If you want to discover Ireland, then the question of how will surely arise. Should you plan your trip alone? Should I use a tour operator or a specialized travel agency? Where to start? And what do you really need to think about? Don’t panic: we’ll take stock with you.
Generally speaking, a trip can be organized in one of two ways: either by yourself (with a little organization and forethought, and of course the help of your favorite guide-irlande.com website) or through a tour operator. It’s all a question of taste and budget, but you’ll need to plan a little more in advance if you go through a travel agency.
In any case, both solutions have their advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect, depending on your choice.
If you like your trips well organized, you don’t have enough time beforehand, and you have a comfortable budget, then the travel agency solution is for you. There are hundreds to choose from: online or with a physical store, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
You benefit from numerous advantages: your stay is planned according to your wishes, accommodation is reserved for you, and the same goes for flights… And you’re guaranteed a trip that has already been tested and approved by other customers in the past. The icing on the cake: in the event of a problem, you can be sure of being able to contact the agency at any time. They will find an immediate solution to your problem.
Perfect, then, if you want to be totally taken care of, and have your work cut out for you. Freedom is yours: no more organization or preparation. All you have to do is let yourself be carried away: the best online and physical travel agencies take care of everything… and insurance is generally included in the package (sometimes as an option, but we recommend you take it)!
Please note, however, that travel agencies do not offer this service free of charge. They usually take a percentage of your booking, which tends to add to the price of your stay.
A travel agency can be an excellent solution. But it won’t be suitable for everyone. Firstly, for reasons of price, but also because it may not correspond to a certain state of mind. While some travelers like to be accompanied from A to Z in their discovery of a foreign country, others prefer the spontaneity and adventure of a trip where freedom and independence are paramount.
This offers the prospect of a completely different kind of stay in Ireland, which nevertheless requires travellers to book their own flight (or ferry), to anticipate the question of accommodation (bed and breakfast, hotel, campsite…etc), food, and of course, the tour to be made there (with a list of the must-see tourist sites to be discovered).
Often less costly, it nevertheless requires additional investment in terms of time and organization. It’s also an opportunity to experience a non-standardized trip, where you can follow what your desires dictate at any given moment.
An option for adventurers who like to live in “cool and relaxed” mode, and who feel that “too much supervision kills the beauty of travel”.
It’s worth noting, however, that a trip to Ireland organized by you presents no danger whatsoever. Ireland is a safe country, with a wide range of flights and accommodation on offer. You’re sure to find what you’re looking for!
Whatever solution you choose, we recommend that you take out travel insurance. In the current climate (Covid-19), some tourism projects are uncertain… And insurance is there to make up for any cancellations, guaranteeing reimbursement of your expenses.
Don’t hesitate to take a look: in exchange for a few extra euros, you can be sure of real peace of mind!
