

Ireland – the land of green countryside, castles, cliffs, and 10,000 pubs. Ireland has always been known for its vibrant city life in Dublin, fantastic shopping in Galway, scenic routes of the South, and cold pints in the pubs. In the past, few have viewed Ireland as an up and coming destination for gay travelers from around the world, but that’s all changing now.
Although homosexuality was not decriminalized in Ireland until 1993, things have rapidly changed and most Irish cities and some larger towns play host to an active and lively gay scene. Dublin, Galway, and Cork are known as the most welcoming and active gay scenes in Ireland, with little or no need to seek out exclusive venues; however, it is rarely an issue to venture outside of these comfort areas. With so much to do and see in Ireland, we’ve put together a trip that will allow you to stay in the best places while visiting the most wonderful sights.
This trip is designed specifically for the LGBT travelers who wish to travel together and celebrate Ireland’s own Pride Festival and Parade. As Ireland is becoming one of the up and coming destinations for gay travelers, this beautiful country appeals to anybody who desires a social and cultural atmosphere. Aside from the fantastic itinerary already set, you will have an opportunity to experience all that Ireland has to offer. Visit www.dublinpride.org for more details on last year’s festival.
This Gay & Lesbian Trip to Ireland sets Tenon Tours apart from other Irish tour operators by allowing you the opportunity to visit our featured hotels and explore the featured tours whether you are traveling alone or with friends. YOU have the power to choose, no matter what – a difference that puts Tenon Tours above all others.
* Minimum of 10 combined travelers for tour host/driver to be included
**Additional nights, cities and upgrades available upon request!
Take a look at the full itinerary and some of the many events and tours you can take advantage of during your Ireland vacation. Remember, the beauty of our trip is that it provides the necessary transportation, city-center accommodations, and featured tours and events, but is flexible enough to give you the power to pick and choose what it is that you really want to do on your Ireland trip.
*Please Note: Tour may require an overnight departure the night before tour begins.
Arrive in he early morning to Shannon International Airport, where you will transfer to Galway. Relax as you have the day to explore Galway, or catch up on your rest since you won’t want to miss the welcome party* hosted at a nearby gay-friendly pub!
Spend the morning recovering from last night’s welcome party or enjoy a full Irish breakfast at your hotel (included) before exploring the streets, shops, and pubs of Galway. You may choose to join in a tour of either the Aran Islands, Europe’s westernmost point where Gaelic is the first language of its residents and is considered the foothold of Irish culture, or The Burren and Cliffs of Moher, or the Connemara Region, well known and loved by artists for its unspoiled beauty. This is the Ireland of your dreams and imagination with its rolling hills and mountains, sparkling lakes, and remote cottages.
Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast at your hotel before catching your transportation to Cork. This afternoon you may choose to visit Cobh, the last port of call of the Titanic. Here you can visit The Queenstown Story to learn of the development of the port as the main emigration point for up to 3 million Irish people.
Today you may want to visit Blarney Village, home to the famous Blarney Castle & Blarney Stone. We also suggest visiting the town of Kinsale, the gourmet capital of Ireland. To build up your appetite for an amazing meal we suggest the Kinsale Walking Tour, an acclaimed and fun insight into this quaint and extraordinary harbour town.
After breakfast (included), gather your things and enjoy your transfer and the scenery while you make your way to Dublin, the Pride Festival 2009 will be in full swing. After checking into your hotel in Dublin try the “Hop-on” Dublin’s City Tour bus and venture off to the Guinness Storehouse to take an unforgettable tour of the Dublin’s most popular spot. Enjoy a complimentary pint while overlooking the city in the rooftop Gravity Bar.
The highlight of the trip! Join thousands of other gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered citizens and travelers for Dublin’s annual Pride Parade, the climax of the 10-day festival. Queers and beers make a delicious combination today in Dublin!
Check-out of your hotel, give hugs to the locals left behind and board your transfer for the Dublin International Airport. The trip may be over, but the memories last a lifetime.
Safe travels and we’ll see you next year!
*Tour Host and Welcome Parties/Events are based on a minimum of 10 travelers
**Bolded items are completely optional to give you the flexibility to spend your time as you choose!
Itinerary subject to change.
With a commitment to immersing our travelers into each city’s culture, Tenon Tours realizes the importance of selecting your accommodations to enhance your travel experience. Hotels are carefully chosen based on location and quality in an effort to meet your expectations and ensure your satisfaction. Locations are considered to provide the conveniences of the city’s attractions, local restaurants, pubs and public transportation. Whether it’s a boutique hotel or a large chain property, our Premiere hotels will always have a quality rating of 3 or 4 stars, as well as a Trip Advisor rating of 3 or higher.
Located in the heart of Galway’s city-center, the House hotel is an intimate 40-room luxury boutique hotel in Galway with a cozy atmosphere, chic style, quality facilities and personalized service. This brand new hotel integrates the classic elegance of an old stone building with eclectic interiors and modern amenities. This plush hotel has exceptional features, including a fine restaurant, a well-stocked bar, complimentary wi-fi internet access, concierge and other facilities you would expect of a top-quality hotel.
At the Park House Hotel, Galway you are guaranteed a warm welcome, exceptional service, luxury accommodation and an experience that will bring you back for more. With its superb and convenient location in the heart of Galway, the Park House Hotel also offers a private secure car-park on hotel grounds. This Galway Hotel blends the warmth and personality of a boutique hotel with the style and luxury of a contemporary, international 4-star property.
The Clarion Hotel Cork is superbly located overlooking Cork’s famous River Lee and facing the inspired architecture of City Hall. The Clarion Cork is the largest hotel in Cork and is located within 5 minutes of all the business, shopping and entertainment areas of Cork City.
Whether it’s for the hotel’s superb location in Dublin City centre or its striking contemporary interior, the Trinity Capital Hotel offers something rather special indeed. Immediately upon your arrival at the Trinity Capital Hotel, you will feel relaxed and reassured by our choice of Dublin hotel! Completely remodelled and extended in 2007 the Trinity Capital Hotel now presents a boutique style hotel with a uniquely stylish twist around every corner.
The Temple Bar Hotel in Dublin offers a prime location with many major attractions just beyond your doorstep, including the infamous shopping areas of Henry Street, O’Connell Street and Grafton Street, and the world renowned Trinity College home to the Book of Kells. This property is a short bus-ride to the Guinness Storehouse, the National Museum of Ireland and many of Dublin’s top visitor attractions. Temple Bar Hotel features 129 bedrooms, dining and bar facilities.
Yeah ,i will help,contact me -i live in Dublin -love meeting foreign gays and giving them help–John
HI there, I have a lesbian couple that want to do a group tour of Ireland (with a post trip to England). Are you planning a tour for next spring. I would apreciate any details you could provide. Thank you very much,
Jerry
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Rodney Rafferty said,
August 28, 2008 @ 12:14 pmI want to take my boyfriend to Ireland around May or july of next year – can you help?!