| 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 crystal blue-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 its hidden gems, just go where the island of Ireland takes you and your soccer team! |  |
Recent Irish national soccer team successes include 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.
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!). Dublin is also home to the top club in Ireland, the Shamrock Rovers, but wherever you go, you'll always find the "Craic" waiting for you and your soccer team!
Ireland program highlights and sights:
- Play games vs. local Irish teams
- Sightseeing in Dublin
- Visit stadiums and/or matches of pro teams like Celtic and the Glasgow Rangers
Tour example
Tour 8401
Ireland/Dublin and Scotland/Edinburgh-Glasgow
Day 1 Departure from the USA or Canada
Day 2 Arrival Dublin airport, transfer to accommodation
Day 3 Grand Dublin Tour including Trinity College and Christ Church, St. Patrick's Cathedral, evening game
Day 4 Morning optional training, Coast & Castle Tour tour taking in the attractions north Dublin
Day 5 South Coast Tour of coastal towns such as Dun Laoghaire, Killiney and Bray, evening game
Day 6 Transfer to Edinburgh-Glasgow
Day 7 Sightseeing Edinburgh, evening game
Day 8 Morning optional training, day trip to Glasgow and Loch Lomond
Day 9 Day trip to Falkirk and Sterling, evening game
Day 10 Transfer to Glasgow airport, return flight
