2026 – Botswana Under Canvas
Ireland & Scotland:
Castles, Cliffs, and Celtic Charms
A Storybook Journey through Ireland and Scotland where Legends Come Alive
Some trips are about ticking boxes. This one’s about stories you’ll still be telling years from now.
From the moment you land in the Emerald Isle, this journey sweeps you into the heart of Ireland and Scotland—two places where old legends and everyday life still mingle in the air. Over eight days, you’ll wander castle corridors, stroll seaside cliffs, and share laughs with locals over homemade scones and strong cups of tea. Our past AFS groups loved this. (I thought everyone had been there, but you asked for it. Heck, I’ve been there dozens of times and still discover new wonders.) Dreamy Ireland, land of shamrocks in 1000 shades of green in springtime.
It all starts with a warm welcome at Dublin Airport and an instant dive into Irish history at EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum. From there, it’s two nights of luxury at Kilronan Castle, where you’ll taste the slow pace of country life. Delight in the Atlantic Sheepdogs showing their talents. You’ll wind along the coast to the wild Cliffs of Moher, enjoy Blarney Castle and Gardens in Killarney, lose yourself in the music and markets of Ennis, and sample the elegance of afternoon tea at Dromoland Castle. Cork offers a taste of Ireland’s food scene and its storied past, while stops at the Rock of Cashel and Newbridge Silverware add even more color to your path back to Dublin.
But the adventure doesn’t end there. Scotland’s vibrant and edgy capital calls. Edinburgh blends the old with the new along cobblestone streets, castle views, and that unmistakable sense of history around every corner. You’ll have time to wander, shop, and soak it all in before gathering for a farewell dinner that celebrates everything you’ve seen.
What makes this trip different isn’t just the castles, the cliffs, or the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone. It’s the feeling of stepping into another era. It’s waking up to mist over an ancient lake, hearing a street bagpiper play a tune you’ll never forget, and discovering that afternoon tea can be a full-blown event.
You’ll find that the real treasures aren’t just in the sights, but in the small moments—quiet morning walks on castle grounds, the hum of a pub in full swing, or the shared laughter over something lost in translation. This trip is about slowing down and letting each place sink in, so you return home with more than souvenirs— perhaps some new friends and favorite stories to tell. Welcome to a journey where every day feels like a postcard, and every memory is yours to keep.
April 18
Fly USA to Dublin
There is an easy round-trip USA to Dublin. There are plenty of airlines to choose; Aer Lingus, AA, UA, BA, DL and more. You may want to add a stopover city enroute or arrive in Dublin earlier. Flight details.
April 19
Dublin – Roscommon, Kilronan Castle
Welcome to the Emerald aisle! Everyone will be arriving on different flights, times and dates. Our Guide will meet us at the airport around 12 noon for one common group pick up. Exact time will be given a month out when we collect all of your air schedules. I know most are arriving on Delta at 8:35 AM. From the airport, we board our coach and transfer downtown to the Epic. After the tour we travel two hours to Kilronan.
The guide will give a briefing and then start your adventure at EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum—a lively, interactive space that brings to life the journeys and stories of Irish people who’ve set out across vthe world. Afterwards, settle in for two nights at Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa. This 18th-century castle, tucked away in County Roscommon and surrounded by 50 acres of tranquil woodland on the edge of Lough Meelagh, is the perfect spot to recharge and soak up real Irish luxury. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner at the castle tonight, and you’re free to unwind as you wish for the rest of the evening.
April 20
Roscommon, Ennis, Cliff of Moher
Another hearty Irish breakfast kicks off the day. In County Clare our first stop: The Doolin Ferry Co., for an unforgettable Cliffs of Moher boat cruise. Towering 700 feet above the Atlantic, these legendary cliffs have inspired artists and writers for generations and are a haven for seabirds. Walk the famous scenic cliffs for your best Instagram moment.
Later, continue to Ennis and check in at the Old Ground Hotel. Historic Ennis is a charming town that blends history, music, and local flavor—explore historic sites like Quin Abbey and Ennis Friary, discover local heritage at the Clare Museum, or catch traditional Irish music at Glor. Don’t miss the Ennis Farmer’s Market and the unique local shops. Dinner and your evening are at your own pace. There are a lot of little alleys filled with great pubs with a vibrant traditional music scene, like Paddy Quinn and Lucas’s Bar.
April 19
Dublin – Roscommon, Kilronan Castle
Welcome to the Emerald aisle! Everyone will be arriving on different flights, times and dates. Our Guide will meet us at the airport around 12 noon for one common group pick up. Exact time will be given a month out when we collect all of your air schedules. I know most are arriving on Delta at 8:35 AM. From the airport, we board our coach and transfer downtown to the Epic. After the tour we travel two hours to Kilronan.
The guide will give a briefing and then start your adventure at EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum—a lively, interactive space that brings to life the journeys and stories of Irish people who’ve set out across vthe world. Afterwards, settle in for two nights at Kilronan Castle Estate & Spa. This 18th-century castle, tucked away in County Roscommon and surrounded by 50 acres of tranquil woodland on the edge of Lough Meelagh, is the perfect spot to recharge and soak up real Irish luxury. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner at the castle tonight, and you’re free to unwind as you wish for the rest of the evening.
Day 1
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Day 1
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Day 1
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AFS Trip Tips Ireland – Scotland
Prepared to be thrilled by our journey through history, heritage, and breathtaking landscapes on our epic UK adventure. Each day is packed with wonders. We have a wonderful group of 30 travel lovers and our top guides to lead you. I know all but two of you, and I’m confident this will be one fun bunch. Some of you have even joined our past trips here, but there’s always more to explore. We’ll be sending you emails with updates right up until departure.
Trip Tips are designed to answer questions about trips. It’s your responsibility to read this information. Updates and addenda will be posted here. Some travelers have lost their entire trip for not reading what we send on visas, air details, inoculations, etc. Check back from time to time.
Important Air Dates
APR 18 or sooner into Dublin to APR 26 out of Edinburgh. Land starts April 19.
UK Visa
Ireland needs no preparation, but Scotland is part of the UK, and new rules require an ETA even if you are just passing through the airport en route to another country. This is like a pre-approved visa done online. Approval is quick. Print a copy. At USA check-in, the airline will be asking to see your ETA number on your phone or in print.
Go to www.gov.uk/ETA (have your passport and credit card ready).
I just did one as I’ll be there in May, and it was pretty easy. Take a photo of your passport data page. Then it will ask for a photo of the inside back page, which accesses the chip icon.
Payment dates
Secondary was submitted Nov 10 – FINAL PAYMENT DUE JAN 10
We use We Travel to securely manage payments and booking information. Just follow the steps on the form to complete your payment.
Paying by credit card? There’s a small processing fee: 2.9% for Visa or MasterCard, and 3.9% for American Express. Please note, there’s now a 1% fee for electronic check payments, since our processor recently updated their policies to match the banks.
Prefer free? Just mail a paper check to AFS at 1907 Daniel Green Court, Smyrna, GA 30080. One quick favor: be sure to note the country on the memo line —it helps us keep everything organized. Thanks!
Your fearless GTL
(Gracious Trip Leader, not a guide but a liaison between our guides and group to ensure things run smoothly).
Carol Huntington – Meet Carol, a globe-trotting powerhouse who’s led 40+ AFS adventures since 2007. She’s explored 125+ countries on all 7 continents, inspiring every group with her boundless enthusiasm.
Carol’s secret is her genuine love for people and her calm, problem-solving style. She builds connections, keeps everyone smiling, and always goes the extra mile. Her recent sabbatical? A 13-country epic—just one example of her passion for discovery. With Carol, it’s never just about the sights. She helps you make memories and pushes you to try new things. Ready for a journey that changes you? With Carol as your guide, every adventure is unforgettable.
Trip Prep
- Read the revised Heading Abroad with AFS, especially if you are new to AFS.
- Ensure your passport is valid 6 months after return date with two blank pages – these are Visa pages, not addendum pages. Take a photo of your passport to store in the cloud or bring a copy. If you lose your passport, US embassies now accept a digital copy from your email.
- To speed through US Customs download Mobile Passport. Look in your App Store for details.
- Notify bank and cc company of travel dates so they don’t block charges.
- All airline rules differ. It is imperative to read your airline rules on their website to ensure a smooth departure! Always check your flight before departure.
General Air Notes
We rarely offer group air now, as we have savvy travelers who like doing their own. In the past, people expressed interest, and we would make a group booking, but then they found better rates and canceled air. Minimum 16 needed. Given the small size of group and lack of interest participants must now book their own air unless we present otherwise.
Consider flying in early to ensure you’ll be there once trip begins. Always download and use your airlines app! Use app to track your booking, delays, bags, to show boarding pass and to contact them. If you have a flight problem, go to the airline’s website “contact us” page or reach them by text, social media, Skype or call their international number. Be sure to have a copy of your ticket on your phone.
Also, premium credit cards often offer many air perks, assistance, insurance, lounge passes, global entry and more. Read more at www.tpg.com for best cards.
Many say they want to fly business class now, but don’t realize fares range from $4K to $9K. We do have two good contacts that can get these seats at nearly half cost. [email protected] or [email protected] 855-777-6336 …. [email protected] 305-390-4132
Air
Land starts April 19. Dozens of airlines fly into Dublin and out of Edinburgh. Check out American, Delta, united, British, Aer Lingus and more.
Fly into Dublin April 18 or earlier. Most affordable gateways from USA or Newark, Boston and JFK. On departure, fly from Edinburgh home on April 26.
Stop overs are great to add. (If it is your first time to Ireland, we suggest you go in early. Visit the incredible Book of Kells in Trinity College library, the old Guinness factory, National Gallery, famous Abbey, Theatre, Saint Patrick’s or Christchurch Cathedral’s. Great walks are on Merrion Square for Georgian architecture, O’Connell Street and along Dun Pier. Best live music at night can be found at the Cobblestone, the Ploughboys, Johnny Foxes, Eamon Durrands in the temple bar entertainment district. For foodies, visit Queen of Tarts, Murphy’s ice cream, Mulligan‘s and Gruel. )
We also like Google Flights. 3rd-party booking engines like Expedia, make it easy to book, but it is nearly impossible to handle air problems. Buy direct from the airline or pay a travel agent to ticket you.
Airport Transfers
April 19, around 12 noon, we will have one common group pickup at the airport where the guide will meet us. Exact time given a month out when we collect all your different air schedules.
After a briefing, you will be transferred to the Epic Museum and then to the hotel.
Please understand with travelers arriving and departing on different days and times, it is insurmountable to manage more than one group transfer. Group air airport transfers are based on set time. Without group air, there can no longer be any pick-ups or drop-offs. Unfortunately, now like other tour companies, transfers are your responsibility. We’ve spent weeks each trip making spreadsheets of each person’s air to send to the supplier and then flights change. We then hire a guide, driver and pay airport parking fees. Last year in groups only half showed up as guides waited hours looking for others. Sometimes, no AFSers showed up without informing us.)
Transfers are not expensive. First, Google your arrival airport website to see transfer tab. Suggestions to appear like airport bus, taxi details, Uber and more. Then connect on group Facebook page to set up sharing transfer costs if you like. If you go early and check-in AFS hotel before group arrives, it’s your responsibility to change rooms with your roommate if necessary day one when trip begins.)
Internal Group Flight
April 24, we fly Aer Lingus from Dublin to Edinburgh 10 AM to 11:15 AM. We were just advised that we must ticket you by December 10 to secure your seat and this fare! If not, price will only go up. In order to keep the group together, everyone must be on this flight that we reserved for you. Price including taxes is $195 and the ticket is nonrefundable. This will be added to everyone’s invoice and it’s due upon receipt.
Meet Up With Group
On day 1 on April 19 – a time will be set to meet the group at the hotel for a briefing. More on this later.
Baggage
Please note in both Ireland and Scotland now, one piece of standard size suitcase is included in the cargo of the tour coaches.
Think light to ease your burden, not like you’re fleeing your homeland. You change hotel properties several times. 1 carry-on bag & 1 medium suitcase not to exceed 45lb checked bag – weigh on a bathroom scale. Apple AirTags work great to track checked bags when the airline cannot, also good for carry-on. Leave space for great souvenirs. Be sure to attach ID inside and out of carry-on and checked bag. Do not pack a portable charging battery in your checked bag! Keep this in your carry-on.
Packing
Google weather a week prior departure.
This trip is so easy and casual throughout. Simply pack spring/summer clothing with a light jacket for nights and long flights.
Most important things: Comfy walking shoes, umbrella, swimsuit for spa, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, plug adaptor (Type G, same as UK), cell charger, small daypack. Read Packing 101 in Heading Abroad with AFS
Cool travel hacks from our AFSers! Pack overnight outfit in your carry-on, liquid IV packets to hydrate, use packing cubes, downy wrinkle spray, extra nylon bag to check laundry home, tons of US dollars for extra tips, fully charged travel banks, less is more, get Global Entry.
Electric– Don’t forget a portable backup charger, cords, gadgets, etc. Cell phones and tablets do not need a converter; you only need an adapter plug. AFSers often leave charger cords in room, so be sure to double-check your room before check out. All properties have hairdryers. See https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com
Type G Rectangular 3 prongs. Same plug used through throughout the United Kingdom.
Money Matters – Always bring some cash!
- You will need some cash for personal tipping, meals, and shopping. $200 cash should suffice.
- Bring newer bills 2016 on as some countries won’t take old or slightly damaged bills.
- Change currency on arrival at the airport, bank, or hotels, or withdraw local currency from an ATM. Note: Independent ATMs are risky due to skimmer scams. Safest ATMs are at airport and banks. Always shield your pin number when entering.
- Master Card and Visa are widely accepted. Amex rarely accepted. Credit cards are far safer than using your debit card. I use my credit card for most purchases. Many cards now offer no foreign transaction fees. (Always choose to pay in local currency for the most favorable rate!
- Follow the link below to create a conversion cheat sheet https://www.oanda.com/currency/travel-exchange-rates
Pre-paid Gratuities
$90 included in your invoice. This is for ease of distribution each day from your trip leader. We hired the top ground team. It’s protocol to tip our guides, assistants, drivers, porters, staff, lodges, and more for each group abroad. Our tips are based on industry standards.
Discretionary tips help insure a good relationship and the only thing we travelers leave behind is our reputation. Our web platform We travel shows all trip prices.
Tipping on own – If service is stellar, feel free to give more directly. I carry a stash of US ones in an envelope to draw from as needed. Porters – AFSers roll bags to their room. If you use a porter, please tip. For group lunches or dinners included, please leave $2 for waitstaff!
Communication
Internet is widely available. With smartphones, be sure to check with your provider for rates and coverage for international phone plans before departure. Data Roaming rates can be expensive. The most affordable and convenient way to get data on your cell phone is using an E-SIM or your carrier’s plan for international roaming.
To reach home – Texting, iMessage, WhatsApp, and Facebook messaging when using WIFI. Keep your phone in airplane mode to prevent roaming charges. Be cautious using public Wi-Fi without using VPN. Without a VPN, never open attachments or view financial or personal accounts on the Internet while abroad.
Phone calls, text messages, and data usage of all kinds, it is crucial to understand that, unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, every use of your phone incurs a data toll. That means that viewing and downloading email, browsing the web, viewing social media, and mapping all incur data charges, as do applications that we sometimes assume to be “free,” such as Skype and WhatsApp. Unless you are connected to Wi-Fi, however, WhatsApp uses cellular data, so you are getting charged at your provider’s international roaming data rate. Facebook Messenger Phone is an easy, free way to make calls.
Safety
At AFS, the safety of our Travelers is our priority since our inception in 1989. Our local teams constantly monitor any issues with your destination. They can access real-time safety updates and inform us if necessary. For any real emergency, your guide can assist you in contacting anyone.
Avoiding Hackers on Vacation. Thieves not only want your money but also your data. Change passwords often. Check device security settings before you leave for your trip. Back up, update, and encrypt your devices and data using a virtual VPN.
Photography
Before taking pictures of locals, know it is polite to ask.
Your AFS Private Facebook Group Page is a great way to share your best shots with each other. AFS loves photos with group participants (not typical churches, monuments, or any shot that looks like you pulled it off the net, etc.) for our website. The best photos are ones that include a group member with a local, children, animals, or at iconic sites in the same frame! Note, there may be some restrictions with photos in religious sites. The Guide will advise.
Chewing
Ireland and Scotland offer a rich culinary heritage that reflects their historical and cultural influences. Traditional Irish food includes hearty dishes like Irish stew, made with lamb or beef, potatoes, and vegetables, as well as soda bread and colcannon, a comforting mix of mashed potatoes and cabbage.
Meanwhile, Scotland is known for haggis, a savory pudding made from sheep’s offal, oats, and spices, often served with neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes). Both regions emphasize fresh, local ingredients, resulting in comforting fare like fish and chips, smoked salmon, and a variety of dairy products. Overall, the cuisine celebrates simplicity and robust flavors, often accompanied by the famous local beverages, such as whiskey and stout.
Accommodations
Our itinerary has links to each hotel. Hotels can change, but it’s rare.
Roommates
Single supplements have significantly increased in price – if available at all. Save money and buy yourself an awesome local gift. We all live alone but save money when traveling by rooming together.
Suzy spends a lot of time on roommate matching. 99% of our clients are wonderful and you’re only in your room to sleep at night. The best option is to invite a friend. Note, kindness begets kindness. Many of our seasoned travelers bring headsets to drown out any excess noise. We share rooms only to sleep at night.
Leisure Time
For your free time, it’s best to arrive and ask our local expert guides for suggestions. We notice many newer clients pre-plan many activities on the AFS trip well before they arrive, often with disappointing results. Our daily itineraries are pretty full, but there will be some free time. Expert travelers revel in the element of surprise in a new destination and allow the wind to blow them where it will. Use Google Maps on your phone to find everything nearby.
Amending tour pre-or post-trip
We honor your independent spirit, but encourage you to extend more days at the trip’s end when you’re acclimated well to the destination. If you add another country, we often see many AFSers on Facebook urging others to join them. We think it is wonderful but understand AFS has no responsibility for these portions of your trip.
Private Facebook Group Page
The benefit of the Private FB Group Page is that you have an opportunity to introduce yourself to your fellow travelers before departure and share trip photos during and after the tour. The link can be found in your We Travel welcome letter after your initial deposit.
(We found that some never read the Trip Tips jumping right to the Private FB Group Page assuming they will get all the trip info needed. Often, they only receive rumors or misinformation. All important information is ALWAYS emailed to each participant and posted in Trip Tips under UPDATES. Nobody should miss a thing.)
Emergency Contact
AFS phone or text 770-432-8225, or email us at https://afstravelers.com/contact-us/. More contacts will be provided with your Final Docs email 2 to 3 weeks before departure.
Travel Insurance
While travel insurance is optional, in today’s world we highly encourage you to get standard coverage to cover trip interruption and cancellation. Best source for all is www.insuremytrip.com. CFAR or cancel for any reason covers much but, it is expensive. Note that no company covers for fear.
Preexisting conditions – If you would like the security of travel insurance and have a pre-existing condition (elderly parent, medical, etc.), you must purchase insurance within 15 days from your initial trip deposit in order to assure full coverage. The trip cost can be amended or adjusted as needed after your initial purchase (e.g., adding an air ticket cost later). You can buy travel insurance at any time, just know that there may be some possible limitations if purchased outside the 15-day period. We like TravelSafe, or Allianz
Click here to Purchase Travel Insurance online
AFS Group Etiquette
Prepare for your departure joyfully! Please understand that with travel, things are not like at home and changes may occur. Great trips work best for those with an open mind, flexible attitude, and adventuresome spirit. If changes occur, embrace them with serendipity. Who knows?… The unexpected may prove to be a better experience. Adapt and go with the flow with a laid-back attitude. Be tolerant of foreign cultures in respecting their centuries of traditions. Embrace the differences. Be curious, not shy. Smile – locals will sense your energy of kindness, and kindness always begets kindness. Our common goal is to experience different cultures, make new friends, take great photos, have a lot of fun, and return home safely with memories worth remembering.
