full from the day that you'll need a night to simply relax at the hotel bar before retiring... and Adare Manor where you'll want to experience the last night in the Manor itself.

Ireland has had a culinary revolution so throw out the notion that Irish food is boring and bland! I've arranged four meals to be included in this tour, ranging from 3- to 5-course meals where you will delight in the flavors and aromas of the freshest, tastiest Irish cuisine to put those rumors to rest once and for all. When staying in one location for two nights (and Killarney ... because there are so many choices!) you will have a night on your own to explore the town and eat elsewhere to make sure you can experience "pub grub" or choose another of the many local restaurants. I've also included a special wine and cheese tasting at a friend's cheese shop -- you'll spend a leisurely afternoon sampling fine Irish cheeses and sipping wine ... and talking to the locals that pop in to talk and shop.

Anyone can go to Ireland and buy an Irish sweater as a souvenir and I've made sure that you'll have time at the Blarney Woolen Mills where you will find many well-made Irish woolen products from blankets to sweaters ... but you'll also have time to shop in smaller towns like Clonakilty and visit Ogham Jewelry in Dingle for something different. A chance to visit my friend Raymond Klee's gallery to view some of the most beautiful Irish landscapes I have ever seen -- and hopefully watch him paint with his knife! This trip to Ireland will offer you shopping that most people don't get to see on a large tour bus.

No trip to Ireland is complete without a grand stay in a castle and I've chosen Adare Manor which is stately, grand and castle-like without the cost of the others. You'll stay in 5-star luxury and elegance as you share your final gourmet meal with the new friends you've made on this tour and discuss your next trip together.

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