Happy New Year!!!!

I hope everyone has a wonderful New Year!  Can' wait to see what 2016 has in store.  One thing I know in 2016 - a great trip to Ireland and Italy with great friends and family.  I feel so blessed!!

Start looking for airfare!!  The best time to buy is from now until early February.  The latest you want to purchase tickets is mid February.  If you wait until the last minute you might get a good price and you might not.  The end of May and beginning of June is considered the start of the high season for Europe. 

I would like to end the year and bring in the New Year with a toast:

Internation Travel Tips

Another good find on Pinterest

http://www.savoredjourneys.com/2014/10/50-things-every-international-traveler-know/

When traveling overseas, there are so many cultural, social and etiquette differences that you really need to know, or you risk looking like a (-gasp-) tourist, or worse, a complete idiot.
Seasoned travelers know that it pays to be educated and do your research before leaving the country so you don’t offend, embarrass or find yourself in a pickle.
So read up on these 50 things every International travel should know and you’ll be good to go!

Money Matters:

1. Most countries use credit cards with chips and PINs. U.S. travelers are often asked for a PIN with their card, but your card can usually be run without a PIN.
2. When running credit cards overseas, the merchant will bring the card machine to you. You type in a tip on the machine and it’s done. Your card shouldn’t need to leave your sight.
3. Most credit cards charge a 3% international transaction fee, even when you’re booking with an international company while still at home. Find one that doesn’t charge that fee.
4. Don’t use traveler’s cheques. It’s outdated and an unnecessary hassle.
5. Use ATMs to get the cash you’ll need. Try to calculate your costs in advance so you don’t get too much or have to pay another fee to get more.
6. Avoid exchange bureaus. They often charge exorbitant fees.
7. Spend loose change before leaving the country because you can’t sell it back at any currency exchange desk.
8. Know the currency conversion rate and carry a calculator so you don’t get taken advantage of.
9. Haggling is expected in most bazaars and markets around the world. But don’t start too low or you’ll insult the storekeeper.

Bathroom:

10. WC stands for Water Closet and is the acceptable symbol for a bathroom in many countries.
11. Always carry small change in Europe. You need it to use the WC (bathroom) in many countries.
12. When using a street bathroom where you pay with coins in the door, beware that there is a time limit and the door may pop open before you’re finished.
13. Always carry your own toilet paper. Some bathrooms don’t offer free or any paper.
14. Be prepared to squat! Many non-Western countries use squat toilets and it’s definitely a learned skill.
15. Some countries/cities have older plumbing that can’t handle TP. If you see a wastebasket next to the toilet, place TP there and not in the toilet.

Dining:

16. In many countries (Argentina & Spain for example), dinner doesn’t start until at least 9pm. If you show up before that, you might be the only person in the restaurant.
17. Tipping isn’t required or expected in most countries outside the U.S. Rounding up is usually enough. A nice restaurant may warrant 10%.
18. You rest chopsticks on your plate or on a chopstick rest, but never across the bowl.
19. Don’t eat with your left hand in Muslim countries.
20. Hotel breakfasts are overpriced and underwhelming. Grab a croissant and coffee at the corner cafe instead.
21. If you’re being served water from a bottle, you’re paying for the bottle, and it can be quite overpriced. Be aware of the price of water if you’re going to indulge.
22. While you can in many locations, you shouldn’t drink the water unless you’re sure, or risk travelers stomach!

Safety:

23. Know how to stay safe on vacation. Be aware of commotion, people bumping into you, beggars hanging around. Pick pockets are smarter and better at what they do than you think.
24. Don’t wear your backpack on your back if it’s easy to get into and carrying expensive items. It’s easy for a thief to unzip a pocket and take something without you noticing.
25. Know how to spot a scam. There are dozens, but they all have the same “stink” of a scam.

Packing:

26. Packing light – only taking a carry-on — will save you from the dreaded “lost luggage” scenario.
27. If you must take a checked bag, make sure you have at least a change of clothes and any necessities, such as medications, stored in your carry on.
28. In Latin America, you should pass food with your right hand and always keep your hands above the table while eating.
29. When you’re ready for the bill in a restaurant, you’ll have to ask for it.
30. Save space by packing dual-purpose clothes that can be re-worn and mix-and-matched. There’s no need to take multiple pairs of shoes and jackets.
31. Wrap wine and liquor bottles in clothes so they don’t break in your luggage.
32. Roll your clothes to save space.
33. Do laundry in the sink. The time and energy you’ll save not having to lug around baggage is so worth it.
34. Know the airline’s baggage policy. Some U.S. carry on bags are too big in Europe. Low cost airlines always have stricter limits. Know before you go.

Transportation:

35. Travel in the off- or shoulder- season to cut down on costs and avoid crowds.
36. Use a budget local airline to book short flights in country. Ryanair will save you tons of money when flying between European countries.
37. Know how to hail a taxi in any country.
38. Always ask for an estimate on the cab fare before getting in. You should know what the expected rate is so you don’t get overcharged.
39. Only rent a car if it’s absolutely necessary. Take the train, bus or walk around cities instead. It offers more culture, opportunity to see the countryside and less hassle: parking, theft and extra costs aren’t worth it.
40. Most rental cars overseas are stick shifts.
41. If you’re going to rent a car, you better know how to change a tire!

General Knowledge:

42. Know at least a few words in the language. Every travel should at least know how to stay yes, no and thank you in language.
43. Don’t walk around with your passport. Keep a copy of the first page with you, and store your passport in the hotel safe. Also give a copy of the first page to someone back home, just in case.
44. Never point at someone with your index finger. It’s rude.
45. Know your passport number by heart.
46. Know how to use the 24-hour clock.
47. Know how to convert to the metric system.
48. Know how to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit if you want to know what the temperature is.
49. Learn to go with the flow. Don’t get uptight or stressed out when things don’t go right or you will ruin what little time you have.
50. Know how to toast in different languages. Cheers! (Check out this great guide from Matador Networks).

Now you know the 50 things every International traveler should know and you’ll be much better prepared to handle yourself in any situation while traveling overseas. If you have additional things to add to the list, let me know about them in the comments. I’ll add them to the list!

Whit Monday - Ireland June 6, 2016

I forgot to mention that Monday June 6th is a public holiday (bank holiday) in Ireland.  It is there start to summer. So if you are headed back to Ireland on Monday June 6th you will get to experience a holiday. 

June Bank Holiday in Ireland

The June Holiday (Lá Saoire i mí Mheitheamh) is observed in Ireland on the first Monday of June. People take time to enjoy the spring weather to attend local cultural and sporting events.  Marathons and other sporting events are popular events during the June Holiday.  

What Do People Do?

The weather in Ireland is often mild and pleasant at the start of June. Hence, many people spend time outside over the June Holiday weekend. Popular activities and events include:

• Picnics and barbeques.
• Open-air concerts of traditional or modern music.
• Family camping, walking or sailing weekends.
• Arts, cultural and musical festivals around the country.
• Marathons and other sporting events.
• Agricultural and garden shows.

Other people use the June Holiday weekend take a short early summer break or vacation in Ireland or abroad.

Public Life

Public life is generally quiet on the first Monday of June. Banks, post offices and many businesses and organizations are closed. However, stores and pubs are generally open, although they may open later and close earlier than usual. Public transport service schedules vary depending on where one lives and intends to travel.

Background

The day after Pentecost was traditionally a holiday known as Pentecost Monday or Whit Monday. This enabled people to attend extra church services and organize local fairs and cultural events. Pentecost Monday became a public holiday following the Bank Holidays Act 1871. Following the Holidays (Employees) Act 1973, this holiday was moved to the First Monday of June. The new date was first observed in 1974.

Airline Tickets

I sent an email out today and wanted to make sure I posted the same on the blog.

I wanted to give everyone an update.  Starting now until early February will be the best time to purchase tickets.  I suggest to start checking daily for deals.  We had 11 people in the group purchase tickets this past weekend.  All of these 11 decided to fly round trip from Chicago to Dublin and spend a night in Dublin on the way back.  They did this because they were able to purchase round trip airfare to Dublin for $720 or under.  The round trip ticket on Aer Lingus from Dublin to Venice is currently about $300 US per person.  So if you add the $700 plus the $300 the total is $1,000. Right now the cheapest I have heard of for travel from Chicago to Dublin, then Dublin to Venice, then Venice to Chicago has been $1,100 by calling Aer Lingus.  Online it has been around $1,200.00.

If you have two people traveling that is $100 to $200 more per person.  That is enough to cover the extra night in Dublin on the way back.  However you would fly home Tuesday June 7th instead of Monday June 6th.

Please remember I am just giving options.  If you want to fly home direct from Venice that is fine too.  Out of the 11 people who booked this weekend 7 or not returning to the US until June 12th.

I have found the best sites right now are the following.  I booked off of Vayama.com because I could not get the same price direct through the airline.

Sites:
vayama.com
cheaptickets.com
skyscanner.com
momondo.com
bookairfare.com

I did book my airfare.  I booked United Flight 152 direct from O'Hare to Dublin on Friday May 27th leaving at 6:10pm and arriving Dublin at 7:50am Saturday May 28th.  We are flying back to Dublin on Saturday June 11th and then flying home on Sunday June 12th.  Our flight back on Sunday June 12th is on Air Canada with a connection in Toronto.  We depart at 10:30am and arrive Chicago O'Hare at 3:00pm. 

NOTE:  I checked the flight route Chicago 5/27 to Dublin, Dublin 6/3 to Venice, and Venice 6/6 to Chicago on momondo.com and found it for $1,151.00.  My sister-in-law called them again this weekend and they told her the flights were starting to fill up.  You cannot do a multi-search on the Aer Lingus site.  If you are interested in this ticket I would call Aer Lingus direct. 

When you go www.momondo.com remember to switch your currency to USD.  It automatically defaulted mine to Danish.  You can do it in the upper right corner. 

I honestly believe the price for the ticket ---- Chicago to Dublin, Dublin to Venice, and Venice to Chicago will NOT go down in price.  I think the best you will ever get that ticket for is $1,100 to $1,200. 

And you won't see much cheaper prices on the ticket --- Chicago to Dublin round trip than $650 to $730.  Right now the flight times on the $650 tickets on Air Canada are not very good.  For $729 you can get direct flights on United.  If you do fly round trip from Chicago to Dublin then you will need to purchase the round trip Dublin to Venice on Aer Lingus for around $300.  That includes a checked bag of 33 pounds. 

Either option is similar in price - it just depends if you want another night in Dublin or you want to fly home from Venice. 

If you want to extra night in Dublin the Aer Lingus flight arrives at 1:30pm so you could get an airport hotel - check in and then take a bus to the city for the evening. 

One thing I do ask - when you purchase your ticket please let me know the flight times.  I need to know when everyone is arriving Dublin.  On Monday June 6th we have to vacate the apartments by 10:00am. 

AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST - WE WILL BE IN IRELAND 5 MONTHS FROM TODAY!!

Airfare

Just wanted to let everyone know there are some really good prices round trip to Dublin right now.  I found 708 on vayama.com today.  A few people in the party booked it and are flying back to Dublin on 6/6 and spending the day and night in Dublin and flying back to Chicago on Tues 6/7.  With the round trip ticket of Dublin to Venice it came to a total of 1,000 so what they saved covered the night in Dublin.  Try cheapflights and sky scanner too.  If you don't mind a layover Air Canada had round trip Chicago to Dublin flights for 670.

Merry Christmas and Happy Belated Hanukkah

Hello everyone and MERRY CHRISTMAS.  I will be back next week.  I hope everyone has a wonderful Holiday. 

PS - My sister-in-law called Aer Lingus directly.  They told her the multi-city ticket of Chicago to Dublin 5/27, Dublin to Venice 6/3, and Venice to Chicago 6/6 would be $1,100.00.  I know I can never get a multi-city search to work correctly on the Aer Lingus site.  That is a better deal than I have seen on any other travel site.  I had $1,160.00 in the budget so that is $60 less than budget price.

 

Happy belated Hanukkah

 

 

 



Hiatus

There will be a short hiatus in posts while the flu continues to make me sorry I was born.  #flu1Dina0 #72hoursinbed #flushotdidntwork 

Trip Info

Not feeling well today so today's post is an email I sent yesterday.  PLEASE email me your email address if you did not get the email yesterday.  Email me at d.nicodemus@comcast.net.

Hello everyone, This is the first group email. If you do not want to be on the list then please drop me an email and I will take

you off.  If you know of someone who should be getting this email and isn't then let me know that also.

 

I don't always get a good response from my blog so I am turning to email. Is anyone interested in golfing while we are in Ireland? I am going to plan a golf outing in Waterford the morning of the vow renewal. That would be Monday May 30th. I am working with the hotel on all the details.

 

I have scanned several flights over the past couple of months and it appears if I do a search for airfare and include the Aer Lingus Dublin to Venice leg in my multi-city search it is about the same price as just buying the leg separate. The Dublin to Venice leg on Friday June 3rd has been running between 107 and 129 Euro with no bags. There hasn't really been a large fluctuation. The price that has held the longest has been 117 or 119 Euro. So if you don't have your money yet collected for the big ticket you might want to purchase this particular leg in the next month. It was 129 today so I am going to wait until 117 or 119 and buy ours. This is the only non-stop flight on Friday June 3rd to Venice from Dublin. I did find a cheaper flight on German Wings but it is 7 hours and 40 minutes travel time. On Aer Lingus you depart at 7:20am and arrive Venice at 11am. (with the time difference between Ireland and Italy it makes the flight 2 hours and 40 minutes) German Wings you depart at 12:00pm and arrive Venice 8:40pm. Normally we fly Ryan Air between the 2 cities but they are not flying that particular route on Fridays and Mondays.

 

Concerning the big ticket: I have been doing searches all different types of ways. For a time United had round trip tickets from Chicago to Dublin with non-stop flights both ways for $785. You could buy that ticket and purchase an Aer Lingus ticket back from Venice to Dublin. The only issue is making sure you have enough time to deplane - get through customs - go through customs in Dublin and catch your flight. In Dublin when you are flying back to the States you go through US customs and passport control before flying to the US. I typically always give myself 3 hours instead of the recommended two in Dublin. That is why I think it might be easier just to do Chicago to Dublin and Venice to Chicago. I also saw tickets under $1,000 on Air Canada using the Chicago to Dublin and Venice to Chicago route however there are layovers and the travel time is longer. I would rather pay $100 more per person and have non-stop flights.

 

I will email everyone when I find what I think is a good ticket price.

 

Las Vegas travelers - I have seen some really good deals on Norwegian Air. You can buy your flights in segments like Aer Lingus. They had the Venice to Vegas flight for 299 at one time and now it is 353.50. I have read last minute deals can be really cheap.

 

If anyone needs anything just drop me a note.

25 Travel Tips

I found this on Pinterest and I agree with her best 25.  My comments are in blue.

http://ordinarytraveler.com/articles/best-travel-tips
 

Be Flexible

We always plan for delays and try not to get upset when things inevitably go wrong. Patience is extremely important when traveling!
 

Make a List (I have one I keep and use for every trip)

About a week or so before each trip, I make a mental list of items I don’t want to forget — which I WILL forget if I don’t write them down. I’ve learned that when I think of something, I need to write it down.
 

Learn Common Phrases of the Local Language (Apparently her and my husband have something in common as far as learning the word for beer - In China that was the only word he learned)

A simple “Please,” “Thank you,” and “I’m sorry” in the local language goes a long way. I also like to learn the word for beer, but that’s just me.
 

Don’t Forget an Extra Camera Battery (or Two)

Have you ever gotten to that epic sunset photo spot and realized your camera battery is dead and you don’t have a back up? I try to bring at least three camera batteries on all of our trips so that we don’t miss out on that perfect shot.
 

Always Bring a Sarong (I usually bring a scarf)

Sarongs can be used as a wrap when you are cold, a towel, a curtain, or a piece of clothing that can be worn dozens of different ways. Solid colors are great, but if you want something that stands out, I love this sarong.
Read more: 8 Ways to Wear a Sarong

 

Always Buy Travel Insurance (we usually don't do this)

A medical emergency can wipe out your savings — or even worse. We use and trust World Nomads for travel insurance.
 

Make Photocopies of Important Documents

In my early twenties, I was very good about keeping a copy of my passport in a separate bag from my actual passport. Then I got lazy. Recently, a friend of mine lost her passport at the airport. She was told that if she had brought a copy of it and extra passport photos they would have let her travel. Since she didn’t, she was forced to forfeit a $2,000 flight and a week in Europe. I now carry a copy with me.
 

Pack Extra Underwear

Undies are small and it’s always a good idea to have a few extra pairs in case of emergencies. Another option is to pack these quick-dry underwear so you can easily wash them on the road.
 

Pre-plan Your Outfits

I’m a lazy, last-minute packer, so I’ve spent too many trips with all black or all grey outfits because I didn’t plan my outfits before packing. I look back at photos and wish I had put more effort into packing.
 

Put Electronics, Medications, Toothbrush, and an Extra Pair of Underwear in Your Carry-on

A few important items should always go in your carry-on. A swimsuit is also a good idea if you are going on a beach vacation. You can buy most of these things if your bag gets lost, but having them in your carry-on will save you money and time if your luggage gets lost in transit.
 

Enquire about the price BEFORE You Take Public Transportation (this is so true - in fact in London you have to ask the taxi if they can take you where you want to go - sometimes they can't)

It’s a good idea to ask about the price before you hop on a bus, guagua, or other form of public transportation. We learned our lesson in the Dominican Republic.
 

Bring Lotion in Your Carry-on

I fill both sides of a contact lens case with hydrating lotion (I use this all-natural hydrating lotion) because they rarely have it in the lavatories and airplane cabins are exceptionally dry.
 

Stay Hydrated on Planes

I know it’s fun to get drunk at 30,000 feet, but it’s also much easier to get dehydrated. Staying hydrated — especially on long-haul flights — makes it easier to get over jet lag too.
 

Put Your Room Number & Hotel Address in Your Phone

Am I the only one who can’t remember my hotel room number?? There has to be others out there like me.
 

Ask The Locals (we consult Trip Advisor too)

We always ask the locals to point us to the best restaurants, awesome spots to watch the sunset, the best coffee shops, etc. I do like to tell people what type of food I’m craving though. I’ve been led to some interesting restaurants that wouldn’t have been my first choice.
 

Beware of Free Public WIFI

I always try to avoid logging into bank accounts or entering any passwords while I’m using free public WIFI at a place like an airport. I’m not as strict about it once I’ve gotten to my hotel, especially if they have a password for their wifi.
 

Alert Your Bank and Credit Card Company of Your Travel Plans

This is a great habit to get into if you don’t want your credit card company or bank to put a hold on your card while you are overseas.
 

Wear Sunscreen

My face moisturizer has SPF. This is just something I do every day, but it’s especially important while traveling.
 

Take Plenty of Photos

They make the best souvenirs!
 

Keep an Open Mind (I am very passionate about this - if you are in THEIR country don't judge their customs - follow them)

Don’t judge other customs. You are a visitor. Be respectful.
 

Leave Room for Spontaneity (As hard as it is not too - I agree with this one completely)

Don’t plan your entire itinerary ahead of time. It’s tempting, I know, but those unplanned moments while traveling can be the best memories.
 

Let Someone at Home Know Your Plans

This is extremely important when traveling solo, but it’s still a good idea no matter how many people are in your travel group.
 

Separate Your Personal Items

When Scott and I travel together, we mix our personal items into each checked bag (assuming we have more than one). That way if one of our bags gets lost, we both still have some clothing and personal items.
 

Separate Your Sources of Money (and make sure you have more than one go to for cash - one card might not work or it might be eaten by the ATM)

Don’t keep all of your cash and cards in one spot. I usually hide some cash and a back up credit/bank card in a separate bag — not the same bag as my wallet.
 

Travel First Aid Kit

We pack up a small first aid kit with aspirin, Benedryl, cold meds, Tums, cough drops, bandages, Activated Charcoal pills (these are a life saver for traveler’s diarrhea and minor allergic reactions), Neosporin, and other things that we may not always have easy access to when traveling. J&J sells an inexpensive mini first aid kit.

Back to Packing

I know I have talked a lot about packing but I cannot express how much it can make a difference in your trip.  Airlines are notorious now for charging for everything.  You will pay big bucks if you take too much.  Every airline has their own rules and it is always good to check the rules prior to purchasing the flight.  Some allow a carry-on for free but the weight cannot exceed 22 pounds.  On top of the cost is the hassle.  I hate lugging bags around.  If you are anything like me you have your favorite outfits anyway.  Why not plan to wear an outfit you love a couple of times. 

The outfit I fly in is probably the outfit I take the most time picking out.  I want something comfortable while flying yet I want something presentable when I land.  The outfit I fly in I know I won't be able to wear again until it is laundered.  Trust me on this!!!  My last trip to Europe I wore an oversized shirt over leggings with boots.  Even though I had to take my boots off to go through security it saved a ton of room in my bag.  The shirt was dressy enough to be presentable when we landed yet comfortable because it was oversized.  Leggings are great because they are extremely comfortable and with the right shirt very presentable.  Instead of packing my jacket (I knew I would need one in Ireland) I wore it on the plane and stuffed it in my tote when I didn't need it.  It can get chilly on the plane so I was thankful to have it with me.  If it is too large to stuff in your tote you can always thread it through the handle of your carry-on. 

This setup is actually my favorite:  Some people might prefer a small backpack instead of a tote.

I always make sure the carry-on is as lightweight as I can buy.  Some carry-ons can weigh quite a bit which means you get less weight for your items.  I make sure my purse is small enough to fit in the tote so the tote can be my personal item when needed.  If you already own a carry-on I would weigh it.  The older carry-ons can weigh in excess of 10 to 12 pounds.  It might be better for you to purchase a new lightweight carry-on.  In the long run you will save on luggage fees .  Budget airlines charge for luggage based on weight.  It is cheaper for a 10K bag (22 pounds) than a 20K bag (44 pounds). 

My husband is 6'2 and wears a size 14 shoe so of course his carry-on is always closer to 30 pounds.  Sometimes when flying with a budget airline - if you purchase a checked back at 15K they will give you a 10K carry-on for free.  So we balance out.  :)

Who wants to golf?

A couple people mentioned they would be interested in golfing while in Ireland.  They do have a course in Waterford where we will be staying for two nights.  Here is what the hotel had on their website.

Golfing The South East region – Waterford, Kilkenny and Wexford – boasts thirty 18 hole golf courses, exceptional value for money, and the finest weather conditions in Ireland. It is thus no wonder that the region is one of the most visited golf destinations in the country. Some of the famous courses within easy access to the hotel include Waterford Golf Club, Tramore Golf Club, Kilkenny Golf Club and The New Ross Golf Club. Special group rates are available to suit your requirements with courses booked and preferential green fees.

http://www.top100golfcourses.co.uk/htmlsite/productdetails.asp?id=1023

There is also a golf course in Cobh where we will be spending one night. 

http://www.top100golfcourses.co.uk/htmlsite/productdetails.asp?id=1325

If you are interested in golfing please email me at d.nicodemus@comcast.net.  If enough people are interested I will set something up.

FYIs
Throughout the island of Ireland, there are over 400 golf courses to accommodate any skill level. The uniqueness of Ireland’s golf courses encompasses design, challenge, location, and scenery. There are also many public 'Pay and Play' courses. Some golf courses offer clubhouse facilities, restaurants and pubs, lessons, motorized carts, and caddies for hire.

Golfing in Ireland is the largest single sporting holiday attraction. It has developed an international reputation making it the most sought after golf destination in Europe. Several new courses have been developed over the past decade.
For the serious golfer, you might want to bring your own clubs, especially if you plan on playing on some of the championship courses. Many golf courses will rent equipment. However, equipment should be reserved in advance. Most of the clubs operate a 'soft spikes' policy. If you travel with metal spikes, they can be converted to 'soft spikes' for an additional cost. During the peak season, mid May through mid September, many of the golf courses are booked. To make the most of your Irish golfing holiday or vacation it is advisable to reserve your tee time well in advance.

While many clubs offer motorized carts, some do not. However, because of the severity of the terrain, the links courses usually do not offer the carts. They work at maintaining the old traditions. Caddies are available for hire at many clubs. Fees are arranged and paid to the Caddy Master. Plan on a tip as well. Many clubs reserve the right to request a 'handicap certificate', especially if you plan to compete.

World-renowned golf architects and international golfers have designed several Irish courses. Once played upon, you will never forget your exhilarating experience. Along with the thrill and excitement of golfing in Ireland, you will experience hospitality like nowhere else in the world. The scenery and sites you will explore will be indelible in memory. The country is magical, the people are poetic, and the myths and legends may place you at another time in history. For the golfer, Ireland is a little slice of heaven.
The climate is temperate, with little snow, and coastal areas seldom have frost. The Atlantic Gulf Stream arrives in April with spring, making fairer weather and better golf. From June to the end of July, daylight extends until 11PM. May, August, and September, daylight is usually from 7AM until 8PM. December and January are usually the coldest months. In October and November dusk occurs around 4PM to 5PM. It can rain any time of year. However, it is the rain that keeps the courses lush and beautiful all year round.

http://www.top100golfcourses.co.uk/htmlsite/country.asp?id=4

HELLO

Just checking to make sure I have your attention.  LOL

Current Flight Price

Current Flight Price out of Chicago



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Same as the last couple of months.

Drinking in Italy

The Italian Aperitivo

What is it?  It is very similar to the US happy hour.  Friends meet up before dinner to enjoy drinks and appetizers or tapas.  The classic Italian aperitivo drinks differ by region but usually include a mix with Aperol or Campari liquors. They may taste a bit bitter at the first sip, but once you've tried them on a couple different occasions, the taste is quite nice. Most often people will order a glass of wine, or an alcoholic drink like the Americano, Spritz, or Negroni. Although other cocktails are on the menu, such a Mojito or Cosmopolitan, usually drinks should be low in alcohol content and bitter or dry, to softly start your pre-dinner juices flowing.

The Negroni is a mixed drink using Campari, gin, and vermouth. The Negroni came into existence in Florence in 1919 by Count Camillo Negroni.

The Americano is similar to the Negroni, but uses Campari, vermouth, and soda instead of gin.

The Spritz, which is said to have originated in Venice under the Austrian Empire, is a mixed drink using Aperol or Campari (depends on the area or the bartender), sparkling white wine, and soda.  These classics are served in a glass with ice and usually garnished with an orange peel.

Aperol Website

Campari Website

Wine is always an acceptable aperitivo drink, and sometimes much cheaper than a cocktail. If you like sweet or sparkling wines, aperitivo is the time to drink them: Prosecco (sparkling white wine), Spumante (a sweet or dry sparkling white wine), Fragolino (a sweet sparkling red wine), Brachetto (sweet, sparkling red wine) are all excellent aperitivo drinks.  The Bellini, invented at Harry’s Bar in Venice, is a good choice if you like prosecco and peaches but it is not always widely available if the bar doesn’t stock peach juice or puree.  As I posted earlier in my blog I prefer Canella Bellini while in Venice.  Actually I am able to purchase it here and always have a few bottles in my home. 

Canella Bellini Website

What's on the Menu Some bars and restaurants keep it good and simple with a drink, olives and nuts. Others go all out with their food spread, offering different types of fresh pasta, Italian cheeses, grilled or sautéed vegetables, and sandwiches. Some even go outside the traditional Italian offerings by serving up curry chicken, couscous, and other international dishes. 

Italian Beer (Birra - pronounced Beer-ah)

My husband and I have never really been a fan of Italian beer.  However like Ireland I can usually find Corona someplace.  The last time we were in Venice was 2012 and I cannot remember what imports were available.  I feel like we didn't see Budweiser like we did in Ireland. 

Italy is considered to be part of the wine belt of Europe. Nevertheless, beer, particularly mass-produced pale lagers, are common in the country. It is traditionally considered to be an ideal accompaniment to pizza; since the 1970s, beer has spread from pizzerias and has become much more popular for drinking in other situations.  Peroni is the most widespread in Italy which is owned by SABMiller.  Other beers:

Nastro Azzurro

Beba

Castello

Dreher (owned by Heineken International)

Forst

Ichnusa (owned by Heineken International)

Menabrea

Birra Messina

Morena

Moretti (owned by Heineken International)

Theresianer

Italian Wine (Vino - pronounced Vee-noh)

White Wine = Vino Bianco, Red Wine = Vino Rosso, Rose Wine = Vino Rosato
I never have a problem finding a wine I love in Italy.  If you are a wine drinker you will be very happy.  Italy is home to some of the oldest wine-producing regions in the world, and Italian wines are known worldwide for their broad variety. Italy, closely followed by France, is the world’s largest wine producer by volume. Its contribution is about 45–50 million hl per year, and represents about ⅓ of global production. Italian wine is exported around the world and is also extremely popular in Italy: Italians rank fifth on the world wine consumption list by volume with 42 litres per capita consumption. Grapes are grown in almost every region of the country and there are more than one million vineyards under cultivation.

Prosecco is very popular in Italy. 
Prosecco /prɵˈsɛkoʊ/ (Italian: [proˈsekko]) is an Italian white wine. Prosecco DOC can be Spumante sparkling wine, Frizzante (semi-sparkling) and Tranquillo (still) depending on the perlage. It is made from Glera grapes, formerly known also as Prosecco, but other grape varieties may be included. The following varieties are traditionally used with Glera up to a maximum of 15% of the total: Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana, Perera, Glera lunga, Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio and Pinot Nero. The name is derived from that of the Italian village of Prosecco near Trieste, where the grape may have originated.

When we were in Skerries which is a little north of Dublin in October we were at a bar/pub where our friend works called Ollies and the Prosecco was flying off the shelf.

Mixed Drinks

You will not have a problem finding your liquor of choice.   

Misc Drinks from Ireland

WKD

What is WKD? 
WKD comes in three irresistible variants consisting of Original Blue, Iron Brew, and Red – all very different, made from an alcoholic mix of deliciousness and WKD-ness. If we do say so ourselves, they're a little bit special.
Just remember, whatever your flavor, all WKDs are best served nice and chilled with a few mates.

WKD Website

 

Try this cocktail made with WKD

 

Fat Frog. (WKD) Blue, Bicardi Orange, and Smirnoff Ice, the drink turns bright green.

 

Lucozade

What is Lucozade?

It is an energy drink.  I see them it in every pub.  Most pubs have the original flavor.

 

Lucozade Website

 

 

Bucks Fizz Cocktail.  1/2 Glass Bucks Fizz and 1/2 Glass Lucozade.  Add Lucozade first.

Bucks Fizz

What is Bucks Fizz?
It is 2 parts champagne to 1 part Orange Juice known here as a mimosa.

Irish Poteen / Poiton

What is Poteen / Poiton?
This lethal concoction is usually made from remnants of barely or potatoes. Also known as Moonshine, the distillation of the spirit has been banned in Ireland since 1661 because of its high potency. Despite this, many people continue to distill the beverage for personal consumption. Some Irish companies, such as Bunratty Irish Potcheen, distill a beverage which is significantly weaker than the traditional tipple.
 

Irish Coffee

What is Irish Coffee?
An Irish coffee is a coffee with a kick! This popular after-dinner drink combines coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar and freshly whipped cream. Here is our guide on how to make the perfect Irish Coffee
Ingredients
Half a cup of good quality coffee  
1 measure of Irish whiskey  
2 spoonfuls of brown sugar  
20ml of fresh pouring cream

Miwadi

What is Miwadi?
Miwadi takes its name from Mineral Water distributors, who invented the dilutable fruit drink in Dublin in 1927. During the war, the drink was sold in chemists as it was a fruit cordial and was often given to people when they were sick. The growth in supermarkets in the 1970's made the drink more accessible to consumers. It was bottled in glass up until the 1980s, when plastic became more common. Ireland's number one cordial has a range of flavors including Orange, blackcurrant, lemon, lime, and tropical, which are all produced in Dublin. A popular hangover cure, customers will often ask for a pint of Miwadi in bars.

TK Red Lemonade

What is TK Red Lemonade?
No childhood occasion was every complete without a giant tumbler of red lemonade. TK Red Lemonade remains the brand leader in Ireland. Originally Taylor Keith, it continues to be Ireland's leading value soft drink brand and is distributed by C&C beverages. Many people like to mix the popular beverage with their favorite Irish whiskey.

Club Rock Shandy

What is a Club Rock Shandy?
The original Club Orange was the first orange soft drink to come on the market in Ireland. Oliver Grace was the man behind juicy beverage. In 1950, Club Lemon was launched as sister product. Some time later, a director of the C&C drinks group would discovered a new drink by accident: Frank Murphy from Blackrock in Co. Dublin enjoyed mixing the Club Orange and Club Lemon, resulting in a refreshing drink which would become known as Club Rock Shandy.

Drinking Whiskey in Ireland

Some say Whiskey is Ireland's national drink.

What is the difference between whiskey, scotch and bourbon?
Even self-proclaimed connoisseurs sometimes don't always answer this question correctly. It's a trick question, really, because whiskey is the overarching category of spirits that scotch and bourbon fall under. Both scotch and bourbon get their names from places – scotch from Scotland and bourbon from Bourbon County, Kentucky – but true scotch is made only in Scotland, while bourbon can be made in parts of America outside of Kentucky.
"Whiskey" can refer to any kind of whiskey – Irish, Japanese, Canadian, American, scotch and bourbon being the main types. Aficionados and Irish drinkers may refer to Irish whiskey as simply "whiskey," whereas they might specify location when talking about other types.

Is it "whiskey" or "whisky"?
It's both. "Whiskey" is the Irish spelling and "whisky" is the Scotchish spelling. The origin of the word goes back to both Ireland and Scotland. Uisge beatha or usquebaugh is Gaelic for "water of life". It was translated from the Latin aqua vitae, used to describe spirits.

Where did whiskey originate?
Both Ireland and Scotland claim to have given birth to whiskey however neither country has definitive proof. That part of the world wasn't too great at keeping records of who was doing what.'"

How are the different kinds of whiskeys made?
Generally, whiskey is made by (1) crushing grains (barley, corn, rye, wheat, etc.) to create the grist, (2) adding water to create the mash (3) boiling this mixture and then allowing it to cool, (4) adding yeast, which carries out fermentation by eating the sugars to create alcohol, (5) draining the resulting liquid, which is now beer, and then distilling using a still and (6) aging the resulting liquor in wooden barrels.
Here's how the different varieties are made:

Scotch is made from water and malted barley (ie. barley that's been steeped in water to trigger germination), distilled to less than 94.8% alcohol, aged for at least three years in oak barrels that can hold no more than 700 liters, and bottled at no less than 40% alcohol. No additives are allowed except for water and caramel coloring. By law, it can only be called scotch if it follows this process and is made in Scotland.
"Single malt" scotch is made from malted barley in a single distillery while "single grain" is made from malted barley and other grains in a single distillery. "Blended" scotch is a mix of whiskys/eys from multiple distilleries.

Irish whiskey is distilled to less than 94.8% alcohol and aged for at least three years in wooden barrels. By law, whiskey can only be called Irish whiskey if it follows this process and is made in Ireland.

 

Irish whiskey comes in several forms. If the whiskey is continuously distilled from unmalted grains, it is referred to as grain whiskey. This lighter and more neutral spirit is rarely found on its own and the vast majority of grain whiskey is used to make blended whiskey, a product made by mixing column still product with richer and more intense pot still product. Irish whiskeys made in a pot still fall into two categories. Those made entirely from malted barley distilled in a pot still are referred to as single malt whiskeys, a style also very commonly associated with Scotch whisky. The second style of Irish pot still whiskey is single pot still whiskey, made from a mixture of malted and unmalted barley completely distilled in a pot still. This latter style has also been historically referred to as "pure pot still" whiskey and "Irish pot still whiskey", Older bottlings often bear these names. Regardless of whether the blended whiskey is made from combining grain whiskey with either single malt whiskey or with single pot still whiskey, it is labelled with the same terminology.

 

Bourbon is made from a mash of at least 51% corn, distilled to 80% alcohol, combined with water to get the alcohol content down to 62.5%, entered into an unused charred oak barrel, aged in that barrel and then bottled at no less than 40% alcohol. By law, whiskey can only be called bourbon if it is made by this process and in the United States.  

How do you drink whiskey?
Ask for your whiskey neat if you want it poured in your glass at room temperature. On the rocks, conversely, means you want it poured over ice in your glass. Straight up usually means the same as "neat", but it can mean chilled and served in a cocktail glass. You can also order your whiskey with a splash of water or water back, that is, a glass of water on the side.  

Most in Ireland recommend enjoying whiskey with a little bit of water added. (And with a little more water added when it comes to high alcohol content barrel proof, aka cask strength, whiskeys, which are bottled without any water added.) Some amount of dilution helps your nose and tongue smell and taste more of the flavors in your whiskey because it counteracts the alcohol's numbing of your senses. This is what whiskey tasters mean when they say that water helps "open up" the flavors.

When learning how to taste whiskey, keep in mind appearance, aroma (of first the straight whiskey and then the diluted whiskey), mouth-feel and flavor.

Which whiskeys should I try?
Here are a couple of suggestions:

• Jameson's Original (My husbands favorite): To the nose, Jameson has a light floral fragrance, peppered with spicy wood and sweet notes. Taste wise it is a perfect balance of spicy, nutty and vanilla notes with hints of sweet sherry and exceptional smoothness.
• Bushmills 12 Year Old: an Irish whiskey with hints of sherry, fruit and nuts
• Connemara Single Malt: a peaty whiskey, sweet, with hints of vanilla, from Ireland's only independent distillery, Cooley
• Dalwhinnie: scotch infused with an aroma of heather
• Ezra B Single Barrel: aged for 12 years, this bourbon is complex and tastes of spices and honey
• Glenfarclas 12 Year Old: a single malt scotch from Speyside that's nutty and peaty with caramel notes
• Talisker: peaty scotch from the Isle of Skye
• Willett 8 Year Old: a rare release bourbon from Kentucky, its barrel proof bite gives way to deep, smoky, molasses flavors

Types of Irish Whiskey

• Blends: Black Bush, Bushmills Original, Clontarf, Inishowen, The Irishman Potstill, Jameson, Kilbeggan, Locke's Blend, Midleton Very Rare, Millars, Paddy, Powers, Tullamore Dew, Writer's Tears
• Single pot still: Green Spot, Yellow Spot, Jameson 15yr Old Pure Pot Still, Redbreast (12, 15, 21 years)
• Single malt: Bushmills (10, 16, 21 years), Connemara Peated Malt (Regular, Cask Strength and 12 years), The Irishman Single Malt, Locke's Single Malt (8 years), Tullamore Dew Single Malt (10-year), Tyrconnell
• Single grain: Greenore (8, 10, 15, 18 years), Teelings Single Grain.

Sláinte - as the Irish say! (Cheers)