Ireland

Best and worst accommodations:

Best: Cill Bheac in Dingle
Why: Great views and moderately priced...not to mention Angela's warm welcome and tummy expanding breakfasts.

Rita Jones in Hartford, CT USA 09/02/2008

Best: Duncrone B&B in Ardmore
Why: It was the cleanest B&B we stayed at and the breakfasts were made to order and outstanding. Jeanette works very hard to keep the place spotless!

Molly Wilsbacher in Dublin, OH USA 08/24/2008

Best: Greenmount House
Why: Lovely spot, beautiful room, charming hosts.

Worst: Fleet Street Hotel, Dublin
Why: This is an old, tired hotel that doesn't deserve to be in the book (which refers to it as classy). Musty smell, moldy shower and shower curtain, and a lifeless staff (couldn't give us a dining recommendation!?)

Margaret in Milwaukee, WI USA 08/11/2008

Worst: The Fleet Street Hotel, Dublin
Why: Very rundown. Dull, unresponsive staff. Rick doesn't mention that it is in the center of the wild pub scene and so sleeping is impossible for most of the night due to wild yelling and howling. We checked out after a sleepless night with great disappointment.

laura in new york, ny USA 07/25/2008

Best: Milestone B&B, Dingle Town
Why: We stayed at Milestone B&B in June 2008. Barbara and Michael run an excellent B&B, with pleasant rooms and an excellent breakfast. However, best of all, they provide you with invaluable information about touring the Dingle Peninsula. They give you a tourist map (drawn by Michael) that shows you a route that takes you to the best sites, they offer tips on good restaurants, and they are also very knowledgeable about other places in Ireland. With Michael's Dingle Peninsula map, they help you design a route specifically for you're needs. They helped us find things that were appropriate for our 4-1/2 year old (including a perfect short hike), and we heard them suggesting other options for a young couple who were interested in longer hikes. We feel very fortunate to have stayed with them at the beginning of our trip. They also had special treats for our daughter, and treated her very well during our stay. We highly recommend this B&B!

Gary in Albuquerque, NM USA 07/15/2008

Best: The Harding Hotel/ Asgard House
Why: The Harding was a nice way to start the trip. The only real hotel we stayed in the whole trip. Darky Kelley's downstairs held an interesting evening after the Dublin gaelic football team won. The Asgard House is run by Geraldine who was like our surrogate mom while we were in Galway. She was awesome.

Worst: Killiagh House-Doolin
Why: I don't think this is in your book. The room was huge and clean and quiet. The only complaint was I never saw anyone working until breakfast.

Kara Porter in Portland, OR USA 07/11/2008

Best: Milestone House, Dingle kerry
Why: Milestone House, on the far west side of Dingle, run by Barbara & Micheal - recommended by Rick - is just delightful. It is a great place to base for exploring the Dingle Ring and the Town itself. Within walking distance of the town center, but far enough out to be very quiet, and on the road to the wonders of the penninsula, Barbara and Micheal have gone far beyond expectations to make their guests feel welcome and their visit to the area as easy and simple as possible. Even sitting out in front of the house with a cup of tea and soaking in the exquisite view can be very rewarding.

Worst: Travelodge, Dublin Airport, Dublin
Why: Just to be sure - this is the older of the two Travelodge properties near the airport - the one in Swords - I couldn't get into the new one. Overpriced and full of smoke, even the "non-smoking rooms. Bed was swaybacked and uncomfortable. Just not worth the hundred and some Euros -even for the location.

Rob Wilson in San Francisco , CA USA 07/07/2008

Best: Cashel Lodge (Cashel), Milestone House (Dingle), Carraig Beag (Galway/Salthill), The Whins (Dunfanaghy), Valley View (Bushmills), and Highfield House (Trim).
Why: All were excellent. Valley View is the only one not in Rick’s guide and it is a good option for those who don’t want to stay in Portrush.

John, Monica, George & Tom in Towson, MD USA 06/17/2008

Best: Greenmount House, Dingle and Butler's Court, Kilkenny
Why: Excellent room and food, quiet location with a beautiful view (Dingle). Kilkenny, great room with good location

Judy G in Paris, TN USA 06/15/2008

Best: The Tower View B&B in Dingle
Why: The service was friendly and professional. The home was beautifully maintained and the rooms were big, bright and clean. Parking was easy. Breakfast was wonderful with lots of options and the best soda bread I've ever had.

Worst: Ashe Townhouse in Tralee
Why: This was the worst place I've ever stayed at in Ireland and one of the worst in Europe. It's dirty, unwelcoming and unprofessional. I couldn't bring myself to eat breakfast there. It was a huge disappointment after all the nice places we have stayed in Ireland.

Robin in Austin, TX USA 06/03/2008

Best: Greenmount House, Dingle
Why: This is an extraordinary place - the view is gorgeous, the people are wonderful, and the room was just gorgeous and comfortable. We want to go back again and again!

Worst: Kinlay House Hostel, Galway
Why: It was mostly clean, but SO loud and, well, just not a great scene for anyone over 25. We wanted to stay in a hostel because we never had, but this will be our last time!

Annie in Denver, CO USA 05/28/2008

Best: Windsor Lodge
Why: Mary O'Farrell,owner of Windsor Lodge provides not only very comfortable sleeping accommodations with re-done baths, but she also assists visitors with many of their touring questions in the greater Dublin area. Her full Irish breakfast is cooked to order, and Windsor Lodge provides a very homey TV/living room to be shared by the guests and equally friendly dining room, where guests can intermingle freely. Our room was quite spacious, with cable TV, but the big room with the ocean view would be the one I would request should we get to Dublin again.

Judith Medeiros in Naples, FL USA 05/28/2008

Best: Beachcove B & B
Why: Darling, clean and wonderful folks!

Mary E. Thanasouras in Palm Beach, FL USA 05/22/2008

Best: Brandon View Cottage, County Kerry
Why: We are on a driving holiday through Ireland and as our name is Kerry we couldn't miss visiting County Kerry on the South West coast of Ireland. By chance we came across Brandon View Cottege, a warm and stylish newly built poroperty with excellent rooms and facilities. The views and location is breathtaking. The host, Mrs. McKenna, offered true Irish hospitality. We warmly recommend this charming gem to fellow travellers to Ireland. See the cottage website on: www.brandonviewcottage.com

Pat Kerry in Tampa, FL USA 05/18/2008

Best: Milestone B&B, Dingle
Why: Friendly owners, good accommodations. A bit further out from town than expected - walkable, but not a short walk.

Mike Brown in Harford, NY USA 05/16/2008

Best: Castlewood House, Dingle
Why: This 12-room inn is decorated with such a beautiful sense of balance between old and new, the home-cooked breakfasts were incredible, and the young couple who owns the house are charming and very accommodating. The building is just a few years old, but the furnishings are mainly antiques. Helen and Brian made us feel as if we were old friends they had been expecting for years. The rooms were very large, the bathrooms were the height of modernity, and the view of Dingle Bay was lovely from every window.

Lisa Natcharian in Wilbraham, MA USA 05/09/2008

Best: Heaton's Guesthouse, Dingle Ireland
Why: The owners were so nice and helpfull with things to see on Dingle. The breakfast was wonderful. The room was nice, view was great. clean and the staff was very efficient.

Worst: Legends Guesthouse and Restaurant
Why: This location was ok, but according to the guidebook it was rated $$$. I'm not sure how long it has been since someone was there, but the room we stayed in was very run down. Needed some repairs. The breakfast was ok, but they were short staffed when we were there.

Dennis Waldroup in Canton, GA USA 05/07/2008

Worst: Fleet Street Hotel, Dublin
Why: This hotel should be listed as a last resort. Wallpaper peeling, ceilings had water damage, black mold in the bathroom. It was loud (we expected this could be a problem, given that it's in a popular area of pubs), but phones have been removed from the rooms, so there was no way to enlist the help of hotel staff to quiet down the neighbors at 4 AM.

Sarah Alexander in Seattle, WA USA 04/21/2008

Best: Harbour Nights in Dingle
Why: Good in town location with beautiful views of harbor. Nicely run B&B and very reasonable rates. Look them up at their web site:harbournightsguesthouse.com

Bruce Grabowski in Barrington, IL USA 04/10/2008

Best: Milestone House, Dingle
Why: Every gushing complement is well deserved by Barbara & Michael. Best breakfast and warmest hosting of our trip.

Worst: The George, Belfast
Why: It's a stretch to pick the worst. All our recommended stays had friendly hosts and generous breakfasts. The George had the itty-bittiest of the small bathrooms: a 1'x6"x6" sink, cubby shower, and a very interesting electric toilet.

Natalie in Martin, WI USA 04/08/2008

Best: Kenmare Hostel
Why: Private rooms and bathrooms. Well-equipped large kitchen. Great location on the main street near a grocery store. Definitely not a youth hostel. We met people of all ages.

Karis in Madison, WI USA 03/31/2008

Best: Hawthorne B&B in Kenmare
Why: Great location, staff was very helpful, breakfest was great.

Rachel McGinnis in Brookline, MA USA 02/27/2008

Best: Gaultier lodge not mentioned in book but a real find ,perfect for touring the southeast.
Why: Great breakfast, knowledgeable hostess Sheila a mine of local information,cheerful Alieda whose smiling face greeted us each morning.Pretty bright bedrooms a great place to relax

harry watson in Raleigh, nc USA 02/12/2008

Best: Greenmount House in Dingle
Why: First Class all the way. They don't overlook a thing. Friendly staff. Beautiful view of the harbor over the town.

Nelson Tennison in Mandeville, LA USA 12/09/2007

Best: Amar Agua in Edinburgh
Why: Tony and Dawn-Ann were excellent hosts and the Guest House was very quiet and well kept and the breakfast was huge. Being in a residential neighborhood was great, as we were away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Worst: The Leeson Inn Downtown in Dublin
Why: The room was quite small and the handle for the temperature control and the water directional flow in the bathroom both came off in my wife's hand. Additionally, an electrical outlet was blown out and not replaced before we complained.

Bill Sims in Encinitas, CA USA 11/27/2007

Best: All of them!
Why: We had a great time in all of our accomdations:

Belfast: Marine Guesthouse Derry: Saddler House - wonderful hosts and we loved Bertie, the house mascot! Donegal: Island View (not in Rick's book) - beautiful house and very hospitable. Sligo: Treetops (not in Ricks book) - Recommended by the TI, as this was the one night we didn't have anything booked. Very clean, convienient and great breakfast. Galway: Petra House - Really enjoyed this B&B. The hosts were great and the location was excellent.

jlb49 in Houston, TX USA 11/26/2007

Best: TOWER VIEW in Dingle, TARA HOUSE in Galway not on your list but should be.
Why: TOWER VIEW is the best, extrememly well-kept, great food, helped make reservations for the rest of our stay. But mostly, my husband asked her what a peat fire smelled like. That night there was peat burning in the fireplace. TARA HOUSE is a little older but well kept, big and clean rooms, good food and friendly people. GLENLEARY FARM HOUSE outside of Coleraine not on your list either, but worth considering for the help she me in finding my family still living in the area. RIVERSDALE in Swords has good location for airport & Dublin

Worst: ASHMORE HOUSE, Cashel
Why: Everything else except this one and the hostel that Rick includes was already closed for the year. Our trip was November 6. It wasn't just old, the rooms were a bit junky and dirty. The food was good. Our only other choice in the entire town was the hostel. We looked at it and coulnd't imagine why it was even in the book. On top of the 72 euros for the room, we even had to pay an additional 12 euros to the town tourist office for her to make the phone calls.

Bill & Kathleen Bradburry in DeBary, FL USA 11/20/2007

Best: Olde Bakery, Kinsale; Watersedge, Kenmare; Milstone B&B, Dingle;Heeney's Lodge, Donegal
Why: OLDE BAKERY, KINSALE- beautiful flowers; very gracious and accomodating hosts (Tom and Chrissie); great breakfast (several choices), good location; WATERSEDGE, KENMARE - great view from deck, lovely room; gracious hostess; MILESTONE B&B, DINGLE - very accomodating hosts who provided tea, biscuits, and a map with advice upon arrival!; great breakfast; HEENEYS LODGE, DONEGAL - good location; lots of books to read (if you had time!), lovely view from room of "mall" and flowers

Worst: Kilkenny Hostel, Kilkenny; Paddy's Palace, Derry
Why: KILKENNY HOSTEL, KILKENNY - very musty room, especially the bedding; 2 toilets and 2 showers for men and women (several rooms on that floor); shower stall had no place to hang towel, put clothes.  PADDY'S PALACE, DERRY - what was in was in Rick's book said "a family room for up to 4 with private bath" we understood if there were 2 of us, we could have it to ourselves.  What they said was that we could have one of the bunkbeds; someone else would use the other; the bathroom was shared.  They did help us find another place to stay with a private room (the Travelodge, which was better located and actually less expensive than if we had pair for 4 to get a private room at Paddy's.  They were very nice about helping us, we must say.

Mary and Bob Davidson in Greenwood, SC USA 11/17/2007

Best: Mespil Hotel in Dublin
Why: We ran the Dublin marathon on Oct. 29th, and it was the perfect location, nice comfy beds...A perfect place to crash after the marathon.

Worst: Grey Gables
Why: Our first night in Ireland, and we missed breakfast the next morning(we did not hear our alarm) Her attitude was ...you snooze ,you lose. She did not offer anything to eat after the cut off time for serving breakfast.

Deborah Wehunt in Mesa, AZ USA 11/12/2007

Best: Abbey Court B & B in Kenmare
Why: What a delightful place to stay! A beautiful home, with a living area where all guests congregated and had the best selection of breakfast food. There were 4 of us, so we stayed in a 2 bedroom apartment above their garage - simply fabulous!!

Worst: Portrush
Why: We loved all the accommodations in Ireland, but Portrush - the town - was very run down. Port Stewart looked like a much better place to stay.

Linda in Kailua, HI USA 11/01/2007

Worst: Ashe Townhouse in Tralee
Why: The carpet was VERY dirty, the wallpaper was peeling in several places, there were ceiling stains/leaks in both the bedroom and the bathroom, the single glass provided was dirty, and the wood framed bed was coming apart at the dowels. We refused to stay there, but were refunded 50% of the cost of the room.This accommodation should be removed from the Guidebook!

Rachel Bivins in Virginia Beach, VA United States 11/01/2007

Best: Heaton's Guesthouse (Dingle)
Why: The staff were incredibly helpful and friendly, the rooms new and clean, and breakfasts outstanding!

Mark Gedlinske in Plymouth, MN USA 10/27/2007

Best: Heatons Guest House in Dingleton
Why: Lovely room and service. Breakfast was supurb!

Beth Amos in Raleigh, NC USA 10/24/2007

Best: schoolhouse hotel
Why: converted school..big,clean modern roooms with good bathroms..friendly staff..great location..quiet in a park like setting..very good restaurant..a real good choice..

Worst: russell court hotel{not in your book}
Why: noisy above a club that stays open in to the wee hours.dark..dirty roooomd with the worst bed we had in 2 weeks in europe..left after 1 night..also worst breaskfast we experienced..

donald nunnari in la canada, ca USA 10/22/2007

Best: Butler Court, Kilkenny. Albany House, Dublin.
Why: Butler Court - very nice, modern, large, fresh rooms, but especially Yvonne. (breakfast was disappointing, but the lovely room and warm, welcoming Yvonne made up for it) Albany House - because of the Georgian character and pretty good size room and the breakfast. Yum!

Kris in Glendale, CA USA 10/17/2007

Best: Cois Cuain, The Quay, Kinvarra, CO. Galway
Why: Beautiful location, great accommodations, and excellent hosts!!!

Carol & Rich Fike in Montrose, CO USA 10/14/2007

Best: Greenmount House in Dingle (page 209), and Sallyport House in Kenmare (page 173)
Why: The Greenmount House was luxurious in every way with good service, and a great breakfast in a room with spectacular views over the bay. The Sallyport House was quiet and friendly with a very homey feel to it. Good breakfast too.

Worst: Travelodge in Derry, page 347.
Why: We were originally scheduled to stay there 3 nights. We changed rooms there once and then departed a day early for another hotel. It was awful. Our first room at the Travelodge had a malfunctioning shower mechanism – no hot water. The “continental breakfast” for 6.00 Sterling is the worst we have ever had in Europe. We only endured it for one morning. There was no waitress or anyone overseeing the breakfast area. We pulled our bread out of a plastic bag and made our own toast. We also used the available hot water and instant coffee to make a terrible cup of coffee. Our second room at the Travelodge was not ready when promised which caused us to waste two hours. Then it had no soap. But it did have someone’s partially eaten meal between the inner and outer windows of our room. Even after a 10% discount, Travelodge still charged us 21.00 Sterling to park for 24 hours in the “handy adjacent parking garage”. This is the most I’ve ever paid to park anywhere. We cut our stay short a day early at the Travelodge and moved to the Tower Hotel (page 347) inside the Derry walls for our last night. With free inside parking, the Tower Hotel was probably cheaper and definitely much nicer.

Richard Pine in Rockville , MD USA 10/12/2007

Best: staying in dun laoghaire, rather than dublin
Why: so much easier to take the 25 minute Dart train into the city, rather than driving in Dublin. Dun Laoghaire is a beautiful sea port.

Worst: definitely the worst was Tarahall, Dun Laoghaire
Why: It was old, messy, dirty carpets, cheap raggy towels, and a grumpy landlady/cook.

janet james in smiths falls, on canada 10/12/2007

Best: The Olde Bakery in Kinsale, Highfield House in Trim and Asgaard in Galway
Why: These were all excellent in every way. Chrissie at the Olde Bakery in Kinsale was like being with a relative. She provided a lot of information about Kinsale. Highfield was beautiful B&B

Worst: Fitzwilliam Guest House in Dublin and Berkeley House in Kilkenny
Why: Neither of these were terrible. Fitzwilliam needs some repair work. Peeling paint and water marks on ceiling of top floor. Berkeley House also needs some work. Stopped up tub and dripping sink. Maybe because we were there at end of season. Also, Berkeley House seemed to be discouraging credit cards. They told me they were charging an addionnal 3% for use of credit cards, apparently in addition to the credit cards own 3% international charge. I decided to pay cash. This was a great location!

John and Anita Dumire in Chicago, Il USA 10/08/2007

Best: Moongate - not in your book.
Why: Self-catering, or full service. 300 year old farmhouse enlarged to sleep 15. Step into your fantasy - something between Harry Potter and Lord of the rings. Words cannot do it justice. Ballroom, library, formal dining room, each of the 7 bedroooms in different themes wow!

Steve Nelson in Poulsbo, WA USA 10/05/2007

Best: Park House Hotel in Galway
Why: Worth a splurge. Lovely hotel and staff; breakfasts were great! Great location for walking around town.

Worst: None
Why: However, in many smaller towns the Rick recommended places were all full. This was our first foreign travel without advance reservations.

Theresa in Walnut Creek, CA USA 10/01/2007

Best: Milestone House, Dingle
Why: Barbara provided us with tea and cookies upon arrival along with a detailed map and explanation of the Dingle Peninsula. She also provided us with recommendations for Dingle, which were spot on. Thank you for recommending her!

Worst: Temple Bar Hotel, Dublin
Why: The hotel itself was nice and the breakfast was enjoyable. However, the location had its pros and cons. It was centrally located within walking distance of Trinity College and in the heart of Temple Bar. Even on a Tuesday and Wednesday, the noise from the street was unbearable. There were people literally screaming and singing at 4:00 a.m. I had the windows closed and wore earplugs, but it did not keep out the noise. On the second night, we asked if we could be moved to the back of the hotel. They were accommodating, and although I had to keep the windows closed, I didn’t have to wear the earplugs.

Nancy in Providence, RI USA 10/01/2007

Best: Whispering Pines in Kenmare
Why: The closeness to the town center, cleanliness, quietness and most of all the hospitality! John & Mary Fitzgerald, the hosts were outstanding!! Having tea to come "home" to every afternoon was wonderful

Worst: Ashe TownHouse, Tralee
Why: Please take this place out of your book. The rooms were dirty, cramped and VERY smelly. The "host" abysmal. We met another family that had booked the same night because of your recommendation and were equally disgusted. You paid as you registered, I'm sure so that you would not go running out the door!!

Ellen Veazey in Norway, Ma USA 09/27/2007

Best: The Boulevard Guesthouse, Wesport, Ireland
Why: More than a mere B&B with charming rooms and an excellent breakfast. Sadie, our hostess and wonderfully assisted by Noreen, added a dimension of graciousness and warmth we experienced nowhere else and made our stay in Wesport a memorable experience.

O'Donnell in Garden City, NY USA 09/25/2007

Best: Milestone House
Why: Barbara and Michael both spent a lot of time going over maps with us---what to do in Dingle, and then the best route to drive back to Dublin. The room was very nice, and the breakfast was great. We really enjoyed staying there. All of their recommendations were great.

Mark & Kathy in Santa Clara, CA USA 09/24/2007

Best: Avondale Guest Accomodation, Waterford
Why: Excellent room - larger than most B&B rooms. Excellent service - I left my passport in the room when I left for Dublin to return hom. Margaret Fogarty sent the passport to me in Dublin by train, thus saving me from a major travel problem.

Juan Bowen in Rochester, MN USA 09/23/2007

Best: O'Neil's B&B (Dingle)
Why: Mary was a great hostess

Scott Joiner in Santa Clara, CA USA 09/21/2007

Best: Boulevard Guest House, Westport
Why: Perfect in every way! Our hosts were perfect, the rooms were perfect, breakfast was perfect and Sadie gave us great recommendations on where to eat and go out after!

Worst: Marine Guest House, Belfast
Why: Arranged via email with confirmation prior to leaving the States and called to confirm the night before and they did not have the room booked for us. We ended up getting a twin room instead of the double room we had originally requested.

Sara Curran in St. Louis, MO USA 09/17/2007

Best: Coastline Dingle
Why: Lovely accomodations and a great location (close enough to walk into town, but far enough for quiet evenings/nights).

Worst: Ashe Townhouse in Tralee
Why: RUN AWAY!! The room was filthy in our Quad, bedsheets were dirty, stained (blood or a dried tar-like substance on sheets on all three beds), and the plumbing is in need of significant repair (exceptionally noisy and alternates between spitting out gas/steam and hot water). We would have settled for a cold shower if it was possible. There is no host to speak of, only a daytime shift person and a cook, both of whom were unable to speak more than a few words of English. We stayed here for one night because it was a Rick Steve's recommendation. Do your faithful following a favor and remove this at once!

Tom Fraher in Chicago, IL USA 09/16/2007

Best: Petra House, Galway, Ireland
Why: The owners are the kindest, most wonderful people and the house is clean, comfortable and beautiful. they make a great irish breakfast too. I have stayed there twice and will go back every time I go to Galway! Thanks Rick

Worst: Belvedere House, Portrush, N. Ireland
Why: Words cannot describe how horrible our stay was here. It was a nightmare. the owners were rude, the place was dark when we arrived and our sheets were dirty. the furnutire was old (not quaint) and the place was empty. they overcharged us for what we gotand portrush, espec. in the off season is a ghost town. I would NEVER ever stay there again. Rick should go back and see how it is now. it is the only awful b& b I have stayed at in all my travels to ireland.

melissa in boston, ma USA 09/05/2007

Best: Ballinsheen House (Lisdoon) and Tower View B&B (Dingle)
Why: Great people running the places. We felt like we had a chance to meet authentic Irish family and hear their stories.

Worst: Townhouse of Dublin
Why: I had stayed they 6 years ago, but the neighborhood and hotel have gone significantly downhill. We had an individual sleeping in the hallway outside our room on one night and another set of 4 am noisemakers on the Monday night we stayed there. We did not get much sleep. Staff was reasonable, but the hostel/hotel combination makes it a difficult place to stay. The Breakfast scene was not very pretty either.

John McGuire in Minneapolis, MN USA 08/27/2007

Best: Tower View B & B in Dingle
Why: This B & B was TRULY family-friendly. The inn-keeper, Mary, adapted easily to our son's breakfast request. She brought out newborn pups for him to see, and recommended that he take out left-over toast to feed the ram (and allowed him to gather up the toast from the empty tables). Mary was also a great source of information of where to eat and what to do with a child.

Margo Malakoff in Sierra Madre, CA USA 08/23/2007

Best: Highfield House B&B in Trim
Why: Very good location to Castle and village. Beautiful building & gardens. Very comfortable room and excellent breakfast. They actually give you a menu! Paid 84 euros for a double

Telford Williams in Mpls, MN USA 08/20/2007

Best: Tower View B&B in Dingle
Why: Proprieter Mary was extremely hospitable, the room was large (formerly their master bedroom), Irish breakfast was amazing, and location is quiet & beautiful. We had a car, but enjoyed the walks into town.

Shannon Buckner in Brussels, Belgium 08/12/2007

Best: Alpine Guest house, Dingle
Why: Host was friendly, room was nice, with view of harbor

Worst: Fitzwilliam Guest House
Why: Dingy, loud, expensive. A disappointment at the end of the trip. The Albany house for the same price is miles better.

Jean Boler in Seattle , Wa USA 08/11/2007

Best: Oldtown Farmhouse B&B south of kilkenny, Blackstones House near Glencar/Killorglin and Roughgrange Farm near Donore/Newgrange, Harbourhill Farm on the hill above Kinsale
Why: We used vouchers thru Irish Farmhouse Holidays and Aer Lingus. Staying in a farmhouse is the way to go vs. a hotel. You meet the real people of Ireland and they were all wonderful; with working farms, children (some) and pets. I highly recommend it.

Melissa in Mason, OH USA 08/11/2007

Best: Brown's Townhouse in Waterford
Why: A perfectly lovely place. Siobhan was charming, imformative and helpful. Excellent accomodtions and delicious food.

Worst: Ashe TownHouse in Tralee
Why: THE WORST! Dingy, the bed had a spring that protruded through the top padding. Sheets looked as if they were previously slept on. The plumbing was noisy and sporadic, spitting air almost as regularly as water. The 'hosts' were offended when asked for a receipt for paying in cash. I hope this message will steer others away from the very unpleasant experience we had there.

Mary Jane in Archenbronn, CA USA 08/09/2007

Best: Cranmare House in Trim, Milestone House in Dingle, and Abbeycourt in Kemare, Townhouse of Dublin
Why: Cranmare because of the great hosts and quaint home; Milestone because Barbara is so genial, best breakfasts with Michael, and Barbara is really a wealth of information; Abbeycourt because of the above comments. WE really liked the Townhouse of Dublin because of the service, great rooms and beds, and great building. It is in a seedy part of town, but, close to O'Connell street and transportation.

Worst: Ashbourne House in Waterford
Why: It is not in the book and don't add it.

Dan Peterson in Brier, WA USA 08/08/2007

Best: Boulevard Guest House, Westport Ireland
Why: The accomodations at the Boulevard were beautifully decorated with very large well appointed rooms. The decor was only exceeded by the absolutely lovely Sadie Moran. Sadie epitomizes that wonderful Irish charm you look for at an Irish B&B. This stay was the highlight of our trip. She was so kind and thoughtful. During our delicious Irish breakfast, Sadie discovered it was my birthday and the next thing you know- she had Dave Lawlor on the CD singing me "Happy Birthday Baby" with candle and cake. I'll never forget this spontaneous gesture, yet so delightfully fun. Not just a nights rest at the Boulevard- Truly a lovely experience!! Not to be missed!!!

Patricia McManus in Haworth, NJ USA 08/07/2007

Best: Belfast International Youth Hostel
Why: One traveller wrote that the rooms are new. Actually, only part of the hostel seems new/refurbished. The other part is old, drab, and moldy. Still, it's a good value.

Paul Takemura in Monterey Park, CA USA 08/04/2007

Best: Kinlay House (in Galway)
Why: Wireless internet access was free! The guidebook is very accurate in saying that "people of any age feel welcome here."

Paul Takemura in Monterey Park, CA USA 08/03/2007

Best: Ballinsheen Bed and Breakfast
Why: Very nice, Mary Gardiner was personable and helpful in quiding us, the rooms were clean, the food was great, and we definitely will return there.

Mary Wise in Bay Village, OH USA 08/02/2007

Best: The Sea Gull B&B
Why: Very cozy and Mary was very helpful and freindly.

Worst: Kinlay House Hostel - Galway
Why: Didn't care for the dormatory style rooms.

James in Seattle , WA USA 08/01/2007

Best: Harbour Nights in Dingle
Why: Friendly people, clean, neat, helpful with directions and information. Good location and fair price.

Worst: Asgard House in Galway
Why: Room had an odor from a previous leak in the closet, also an odor came through the bathroom window, parking was tight and owner wanted us to give her keys to our rented van which we would not do. First question we asked, may we use our credit card and was told yes. The day we checked out, the credit card machine was "broken" and owner said a note had been put on the dining room door by the night clerk before she left for the night. What the owner didn't know was, we were in the dining room eating pizza when the night clerk left and there was not notification so we could prepare with cash. Would not recommend this B&B.

Sandy Patrick in Taylorville, IL USA 07/24/2007

Best: Rusheen Lodge, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare
Why: This was our best stay of our trip. On arrival we were greeted with the most wonderful flower display, inside our host Karen was wonderful. We stayed in the Garden Suite for 2 nights. This is a must for anyone travelling around the Burren,

Shakra O'Shea in Newark, NJ USA 07/19/2007

Best: Hargreaves House, Bangor, Northern Ireland
Why: Wonderful location. Friendly hosts. Pauline makes you feel right at home and is eager to share local restaurant information. All recommendations were yummy! Bangor is a beautiful location to use as a jumping point to the nearby cities (Belfast, Newtownards, North Coast). Pauline also makes a yummy breakfast and is eager to get your eggs just right. Hint: If you don't want your eggs runny, ask for "bullet" eggs...she'll know just what you want.

Margaret Hansen in Eugene, OR USA 07/19/2007

Best: Nua Haven in Dublin, Butler Court in Kilkenny, Fernroyd House in Cork CIty, and Killfountain Farmhouse in Dingle
Why: Nua Haven in Dublin was quiet, clean and Bruno the host went beyond the usual service by driving us into Dublin the frist night to get dinner, and he also drove us to the Hertz outlet to pick up our car rental. Butler Court was absolutely in the best location, and John and Yvonne told us all the best places to go for music, food and sight seeing. Fernroyd House in Cork City was just lovely. It is located across from the University College of Cork adn the accomodations are excellent. Tony and Avril are wonderful hosts and there dog Chip is adorable. Killfountain Farmhouse in Dingle was great. It was very down to earth, and the least commercial of the places we stayed. Had a great time talking to Mr. Lynch about his tractors and the dairy farm. His son and daughters were great hosts. Lily the dog is one of the cutest and Ana's 5 year old son Shamus made it seem very much like a home.

Worst: The Captian's House, and MIlestones B&B in Dingle
Why: They never answered my email inquiries about accommodations. Even if there were none available a reply would have been appreciated. I contacted them on the reccommondation of your book.

Paul Stanley in Maple Ridge, BC Canada 07/19/2007

Best: Milestone in Dingle, Brooks Cottage Enniskerry
Why: Milestone gives great information about what to do. Very personable hosts. Our breakfast was the best of our two week tour. Brooks Cottage is charming and host went out of her way to help.

Arleen Amato in Paducah, KY USA 07/18/2007

Best: All were great: see specific comments below and thanks for your honesty
Why: Dublin: booked at Ariel House, which was under construction right before our arrival. They were nice enough to put us up in 5 star Berkeley Court Jury's Inn with breakfast and they paid the difference! We really could have enjoyed Dublin for 3 nights instead of two. The dart was fun for one ride but a cab was faster and almost the same price (4 of us)going into Dublin. Kilkenny: Butler Court. Yvonne was fabulous! We had rooms next to each other: clean, spacious and the refrigerator spoiled us (a great touch)-thanks Yvonne. Kinsale: Gallery B&B: Tom let us choose our rooms,which were nice & cozy: felt like a guest in a friend's home. The boys enjoyed the free dvd movies in their room. The dining room was so classy and he advised us about good things in Kenmare not to miss (Free dvd of his jazz on departure too) Kenmare: unable to get a B&B from your book and stayed at Foleys. Had a tiny family room on 3 floor walk up next to laundry: noisy and hot. Dingle: stayed in Bambury's guest house. Their family room was so spacious and lovely. (Thankfully after the nightmare in Kenmare) Ennis: we enjoyed this town very much stayed at Grey Gables. Happy to be close to Shannon for departure

Worst: Jury's Inn Galway
Why: Loved all the B&B's and really felt like we were missing something staying at the hotel in Galway. WE were expecting it to be comparable to a Marriot or similar in America. The rooms were quite hot as there is no air conditioning. Jury's should invest in some ceiling fans! Thankfully we were on the first floor so if we propped open the door we could get some air. Upstairs near the ironing room was unbearable.

Kathy Ryan in Rockaway Beach, NY USA 07/18/2007

Best: Doolin Activity Lodge, Butler Court,O'Brien's Farmhouse Lodge
Why: The Doolin Activity Lodge is a great value with well kept modern rooms offering many helpful amenities, Butler Court in Kilkenny is lovely in every detail and Yvone could not be more gracious or helpful, in Cashel Tom and Brid O’Brien’s Farmhouse Lodge is picturesque and we felt like family guests rather than paying travelers.

Worst: Westport Inn in Westport
Why: The hotel feels overused and is not well kept.

Brooke Serres in Salem, OR USA 07/11/2007

Best: Asgard B&B and Four Seasons B&B (Galway), Sraid Eoin B&B (Dingle)
Why: Feedback for trip taken mid-June 2007, travelling by myself:

Asgard B&B (Galway): Geraldine was very helpful on my first day in Ireland. Great breakfast and accommodations.

Four Seasons B&B (Galway): I can't remember his name, but very kind proprietor. Also good accommodations and the option for smoked salmon and scrambled eggs was a nice diversion from the Full Irish Breakfast I ate during most of my trip.

Sraid Eoin B&B (Dingle): Efficient, clean accommodations. May be the best accommodation to try if coming into town late/last-minute as (I believe) Maurice also runs the travel agency downstairs and is easily findable.

Tips: --Just as Rick notes, reservations are highly recommended.

--I decided to wing it the latter part of my trip, and noting that I found their establishment in Rick Steves AND mentioning that I'd be paying in Euros usually netted me Single rates for a Double room.

Pete Lee in Portland, OR USA 07/10/2007

Best: Anvershiel B&B
Why: Victor and Erna were outstanding hosts. This dynamic duo were pleasant, hospitable and very helpful. Not only was our room very spacious and comfortable, but Victor's breakfasts were worthy of the food channel! Fantastic recommendation!

Bob and Mary Efinger in Pompano Beach, FL USA 07/09/2007

Best: Three B&B's stand out: Ballinsheen House in Lisdoonvarna, Crannmor Guest House in Trim andGlenn-na-Smol B&B in Howth.
Why: Lisdoonvarna is a great place for a first night in Ireland as it is a short distance from Shannon and an excellent location to enjoy Doolin and the Burren. Mary Gardiner runs a very clean and tastefully decorated house at a moderate cost. Anne O'Regan runs a very pleasant B&B in Trim which we fortunately were able to obtain on short notice. Our grandchildren loved her two dogs. Howth in a great location to tour Dublin and Glen-na-Smol is a B&B we can recommend highly. Sean Rickard is a wonderful host who attended to our every need.

Patrick J. Farmer in Clearwater, FL USA 07/08/2007

Best: Butler Court, Kilkenny
Why: Charming accommodations, Kilkenny was a delightful town, Yvonne at Butler Court was extremely helpful

Rebecca Stowe in Jefferson, GA USA 07/05/2007

Best: College Crest Bed & Breakfast, College Rd., Galway City.
Why: This B&B is under new management, very friendly, hositable staff! Delicious food, including traditional Irish Breakfast among other varieties, meticulously clean, only a two minute walk from the City Centre and all amenities. Home from Home!

Karen Platt in Cardiff, n/ Wales 07/02/2007

Best: Butler Court, Kilkenny & Bambury Guest House, Dingle
Why: Butler Court in Kilkenny is just an adorable place, in a good location with really nice hosts. Bambury Guest House in Dingle is really nice. The hostess, Bernie, gave us a room when our other B&B had closed down (Mainstay Guesthouse). The breakfast is very good and beautifully presented.

Worst: Mainstay Guesthouse, Dingle
Why: Apparently has gone out of business. We were not notified, even though we had a very official confirmation from January 2007.

Debra Camastro in Gilberts, IL USA 07/02/2007

Best: Greenmount House
Why: very nice hosts, great breakfast, convenient to town center

Bob Lata in Paso Robles, CA USA 07/01/2007

Best: Bambury's Guest House
Why: Great price, great location, great accommodations.

William Lavey in Wakefield, MA USA 06/24/2007

Best: Pier House, Kinsale
Why: Ann was amazing. A room was found for me at the last minute for 2 nights. Upon arrival, she greeted me, told me about the parking on the street, when I could park and where, helped me with luggage, gave me the option of the smaller room with small bath that had patio looking at the harbor or much larger room (I took the smaller one, of course!). Breakfast hours started at 8:00 but she offered to make mine earlier if I wanted early start; made all calls and reservations for any meals and/or activities. I felt at home - never wanting to leave. And her dog, Toby, was just an added bonus! This should be added to your guidebook.

Elizabeth in Burlingame, CA USA 06/11/2007

Best: Alpine Guesthouse, Dingle
Why: Clean, modern, hospitable with a great breakfast. Paul O'Shea honored my 10% discount for using Rick's guidebook.

Worst: Charles Stewart Guesthouse
Why: It is fine to stay here, but NEVER get a room facing O'Connell Street. Our first four nights were in a room at the back, oh, so quiet. When we returned to Dublin at the end of our trip Helen thought she was doing us a favor to give us a nice room in the front. The afternoon sun made it like an oven, and the traffic ran almost all night long. When the pubs closed it was chaos. I still wonder if the young fellow screaming "Linda" over and over, ever did find her. Perhaps 2-3 hours of sleep was had that night. A good alternative hotel with bar/restaurant might be Cassidy's, just a few buildings south on O'Connell. Appears to be a little more upscale for the same price.

Sharron Stevens in Oberstaufenbach, Germany 06/10/2007

Best: Milestone House, Dingle
Why: Barbara and Michael Carroll were wonderful hosts, and their house came to feel like home in my three days there. Barbara had some excellent tips on touring both the town and the peninsula. Also, one morning I returned from the laundry to find two bodhran players performing in the living room!

Melissa in Fairfax, VA USA 06/08/2007

Best: Bamburry's in Dingle
Why: Great loaction, wonderful facility, totally amazing choice, quality and healthy breakfast alternatives (don't worry the full on cardiac choice is also available). The crepes were amazing!!!!

Worst: Galway -
Why: Previously stated water conditions - Pay more get less in larger centers

McNeil's On Canda 06/04/2007

Best: Belvedere, Portrush & Bunbeg House, Bunbeg
Why: At both locations, the hosts were gracious and chatty, the top floor room at the Belvedere was quaint and cozy. And,even despite the Bunbeg House's rather stripped down economy hotel guest rooms, the food and general atmosphere at both of these owner operated placed offered probably the best experience and the best value we enjoyed during our pre-season visit.

Worst: Jury's Inn Custom House
Why: Reservation was made month in advance; check in was processed early in am, but when we returned to actually get assigned room, we were told there was only one room left - a smoking-only room and very truculent, trainees service, with a supervisor who only stepped in at the height of our displeasure. It was our last night - and a bad final impression.

Colleen in Bloom, MD USA 06/04/2007

Best: Old Presbytery in Kinsale, Ireland
Why: Just fabulous. The lady owner was WONDERFUL and our 7 year old daughter loved their dog! So accomodating and a great Irish breakfast. In addition, Kinsale was beautiful.

Katherine and Allen Steele in Brambleton, VA USA 05/16/2007

Best: Milestone House in Dingle
Why: Barbara and Michael were incredible hosts during our stay in Ireland. Barbara made dinner reservations for our group and gave us insight into the best of Dingle. She sits down with you and goes over the sights of the Dingle Pennisula marking the map with locations of music and other activities in the area. Michael loaned one of our group his bike for the day. They are exceptional and only add to the rich experience of Ireland.

Joyce Webb in Monument, CO USA 05/11/2007

Best: All of Rick's accomodations
Why: Followed his in Kinsale (Old Presbytery-3 nights),Kenmare (Hawthorn House-2 nights), Dingle (Greenmount House- 3 nights), Lisdoonvarva (Ballinsheen House), Westport (Boulevard Guest House),and Aran Islands (Pier House).I recommend all of them very much. Comfortable, great breakfasts, nice people. A couple of other places we stayed and liked very much were Roundstone House Hotel in Roundstone, which was one of our favorite towns, Ely House in Shannonbridge, and the Bunratty Lodge in Bunratty (just 5 miles from Shannon airport.)

Judy Johnson in Alexandria, MN USA 05/11/2007

Best: Milestone House in Dingle & Butler Court in Kilkenny
Why: Top quality accommodations with top guality hosts!

Mary Alcorn in Fort Hancock, TX USA 05/09/2007

Best: Brown's Townhouse
Why: They went out of their way to be helpful and the food was wonderful. It was raining when I was going out for dinner and they left an umbrella by the front door with my name on it. It doesn't get more thoughtful than that.

Worst: Coastline Guesthouse, Dingle
Why: It took a long time for anyone to answer when you needed information at the desk and Vivienne was the most unfriendly person I have ever met. I was also incredibly cold in the room. She charged 10 euro more than the price I was quoted by email prior to my trip.

Kathleen Surrette in Stratford, CT USA 05/07/2007

Best: Harding Hotel, Dublin
Why: Very nice front desk staff, clean rooms with nice beds and bathrooms.

Jessica Jacko in Merrillville, IN USA 04/30/2007

Best: Lynden B&B, Dun Laoghaire, Ireland
Why: En suite room was spacious, quiet, very clean, very comfortable, very affordable, excellent breakfast. I became rather ill while traveling in Ireland and Maria Gavin made an appointment for me at her doctor's office. I stayed 4 nights and got my Rick Steves' discount. I gave her a rather generous tip but she would not accept all of it! I'd be thrilled to stay there again.

karen williams in windsor heights, ia USA 04/29/2007

Best: Milestone B&B in Dingle
Why: Barbara and Michael Carroll were so accomodating and hospitable. We were so comfortable staying with them. Michael sat down with us, for about an hour, one morning and mapped out a hike along the Slea Head Drive that was magical. He also helped us plan the rest of our trip around Ireland. They take great prides in their breakfasts too. . . lots of juice and food choices.

Heather Pardue in Ocala, FL USA 04/16/2007

Best: Cill Bhreac House in Dingle. Co. Kerry
Why: A charming B&B on the outskirts of Dingle town overlooking Dingle Bay. Angela was a true gem who made us feel so welcome. Her home baking is a real treat. Rick, this place should be listed in your book. www.cillbhreachouse.com

Meg Young in Colorado, USA 04/15/2007

Best: The Olde Bakery B & B- Kinsale; & Berkley House- Kilkenny
Why: Olde Bakery B & B- Friendly onwers, delicious breakfast, comfortable accomadations, and close proximity to pubs, restaurant, and shops

Berkley House- Very friendly staff and comfortable rooms. When we arrived, Vincent (hotel staff) insisted that we rest and have a cup of tea with him. What a great way to start off our visit to the city of Kilkenny

Erin Peabody in Great Lakes, IL USA 03/30/2007

Best: Olde Bakery in Kinsale
Why: The ability to experience fantastic food, location and very friendly owners...Berkeley House in Kilkenny was also great and highly recommended!

Todd Peabody in Great Lakes, IL USA 03/29/2007

Best: The Boulevard
Why: The friendliness and helpful attitude of John, Sadie, and Noreen. They guided me and gave lots of advice that helped make my visit great! Just as the guidebook said, they have a great B and B in a convenient location. Everything was immaculately clean and comfortable. You can't go wrong staying there!

Curt Iles in Dry Creek, LA USA 03/18/2007

Best:
Why: We fell in love with Kinsale. When we first arrived we booked at The Gallery. We had a huge room and Carole didn't charge us more (I think having your guide book in my hand helped). We tried to book another night with her but she was booked. We stayed in Kinsale at The White Lady but it loud and the accomodations were not good at all.

Worst: The White Lady
Why: This was our worst evening for accomodations. Our room was above the front door to the restaurant/pub and with the no smoking law, everyone was outside until all hours of the night. The street also had alot of traffic.

Grecco's in Toledo, OH USA 01/22/2007

Worst: ashe townhouse, in tralee
Why: the hotel room was filthy! Urine all over the toilet seat, bed smelled like something died. We asked for our money back. I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.

keith haven in billericay, uk 01/17/2007

Best: Jury's Galway.
Why: Beautiful views, superb location, great staff.

Worst: Jury's Dublin
Why: Literally impossible to sleep if on the Christ Church side (which is recommended!) due to the church bells, traffic, sirens, and shouting as the bars closed and the revelers emptied into the streets. However, the less scenic rear side of the hotel was much quieter.

Brett Fleitz in Carmel, In USA 01/10/2007

Best: Greenmount House, Dingle
Why: Very clean, hospitable hosts, good location, great views.

Worst: Clifden House, Dublin
Why: Very dirty carpets, surly proprietors.

Helen USA 12/20/2006

Best: Chart House, Kinsale
Why: Mary and Billie were both professional and friendly. We very much enjoyed their company.

John Zesbaugh in Pine River, MN USA 12/17/2006

Best: Cranmor House
Why: Anne and Marc were helpful attentive and very friendly. The room was clean and comfortable.

John Bradley & Charles Keenan in Jersey City, NJ USA 12/06/2006

Best: Dun Laoghaire, Ophira B&B
Why: John O'Connor, nice guy. Great accomodation, close to everything. Easy to Dublin without the crazy traffic when using Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART). Small parking lot made me very nervous but I got in and out.

Worst: Galway, College Crest Guest House
Why: Galway p. 224. College Crest Guest House: Charged 45E person, though we had a double and a triple for our party of 5. Not hosted by Irish but eastern Europeans (Poland and Latvia) Room 7 had missing door knobs on furniture.

Jon T. Haugen in VANCOUVER, WA USA 11/26/2006

Best: Lynden House B&B Maria Gavin...DunLaoghaire
Why: Both Steve and Maria are very kind and welcoming. The food was great...rooms were clean and comfortable. Its really the people that make the difference to me and they were great.

Karen Rutledge in The Dalles, Or USA 11/18/2006

Best: Water's Edge B&B - Kenmare
Why: Our hostess, Noreen, was so friendly and her home was wonderful. The setting is quiet and peaceful next to the lake, but within walking distance of Kenmare. The bedrooms and bathrooms are spacious with every modern convenience, and the lounge/breakfast room is large and inviting with more conveniences.

Martin Reynolds in Coatesville, PA USA 11/16/2006

Best: The Old Presbitery in Kinsale and Rusheen Lodge in Ballyvaughan
Why: We were very glad Rick recommended Kinsale vs. Cork. We stayed two nights. The rooms at The Old Presbytery were fantastic and the innkeepers were extremely warm and helpful. Their daughter even allowed us to use their internet connected computer for email. This was our favorite B&B. The Rusheen Lodge was very cozy, like The Old Presbytery, with great views, and it was in a wonderful small town, Ballyvaughan. We wished we had planned better and stayed two nights in Ballyvaughan to explore The Burren.

Dick Vaughan in Houston, Tx USA 11/09/2006

Best: Castlewood House, Dingle
Why: Absolutely gorgeous place, amazing breakfast. But the best was Helen & Brian - wonderfully friendly and helpful and genuinely interested in making sure I was having a good time in Dingle

Worst: Hardy Hourse, Dublin
Why: The only thing it had going for it was that it appeared to be clean. But rooms were dismal. I couldn't decide if the bathroom was more prison-like or more depressing boarding school like. Plus I had to show ID every time I came in the door - is this a prison or what? It was cheap for Dublin, but I left after one night.

Carolyn S. in Seattle, WA USA 11/03/2006

Best: Bambury's, Greenmount both in Dingle
Why: Both were nice, we preferred Bambury's for it's location, a larger more comfortable room and also preferred the breakfast over the 'award winning' one at Greenmount - but I would gladly stay at either. I should note we stayed in the less expensive room at the Greenmount (which was still more expensive than Bambury's).

Gary Hilliard in Felton, DE USA 11/03/2006

Best: Lynden B&B In Dun Laoghaire
Why: We started and ended our trip in Dun Laoghaire and it's a perfect place to not get swept up in the noise and traffic that Dublin has. Maria Gavin was the first Irish person we met and was perhaps, the nicest person we've ever met. She was so willing to repeat directions and share a friendly smile. We hope she had a good time on her first trip to the U.S. in Chicago:)

Worst: Garvey's Inn
Why: Loud and when it's too hot not to open your window - you'll hear everything on the street during bar hours. It reminded us of our own 6th Street in Austin, TX. It's ok though when it's not a Friday or Saturday night.

Michele & Jay Carter in Austin, TX USA 10/29/2006

Best: Waters Edge B&B in Kenmare
Why: This B&B is outside town so very quiet, yet is only a short, scenic walk through the woods and over the bridge away from town. The owner Noreen, is friendly and charming. Rooms were immaculate and nicely decorated. Great breakfast--especially the salmon!

Patricia Cassel in Monroe, WA USA 10/24/2006

Best: Asgard House, Galway
Why: We arrived in Galway a little late and without lodging, but we were lucky that Veronica had rooms for us, gave us easy directions, greeted us cheerfully, looked up all of our last names in the phone directory to see if we had Irish connections, gave us a map and restaurant recommendations and was just generally delightful in her own saucy, quick-witted way. The accommodations and breakfast were great too, but Veronica made it memorable.

Ron & Kerry Petty in Bakersfield, CA USA 10/21/2006

Best: Tudor House B&B Dungarvin
Why: This was not recommended, we stumbled on to it since Kilkenny was booked out due to the "World Plowing Championship" in Carlow. This B&B is above the Pub, and if you are there on a Friday night, there is Trad. music, and you don't have to drive after a few pints!

Dan in Ocean Shores, WA USA 10/14/2006

Best: coastline b&b, dingle
Why: clean, friendly, beautiful location great matteress, great hostess and breakfast

Worst: the old presbytery b&b, kinsale
Why: dirty , dowdy, bath had broken fixtures, hot as hell, the beds were TERRIBLE,the most expensive b&b in 14 days of Ireland.It was the most expensive by 2 fold and absolute worst, bad parking you name it..would not reccomend at all!!!!!! Just a real bad experience....I would definitely remove this from your book..

gary beck in valley mills, tx USA 10/13/2006

Best: Doire Coille B & B in Glendalough
Why: Mary welcomed us and gave us a comfortable room with a lovely en-suite bathroom and a great shower. She made us tea and buttered toast and had many resources available for sightseeing the next day. Her breakfast was wonderful as well. A great find right by Glendalough in the Wicklow Mtns.

Worst: The Lighthouse B & B, Kinsale
Why: We had a reservation and arrived and spent the first of two nights with no host at all. A departing guest let us in the B & B but didn't know when the owner would be back. No note, no explanation. It was a very uncomforable feeling to be in someone's house like that. If there was a fire or accident???? Weird! In the morning, we got ready and a hired cook finally turned up to cook us breakfast. Turns out the owner had gone to Dublin for the weekend. It seemed like the running of the B & B was definitely on the low priority by having nobody there. Would never go back.

JBY OR USA 10/11/2006

Best: Captain's House, Dingle
Why: Friendly host, lovely room, good breakfast choices, great location

Diane Boettcher in Winchester, MA USA 10/06/2006

Best: International Youth Hostel in Belfast
Why: Very new, clean, great restaurant, great rooms

Worst: Four courts Hostel in Dublin
Why: Crazy crowded, I felt too old to be there. The staff were unpleasant, the rooms were old. I felt uncomfortable.

Sarah Napoli in Brattleboro, VT USA 10/06/2006

Best: Ferry House, Quayside House, Milestone House, Brogan's Guesthouse
Why: In Dun Laoghaire, Kinsale, Dingle, and Trim, respectively, all were excellent. They were conveniently located and clean with good breakfasts and friendly, helpful hosts.

I hesitated to stay at Brogan's because of some negative posts to this feedback site, but we only have good things to report about Brogan's.

We also stayed at Ann Buckley's Rusheen Bay House in Salthill. It was as excellent as the others.

Patricia Drabant in Brooklyn, MI USA 10/04/2006

Best: O'Brien's Holiday Lodge
Why: Comfortable accommadations and scenic location

david u. in phoenix, ax USA 10/01/2006

Best: Trinity College
Why: Economical,quite and clean

Worst: Brogan's Guesthouse
Why: Room was 80 degrees (I carry a themometer). Was moved to a room overlooking the courtyard but the people from the bar were noisy until about 1 or 2 AM in the courtyard. Hard to sleep.

Frank Sharp in Norcross , Ga USA 09/30/2006

Best: Castlewood B & B and Heaton's B & B in Dingle
Why: Brian and Helen Heaton, son and daughter-in-law of Cameron and Nula Heaton of Heaton's B & B next door, are charming hosts! Beautiful home and rooms, fantastic breakfast. . .on par with mom Nula's! Hard to make the decsion where to stay as both these b & b's are top notch. . .plus all the Heaton's are such lovey people!Solution: stay a night in each!

Worst: College Crest House B & B in Galway
Why: We were flabbergasted this got such a high rating as it was poorly maintained,dirty,shabby, horrid breakfast and way overpriced. We were booked for three nights, but bugged out after one!

Val Eliassen in Otis Orchards, WA USA 09/27/2006

Best: B&Bs Milestone in Dingle and Valley View in Northern Ireland (Antrim Coast)
Why: The owners (Barbara and Mike Carroll - Milestone) and Valerie McFall - Valley View) went out of their way to accomodate us. The breakfasts were outstanding and the food excellent. Barbara (Milestone) sat down with us to go over our Dingle loop trip giving suggestions and mapping out places to see. Valerie (Valley View)helped us find a place in Dublin for our last night in Ireland and also gave us some good tips on the Giant's Causeway and places to eat. Both places were quiet and had comfortable beds. My husband and I highly recommend these two B&Bs for good restful places to stay with warm and friendly atmosphere.

Brad Bessant in Seffner, fl USA 09/26/2006

Best: see below, I'm listing more than one
Why: The Roxford lodge, Dublin, Kirrary's B&B, Dingle, Clai Ban B&B, Inishmor, and the Townhouse of Dublin. They all were very welcoming, helpful, communicated clearly about all the business aspects of staying there, were clean and comfortable and were an integral part of the enjoyment of our trip.

Worst: Asgard Guest House, Galway
Why: Our family was treated in a dishonest and thoughtless manner. We called on a Wednesday to reserve a Saturday night room for our family of three. We were quoted 35 e per person. We were on the Aran Islands and decided to stay an extra day so we called back Thursday to inform them of our the change in our arrival date and ask if we could have the same accomodation for Sunday night instead and were told yes. We were not told all the facts at that time, which were that she did not have a triple room for Sunday, only a single and double which combined were more expensive. Had we been given that information when we called on Thursday, we would not have gone there and would have called for reservations elsewhere. When I spoke to her about not giving us accurate information in advance she took no responsibility for it, and also justified herself saying most parents wanted to sleep in separate rooms from their children.

Cathy in Ashland, OR USA 09/23/2006

Worst: College Crest Guest House in Galway
Why: It was located on a busy street next to a construction site. It was poorly maintained and shabby and needed some cleaning.

Sally Warner in San diego, CA USA 09/23/2006

Worst: Mary Power's B&B
Why: This is located in Bunratty, so not recommended, but I wanted to give a heads-up to people who do go to this area. I made the reservations three months in advance and reconfirmed a few days before we arrived. After pounding on the door for five minutes and walking around the house, we left to find a telephone to call. We just got the answering machine. At this point it was almost dark and we had reservations at the Medevial Banquet, so we went ahead and found another B&B (where, when the owners heard where we had be booked, they just nodded their head - we were not the first travelors to run into this problem). Fast forward six months: I received a very nasty e-mail from the proprietor about my being a no-show. Very, very odd place. I would not recommend staying there, despite the seemingly nice location and lodging.

Jayne in Washington, DC USA 09/13/2006

Best: Lynden House, Dun Lagohaire
Why: Lynden House, Dun Lagohaire

The host Maria is a very warm and welcoming and she is an interesting conversationalist. The food was good and she was great in accommodating different dietary needs without any problems, I am a vegetarian my partner is not. Maria does pay attention to the smaller detail, when my partner only tasted the black pudding she did not serve it again. When we had to leave early in the morning to catch a Taxi because the Dart does not run at 5 am , she left us yoghurts and some sandwiches, chocolate and OJ and had called the taxi for us the night before even though some taxi companies where on strike that day.

You do have to ask for a hairdryer or alarm clock and she will provide it, the room we stayed in was small, could have used some maintenance, more hook’s in the bathroom to hang the towels. We did not have a phone in our room but a small TV, stuff to make tea or coffee also. It is aprox 10 -15 walk from the Dart station uphill, quiet neighborhood and there is room to park some cars. We paid 70 Euros per night for 2 people, incl breakfast and when we showed her the Rick Steves Guidebook we received our 10 % discount without any problems. It was a good stay for a short weekend in Dublin, and if you are looking for a basic place, nice Host, good food, interesting other guest from allover the world and not to expensive this is a good place to be.

Patricia M in Kingston, MA USA 09/09/2006

Best: Dunromin, Kilkenny
Why: I don't think Dunromin is listed in the Rick Steves Guide, but we had a terrific room and lovely hosts there. Although it's not located in the heart of Kilkenny, I concluded that the location was a good thing -- no loud revelers to keep you up at night (we were there during the Arts Festival). And Dunromin's an easy, pleasant 10 minute walk into town. Our hosts Val and Tom could not have been more accommodating and knowledgeable. We were frantic after leaving our passports in our hotel room safe in Dublin; Val ensured that they were sent to us by express mail the next day. Thank you Val!

Christine Dibble in Washington Grove, MD USA 09/05/2006

Best: Bambury House, Dingle
Why: Lovely establishment. Bernie and her staff are wonderful. Helped my sister-in-law arrange for transport of a bag accidentally left behind in Kilkenny. We had a comfy king size bed and the breakfasts were great. We will be back again.

Worst: Ballaghmore House, Ballaghmore
Why: Cannot recall if this one was in your book or not. Avoid at all costs. Booked our room three months in advance. Reconfirmed three weeks ahead of our departure. Then, after the arrests at Heathrow, contacted all innkeepers to advise that we were not changing our travel plans. When we arrived, she advised that our room was not ready yet and asked us to return anytime after three. Told her that my husband wanted to play a round at RosCrea Golf Course just up the road and we would return later. When we returned, she had given our room away and we had to go elsewhere.

M. Cantwell in Sequim, USA 09/04/2006

Best: Benedict's Hotel, Belfast
Why: This hotel is lovely and was one of the cheapest places we stayed. The rooms and beds are extremely comfortable. Anna, at the desk, is marvelous. She was willing to do anything to help us and make us feel at home. Their dining room is lovely and has wonderful "early bird" dinner specials. We also had the best breakfast of our trip here.

Margaret Hodel in Durham, NC USA 08/30/2006

Best: Ocean View
Why: Fresh squeezed orange juice and delicious coffee was nice, but best of all was Phyl Brosnan's chatty friendliness. I felt like I was staying at my sister's house.

Jaunita Eichman in Wirtz, VA USA 08/26/2006

Best: Island View B&B, Portmagee; Limestone Lodge, Kenmare; Rockville House, Cashel
Why: Owner-operators who offered a warm, genuine welcome.

Worst: College Crest Guest House, Galway
Why: It was OK, but staff just didn't seem to care much.

Eric & Carla in Seattle, WA USA 08/25/2006

Best: Olde Bakery B&B, Kinsale
Why: Chris, Tom and the dogs are terrific! They make you feel like you are members of the family. We had a wonderful stay at the Olde Bakery and in Kinsale - highly recommended. PS: We also stayed at the Mainstay Guest House in Dingle and liked it very much. Ruth & Gus were very nice and recommended the weekly folk music concert at St. James Church, which was wonderful - don't miss it!

Dave Johnson in Sacramento, CA USA 08/14/2006

Best: The Butler House
Why: She was so helpful when we were lost. She even parked our car for us when we were frustrated with trying to drive. Yvonne answered all our questions and was a true help and friend. WE LOVE YA Yvonne

Heidi Fernandez in McMinnville, OR USA 08/09/2006

Best: Sallyport House (Kenmare)
Why: Helen Arthur provides an understated yet warm and efficient base as she expertly guides you through the best sites and routes (to miss the tour buses)as well as restaurants. The finest breakfast overlooking the hillsides and watching birds at the feeder by the window while listening to the finest traditional music.

Philip Osattin in Kew Gardens, NY USA 08/07/2006

Best: Bambury's Guesthouse in Dingle
Why: Excellent rooms. One of our rooms had a real "king-size" bed. Very clean, and the hostess, Bernie Bambury was very friendly and helpful.

Worst: Stonehaven B&B in Ennis
Why: This house didn't live up to the standards of other recommended B&B's. Small rooms, musty (maybe mouldy) and a bit threadbare. They seem to be resting on their "Rick Steve's" laurels...

Terry McCarthy in Austin, TX USA 08/02/2006

Best: The Gallery B&B, Kinsale
Why: It was a wonderful place, the perfect location to everything in town. The breakfast was fabulous with omlettes and pancakes with fruit and icecream. The proprietors were very kind and helpful and even carried our bags upstairs for us without us asking. The rooms were very nice and we stayed in a "suite" that used to be 2 rooms so we had 2 bathrooms and my family of 4 were able to stay in the same room. We also had a TV and VCR with a selection of movies which was nice after a long day of traveling. Definiely stay here when in Kinsale!

Worst: Clifden House, Dublin
Why: This was the worst place we stayed during our 10 days in Ireland. For the price they charge, we expected accommodations a little better than this place, which was on par with a hostel. There was no air conditioning and we were on the third floor so it became very hot and when we asked for a fan, they replied, "Fan? We don't have any fans, it doesn't get hot here." The proprietor was very rude and couldn't be bothered to give us directions when we asked. The bathroom was barely big enough to enter and the showerhead didn't have a handle so we had to hold the showerhead with one hand as we tried to soap and shampoo with the other. The beds were old and the springs were popping out of them and the breakfast was mediocre at best. This place should not be in your book.

Kelly Cummings in McLean, VA USA 08/02/2006

Best: Milestone in Dingle
Why: Clean, convenient, and the most informative and welcoming couple ever. Sat down with us immediately to plan itinerary and make the most of our time there.

Janet Koth in Manchester, MO USA 08/02/2006

Best: Highfield House in Trim
Why: Aside from the fact that we were jet-lagged, it was an easy drive from the sirport. It is a very nice B&B and Eddie and his wife were very kind and helpful.

Worst: None
Why: The worst was the B&B i Kinsale, because I couldn't get a room in the recommended places. But, that comparison is vry relative. The B&B was ok and the owner very nice, but it wasn't what I expected from the web site description. But, it suffers only bycomparison to othrs that are in the guidebook.

William Gruesbeck in Beavercreek, Oh USA 08/01/2006

Best: The Captain's House in Dingle
Why: Just a very nice B&B owned and run by a hard working couple who love their B&B..and it shows. Location was excellent, breakfast was the best we had for our whole trip(included of course), room was nicely done, and best of all, they leave you alone. I was reluctant to do B&Bs as I am a hotel person; they changed my mind. Do the B&B experience in Ireland. Well worth it.

S.S. in Indianapolis, IN USA 07/30/2006

Best: Greenmount House, Dingle
Why: Beautiful room, excellent facilities, quiet, great view from breakfast room and the best breakfasts we had on the trip. Wish we had been able to stay longer.

Worst: Headley Court, Bunratty
Why: Owners indifferent, right down to the man of the house watching a 4ft 10 in woman struggle the luggage up the stairs. Every corner possible was cut, right down to the low wattage lightbulbs making impossible to read in the room. Requests for local information were brushed aside. This was the only place in Ireland we felt unwelcome. We couldn't wait to leave.

Chris in Albany, NY USA 07/26/2006

Best: Tir Na Nog B & B
Why: Mr. Maloney was very helpful and knowledgable to help make our experience great.

Julie Lepa in Tucson, AZ USA 07/19/2006

Best: Whispering Pines B&B, Kenmare
Why: Although not one of the B&Bs recommended in your book, Mary and John Fitzgerald in Kenmare have given us our best B&B experience for 2 years in a row. Their hospitality is now our standard of comparison; the only reservations we make in advance after booking our airline tickets is with them. They made us feel like welcome guests rather than paying customers. They were always available to answer questions, make any arrangements we needed, give suggestions for our day, and offer tea just when it would be most welcome. They served the best breakfasts we had in Ireland. Their B&B is in an ideal location, quiet but just a 2 minutes walk into town.

Worst: Harbour View, Doolin
Why: Here, "hospitality" consisted of our hostess giving us a key at the door and appearing to collect our money on departure, while she was otherwise invisible. Beyond that, many details that make a room functional were not attended to, such as the only soap provided was in a dispenser that was broken; a mostly used-up roll of toilet paper was all that was provided; there was no shelf in the shower, providing a real test of juggling ability; there were no drinking glasses in the room, etc. Even more disappointing was coming in after a long day and finding that our room had not been made up. The explanation was that they only cleaned rooms if requested, but this was not stated verbally or in writing, while rooms were meticulously made up in all our other B&Bs.

Ginger and Walt in Auburn, AL USA 07/19/2006

Best: Cois Crain in Kinvara
Why: It was small and Mary Walsh was a wonderful host. She recommended a pub which had great local music and dancing.

Patricia Robertson in Highlands , NJ USA 07/14/2006

Best: Thornbrook House, Dualla Road, Cashel, Co. Tipperary
Why: It was one of the finest, most beautiful B&Bs we've ever stayed in. The service from Mary Kennedy was outstanding, the living room area was elegant, and the breakfast was outstanding. It is situated just outside of Cashel on a beautiful, well maintained property with nice landscaping. The en-suite bedrooms are well appointed and quite comfortable. Make it a point to stay there if in the area.

John & Eve McBride in Mason, OH USA 07/13/2006

Best: Harbour Nights B&B, Dingle
Why: Not in the book but found their information on the website from another reader. Wonderful! Clean, comfortable, good breakfast, a nice young family and only 35 Euro a night. Also on the harbor in Dingle, so very pretty views.

Worst: The Gallery B&B, Kinsale
Why: Tom and Carole were not very accomodating. My husband and father were going on a fishing trip one morning and I asked if they should make plans to eat elsewhere since they ONLY serve between 9 and 10 (a fact I found terribly inconvenient--there was also a big ruckus each morning with all the guests trying to cram into that tiny front room to eat all at once--very lazy of them, I think). Tom did say he would put some things out. Which he did, but there wasn't even any coffee or anything to drink. Not very hospitable. Also-- it would be much nicer to tell readers that they smoke. I did notice the rooms are non-smoking, but when the owner is puffing away downstairs, then you smell smoke anyway. It absolutley ruined my breakfast one morning smelling Carole's smoke. Also-- readers should know they have a dog in the house. I would not have chosen them had I been privy to either of these pieces of information. The dog also smells and barked at me on more than one occasion. Neither of its owners told it not to or tried to stop it--I also found that tacky. And finally, they were not there when we arrived. I had phoned them ahead and told them we would arrive between four and five in the afternoon. I told them very specifically that if we were going to be later than five, I would call them back to let them know. We arrived at 4:40 to a locked door and no Tom and Carole. They did not get back until nearly 5:30 saying they had to walk the dog. Rude! I think they have been in the book long enough that they just don't care. They are in the book, so they have their cash cow operation and don't have to be nice or helpful or even do what they are supposed to--being there when guests arrive, for instance. The only part of the trip I regret is staying with them. The only good part was their breakfast. They do have nice pancakes, but they are hardly worth staying in a house that smells of smoke and dog urine.

Kennis Hyder in Dade City, FL USA 07/10/2006

Best: IBIS - Edinburgh
Why: Excellent location

Worst: Fitzwilliam Guesthouse - Dublin
Why: It was almost impossible to get any sleep because the guesthouse is at the corner of two main streets which have a lot of traffic and are very noisy.

Sue Hamada in Brandon, FL USA 07/10/2006

Best: Dracone B&B Ardmore
Why: Clean, friendly and absolutely beautiful views.

Gayle Roberts in Kansas City, Mo USA 07/08/2006

Best: The Mill restaurant and accommodation in Dunfanaghy, Donegal
Why: Absolutely beautiful b&b on a lake, comfortable and elegant at the same time (and quite reasonably priced). Food was some of the best of our trip.

Worst: Adare Guest House, Galway
Why: This isn't the guide book, and isn't exactly horrible, but a bit overpriced and lacking in charm. Tiny, cramped shower and mediocre food. Would stay there again in a pinch, however, because of the good location and free parking.

Tzaddi Smith in san francisco, ca USA 07/06/2006

Worst: Asgard, Galway
Why: The accommodation was adequate however the owner was difficult. She accused my adult daughter of letting another person into the B and B and using one of the rooms. She confronted my husband and myself regarding the incident. After assuring her that our daughter had returned to the B and B with us, she confronted my daughter. I felt most uncomfortable with her attitude and accusatory manner. I would not recommend the B and B due to her behavior. By the way, the room that she thought an unpaid vistor had used had been a room that the housekeeper did not make up. She offered no apology after realizing the error.

Josie McNamara in Coral Gables, Fl USA 07/04/2006

Best: Aasgard House B&B Galway
Why: The owner Veronica was a lot of fun, very helpful. Very convenient. REcommend adding directions from the freeway to the row of B&Bs - which exit - would help a lot. We found it by luck.

Keith Wood in Lawrence, KS USA 07/03/2006

Best: Beach Cove B&B, near Portmagee
Why: New, clean accomodations and beautiful view of the ocean from breakfast room. Right across the street from the beach.

Worst: The George B&B, Belfast
Why: Small rooms, old, not very clean. Only plus was close to a bus line for getting in and out of city center.

Mark FitzMaurice in Lexington, SC USA 07/03/2006

Worst: Clifden House, Dublin
Why: I was diagnosed with cancer the week before I was to leave on a trip to Ireland. I had booked 2 nights' stay at the Clifden House, and my reservation was secured with one night's deposit. I emailed them to cancel the reservation a week in advance of my arrival date, but it was already past their date to cancel without penalty. They promptly charged my credit card for the second night's stay; note that they had every right to do this as it was their cancellation policy, however, every other guest house I had booked at in Ireland showed some compassion and either waived the cancellation penalty or returned it to me - the mark of true Irish hospitality. Based on the previous entry re: the Clifden House and my experience with them, it seems that this guest house is more interested in money than anything else - beware!

A. Hickman in Omaha, NE USA 06/29/2006

Best: Lynden House, Dun Loagherie
Why: Maria Gavin is vivacious, intelligent, and an interesting conversationalist. Her guests seem to pick up on her friendliness... Most bountiful & interesting breakfast of all. Lovely, clean home behind a very plain exterior...

Sherry Cavanaugh in Clearwater, FL USA 06/27/2006

Best: Ophira
Why: We stayed there on our way back , the third leg of the trip. Previous B&B made the reservations for us and John Connoly was very accomodative. the rooms were large and comfortable and the breaksfasts were grand. The location was very convenient and quiet, for being central.

tom sorrent in kittery, me USA 06/23/2006

Best: Windsor lodge
Why: Mary and Tony, the owners and operators were more than helpful in every way: Special diets, travel assistance with mass transit, sites, etc. The accomodations were on a quiet street and so close to the sea. It was beautiful.

e sabol in kittery, ME USA 06/23/2006

Best: The Olde Bakery, Kinsale
Why: This is a delightful B&B with beautifully decorated and immaculate rooms. Chris and Tom are wonderful and helpful hosts. The dogs are adorable too! Great breakfast right in the kitchen...

Mary Ellen & Laura R in Flushing, NY USA 06/19/2006

Best: The Olde Bakery, Kinsale
Why: Chrissy and Tom were fabulous! And I loved their dogs. They made my mom and I feel so at home. They were friendly and chatty but not overbearing.

Worst: Aaron House, Galway
Why: Even after multiple confirmations the reservation was wrong when we arrived. after changing rooms to one with two beds as requested we discovere the next morning the shower was broken. The owner didnt care at all and told us her shower worked. We changed rooms again for the second night (we should have left) and the next day the shower was ice cold. Again, she didnt care. Also, her breakfast was terrible and during breakfast we had to listen to her yell at her hired help (a polish girl who spoke little english) which made my mom and I uncomfortable.

Hilary Domush in Madison, WI USA 06/14/2006

Worst: Roxford Lodge Hotel, Dublin
Why: Great location for walking and being in a quiet neighborhood, but be warned that our room had a bathroom with the entire floor being the drain for the (2) shower so everything got wet. There was very little space for putting ones toiletries. Everything else was fine.

MaryHelen Windell in Blaine, WA USA 06/13/2006

Best: Greenmount House, An Daingean Town
Why: Rooms were exceptionally clean, bright, and comfortable. Breakfast was the most elegantly prepared & served in our entire 16-day trip in Ireland

Worst: Brogan's Guesthouse, Trim
Why: Made reservations, in advance, for May 20, 21. Place was in substantial disarray due to construction. On the first night, the noise from the bar area (directly below our room), was so loud & obnoxious we barely slept. On the 2nd night, police came and arrested a bar patron, and noice level was worst than 1st night. When we returned from sight-seeing on day 2, we were informed (initially) that we had made reservations for only one night--and our room had thus been given to someone else. When we produced the "confirmation" of our 2-night reservation, the hostess backed off. Because of the construction project, we had to walk around the block to a separate building for breakfast. The owner was never present during our stay. Strongly recommend you "reconsider" your recommendation of Brogan's Guesthouse!

Charles D. Gavin in Altoona, WI USA 06/12/2006

Worst: The Gallery, Kinsale
Why: We were thrilled when we discovered that there was accomodation available at The Gallery for two nights in May. That was the only positive part of the whole experience. We were met at 5:30 p.m. by the greeting of "Oh, you are here". No introduction and no explanations of the B and B, time of breakfast or use of the rooms--nothing. When I knocked on the interconnecting door to ask the time of breakfast the time of breakfast I was told 9 a.m. This is a ridiculously late time unless you are carousing half the night as our host expected us to do. The rooms are small, pokey, difficult to manoevre and the bathrooms worse. There were two aging towels. We were prepared to put up with the inconveniences for the sake of being entertained by our host "the jazz musician" and our hostess "the artist" Well, we never did see Carol, unless she was the less than gracious greeter at the door and the "jazz musician" who insisted that he was a serious musician would do well to be a serious host of a bed and breakfast. The dining room is very small and inconvenient--most of the space taken up by a white grand piano--and since our host is a vibraphonist I found its pride of place to be pretentious. All of this could have been forgiven however, until our final morning. We requested breakfast at 8 a.m. as we had a long way to travel that day. We were greeted by askance looks of horror and told that it wqas impossible but they would leave food on the table for us. What else could we do but agree. Breakfast was a loaf of inferior bread, (no toaster), a package of smoked salmon, wet ham and sliced cheese. We left in disgust and paid for breakfast elsewhere. This was the most expensive place of all the B and Bs we stayed at and by far the worst for amenities, hospitality and convenience. I would think that anywhere else would be better

Pauline Roed in Tucson, AZ USA 06/12/2006

Worst: Highfield House - Trim
Why: Guidebook notes that the B&B is at the roundabout leading into town and that is the problem. If you get a room facing the roundabout, don't plan on getting a good night sleep. Traffic noise is terrible with both cars and trucks accellerating out of the roundabout. Even though it was a very warm night we had to close the windows to shut out at least some of the noise.

One of the reasons we picked it was the noted internet access. Neither the lobby computer nor our laptop could connect to the wireless router. The owner did not seem to show any interest in fixing it and I don't spend my vacations solving other people's network problems.

Also, for two people it is 10 euro more than other equivalent places and 10 euro more than in the 2006 guide. I'm guessing this is a "Rick Steves" premium after being included in the guide.

Jim Reddington in West Hartford, CT USA 06/12/2006

Best: Alpine Guest House, Dingle
Why: Charming, quiet, very clean room. Paul O'Shea and staff were delightful, very helpful, and served a first-rate breakfast. Well-situated, about a 5-minute walk (at most) to the center of town.

Worst: Harding Hotel, Dublin
Why: The hotel refused to honor the 10% "Rick Steves discount" promised in the guidebook! Plus, the room was shabby, and over the course of 3 days the staff were uniformly rude. If you want to stay in the Christchurch area, try the Jurys Inn instead.

Tom and Michelle in San Diego, CA USA 06/09/2006

Best: The Olde Bakery, Kinsale
Why: Chrissy and her husband were THE most gracious and friendly people. Offered us tea as we walked in the door. The room on the first floor had it's own entrance and it was warm and inviting and so comfortable. And her porridge, oatmeal for breakfast will be a memory for always. Wonderful Irish porridge warmed with cream. It was heavenly!!! I wouldn't look any where else to stay in Kinsale!

Worst: A Aaron House, Galway
Why: They asked us to cll the day before we got there, we had confirmed by email. We did call and confirmed. When we arrived at 5:00, usual B&B arrival time, the guy who was there didn't have a room with 2 beds, just one bed. We couldn't quite get this since we had called the day before. After some talking, he put us in a room on the 3rd floor. A bit small for my daughter and myself, but we made it work and told him we would stay there both night...until morning when the shower didn't function properly. When i complained to the owner, who never introduced herself, she replied "how odd, I just took a shower and there was plenty of hot water." neither of us showered. when we returrned in the evening, being sure she wouldn't have room for us, she did move us to a bigger room. The shower the next morning was hand-washing warm. she expected me to pay the full price for the first night and was extremely difficult about reducing the price. It made our stay in Galway most unpleasant. I would not recommend this place at all. She didn't seem to care at all, just that we paid her.

Ruth Domush in Greenbrae, CA USA 06/08/2006

Best: Ferry House in Dun Laoghaire
Why: Pauline is wonderful.

Worst: Windermere in Belfast
Why: Limited hot water in showers. I had to take one lukewarm shower and one ice-cold. Just not worth it. Down the street is Camera House, which Rick recommends. It looks charming.

Susan Scruggs in Longmont, CO USA 06/03/2006

Best: Fort Ann in Adare
Why: Breda went out of her way to make sure that we knew the area and were made to feel right at home.The B&B is a farmhouse and in a peaceful surrounding and a great base to see Limerick and Adare.

Worst: Kirrary's in Dingle
Why: Eileen Collins was rude and bashed Americans. She did not seem to care if we were there or not.Please avoid this B&B and not ruin your stay in Dingle

sherry hyde in Fort Worth, Tx USA 06/02/2006

Best: Butler Court in Kilkenny
Why: John and Yvonne were very welcoming. This was truly a home away from home. We loved the continental breakfast in our room. It was a welcome relief from the cholesterol laden traditional Irish breakfast. Everything was so clean and spacious and the king sized bed was an unexpected treat. John made arrangements for us to get our laundry done upon arrival and Yvonne provided us with a map of craft artists in the area. Visiting these local artists was a highlight of our trip. Kilkenny is a lovely city and we will always have fond memories of our time there.

Susan in Portland, OR USA 06/01/2006

Best: Milestone House
Why: ...Barbara and Carroll were a real Irish treasure! ...breakfast was excellent. ...hospitality and informationwas 5 STAR!!

Geraldine Nepszy in Windsor, ON CANADA 05/31/2006

Best: Milestone House in Dingle
Why: Warm bread every morning and very delicious breakfasts! Barbara took a lot of time with us to fill us in on hiking in the area and sights not to miss. We felt right at home and can't wait to return!!

Worst: Linden Hall B&B in Westport
Why: Never saw the owner again after we checked in. Room was cold. Seemed that they cut corners at every opportunity - breakfast was skimpy; towels were worn; marks on the wall; just generally had the feel of not having anything spruced up in a long time.

Rosalie & Roger in Albany, NY USA 05/29/2006

Best: Petra House, Galway
Why: Frank and Joan Maher were the definition of Irish hospitality. They sent us off with wonderful scones, and they were accommodating when we needed to eat breakfast early. They helped with tour reservations, as well. And the garden is gorgeous. Bring a book into the parlor!

Laurie Granieri in Milltown, NJ USA 05/24/2006

Best: Captain's House B&B, Dingle
Why: Jim and Mary Milhench were wonderful hosts. Breakfast was lovely. The house was filled with interesting objects from their travels. And they were the ones who recommended your guide book, which was very helpful. They also recommended a restaurant that you don't have in your book but you SHOULD!!! It's Out of the Blue. Freshest seafood! Inspired menu! Lovely staff! Excellent wines! I had a seafood soup that nearly made me swoon. It was perfect.

Mary Burdette in Hammondsport, NY USA 05/22/2006

Best: Kirrary's in Dingle
Why: This was recommended by some other travelers we met but when we arrived she had no rooms so she was kind enough to send us to a neighbor; "Russells B&B", across the street from her.

Worst: Limestone Lodge, Kenmare
Why: The hostess was gracious, but we had no heat or hot water for showers & don't think she should have charged as much as she did under the circumstances.

Bob & Moe CA USA 05/21/2006

Best: Mainstay Guesthouse in Dingle
Why: I like this place because it is so PERFECT for bringing large groups. I have come to Dingle 5 times now, and stayed at Mainstay with groups from 11 to 24 people. It is right smack in old town Dingle so you can walk to absolutely everywhere - the church, wharf, Main street and Green street, the aquarium, etc. This avoids the problems of trying to get a car to come into town every day. Also, it is on a quiet street (NO pub noise complaints here - - hoorah!!!) The best description I can give is that it is like staying in "Gramdma's house in Ireland". So yes, your rooms are cozy and neat (if you want a large vacuous room with fashionable modern decor, go to a hotel) and some of the bathrooms are small, but you feel like you are really in an Irish home house, which is the whole point to travel here. It has been such a fun place to put up our large gang. If this is grandma's house then "Uncle Gus" is our proprietor. He cooks up one hell of a great breakfast with his crew..what a menu! He plays at the local pubs, which is also fun. His wife Ruth is just so gracious and kind,and helpful helpful helpful. On our last tour group, somebody left their camera on the bus, and right away she contacted them and made all the arrangements to get it back. To add to it all, the price is very reasonable. My freinds (a group of 4) stayed here the following week and said the same thing about their experience. I'd have to say especially if you are taking any tour group through the west coast, take them to Mainstay, and stay at least 3-4 days in Dingle. We just have the time of our lives here.

E. T. Garcia in santa barbara, CA USA 05/18/2006

Best: Butler Court in Kilkenny
Why: Not a typical B&B! The rooms are all located in a private courtyard off the street; the breakfast is a variety of cereals, fruits, scones and jam that is provided in your room so you can nibble away at any time day or night. They also have a refrigerator in the room with milk, juice and coffee. This is refreshing after many, many cooked breakfasts. The hardwood floors are beautiful, the rooms are clean, and the bathrooms and showers are large. They even provide slippers! Yvonne, the host, is an absolute wonder woman. I can’t say enough good things about Yvonne. I cannot wait to return to Butler Court!

Lisa Pizzuto Whittaker in Woodinville, WA USA 05/17/2006

Worst: Rockville House
Why: Cold shower, shabby towels (there were holes in 2 out of 3) and ancient bed linens, none of which matched.

Carol in Apex, NC USA 05/12/2006

Best: Cill Bhreac House
Why: Cill Bhreac House is not a common destination for a group of 8 golfers. Yet, Angela and John McCarthy didn't miss a beat in providing warm and gracious hospitality. The breakfast was exceptional! One of the few B&Bs offering a choice. Try them all

Stephen McCormick in Bolton, MA USA 05/10/2006

Best: Coastline Guesthouse, Dingle
Why: Vivienne was a lovely hostess - friendly with lots of ideas for places to see live music & great food. Great room, clean & quiet.

Worst: College Crest Guest House, Galway
Why: no hot water - cold dirty shower. I've had better accommodations in hostels. The hostess was not hospitable, and the comforters were tired and soiled.

Catherine C in Sacramento, CA USA 04/28/2006

Best: Old Presbytery in Linsale
Why: Well run establishment with the most amazing view we had on our entire journey. Their deluxe room was our splurge and it did not dissappoint. Of all the Irish breakfasts this one had the best selection with actual fresh fruit that tasted like it was picked from a farm that morning.

Worst: The Club House B&B
Why: The room was awful. It looked like it had not been dusted or vaccumed in weeks. The shower had mold growing all over the place and the floor was covered in dirt. Thankfully, we only had to endure it for one night otherwise, we would have had to switch locations.

Anna Drake in Berlin, NJ USA 04/26/2006

Best: Milestone House--Micheal and Barbara Carroll
Why: They were incredibly helpful and marked out a map for us during our stay in Dingle. We were going to arrive late in the evening and called ahead to tell them so. They arranged for us to stop at a pub in town first and have dinner. The pub stayed open to make sure we got food, even though it was past serving time and then gave us exact directions to the B&B. We could have stayed days in Dingle and been perfectly happy.

Tina Cline in Dallas, Tx USA 04/10/2006

Best: Jury's Galway
Why: I agree with Mary Mayo's comments on Jury's in Galway. Be careful though, or you can get stuck on the "extras". Their price to do a couple of loads of laundry was 58 euros. We walked 200 meters up the pedestrian area, next to the Malt House, and had it done for 12 euros. There is an internet cafe just 100 meters away. Turn right at"The Quay", and look for the "I".

Gary Mosier in Indianapolis, IN USA 04/08/2