Transportation in Ireland: Do’s and Don’ts When Booking an Irish Destination Wedding
Organizing transportation for your Irish destination wedding is a crucial aspect of the planning process. From ensuring your guests can easily reach your chosen venue to coordinating group excursions, the right arrangements for transportation in Ireland can help make your big day run smoothly and efficiently. Today I want to discuss the do’s and don’ts of booking transportation for your Irish destination wedding. There are many topics to cover such as airports to choose from, car rentals, driving laws, and group transportation for multi-day events.
Arriving in Ireland: Airports and Accessibility
Ireland has two main airports that cater to international flights: Dublin Airport (DUB) in the east and Shannon Airport (SNN) in the west. Both airports are well-connected to major cities worldwide, making it convenient for your guests to travel to Ireland. When selecting your wedding venue, consider its proximity to one of these airports, as well as the availability of ground transportation options like buses, taxis, or private car services to help your guests reach their accommodations with ease.
Choosing a Venue Accessible by Car
While Ireland boasts a variety of picturesque wedding venues, some are more accessible than others. When selecting a venue, consider whether it can be easily reached by car, as this will make transportation simpler for both you and your guests. Additionally, keep in mind that some historic venues or remote locations may have limited parking facilities or require special arrangements for larger vehicles like buses or limousines.
Understanding Differences in Foreign Cars and Driving Laws
Driving in Ireland can be a unique experience for visitors, as the country’s roads are often narrow and winding, and vehicles are driven on the left side of the road. Additionally, many rental cars in Ireland are manual transmissions, which may be unfamiliar to guests from countries where automatic vehicles are more common. If you or your guests plan to rent cars during your stay, it’s essential to familiarize yourselves with local driving laws and practices to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Car Rentals for Exploring Other Destinations
Renting a car can be a great way for you and your guests to explore Ireland’s stunning landscapes and attractions at your own pace. When booking a rental car, be sure to compare prices from different companies and book well in advance, as demand for rental cars can be high during peak travel seasons. It’s also essential to verify the insurance coverage provided by the rental company and consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary.
Providing Group Transportation for Multi-Day Events
If you’re planning a multi-day wedding celebration with group excursions and activities, it’s crucial to arrange group transportation for your guests. This can include hiring buses or private car services to transport guests between their accommodations and the various event locations. By providing group transportation, you can ensure that your guests arrive at each destination safely and on time, allowing them to fully enjoy the festivities without worrying about navigating unfamiliar roads or arranging their own transportation in Ireland.
Do:
- Research and compare transportation options, including airports, car rentals, and group transportation services.
- Choose a wedding venue that is easily accessible by car and has ample parking facilities.
- Familiarize yourself and your guests with local driving laws and practices, particularly if you plan to rent cars.
- Arrange group transportation for multi-day events to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for your guests.
Don’t:
- Assume that all rental cars in Ireland are automatic transmissions; be prepared to drive a manual vehicle if necessary.
- Overlook the importance of insurance coverage when booking a rental car, and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed.
- Rely solely on public transportation for getting around, as some areas may have limited services or may not be well-connected to your wedding venue.
Remembering that organizing transportation for your Irish destination wedding is a crucial aspect of creating a seamless and memorable experience for you and your guests. Don’t forget to check out my destination wedding checklist for additional tips that might help you plan for different factors such as airport accessibility, venue location, driving laws, and group transportation needs, you can help ensure that everyone can fully enjoy the beauty and charm of the Emerald Isle without any logistical headaches. Taking the time to plan and arrange the necessary transportation will not only make your wedding celebration run smoothly but will also allow you and your guests to focus on creating lasting memories in the enchanting landscapes and rich culture of Ireland.
Slán go Fóill,
Tara
Images by David McKelvey, Europcar