When visiting Ireland, we have stayed in a number of different types of accommodations. The best value is the self-catering cottage or home, especially if there is a group of people. You can come and go as you please, eat whenever you choose, purchase and cook your own Irish food, if so inclined, and there are no specific time schedules to keep.

We feel that the B & B is the most convenient. We have stayed in several B & B's ... The Travelers Rest, Coolabawn House, Shannagh B & B in Mohill, Co. Leitrim, and The Pegasus B & B, in Malahide, Co. Dublin. We had our own room (en suite rooms include your own bathroom) and, breakfast, usually served between 8:00 - 11:00 AM, is included in the price. We found that, with the enormous breakfast, we didn't need to eat again until supper. Most B & B's supply the room with an electric kettle, tea, coffee, sugar and dry creamer so you may have tea or coffee any time you desire. Our hosts were very cordial and made us feel like we were personal friends instead of tourists renting a room.

There are hotels all across the country, from small independently owned facilities to world-renowned organizations. The prices vary widely but they are the most expensive of all the accommodations. A hotel may suit your needs better than the self-catering home or the B & B. We have not yet stayed in a hotel.

There is usually at least one hostel in every county and these are for the younger or more adventurous traveler. You would sleep in a dormitory setting and use a shared bathroom. The cost is very low but they do have private rooms for a bit more money.

We rented a farmhouse for the summer, outside of Mohill, at Drumgrania, Co. Leitrim, which was done through a real estate agent recommended by a friend of ours. This is a possibility for anyone wishing to stay for an extended period of time.

Click here for: Listings of Real Estate Agents in Ireland.