Ireland is a huge draw for family friendly vacations. You will find plenty of outdoor activities from hiking and horseback riding to sailing and surfing, magical locales such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Giants Causeway, cooking classes, leisure centers, children's museums and even a Leprechaun Museum! From myths and legends to ancient history and scenic beauty, Ireland abounds with opportunities for your family getaway.
Planning a family getaway to Ireland? These great activities are sure to get your children's imagination running wild with thoughts of Ireland this St. Patrick's Day!
Make a Leprechaun Trap: The lore of the leprechaun has been passed down for centuries, and these magical elves are especially notorious for causing mischief the night before St. Patrick's Day. Fortunately, there's a way to fight back. Our simple-to-create leprechaun trap will help you and your family capture the troublemakers -- or at the very least, receive a few gold chocolate coins for your trouble. Check it out!
St. Patrick's Day Recipes and Activities for Kids: From a gold coin hunt to a fresh take on the age-old game "Hot Potato", these activities are sure to get you thinking green. Check it out!
Irish Archeological Game: This fun game teaches children about the ancient history of Ireland. Check it out!
Irish Folklore and Mythology: The myths and legends of Ireland overflow with giants and heroes, maidens, battles and brave deeds. In addition to what you may experience at the museum, this site will give an insight into the many adventures in Irish imagination. Check it out!
Now that you and your family are excited about traveling to Ireland, start planning your trip with Celtic Tours World Vacations!
Travel blog about European travels to Ireland, Scotland, England, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, Germany, France and more!
Showing posts with label family vacations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label family vacations. Show all posts
Friday, March 14, 2014
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Galway - a Rugged Wonderland
Take a trip into the rugged wonderland of County Galway for an experience of a lifetime
A remarkable county with a truly unique atmosphere, Galway in the
West of Ireland gets under your skin like no other place in the world. Dramatic, haunting and utterly wild, the craggy countryside at times looks unforgiving, at times rich with bursts of colour and dotted with tranquil, picture perfect lakes.
The Gaeltacht area of County Galway offers an authentic insight into life through the Irish language, and the Aran Islands have a breathtaking beauty and an island atmosphere of their own.
On top of all this, Galway’s got great beaches, soaring mountains, lovely villages, fabulous pubs and some of the friendliest people in Ireland. Take a closer look to discover more…
Travel to Galway with Celtic Tours World Vacations
Labels:
family vacations,
Galway,
Travel,
travel to Ireland
Location:
Galway, Ireland
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
New Zealand Deal
100% Adventure.
Celtic Tours World Vacations Save up to $1500 pp on Escorted New Zealand packages.
17 Day New Zealand Wonderland: Premier Escorted Vacation
Discover New Zealand on this comprehensive and popular 17 Day tour. Travel to the subtropical Bay of Islands, visit the geothermal Rotorua. See natural wonders of Franz Josef Glacier, Milford Sound and World Heritage-listed Mt Cook National Park.
B&B Package (includes 3 feature meals): Land from $5475* pps after discount
All Meals Itinerary: Land from $5995* pps after discount
Available for the following Tour Departure Dates: 2012: 10/27, 11/24, 11/28, 12/8 2013: 1/12, 1/23, 2/9, 3/16
Celtic Tours World Vacations Save up to $1500 pp on Escorted New Zealand packages.
17 Day New Zealand Wonderland: Premier Escorted Vacation
Discover New Zealand on this comprehensive and popular 17 Day tour. Travel to the subtropical Bay of Islands, visit the geothermal Rotorua. See natural wonders of Franz Josef Glacier, Milford Sound and World Heritage-listed Mt Cook National Park.
B&B Package (includes 3 feature meals): Land from $5475* pps after discount
All Meals Itinerary: Land from $5995* pps after discount
Available for the following Tour Departure Dates: 2012: 10/27, 11/24, 11/28, 12/8 2013: 1/12, 1/23, 2/9, 3/16
14 Day New Zealand Highlighter:
Premier Escorted Vacation
Beginning in the North Island, this 14 Day tour winds its way south, taking in New Zealand’s premier attractions along the way. See the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, cruise Cook Strait and Milford Sound and absorb the majesty of Franz Josef Glacier.
B&B Package (includes 2 feature meals): Land from $4395* pps after discount
All Meals Itinerary: Land from $4795* pps after discount
Available for the following Tour Departure Dates: 2012: 10/16, 10/30, 11/27 2013: 1/15, 1/26, 2/12, 3/19
Check out this deal on New Zealand travel
Beginning in the North Island, this 14 Day tour winds its way south, taking in New Zealand’s premier attractions along the way. See the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, cruise Cook Strait and Milford Sound and absorb the majesty of Franz Josef Glacier.
B&B Package (includes 2 feature meals): Land from $4395* pps after discount
All Meals Itinerary: Land from $4795* pps after discount
Available for the following Tour Departure Dates: 2012: 10/16, 10/30, 11/27 2013: 1/15, 1/26, 2/12, 3/19
Check out this deal on New Zealand travel
Call your travel agent to book!
Or give us a call at 1-800-833-4373
*These specials are for new bookings only. Conditions apply. Discount shown is based on twin share for travel on applicable dates shown above and only for tours mentioned. Bookings must be made by September 14, 2012 only. All offers are subject to availability at time of booking. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. SuperDeals cannot be combined with any other offer. Price shown reflects discount.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Aillwee Cave
Ireland's Premier Showcave is an experience which should be a part of everyone's visit to the Burren. Not only is it a stunning walk, Aillwee Cave is also home to Ireland's largest display of Falcons, Harris Hawks, Owls, American Kestrels and White Tailed Sea Eagles.
Guided tours of the cave every fifteen minutes. It is an easy walk alongside the hibernation pits of the long extinct uros arctos bears. Over the bridged caverns, under waterfalls, marvel at the stalactites, stalagmites and unusual formations. Climb the mountainside behind the cave to appreciate the landscape spreading out below and walk over the typical limestone pavements to view the spring gentian or mountain avens.
Shop and browse through distinctly different craft shops such as the Farm Shop where cheese, stock jams, chutneys and home made fudge are produced.
Bring the whole family for a fun packed day touring the caves, wandering the majestic Woodland Trails, watching falcons and hawks at the Birds of Prey center or enjoy a peaceful stroll through our Mountain Walks. Visit Aillwee Cave on your next self-drive tour of Ireland with Celtic Tours.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Dublinia & The Viking World
Lose yourself in VIKING & MEDIEVAL DUBLIN! Dublinia is an unforgettable experience in a historically important location at the heart of Dublin City, the crossroads where modern and old Dublin meets. Housed in the historic Synod Hall at Christchurch, Dublinia is an authentic experience brought to life in an exciting and contemporary way for all, children and adults alike, to engage, learn and share. See Dublin from a new perspective, and come away knowing more about the citizens of Dublin throughout the ages.
There are three exhibitions in Dublinia where you will see Dublin city from a new perspective. Come away knowing more about the citizens of Dublin throughout the ages and share in their experiences.
Viking Dublin: Go back to Viking times in Dublin! See for yourself what life was like onboard a Viking warship. Learn of their long and challenging voyages, their weaponry and the skills of being a Viking warrior. Try on Viking clothes, become a slave (watch those heavy chains) and stroll down a noisy street. Visit a smokey and cramped Viking house, learn the Viking runic alphabet and hear their poetry and sagas. Enjoy the myths and learn of the mysteries surrounding the Vikings and their legacy.
Medieval Dublin: Travel back to medieval Dublin! From Strongbow to the Reformation we recreate the sights, sounds and smells of this busy city. Learn of warfare, crime and punishment, death and disease and even toothache remedies of 700 years ago. See the city as it would have looked then. Enjoy the spicy aromas; learn to play medieval games and so much more when you visit our medieval fair. Visit a rich merchant’s kitchen and walk along a bustling medieval street – don’t forget to give the beggar some of your change.
History Hunters: See how the History Hunters dig deep to uncover Dublin’s past! Learn how archaeology works with history and science to piece together the jigsaws of our ancestor’s lives and lifestyles. See genuine Viking and Medieval artifacts including those of a medieval skeleton, found in Dublin (courtesy of the National Museum of Ireland). Hear the languages of old Dublin and explore the city’s earliest maps. Visit the lab and learn how bugs and dirt can be the history hunter’s gold, finish the tour with the Time Detectives and test your new found knowledge.
Dublinia is located at the crossroads of St Michael’s Hill, Patrick St, and Thomas St, in Dublin city centre. Dublinia is connected to Christ Church Cathedral by a medieval footbridge. Dublinia and The Viking World’s fun, interactive exhibits offer insight into early Dublin life for the whole family. Visit Dublinia on your next family vacation to Ireland with Celtic Tours. If its Medieval Ireland you are interested in, the Bunratty Medieval Banquet is not to be missed.
There are three exhibitions in Dublinia where you will see Dublin city from a new perspective. Come away knowing more about the citizens of Dublin throughout the ages and share in their experiences.
Viking Dublin: Go back to Viking times in Dublin! See for yourself what life was like onboard a Viking warship. Learn of their long and challenging voyages, their weaponry and the skills of being a Viking warrior. Try on Viking clothes, become a slave (watch those heavy chains) and stroll down a noisy street. Visit a smokey and cramped Viking house, learn the Viking runic alphabet and hear their poetry and sagas. Enjoy the myths and learn of the mysteries surrounding the Vikings and their legacy.
Medieval Dublin: Travel back to medieval Dublin! From Strongbow to the Reformation we recreate the sights, sounds and smells of this busy city. Learn of warfare, crime and punishment, death and disease and even toothache remedies of 700 years ago. See the city as it would have looked then. Enjoy the spicy aromas; learn to play medieval games and so much more when you visit our medieval fair. Visit a rich merchant’s kitchen and walk along a bustling medieval street – don’t forget to give the beggar some of your change.
History Hunters: See how the History Hunters dig deep to uncover Dublin’s past! Learn how archaeology works with history and science to piece together the jigsaws of our ancestor’s lives and lifestyles. See genuine Viking and Medieval artifacts including those of a medieval skeleton, found in Dublin (courtesy of the National Museum of Ireland). Hear the languages of old Dublin and explore the city’s earliest maps. Visit the lab and learn how bugs and dirt can be the history hunter’s gold, finish the tour with the Time Detectives and test your new found knowledge.
Dublinia is located at the crossroads of St Michael’s Hill, Patrick St, and Thomas St, in Dublin city centre. Dublinia is connected to Christ Church Cathedral by a medieval footbridge. Dublinia and The Viking World’s fun, interactive exhibits offer insight into early Dublin life for the whole family. Visit Dublinia on your next family vacation to Ireland with Celtic Tours. If its Medieval Ireland you are interested in, the Bunratty Medieval Banquet is not to be missed.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Crystal Palace Gardens, Porto, Portugal
The Crystal Palace is a huge domed pavilion set in beautiful gardens in Portugal’s second largest city Porto.
The original iron and glass structure was built in 1861, but was replaced by the present one in 1952. Today the pavilion serves as a venue for concerts and sporting events, seating 10,000 spectators.
A beautifully landscaped park surrounds the Crystal Palace. Here you will find lush green lawns, statues, ponds, exotic plants, peacocks and superb views of the city and the River Douro. There is also a multimedia library, an auditorium, a cafeteria, and the Romantic Museum.
The Crystal Palace Gardens make a great place to stop for a picnic or if traveling to Portugal with children, a great place for the kids to run around. Visit the Crystal Palace gardens on your next Celtic Tours vacation to Portugal.
The original iron and glass structure was built in 1861, but was replaced by the present one in 1952. Today the pavilion serves as a venue for concerts and sporting events, seating 10,000 spectators.
A beautifully landscaped park surrounds the Crystal Palace. Here you will find lush green lawns, statues, ponds, exotic plants, peacocks and superb views of the city and the River Douro. There is also a multimedia library, an auditorium, a cafeteria, and the Romantic Museum.
The Crystal Palace Gardens make a great place to stop for a picnic or if traveling to Portugal with children, a great place for the kids to run around. Visit the Crystal Palace gardens on your next Celtic Tours vacation to Portugal.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Top 11 Places to Visit in Florence with Children
Imagine a family walk along the River Arno, your children discovering ancient history in the Etruscan tombs or opt for a horse and carriage ride through the magical city. Your family will delight in the treasures of Florence lying around every corner from endless shopping possibilities to sampling the gelato, you and your children will enjoy their Tuscany family vacation. Here are just a couple of recommendations for your next family vacation to Florence:
1. Uffizi Gallery – One of the oldest and most famous art museums of the Western world, the Uffizi is chock full of spectacular art. Be advised this art museum has long lines and a lot to take in. You will want to be prepared for your visit, book ahead to skip the lines and pick what you want to see ahead of time.
2. Accademia Gallery – Feast your eyes on the original David, Michelangelo’s most famous work.
3. Duomo, Campile, Bapistery - The Duomo, a Florence landmark with its red brick cupola will take you and your families breath away. Next door to the Duomo is the Campanile, the bell tower started by Giotto in the 14th century. Climb up the tower, the stairs go round and round, with cool slits to peer through as you ascend. The Baptistery is the oldest building in Florence. Don’t miss the glorious gilded bronze doors, the "Gates of Paradise" outside, and inside the incredible mosaics on the Batistery ceiling.
4. Boboli Gardens – Children will love to explore these formal 16th century Italian gardens. The Boboli Gardens are a part of the Pitti Palace complex and can be enjoyed with a tour of the main seat of the Medici family or by themselves. With classical accents such as grottos, nympheums, garden temples and more the Boboli Gardens are sure to delight.
5. Leonardo Di Vinci Museum – A hands-on exhibition dedicated to the universal genius Leonardo Di Vinci.
6. Museo Zoologico, Le Specola – The oldest scientific museum in Europe, it holds the largest collection of anatomical waxworks in the world. Today the museum spans 34 rooms and contains not only zoological subjects, such as a stuffed hippopotamus (a 17th-century Medici pet, which once lived in the Boboli Gardens), but also a collection of anatomical waxes, an art developed in Florence in the 17th century for the purpose of teaching medicine.
7. Galleria del Costume – With more than 6000 costumes dating from the 16th to 20th centuries, children and adults will be delighted to see what boys and girls wore in the old days.
8. Piazzale Michelangelo – Take a stroll up to the Piazzale Michelangelo for a wide open panorama of the city and a spot of ice cream.
9. Museo Galileo - The Museo Galileo is home to the only surviving instruments designed and built by Galileo himself.
10. Church of Santa Croce – Famous for it's lovely Giotto frescoes and for the famous people buried there, the Church of Santa Croce is worth a visit.
11. Roman Theater and Archeological Museum - The Roman amphitheater, built between 50 and 0 BC, could hold a big crowd of 2,500 people, and is still used for dramatic productions. Don't miss the ruins of the Roman baths and a Roman-Etruscan temple.
With so much to do in Florence, your family will want to spend more than 1 day exploring. Visit Florence on your Italy for Families vacation with Celtic Tours. This perfect family getaway is centrally located in the Tuscan region and is only a short drive to Florence. Learn more about this great family vacation package to Italy.
1. Uffizi Gallery – One of the oldest and most famous art museums of the Western world, the Uffizi is chock full of spectacular art. Be advised this art museum has long lines and a lot to take in. You will want to be prepared for your visit, book ahead to skip the lines and pick what you want to see ahead of time.
2. Accademia Gallery – Feast your eyes on the original David, Michelangelo’s most famous work.
3. Duomo, Campile, Bapistery - The Duomo, a Florence landmark with its red brick cupola will take you and your families breath away. Next door to the Duomo is the Campanile, the bell tower started by Giotto in the 14th century. Climb up the tower, the stairs go round and round, with cool slits to peer through as you ascend. The Baptistery is the oldest building in Florence. Don’t miss the glorious gilded bronze doors, the "Gates of Paradise" outside, and inside the incredible mosaics on the Batistery ceiling.
4. Boboli Gardens – Children will love to explore these formal 16th century Italian gardens. The Boboli Gardens are a part of the Pitti Palace complex and can be enjoyed with a tour of the main seat of the Medici family or by themselves. With classical accents such as grottos, nympheums, garden temples and more the Boboli Gardens are sure to delight.
5. Leonardo Di Vinci Museum – A hands-on exhibition dedicated to the universal genius Leonardo Di Vinci.
6. Museo Zoologico, Le Specola – The oldest scientific museum in Europe, it holds the largest collection of anatomical waxworks in the world. Today the museum spans 34 rooms and contains not only zoological subjects, such as a stuffed hippopotamus (a 17th-century Medici pet, which once lived in the Boboli Gardens), but also a collection of anatomical waxes, an art developed in Florence in the 17th century for the purpose of teaching medicine.
7. Galleria del Costume – With more than 6000 costumes dating from the 16th to 20th centuries, children and adults will be delighted to see what boys and girls wore in the old days.
8. Piazzale Michelangelo – Take a stroll up to the Piazzale Michelangelo for a wide open panorama of the city and a spot of ice cream.
9. Museo Galileo - The Museo Galileo is home to the only surviving instruments designed and built by Galileo himself.
10. Church of Santa Croce – Famous for it's lovely Giotto frescoes and for the famous people buried there, the Church of Santa Croce is worth a visit.
11. Roman Theater and Archeological Museum - The Roman amphitheater, built between 50 and 0 BC, could hold a big crowd of 2,500 people, and is still used for dramatic productions. Don't miss the ruins of the Roman baths and a Roman-Etruscan temple.
With so much to do in Florence, your family will want to spend more than 1 day exploring. Visit Florence on your Italy for Families vacation with Celtic Tours. This perfect family getaway is centrally located in the Tuscan region and is only a short drive to Florence. Learn more about this great family vacation package to Italy.
Celtic Tours announces new family vacation package
The Buzz at Celtic Tours
For Immediate Release – June 1, 2011
ITALY FOR FAMILIES
Celtic Tours announces new family vacation package
Albany, New York….Celtic Tours unveils the perfect family getaway with their new Italy for Families Vacation package. This independent vacation gives travelers the freedom to discover the history, art and culture of Italy with their children, at their own pace. Travelers will have the chance to snap a photo in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, marvel at Florence’s Renaissance art, explore historical Siena, go horseback riding through the Tuscan countryside, sample true Italian cuisines and savor the gelato. With Celtic Tours new Italy for Families vacation package – the choice is theirs.
"We are excited to make travel more accessible to families," President and founder of Celtic Tours, Noel Murphy expressed. "Travel offers an important opportunity for children to learn more about history, heritage and culture."
With this great independent package, travelers will enjoy 6 nights at the Villa Casagrande Apartments, car rental and more, with land starting from $1527 per person (with a minimum of 4 passengers). The Villa Casagrande is an authentic Italian Villa located in Figline Valdarno, in the heart of the Tuscan region. The medieval town of Figline Valdarno is just 15 miles south of Florence and at the center of the triangle formed by Siena, Arezza and Florence, offering guests the rare opportunity to visit each of these historically important cities or to simply enjoy exploring the luxurious Tuscan countryside.
More details about this new Celtic Tours package: http://bit.ly/jjnsbP
###
Contact: Sandra Thomas – E-Marketing Manager
sandyt@celtictours.com
1-800-833-4373
ABOUT CELTIC TOURS
We are a family-owned company founded over 39 years ago. Travel agents and individual passengers can attest to Celtic Tours reputation. As a Worldwide tour operator, we are pleased to offer many destinations to choose from with top notch vacations to Ireland, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, as well as many other European destinations, Australia, New Zealand and Tahiti too!
Visit us online:
www.celtictours.com
For Immediate Release – June 1, 2011
ITALY FOR FAMILIES
Celtic Tours announces new family vacation package
Albany, New York….Celtic Tours unveils the perfect family getaway with their new Italy for Families Vacation package. This independent vacation gives travelers the freedom to discover the history, art and culture of Italy with their children, at their own pace. Travelers will have the chance to snap a photo in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, marvel at Florence’s Renaissance art, explore historical Siena, go horseback riding through the Tuscan countryside, sample true Italian cuisines and savor the gelato. With Celtic Tours new Italy for Families vacation package – the choice is theirs.
"We are excited to make travel more accessible to families," President and founder of Celtic Tours, Noel Murphy expressed. "Travel offers an important opportunity for children to learn more about history, heritage and culture."
With this great independent package, travelers will enjoy 6 nights at the Villa Casagrande Apartments, car rental and more, with land starting from $1527 per person (with a minimum of 4 passengers). The Villa Casagrande is an authentic Italian Villa located in Figline Valdarno, in the heart of the Tuscan region. The medieval town of Figline Valdarno is just 15 miles south of Florence and at the center of the triangle formed by Siena, Arezza and Florence, offering guests the rare opportunity to visit each of these historically important cities or to simply enjoy exploring the luxurious Tuscan countryside.
More details about this new Celtic Tours package: http://bit.ly/jjnsbP
###
Contact: Sandra Thomas – E-Marketing Manager
sandyt@celtictours.com
1-800-833-4373
ABOUT CELTIC TOURS
We are a family-owned company founded over 39 years ago. Travel agents and individual passengers can attest to Celtic Tours reputation. As a Worldwide tour operator, we are pleased to offer many destinations to choose from with top notch vacations to Ireland, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, as well as many other European destinations, Australia, New Zealand and Tahiti too!
Visit us online:
www.celtictours.com
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Amazing South of Italy: Italian Vacation
Journey through southern Italy and experience its rich scenery, art, culture, food and wine! Witness the breathtaking scenery of the Amalfi Coast, discover the ruins of Pompeii, and visit the stunning trulli village of Alberobello. Sail to enchanting Capri and sip coffee in the Piazza.
Your Amazing South of Italy Tour Includes:
* Accommodation at 4 Star hotels
* Italian buffet Breakfast daily (no eggs)
* Return Transfer by private car/minibus and driver from/to the airport in Rome to hotel in Rome
* Four dinners and two lunches included
* Service charges and taxes included
* Ground transportation by deluxe motorcoach from Day 3 until day 7 (with the arrival at the hotel in Rome)
* Tour escort / Assistant beginning on day 3
* Sightseeing tours as per the itinerary
* Local guides (English - French - Spanish language) and entrance fees during the tour
Enjoy the Amazing South of Italy on this great Italian Vacation. For limited time only, select departures of this tour are on sale - use coupon code CS100.
Your Amazing South of Italy Tour Includes:
* Accommodation at 4 Star hotels
* Italian buffet Breakfast daily (no eggs)
* Return Transfer by private car/minibus and driver from/to the airport in Rome to hotel in Rome
* Four dinners and two lunches included
* Service charges and taxes included
* Ground transportation by deluxe motorcoach from Day 3 until day 7 (with the arrival at the hotel in Rome)
* Tour escort / Assistant beginning on day 3
* Sightseeing tours as per the itinerary
* Local guides (English - French - Spanish language) and entrance fees during the tour
Enjoy the Amazing South of Italy on this great Italian Vacation. For limited time only, select departures of this tour are on sale - use coupon code CS100.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Tour Ancient Ireland with Celtic Tours
New Budget Escorted Motorcoach Tour - updated itinerary and lower prices!
For those with limited time to spend in Ireland, we bring you the 6-day/4-Night Ancient Ireland Tour. A breathtaking shorter tour that brings you the best of scenic and Ancient Ireland! This is a great tour to combined a self-drive tour to extend your stay and make it a vacation of a lifetime.
Your New Ancient Ireland tour includes:
* First Class and Superior First Class hotels throughout.
* Full Irish breakfast daily, except day of arrival.
* Dinner daily.
* Full sightseeing by Deluxe Touring Motorcoach.
* Professional Irish driver/guide to escort you throughout.
* Visit to Killybegs and the Irish tweed areas of Ardara and Glenties, Achill Island, Cong and Gaelic speaking Connemara.
* Porterage of one (1) suitcase per person.
* Tips and taxes in Ireland. Gratuities to the driver/guide not included.
* Celtic Tours flight bag and portfolio of travel documents.
Join Celtic Tours for this once in a lifetime Irish Vacation. Tour Ancient Ireland on this spectacular 6 Day itinerary.
For those with limited time to spend in Ireland, we bring you the 6-day/4-Night Ancient Ireland Tour. A breathtaking shorter tour that brings you the best of scenic and Ancient Ireland! This is a great tour to combined a self-drive tour to extend your stay and make it a vacation of a lifetime.
Your New Ancient Ireland tour includes:
* First Class and Superior First Class hotels throughout.
* Full Irish breakfast daily, except day of arrival.
* Dinner daily.
* Full sightseeing by Deluxe Touring Motorcoach.
* Professional Irish driver/guide to escort you throughout.
* Visit to Killybegs and the Irish tweed areas of Ardara and Glenties, Achill Island, Cong and Gaelic speaking Connemara.
* Porterage of one (1) suitcase per person.
* Tips and taxes in Ireland. Gratuities to the driver/guide not included.
* Celtic Tours flight bag and portfolio of travel documents.
Join Celtic Tours for this once in a lifetime Irish Vacation. Tour Ancient Ireland on this spectacular 6 Day itinerary.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Edinburgh Festivals
There are 7 festivals that run throughout the Edinburgh summer season. Kicking off with the Edinburgh International Film Festival and finishing off with the Edinburgh Mela and the International Festival fireworks, when you choose to visit will provide you with a vastly different experience. Dates for the 2011 festival season are as follows:
Edinburgh International Film Festival- 15-26 June 2011
Born alongside Edinburgh’s International Festival in 1947, EIFF was one of the world’s first international film festivals, and helped to define the type of event that has since become so pivotal to film culture in nations all over the world.
Edinburgh Art Festival- 4 August - 4 September 2011 * provisional dates
Edinburgh Art Festival is Scotland’s largest annual festival of visual art and has something for everyone. Established in 2004, the Festival works in partnership with the city’s artists, galleries, museums and visual art spaces to present the best, exciting and most intriguing in visual arts practice.
Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival- 22 July- 31 July 2011
Spanning the earliest jazz forms to the thriving creativity of today, the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival presents the UK’s biggest jazz event.
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo- 5th- 27th August 2011
A whirling and colorful kaleidoscope of music, dance and display set against the world famous backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has been an international favorite for over 60 years!
Edinburgh Festival Fringe- 5th -29th August 2011
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world and takes place every August for three weeks in Scotland’s capital city.
Edinburgh International Festival- 12th August- 4th September 2011
Every August, the Edinburgh International Festival transforms one of the world's most beautiful cities, presenting three exhilarating weeks of the finest creators and performers from the worlds of the arts - for everyone.
Edinburgh International Book Festival- 13-29th August 2011
The Edinburgh International Book Festival began in 1983 and is now a key event in the August Festival season, celebrated annually in Scotland's capital city and is the largest public celebration of books in the world. Every August Edinburgh International Book Festival brings writers and thinkers from across the planet together to rub shoulders with you, the audience.
Edinburgh Mela Festival- 2-4 September 2011
The Edinburgh Mela was founded in 1995 by members of the city’s minority ethnic communities. The first festival was held in Meadowbank Stadium and quickly grew to attract 20,000 people each year. It was the first Mela in Scotland and has gained a strong reputation in the UK.
The Edinburgh Festivals offer endless possibilities for your Scottish vacation. With Celtic Tours, you can plan a self-drive vacation or gather your favorite group of people to visit Scotland and enjoy these amazing festivals with.
We also offer a brilliant Edinburgh Tattoo and Festival Package with summer dates still available. This combination package allows for plenty of time to experience the Edinburgh Festival atmosphere. Enjoy the stunning Edinburgh Military Tattoo on the Castle Esplanade. Plus discover the best shows as chosen for you personally by the festival critics with the Festival Passport.
Edinburgh International Film Festival- 15-26 June 2011
Born alongside Edinburgh’s International Festival in 1947, EIFF was one of the world’s first international film festivals, and helped to define the type of event that has since become so pivotal to film culture in nations all over the world.
Edinburgh Art Festival- 4 August - 4 September 2011 * provisional dates
Edinburgh Art Festival is Scotland’s largest annual festival of visual art and has something for everyone. Established in 2004, the Festival works in partnership with the city’s artists, galleries, museums and visual art spaces to present the best, exciting and most intriguing in visual arts practice.
Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival- 22 July- 31 July 2011
Spanning the earliest jazz forms to the thriving creativity of today, the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival presents the UK’s biggest jazz event.
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo- 5th- 27th August 2011
A whirling and colorful kaleidoscope of music, dance and display set against the world famous backdrop of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo has been an international favorite for over 60 years!
Edinburgh Festival Fringe- 5th -29th August 2011
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is the largest arts festival in the world and takes place every August for three weeks in Scotland’s capital city.
Edinburgh International Festival- 12th August- 4th September 2011
Every August, the Edinburgh International Festival transforms one of the world's most beautiful cities, presenting three exhilarating weeks of the finest creators and performers from the worlds of the arts - for everyone.
Edinburgh International Book Festival- 13-29th August 2011
The Edinburgh International Book Festival began in 1983 and is now a key event in the August Festival season, celebrated annually in Scotland's capital city and is the largest public celebration of books in the world. Every August Edinburgh International Book Festival brings writers and thinkers from across the planet together to rub shoulders with you, the audience.
Edinburgh Mela Festival- 2-4 September 2011
The Edinburgh Mela was founded in 1995 by members of the city’s minority ethnic communities. The first festival was held in Meadowbank Stadium and quickly grew to attract 20,000 people each year. It was the first Mela in Scotland and has gained a strong reputation in the UK.
The Edinburgh Festivals offer endless possibilities for your Scottish vacation. With Celtic Tours, you can plan a self-drive vacation or gather your favorite group of people to visit Scotland and enjoy these amazing festivals with.
We also offer a brilliant Edinburgh Tattoo and Festival Package with summer dates still available. This combination package allows for plenty of time to experience the Edinburgh Festival atmosphere. Enjoy the stunning Edinburgh Military Tattoo on the Castle Esplanade. Plus discover the best shows as chosen for you personally by the festival critics with the Festival Passport.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
10 Things to do in Lisbon with your Kids
The family-oriented Portuguese welcome children everywhere and there are plenty of opportunities in and around Lisbon, Portugal to keeps kids entertained. Here are 10 of our favorite family friendly activities.
1. The Oceanarium: Lisbon's Oceanarium is one of the world's largest aquariums. It is a deep-sea diving experience without any of the risks, with about 25,000 fish, seabirds, and mammals in an enormous central tank that is the size of four Olympic-sized swimming pools. Visitors can look into it from different levels for close-ups of the various creatures, including different species of sharks.
2. Tropical Garden: Lisbon's beautiful tropical garden is a charming, yet often overlooked spot that has maintained all the ponds, towering palm trees, and over 4000 species of tropical plants that it had when it was created in 1906.
3. Coaches Museum: One of Lisbon's most visited sights, the Coaches Museum has the largest and most valuable collection of fairytale coaches in the world.
4. Interactive Science Museum: The Interactive Science Museum has highly educational exhibits with cutting-edge technology and multimedia. There are fun interactive displays and simulations, explaining the use of technology in everyday life. Many of the world's major scientific institutes contribute to thematic exhibitions, making this a rewarding experience for both adults and children.
5. Marionette Museum: The former 18th century Bernardas Convent houses a lovely collection of over 1,000 puppets, including some dating from the 17th and 18th centuries -- knights, princesses, devils, among other characters.
6. The Toy Museum at Sintra: Another museum that will delight the entire family.
7. Colombo Shopping Center: A children's play area can be found uptown on the top floor of Colombo Shopping Center, including a fun fair that claims to be the largest indoor amusement park in Europe with a roller coaster and other rides, video games, bowling, and a go cart track to entertain the kids as you shop.
8. Pena Palace: This fairytale palace is the most complete and notable example of Portuguese architecture in the Romantic period. It stands on one of the rocky peaks of the Serra de Sintra, and blends in a surprisingly fortunate manner with its natural background of greenery and crags, testifying to the aesthetic potentialities of the project.
9. Jeronimos Monastery: Enjoy some medieval storytelling in the cloisters of Jeronimos Monastery.
10. Parque das Nações: Parque das Nações is the district with the most family entertainment, offering several attractions suitable for people of all ages. Mostly traffic-free and with riverside walkways, it is a good place for a day out, with cable car rides, bikes for hire, water gardens, bowling, international restaurants, and a playground known as "Parque do Gil."
Enjoy Portugal with your friends and family on Celtic Tours Experience Portugal Small Group Tour.
1. The Oceanarium: Lisbon's Oceanarium is one of the world's largest aquariums. It is a deep-sea diving experience without any of the risks, with about 25,000 fish, seabirds, and mammals in an enormous central tank that is the size of four Olympic-sized swimming pools. Visitors can look into it from different levels for close-ups of the various creatures, including different species of sharks.
2. Tropical Garden: Lisbon's beautiful tropical garden is a charming, yet often overlooked spot that has maintained all the ponds, towering palm trees, and over 4000 species of tropical plants that it had when it was created in 1906.
3. Coaches Museum: One of Lisbon's most visited sights, the Coaches Museum has the largest and most valuable collection of fairytale coaches in the world.
4. Interactive Science Museum: The Interactive Science Museum has highly educational exhibits with cutting-edge technology and multimedia. There are fun interactive displays and simulations, explaining the use of technology in everyday life. Many of the world's major scientific institutes contribute to thematic exhibitions, making this a rewarding experience for both adults and children.
5. Marionette Museum: The former 18th century Bernardas Convent houses a lovely collection of over 1,000 puppets, including some dating from the 17th and 18th centuries -- knights, princesses, devils, among other characters.
6. The Toy Museum at Sintra: Another museum that will delight the entire family.
7. Colombo Shopping Center: A children's play area can be found uptown on the top floor of Colombo Shopping Center, including a fun fair that claims to be the largest indoor amusement park in Europe with a roller coaster and other rides, video games, bowling, and a go cart track to entertain the kids as you shop.
8. Pena Palace: This fairytale palace is the most complete and notable example of Portuguese architecture in the Romantic period. It stands on one of the rocky peaks of the Serra de Sintra, and blends in a surprisingly fortunate manner with its natural background of greenery and crags, testifying to the aesthetic potentialities of the project.
9. Jeronimos Monastery: Enjoy some medieval storytelling in the cloisters of Jeronimos Monastery.
10. Parque das Nações: Parque das Nações is the district with the most family entertainment, offering several attractions suitable for people of all ages. Mostly traffic-free and with riverside walkways, it is a good place for a day out, with cable car rides, bikes for hire, water gardens, bowling, international restaurants, and a playground known as "Parque do Gil."
Enjoy Portugal with your friends and family on Celtic Tours Experience Portugal Small Group Tour.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Shopping in Lisbon
Baixa, the city center of Lisbon, Portugal, with elegant squares, pedestrianized streets, cafes, and shops. Old tramcars, street performers, tiled Art Deco shopfronts, elaborately decorated pastry shops, and street vendors selling everything from flowers to souvenirs, all lend a special charm to the area. Watch it all from a table outside Nicola Café in Rossio Square facing the monumental National Theater and Saint George's Castle, and as you stroll down the pedestrian Rua Augusta, past the triumphal arch, into the majestic Comercio Square. Look down at the cobbled mosaic pavements as you walk down Avenida da Liberdade, past Restauradores, Rossio, and Rua Augusta. It is hardly a secret but the nondescript façade of "Casa do Alentejo" in Rua das Portas de Santo Antão may prevent you from finding its beautiful Moorish interior.
Baixa literally means “low” as it is situated in the gulf between the two main hills of the city. Owing its neat rows of stately neoclassical buildings to the devastating earthquake of 1755, it is said that it is almost impossible to get lost in downtown Lisbon.
Baixa is the central shopping and business district of Lisbon. Portuguese handcrafts often exhibit exotic influences, in part because of Portugal’s vast history as a seafaring nation. The Baixa shopping district lies between the Rossio and the river Tagus. The three main shopping streets are the Rua Aurea, or Street of Gold, the Rua da Prata, Street of Silver and the Rua Augusta.
Don’t forget to check out the famous Feira da Ladra, or “Theives Market” where you can experience haggling for bargains. Today, the traders here are perfectly legal, and they show their wares every Tuesday and Saturday. This open-air market is about a 5 minute walk from the waterfront, close to the Alfama district. Start browsing at Campo de Santa Clara, portable stalls and individual displays climb the hilly street. Nearly everything you can imagine is for sale here, but come early for the finest pickings.
From pottery and ceramics to fashion, art and handcrafts, Lisbon’s business and shopping district is not to be missed. Plan your Lisbon shopping day with your favorite group of people on Celtic Tours Experience Portugal Group Tour.
Baixa literally means “low” as it is situated in the gulf between the two main hills of the city. Owing its neat rows of stately neoclassical buildings to the devastating earthquake of 1755, it is said that it is almost impossible to get lost in downtown Lisbon.
Baixa is the central shopping and business district of Lisbon. Portuguese handcrafts often exhibit exotic influences, in part because of Portugal’s vast history as a seafaring nation. The Baixa shopping district lies between the Rossio and the river Tagus. The three main shopping streets are the Rua Aurea, or Street of Gold, the Rua da Prata, Street of Silver and the Rua Augusta.
Don’t forget to check out the famous Feira da Ladra, or “Theives Market” where you can experience haggling for bargains. Today, the traders here are perfectly legal, and they show their wares every Tuesday and Saturday. This open-air market is about a 5 minute walk from the waterfront, close to the Alfama district. Start browsing at Campo de Santa Clara, portable stalls and individual displays climb the hilly street. Nearly everything you can imagine is for sale here, but come early for the finest pickings.
From pottery and ceramics to fashion, art and handcrafts, Lisbon’s business and shopping district is not to be missed. Plan your Lisbon shopping day with your favorite group of people on Celtic Tours Experience Portugal Group Tour.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Tuscan Experience Sale plus

Save $200 Per Couple on Land on Tuscan Experience
departing May 12, 2011. Use code CS100
Plus, Get $300 Credit Per Couple on Land for Future Celtic Tour
8 Nights or Longer*
Travel to Ireland, Britain, Italy, Australia and New Zealand. . . Endless Possibilities
*Credit must be used towards new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other sales, promotions or discounted pricing. Credit is good towards Future tours 8 nights or longer to Ireland or Italy, from our brochure.
***These specials are for new bookings only and must be on deposit by March 16, 2011.
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