Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Currency and Exchange Rate in Ireland?
Ireland uses the EURO as currency. Find Conversion Rate

What is the Currency and Exchange Rate in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland?
Great Britain uses the British Pound. One American dollar is worth about 50¢, although it fluctuates daily. Find Conversion Rate

How do we Convert Money?
You may exchange currency at the airport upon our arrival. Hotels and banks throughout Ireland and England will convert American currency to Euros/Pounds for a modest fee per transaction. Your ATM card will also work in Ireland/England if it carries the Cirrus logo. You will receive the best exchange rates when using your ATM card. Purchases may also be made with American Express, VISA, and MasterCard.

Do we need a Passport?
Yes you will need a valid passport to travel to Ireland and England. It is advisable for you to visit your local U.S. Post Office to obtain the application, as it takes several weeks for processing. You will need a photo ID, such as a drivers license, and an original certified birth certificate, as well as two photos (many post offices offer this service) along with the completed application form.

What about Suitcase Size?
Each traveler will be allowed one large suitcase, and one carry-on bag to comply with coach luggage compartment limitations. You also need to consider airline weight restrictions for the large suitcase. The airline will charge an additional fee if your bag is overweight. Also, due to new airline restrictions you will be unable to take certain items with you. Please check the Aer Lingus or other airline websites as appropriate for restrictions.

What about Gratuities/Tipping?
In Ireland, tipping is usually closer to 10% rather than the 15-20% used in the USA. The recommended gratuity for your Tour Guide/ Driver is $4.00-$5.00 per person per day.

Should we bring Wash Cloths?
Many of the hotels in Ireland do not provide wash cloths. You may wish to bring a few of your own.

Do we need an Electrical Coverter?
A converter is required for items requiring electrical power such as curling irons, battery rechargers, hairdryers, and electric shavers. Most hotels have hair dryers in the rooms (look in the drawers…they aren’t in the bathroom!). These converters can be purchased at retailers such as Walmart, Staples, Office Max, Office Depot, K-Mart, or any travel specialty store.

What about riding on the coaches (buses)?
You will be assigned by the chorus to a specific coach. This is the coach you will ride for the entire week. Roommates will ride on the same coaches, however, we all stay in the same hotels.

What about "Land Only" Travelers?
Those travelers who are not at the airport with the group on arrival ("land only" travelers) are responsible for getting themselves to our first hotel.

Is Being On Time really all that important?
A mere five-minute delay each time we load the coach will amount to hours before the week is over. Please make every effort to be on time.

Can we buy Trip Insurance?
Yes. Trip insurance is available. The specifics of the coverage are available in writing on request. Cost is based on the total cost of your trip.

Is the beer served warm in Ireland?
No. It is normally served cold.

Is there a Pool at the hotel?
Some of our hotels have pools. It is best to inquire once we have our hotels confirmed.

Can we have 3 or 4 in a room?
Since rooms in Ireland are on the smaller side, we recommend double occupancy. Unless you have a child or a medical situation exists, you will be more comfortable with two per room.