Customer Reviews

Fodor's Ireland 2005 (Fodor's Gold Guides)

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I have specific criteria when I review any travel guide for Ireland. If a guidebook isn't an important resource for people who are planning their vacations, it won't get my approval.

"Fodor's Ireland 2005" passed my strictest tests with flying colors. I heartily recommend this book, whether you're planning your travel itinerary or just dreaming of a "someday" trip to Ireland.

"Fodor's Ireland 2005" made me smile from the moment that I saw their recommendation of McDonagh's in Galway. I agree wholeheartedly; McDonagh's is one of my favorite informal restaurants in the world.

Fodor's also liked Bunratty Castle, recommended a visit to the Blarney Stone as "good fun," and described Cork city as Ireland's "Capital of Culture."

They reminded readers that Limerick city is the setting for Frank McCourt's popular Irish novel, "Angela's Ashes," so I can forgive them for leaving out the huge stone circle at nearby Lough Gur.

And, passing my final test of a good guidebook to Ireland, Fodor's correctly identified Kylemore Abbey as "one of the most photographed castles in all of Ireland."

Yes, I like this book a lot!

The 2005 edition is a hefty 557 pages... heavier and bulkier than you're likely to carry in your backpack as you tour. However, this book includes "Great Itineraries" pages telling you what to see if you have just two days, or five, or seven in one part of Ireland. That--and many other wonderful extras--make this a must-read before visiting Ireland.

Generally, I recommend reading at least two different guidebooks before visiting the Emerald Isle. This should be your first book, no matter which other books you read. While Fodor's doesn't cover everything, it includes enough very useful information to give you a good idea of what to expect when you're in Ireland.

This is a great book for anyone who is planning a vacation or holiday in Ireland. It covers the most important sites and details nicely, and you'll be glad that you consulted this book when you have a richly satisfying visit in the Emerald Isle.
--reviewed by Eibhlin Morey, editor, "All Info About Ireland"