When you receive your travel documents you will know which rental company your car is with, their exact terms and insurance rates. All of this will be handled directly by your rental company upon arrival. Below are examples of your options:

Option 1:

No coverage, customer is liable for all damage. Not available in Ireland. The Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) that is included in your rental agreement is mandatory when renting a car in Ireland. It provides the minimum required coverage.

Option 2:

Opt for the basic CDW included in your rental agreement. Based on the type of car you rent, you will be covered up to a certain limit (usually over 1,000 Euros per car, with increases per car size). If there is damage to the car you will be responsible for any amount exceeding the covered limit.

Option 3:

Opt for CDW w/ Excess. This insurance upgrade is available at a per-day date (normally from 10 to 15 euros). This option reduces your liability to zero. If there is damage to your car you will not be responsible.

The option you choose is up to you. However, if you do not take the Excess (option 3) your rental company will require a credit card deposit equal to your coverage amount (option 2).

Book Your Own Flight

Book your flight on your own. Keep your eye on rates, pick the schedule you desire and pay when you’re ready. Use frequent flyer miles or discounts you may have earned in the past. Remember to double-check your itinerary before purchasing a flight to make sure you have the correct arrival and departure airports, as many of our tours require an arrival into Dublin and departure from Shannon. Most flights to Ireland require overnight travel, departing the night before your scheduled tour start date.

Visit these helpful links to get started with booking your own ticket:

Aer Lingus

Continental Airlines

US Airways

Expedia

Travelocity

Kayak

Cheap Tickets

Leave it up to Tenon Tours!

All flights purchased through Tenon Tours require full payment at the time of confirmation and incur a ticketing fee. Your rate will be quoted at current online prices. Rates are not locked in until payment has been received in full and all travelers' passenger forms have been received. All flights, unless otherwise informed, will be e-ticketed, requiring only a voucher to be printed prior to departure. This e-ticket will be issued approximately one week prior to travel.

Which airports do I need to arrive and depart from? Does my flight need to arrive or depart at any specific time?

Overnight flights must depart the day before you are scheduled to start your tour in Ireland.

Arrivals and departures do NOT have to be scheduled for any specific time. Tenon Tours will arrange your transfer no matter when you land or take off.

Should I pre-book my B&B room?

It is advisable to pre-book your first and last night’s accommodation in advance. Rooms in Dublin City and County can be difficult to find unless an accommodation is pre-booked. If visiting the capital city, we strongly advise pre-booking all accommodations well in advance. Never count on finding rooms on short notice in Dublin. The website for all participating B&B’s is http://www.reserveabandb.com This site is for voucher use ONLY.

What if I can't find a B&B with availability?

Should problems arise finding accommodation when in Ireland, contact any Tourist Information Office or seek advice from your host/hostess at Town & Country Homes. She/he will assist in booking subsequent night/nights for the cost of a telephone call.

Do I have to make a deposit in order to pre-book a room?

There is no charge to pre-book your rooms online, however a credit card will be required in the case of no-shows or late cancellations. Your host/hostess may also require a valid credit card at time of booking as a guarantee to hold the room(s) if you contact them directly. This system is put in place to ensure that clients are not pre-booking multiple homes.

What is meant by an ensuite room?

An ensuite room is a room with its own private facilities such as shower/bath, toilet and hand basin.

What are the check-in/check-out times?

Reservations should be made by 6:00 pm. Check-in times are normally between 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm unless otherwise agreed with your host/hostess. Please note that late arrival, estimated after 6:00 pm, is by special agreement with each home. Check out should be no later than 11:00 am.

Are the properties inspected by Town & Country Homes?

All our homes are approved to Fáilte Ireland and Northern Ireland Tourist Board standards (The official Irish Tourist Boards).

What is the advantage to using these vouchers?

Using vouchers means you can purchase a packaged vacation that is cost effective, your accommodation is pre-paid and you avoid having to carry cash to settle accommodation costs, but you are free to take your trip day-by-day for maximum flexibility.

Are there any extra charges to pay at the B&B?

A room supplement for Dublin city and county of 7.50 Euro (approximately $12) per room per night applies for the months of June, July, August and September. This charge is paid directly to the accommodation provider and is not included upon payment to Tenon Tours.

Are the vouchers refundable?

Vouchers are refundable if you are not able to find availability or if you find alternate accommodations. They must be returned to our office within 30 days of the end of your tour. A full refund will be made less a $15 per voucher administration fee.

Do I need a passport?

Yes! All US citizens must have a passport that remains valid for the duration of their trip. All non-US citizens must check with their local consulate for documentation requirements. If you do not have a passport, one may be obtained through your local post office. Names used to book travel must be the same as they appear on passports (first and last names only). You may want to make a copy of your passport and leave it at home with a friend of family.

Do I need a Visa?

Travelers from the European Union, the US and Canada do not need a visa to enter Ireland. More information can be found here, http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1145.html

When should I arrive at the airport?

Plan to arrive two to three hours prior to your scheduled departure time to allow for any unexpected delays in traffic, check-in or security.

What is the currency in Ireland?

The local currency in Ireland is the Euro (€). Current exchange rates can be found at www.xe.com.

When should I exchange my US dollars?

We recommend exchanging around $100 before you leave if you would like to have cash upon arrival. You can then withdraw money from local ATMs in Ireland as needed or makes purchases with a credit card. Note, however, that acceptance of credit cards varies throughout the country. Be advised, too, that many banks charge an “International Transaction Fee” for every purchase made via credit card. ATMs will give you the best rate for cash exchange. You may also exchange money at your hotel(s). We do not advise exchanging at airports, where rates are often less favorable.

IMPORTANT: Many banks will freeze your debit/credit card if after the first few transactions to protect against fraudulent use unless you advise them of your travel dates. It is extremely important that you call your issuing bank for all debit/credit cards(s) pre-departure to ensure that you will be able to withdraw funds and use your card overseas.

Will somebody pick me up at the airport upon arrival?

There will not be a representative at the airport upon your arrival. Please follow the directions on your transfer voucher(s) and/or travel documents in order to locate your transportation company.

Will someone from Tenon Tours stay with us for the duration of our trip?

The total number of travelers in your group will determine if there will be a host available or meet-and- greets arranged throughout your trip with a local representative. Note that tour hosts are not a licensed tour guides, but are available to assist with things such as check-ins, transfers, optional tours and events, as well as any emergency situations that may arise. In the event that there is not a full-time host, you will be provided with contact names and numbers in the event of an emergency.

How will I get to the airport for my return flight home?

Airport transfers have been arranged by Tenon Tours and you will be notified of the departure time on your transfer voucher.

When will I be able to check-in to my hotel/hostel room in each city/town?

Typically check-in is 3:00 pm although many hotels will allow you to check-in earlier once rooms have been cleaned and inspected. Luggage can be stored in a secure area for early arrivals.

What type of beds and room configuration should I expect in the hotels?

A “double room” is designed to accommodate two people and will have either one double, queen or king size bed, or two single or double beds depending on whether you are traveling as a couple or as individuals. At times there may be one double bed and one single bed. Triple rooms typically have two double beds or a double and two singles. We cannot guarantee three separate beds for rooms of three.

What type of beds and room configuration should I expect in the hostels?

Hostel accommodations can vary among differently sized rooms. Your room could house up to six beds (unless you have paid to upgrade to a smaller room). Bedding can consist of twin, full or bunk beds.

Do the hotels have hairdryers?

Most hotels have modern accessories although specific offerings vary by hotel. We recommend you check the hotel's website for details pertaining to complimentary and optional inclusions and services.

What is the electrical current/voltage in Ireland? Do I need a converter?

Unlike the US and most European countries, Ireland’s electrical current is 220-240 volts, 50 cycles A/C and works off a flat three-pin plug. An adapter is necessary and can be found in most duty-free shops in the airport, Brookstones, Bed Bath & Beyond or at most hardware stores or pharmacies.

Is there Internet access available?

Yes. Nearly all hotels offer Internet access in their lobbies and wireless access throughout. There are also Internet cafés scattered throughout the major cities/towns. There is normally a fee for using the internet at public terminals.

What meals are included?

A full Irish breakfast (hotels) or light breakfast (hostels) is included at daily at your hotel/hostel (unless otherwise noted). Please check with each specific hotel or hostel for their serving times (most end by 10:00 am). All other meals at your leisure to give you maximum flexibility in terms of your time and budget.

Where should we eat?

We suggest checking with the front desk at the hotel or asking locals for recommendations based on what you’d like to eat and how much you want to spend. Ireland is a very friendly country and most people are glad to help visitors.

How much money should I bring for my trip?

It varies greatly from one person to another, but we recommend budgeting $100 per day to allow for lunch, dinner, drinks, gratuities and other expenses. For food, lunches can range from 10 to 20 euros, and dinner between 15 and 30 euros, not including drinks. You can also find fast food in the range of 4 to 10 euros.

Are you supposed to tip in Ireland?

Food/Drinks: Some restaurants will include a service charge in the bill. If the service charge is not included it is customary to leave between 10-15% depending on how you value the food and service. Generally people do not tip in pubs when only purchasing drinks but do tip when purchasing food.

Transportation: No tipping is required for drivers of public transfers. If your tour includes private transfers or a tour guide (such as on our optional tours) it is customary to tip between €2 to €5 per person based on the service and information provided by your driver.

What type of transportation will we use while traveling in Ireland?

Transportation will vary depending on group size, ranging from scheduled service coach transfers to private luxury motor-coaches. While we don’t retain a single vehicle for the duration of your trip, we do work with several local transportation and tour suppliers to ensure comfortable, hassle-free transfers and sightseeing excursions.

Will I have free time or will I have to stay with the group the entire time?

The foundation of our tour is the flexibility that is built into it. Other than the transfers from town-to-town, it’s your vacation to spend as you please.

What is the weather like in Ireland?

Ireland has a mild, temperate climate which produces temperatures in the high 70s during the summer months and the low 40s in the winter. Spring and autumn temperatures usually hover around 50 degrees (F). Rain is very common and tends to appear unexpectedly so make sure to plan accordingly. However, we have found that it never rains in the pub… or so the saying goes.

What type of clothing should I pack?

The dress is extremely casual in Ireland. We recommend packing as you would for a weekend away in the states. You can never go wrong with a general mix of casual and comfortable, as well as some dressier attire if you’re one to frequent nicer establishments. However, a light rain-resistant jacket and small travel umbrella are must-haves!

How many suitcases am I allowed to bring?

If you’ve read or watched the news lately, you may have seen that individual airlines are modifying their age-old baggage allowances. In most cases you are allowed one piece of checked luggage and one carry on free of charge, although some airlines have now begun charging for the first checked bag. It's best to check with your airline for specifics regarding size, weight and the number of items allowed.

What is the time difference in Ireland?

There is a five-hour time difference between Ireland and EST. 12:00 pm in New York is 5:00 pm in Ireland.

What is VAT and how do I get it refunded?

In Ireland almost all consumer products are subject to Value Added Tax (VAT). VAT is a "hidden tax" — already added into the purchase price of any souvenirs bought on a visit (there are two notable exceptions in Ireland: no VAT on books and no VAT on children's clothing and footwear). Americans are entitled to a refund of VAT paid. In order to get this refund you must get a VAT-refund form at the time of purchase from each store in which you shop. This is very important. Unlike business travelers, leisure travelers aren't entitled to refunds on the tax they spend on hotels, transportation and meals.

How do I make phone calls while on my trip? Will my cell phone work?

Most likely, your cell phone will not work in Ireland. Only digital phones with GSM capabilities and an international roaming agreement will work and, even then, it could be hit-or-miss and/or expensive depending on your plan. Tenon Tours offers customers mobile phones rentals at discounted rates. Should you choose to rent with us, we will ship your phone to your home prior to departure. All of the information needed will come with the phone, including instructions on how to load it for credit and rates for calls.

What if I pick-up my car before the time on my confirmation?

If you do arrive to pick-up your car before your confirmation time and a car is available they will let you pick it up early. If you do pick-up the car early your return time will then change on the day you need to drop it off.

Are the pedals set up the same on the manual cars as in the U.S.?

The pedals are set up the same, though everything else in the car is reversed as the drivers side is on the right on each vehicle.

Why are automatic cars so much more expensive?

You will notice that there is an increased rate for automatic vehicles due to the demand of these cars, mainly by international visitors not used to driving on the opposite side of the road or driving a manual.

What is included in my car quote?

Your car quote includes all compulsory insurances - Collision Damage Waiver insurance (CDW with an excess), protection insurance, sales tax at 13;5%, unlimited free mileage, third party liability insurance, single driver, airport surcharge, free road map of Ireland and 24 hour peace of mind break down coverage. We highly recommend that you read through all of the terms and conditions of the car rental so you are familiar with what is included and what is not, as they will present you with several options upon pick-up (increased insurance, GPS, etc.).

Can I rent a GPS navigation system?

A navigation unit is highly suggested. Tenon Tours does have GPS units for rent with discounted rates for Tenon Tours travelers. We will ship it to your home prior to departure, all of the information needed will come with your equipment. For more information on pricing and rates please visit http://www.tenontours.com/ireland-uk-phone-gps/. If you did not rent one from Tenon Tours directly you may rent a GPS from the rental company upon pick-up of your car (normally around 15 euros per day).

M50 motorway toll

a. Toll Booths replaced by new barrier free tolling system.

Customers should be aware that there is no longer a cash payment facility at the tolling point on the M50 motorway (Dublin's Ringroad). Drivers of all vehicles using the section of the M50 between Junction 6 (N3 Blanchardstown) and Junction 7 (N4 Lucan) are liable to pay a toll.

b. How much is the Toll?

Cars cost €3. Passenger vehicles with seating for more than 8 people cost €3.80 Tolls must be paid by 8pm on the day following the journey. Failure to pay a toll will result in additional charges. All unpaid tolls and violation charges relating to car hire vehicles will be referred by the authorities to the car rental company who will process payment through customer's credit cards. The car rental company will not accept liability for violation charges arising from unpaid tolls and these will be included in charges passed on to customers. An administration fee may also apply.

c. Where can I pay?

There are various ways to make this payment, all of your options will be given to you upon pick-up of your car.

Self-Drive Hints

You may think that the main thing you need to keep in mind when driving in Ireland is to stay on the left (a.k.a. "wrong") side of the road. That's important, true, but there are a few other things to remember when you're doing a road trip in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland.

Automatic vs Manual Many overseas rental agencies charge a premium for automatic cars. If you're used to driving an automatic at home, you may not want to try to save a few bucks by renting a standard. You'll have enough on your mind without worrying about stalling the engine on Ireland's hilly roads. Ignore this advice, and you too may end up with a frustrated passenger yelling from the backseat, "Clutch! Use the clutch!" Or you may develop your own version of Irish driving mantra, invented such as when the car starts wandering toward the shoulder every time you change gears: "When you shift, you drift."

Park the cell phone. In both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, driving while using a handheld cell phone is illegal, and fines are steep.

Remember that every drive takes longer than you'd think. When passing through towns, major highways often morph into traffic-clogged two-lane streets. And farm vehicles are allowed just about anywhere, including most four-lane roads. So the 400-kilometre drive from Belfast to Cork takes close to six hours. On the bright side, most of the scenery you could be crawling past is awfully pretty.

Rent a monster car at your peril. Roads are narrow (particularly those marked "R" on Republic of Ireland maps), and they're often lined with parked cars or dense hedges. If you enjoy having side mirrors, forgo the SUV.

Learn to handle roundabouts. They can be terrifying, but you can't escape them. Just remember that traffic already in the roundabout, and traffic approaching from the right inside the roundabout, has right of way.

Budget wisely for gas. You think your gas prices are high? Check the latest prices before you go at aaireland.ie/petrolprices.

Look before you pump. Diesel is more widely available in Ireland than in Canada. Make sure you're pumping the right fuel before popping that nozzle in the tank.

Don't rush! Ireland, like good whiskey, is best savoured slowly. Allow yourself time to get lost, and you're almost certain to discover a special castle, pub or golf course far off the beaten track.

What do we mean by “Flexible” or "Semi-Escorted" Tours?
We arrange for transportation from town to town, rather than travelers having to drive themselves (self-drive), or having to be stuck on a bus with a tour group for the duration of their trip (fully-escorted).  Paired with a provided itinerary and optional tours, this is the perfect way to combine the structure you need, with the flexibility you want!

What type of transportation will we use while traveling in Ireland?
Transportation will vary depending on group size, ranging from scheduled service coach transfers to private luxury motor-coaches to provide you with the most affordable Ireland tour options available without driving yourself.  While we don't retain a single vehicle for the duration of your trip, we do work with several local transportation and tour suppliers to ensure comfortable, hassle-free transfers and sightseeing excursions.  All transfers from Galway to Killarney & Killarney to Ennis, and Cork to Kilkenny (10 night tour) are guaranteed private chauffeur-driven. All transfers from town to town are private starting at six travelers on the same week (Killarney to Cork, 10 night tour, is private at only four travelers). Some transfers and optional tour pick-up points may require up to a five-minute walk. Upgraded pricing available for all private transfers, please contact your sales representative.

What do you mean by scheduled service?
With scheduled transfers you’ll enjoy a ride on a luxury coach bus or train with service provided by a local Irish company such as Bus Eireann, CityLink, GoBus or IrishRail. Scheduled transfers can be upgraded to private transfers for an additional charge, please ask your sales representative.

Does my flight need to arrive or depart at any specific time?  How do airport transfers work?
Your flight does not need to meet any specific time requirements though most flights from the U.S. do arrive early in the morning. Airport transfers are supplied by either AirCoach city-center shuttle, CityLink shuttle, hotel shuttle pre-paid taxi or Bus Eireann.

What time of day will we depart each city?
Departure times to each city can differ, but are usually between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm.  All departure times will be listed on the travel documents issued prior to departure from the U.S. so that you can plan out activities accordingly.

Will I have free time or will I have to stay with the group the entire time?
The foundation of our tours is the flexibility that is built into them. Other than transfers from town to town, it's your vacation to spend as you please.

Will there be someone accompanying our group while we are on tour?
For most groups or weeks with six or more travelers, you will be met in Dublin and Galway by a Tenon Tours host to help you get settled on your first two days. For groups of 12 or more, there will be a full-time Tenon Tours host to assist with check ins, transfers, the Welcome Party and Farewell Toast and optional tours and events as well as any emergency situations that may arise. In the event that there is not a full-time host, you will be provided with contact names and numbers to use in the event of an emergency.

Is our tour departure guaranteed?
All tours are guaranteed and will not be canceled due to a lack of travelers.  Our flexible transportation contracts allow for us to run a tour with anywhere from two to twenty people.

For whom are tours recommended?
We recommend our tours for active independent travelers who want an alternative to driving themselves or a fully-planned tour with no freedom or flexibility. This tour is not recommended for those who require private transportation service at all times, luggage handling or have mobility issues requiring wheelchairs, have trouble walking or limiting medical conditions.

Car types shown are used as a guide, comparable models may be included with your reservation.

Rent a GPS, mobile phone, or both and you’ll travel with added safety, security and peace of mind. Include a Flip video camera or iPod Touch for an unforgettable travel experience!

• Choose your items and reserve online
• Complete authorization form for pre-departure security deposit
• Two to five days prior to departure your equipment will arrive at your home
• Includes return label and packaging to mail it back once you return from your trip
• Valid for U.S. mailing addresses only (international mailing can be requested for additional cost)
• Valid only for days traveling as booked with your tour package. If traveling before or after additional rental fees may be required
• Availability of equipment is limited and subject to availability, please reserve early
• Prices do not include shipping fee unless otherwise stated

What is the minimum and maximum age that I have to be to rent from you?

The minimum age you must be is 23 years, maximum age is 71.

How do we get from Dublin Airport or from Dublin City to your rental Station in Dublin?

We use the reliable services of a friendly local Taxi company, with whom we have agreed set prices. We are now in a position to offer airport/city transfers to and from our premises for a flat rate of €25 each way and can accommodate up to 4 customers per trip. Up to 8 people a flat fee of €35 applies. Please contact us to arrange this service.

Why do you require a damage deposit?

Damage deposits are the norm around the world in Motorcycle and motorcar rental companies for obvious reasons. Unfortunately, accidental damage must be repaired to maintain our motorcycles in pristine condition.In the event of an accident where no other vehicle was involved, the total damage deposit is taken until proper assessment of damage is completed.We use Duffys BMW Motorad, an approved local BMW dealership, to do our estimates for repairs. Any balance due to be repaid to our clients will be refunded immediately after we receive reinstatement estimate. Damage deposit reserved on pick up of motorcycle is between €1200- €1500, depending on model. For motorcycles going abroad the damage deposit is between €2200 and €2500.

What documents do you require to enable me to rent a motorcycle?

We require your driving license and passport. In any event, at least one form of I.D. must carry a photograph of you. Our insurance company accepts valid license from country of origin. International licenses are perfectly acceptable but not required.

Do you have self guided package which include accommodation and routes.

Yes, a Tenon Tours representative would be happy to put together a custom guide for you.

Is B&B or Hotel accommodation readily available in Ireland and is it necessary to pre-book for duration of trip?

Ireland has long understood the value of Tourism and B&B and hotels are found everywhere in Ireland, accommodation is generally easy to find even when not pre-arranged. There are excellent deals to be had in Irish Hotels at present and the level of accommodation is excellent by international standards. I would advise pre-booking first and last evenings accommodation, this allows great flexibility when touring.

Can I take one of you motorcycles to the Isle of Man, UK or Europe?

Our motorcycles can now be used in Ireland, North and South, Isle of Man, England, Scotland and Wales with our fully comprehensive insurance. Please note that damage deposit of between €2200 and €2500 will apply to motorcycles leaving the island of Ireland. Our motorcycles can be taken to Europe once covered by the riders OWN fully comprehensive insurance policy. Under certain circumstances we can allow our motorcycles to be taken to Europe with full insurance, talk to Celtic Rider staff.

My friends and I want to organize a group holiday on your motorcycles; can we rent a number of machines from you?

Yes we would be happy to organize group bookings. Our fleet averages 24 motorcycles, mainly BMW R1200GS and BMW F650GS twin models.

What protective clothing do you recommend I have?

It is a legal requirement in Ireland to wear a crash helmet, so this is the absolute minimum. We have all the relevant protective waterproof motorcycle gear in all sizes which can be rented from us at a total cost of €20 per day, or €100 for 7 day plus hire. This includes all weather armoured jacket, armoured leggings, gloves, boots, etc. We have over 100 complete outfits from size 3 to size 14 boots and outfits from XXS to XXXXXXL! Something for everybody as we realize from our travels abroad how difficult it can be to bring your own riding gear.

I live in Ireland and my Motorbike was damaged in an accident. Can I get a replacement motorbike as part of my insurance claim?

YES, Motorcycle Rental Ireland is affiliated to Motor Assist, a company that handles all aspects of managing your claim, replacement bike, estimates and repairs at no charge to you. If you have had a motorcycle accident where another party was responsible for the accident, and you use Motor Assist to handle your claim, Motor Assist will arrange to provide you at no charge, with a bike from our stock. Replacement bike is guaranteed free of charge, and can be delivered and collected nationwide.

What happens if the rental motorcycle is damaged as a result of an accident involving a third party?

In the unlikely event of an accident the Gardai (police) must be notified as must a Celtic Rider staff member.The damage deposit taken on collection of the motorcycle is used to offset the cost of repairs. If another vehicle is involved and it is established that this vehicle and the driver are the guilty party, the damage deposit will be refunded to our client.

Is it permissible for the pillion passenger to drive the motorcycle during the rental period?

Yes, Once this is agreed at the time of collection, once the rider meets the rider requirements and a copy of a valid license is copied, signed and attached to the rental documents.

Can advice on routes be acquired before or on the day of collection?

Yes, because we have an intimate knowledge of Ireland's roads and culture, Celtic Rider staff will advise on best routes to take, in which we may take into consideration festivals, events or the weather! You can contact us when planning your trip or indeed when you come to collect your bike.

What can we do with our excess baggage?

We will be happy to hold onto your excess baggage at our premises free of charge.

Your travel insurance is based on the the price of your trip and the ages of the people in your party. The best coverage (including pre-existing conditions) will be available when you pay for your insurance in full within 15 days of booking travel. Land insurance coverage will be automatically added to your Tenon invoice unless you opt out when booking.