| One of the best options for budget travel in Ireland | | | | must haves for you walk: |
| is to walk. Think about it. Renting a car can cost a | | | | - First, and most obviously, you need good walking |
| minimum $100 US per week; over $200 if you want | | | | boots. They should have good ankle support. |
| an automatic. Then gas, at the time of this article, is | | | | - Good, thick socks. And spare pairs. |
| another 1.17 Euros/liter. That translates to about | | | | - Clothing that you can layer. Depending on when |
| $4.78 US per gallon. You also get off the beaten | | | | you're there, the climate can vary. |
| track, seeing some of the most beautiful countryside | | | | - Waterproof and windproof jackets and pants. |
| in the world. It's safe and you don't have to be an | | | | - Sun protection (sun glasses, sun screen) |
| athlete to handle the terrain. | | | | - First aid kit |
| If your a little timid about walking by yourself in the a | | | | - Insect repellent. |
| foreign country, there are at last count, thirty two | | | | - A day pack with a liner to carry food and extra |
| walking tour operators. These tour companies deliver, | | | | clothing. |
| safe, manageable walks with knowledgeable guide. | | | | Also, be aware that these trails sometimes go |
| These guides are some of the most "enthusiastic" in | | | | through private property. While most property |
| the world. They will happily tell you the history and | | | | owners are aware of this and welcome you to cross |
| archeology of the countryside, along with the legends | | | | their land, some are less agreeable if you don't |
| and characters in their folklore. Do not attempt these | | | | respect their property. Always close gates after you! |
| trips on a tight schedule! Your guides are blessed with | | | | This is a must. There is something called the, |
| the gift of gab. Enjoy it! | | | | "Countryside Code." It's a set of common sense rules |
| If you are a more adventurous or you're traveling | | | | to use while on your walks. Know it well. |
| with friends, you can easily plan your own walking | | | | I always enjoy walking on my trips, but especially in |
| tour. Ireland's tourist offices publish maps specifically | | | | Ireland. Either in it beautiful countryside, or in the |
| for walking. Trails are well marked. People are friendly | | | | cities. With or without a guide. I see much more, I |
| and helpful. If you plan a long, multi-day walk, you can | | | | hear much more, and I have many more memories |
| easily arrange for reasonably priced accommodations. | | | | to bring back with me. Plus for budget travel, Ireland |
| Budget travel in Ireland depends on places like these | | | | on foot is one of the best options I've found. I've |
| for huge savings. At $40 to $60 US per night, they | | | | been able to slash my costs while having a |
| can cut your hotel costs by more than half. | | | | tremendous vacation. If you get the chance to go to |
| Of course, you'll want to be prepared when you go. | | | | Ireland, seriously consider a walking vacation; it will be |
| You can't just throw on a pair of sneakers and go | | | | unforgettable. |
| running all over the Irish countryside! Here are some | | | | |