Shades of Ireland
Presented by Santa Monica College Community Services

Day 1: Sunday, April 18, 2010
Overnight Flight

The Emerald Isle is a land of green hills, warm people, stately castles and rollicking fun. Visit Limerick, Killarney, Waterford and Dublin as this comprehensive tour introduces Ireland's natural beauty, turbulent history and hospitable culture.

Day 2: Monday, April 19, 2010
Kingscourt - Tour Begins

Your tour begins in Kingscourt. Your Irish adventure begins with an overnight stay on the grounds of a castle and dinner in the castle.
Today Dinner is included.

Day 3: Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Kingscourt - Tullamore - Limerick

Today begins with a visit to Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre where you will learn how Irish Whiskey is made and enjoy a tasting. Next, visit the fascinating monastic site of Clonmacnoise where you will see ancient cathedral ruins, high crosses and the largest collection of early Christian graveslabs in Western Europe. Continue to Limerick where you will enjoy a city tour showcasing King John's Castle and the Treaty Stone while learning about the fascinating history of the "city of the violated treaty."
Today Breakfast is included.

Day 4: Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Limerick - Cliffs of Moher - Galway - Limerick

A most interesting day is ahead of you. Journey to the stunning, 700-foot-high Cliffs of Moher for awe-inspiring views of the mighty Atlantic and the Aran Islands. Then, travel through the vast limestone landscape of the Burren, known for its stark beauty and Neolithic tombs. Continue past scenic countryside into Galway, where a brief city tour introduces “The City of Tribes.”
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 5: Thursday, April 22, 2010
Limerick - Killarney

This morning, experience the customs and daily life of a traditional Irish family during a memorable visit to the Molanna Dairy Farm. In Killarney you will be treated to a time-honored Irish jaunting car ride*. A tour of the beautiful Muckross House and Gardens offers a glimpse into the elegant lifestyle of the Victorian gentry.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 6: Friday, April 23, 2010
Killarney - Ring of Kerry - Killarney

Travel along one of the most beautiful coastal routes in the world, the Ring of Kerry. At the Gap of Dunloe, shop for traditional Irish goods handcrafted by local artisans. Enjoy spectacular ocean scenery as you pass through picturesque villages. Continue on through rugged mountain passes into “Ladies View” where you will see breathtaking views of the Lakes of Killarney. Tonight, use your leisure time to sample a true taste of Irish culture.
Today Breakfast is included.

Day 7: Saturday, April 24, 2010
Killarney - Blarney Stone - Waterford

Today, journey to historic Blarney Castle where you can take the opportunity to kiss the famous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that those who kiss the stone are bestowed with the gift of eloquence. Later today you will visit the world-famous Waterford Crystal Factory. Take a tour of the facility to learn how these exquisite treasures are crafted and marvel at the impressive collection of crystal in their glittering showroom.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 8: Sunday, April 25, 2010
Waterford - Kilkenny - Dublin

This morning you travel to Kilkenny for the chance to explore this medieval city. This afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Dublin, the “Fair City.” Visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, Grafton Street, Phoenix Park and see the city's trademark - magnificent rows of stately Georgian town homes.
Today Breakfast is included.

Day 9: Monday, April 26, 2010
Dublin

Today is at leisure to relax or explore the cultural offerings of delightful Dublin on your own. You may wish to tour Dublin’s fabled Kilmainham Jail or lighten your spirits with a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. Tonight, enjoy a fun-filled Irish House Party where everyone has the opportunity to join in the song and dance.
Today Breakfast and Dinner is included.

Day 10: Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Dublin - Tour Ends

Your tour ends today in Dublin.
Today Breakfast is included.

Collette Logo

April 18 - April 27, 2010

Highlights...
Castle Stay • Limerick • Cliffs of Moher • Galway • Farm Visit • Killarney • Jaunting Car Ride* • Ring of Kerry • Blarney Castle • Waterford Crystal** • Kilkenny • Dublin •

10 Days • 13 Meals:
8 Breakfasts • 5 Dinners

Per Person Rates*:
Double $2839
Single $3389

Triple $2809

*Included in Price: Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges of $195 (subject to increase until paid in full),Hotel Transfers,Round Trip Air from Los Angeles Intl Airport,
Click Here for Details
* Not Included in Price: Cancellation Waiver and Insurance of $200 per person,


YOUR ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
DAY 1
  Overnight Flight
DAY 2
  Cabra Castle or similar, Kingscourt
DAY 3 - 4
  Castletroy Park Hotel, Limerick
  or Radisson SAS Limerick, Limerick
DAY 5 - 6
  O'Donoghue Ring Hotels, Killarney
DAY 7
  Dooley's Hotel, Waterford
  or Granville Hotel, Waterford
DAY 8 - 9
  Dublin Skylon Hotel, Dublin

On some dates alternate hotels may be used.


Experience It!
Cabra Castle


Cabra Castle stands on 100 acres of gardens and parkland, with delightful views over the Cavan countryside, famous for its beautiful lakes. Formerly known as Cormey Castle, the history of the castle dates back to the pre-Cromwellian times of the 16th century. The property was bought in the early 19th century by Colonel Joseph Pratt who rebuilt it, renaming it as Cabra Castle. Its long legacy lends a mature, cultured air to the castle which can be felt by strolling through the castle’s magnificent hallways and stairwells. Experience this history when you enjoy an overnight stay on the castle grounds. The rooms are outfitted to the highest standards with every comfort and modern facilities. The bar and restaurant offer views of the countryside famous for its lakes and fishing, as well as Dun a Ri Forest Park.

Click here for: Important Reservation Information.

For more information call
Barbara Bickerton
Santa Monica College Community Services
310-434-3402


Please Note:
• Passport is required.
• To complete your vacation, we include roundtrip airport-to-hotel transfers when purchasing Collette airfare with your tour. If you have arranged for your own air, we are pleased to provide you the option of purchasing these transfers. Please note that all transfers will leave at pre-scheduled times.
• Days of features are interchangeable.
• Collette air passengers will arrive into the Dublin, Ireland airport. All Collette transfers will depart from the Dublin airport for Kingscourt. *Jaunting car ride is included, weather permitting. This itinerary includes activities where moderate to heavy walking, possibly on uneven terrain, is required. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes. Single accommodations are limited and are available on a first come, first serve basis.
• This tour requires average physical activity. You should be in good health, able to climb stairs and walk reasonable distances, possibly over uneven grounds and cobblestone streets.
• ** Waterford Crystal is subject to availability. If Waterford Crystal is not available another attraction will be substituted.