Ask anyone what they think of when they think of Ireland and they will probably tell you leprechauns, shamrocks, or St. Patrick's Day. Ireland actually has a lot more to offer not the least of which is some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet from rolling hills to beautiful beaches with crystalblue-green water. Ireland, part of the UK, may be separated from England by only a short stretch of water, but Ireland's attitude to life is a million miles from England. The laidback mentality, stunning scenery and, of course, Irish "Craic" all combine to make for a memorable stay in the Emerald Isle. Ireland's abundance of history, culture, wonderful scenery, lively music, nightlife and sport enable everyone to enjoy this dramatic and vibrant little island. With ancient myths and legends to uncover, amazing landscapes to explore and locals who will be more than happy to reveal it hidden gems, just go where the island of Ireland takes you and your soccer team!
Recent Irish national soccer team success includes reaching the quarter-finals of the 1990 World Cup in their first ever appearance at the finals, and making the last 16 at both the 1994 and 2002 World Cups, and qualifying for the 1988 European Championships.
Dublin
From St. Stephen’s Green to the National Museum, from Leinster House (Irish Parliament) to the bustling Temple Bar district, there is much more to Dublin than just the “Craic”, which is a term for fun, entertainment, and enjoyable conversation, particularly prominent in Dublin. Literary fans will enjoy the Writers Museum and James Joyce Museum. Trinity College, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, was home to Jonathan Swift, Bram Stoker (Dracula) and Oscar Wilde. Today it houses The Book of Kells, a bible manuscript dating back to 800 A.D. The Guinness Brewery is always worth a visit (free samples for adults!). But wherever you go, you’ll always find the “Craic” waiting for you and your soccer team!
Ireland typical program
| Day 1 | Arrival Dublin. |
| Day 2 | Grand Dublin Tour - taking in attractions such as Trinity College and Christ Church, St. Patrick's Cathedral and The Royal Hospital ilmainham, Guinness Brewery and The Phoenix Park, Georgian and Viking Dublin, and many other places of interest. Evening game vs. a local team. |
| Day 3 | The Coast & Castle Tour is a tour taking in the attractions north Co. Dublin, including the heritage village of Malahide, the fishing town of Howth and the rugged beauty of Howth Head. A visit to the magnificent Malahide Castle is included in the trip. |
| Day 4 | The South Coast Tour is a tour taking in the attractions of coastal towns such as Dun Laoghaire, Killiney and Bray, and the beauty of the Dublin Mountains. A short stop at the famous Avoca Handweavers is included in the trip. Evening game vs. a local team. |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Dublin airport. |
Ireland tour example
| Tour 8401 | Ireland/Dublin and Scotland/Edinburgh |
| Day 1 | Departure |
| Day 2-6 | Dublin - 2 games, sightseeing, training, visit pro game |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Edinburgh |
| Day 6-10 | Edinburgh - 2 games, sightseeing, training, visit pro game |
| Day 10 | Return flight |
| Per Person | Between US$1700-US$1800, March departure Between US$2100-US$2200, July/August departure Between CAD2100-US$2200, March departure Between CAD2400-CAD2500, July/August departure |
