An Amazing Tour Of England & Ireland

by Plaza Travel Consultant, Jennifer Schwartz
Cheerio and Maggie My to all of my clients and friends-

I have just returned from a fantastic tour of England and Ireland. This two week tour took me not only to London but to some unspoiled regions of the northeast areas of England. The first day I toured some fabulous hotels that were just spectacular for families. I was so excited because many times it is difficult to find perfect places that can accommodate families. Also, some great touring that would be interesting for every age, including indoor swimming pools, horseback riding, visiting castles and walking tours of real ghosts who haunt the cobblestone streets of many English villages.

Also, for you Harry Potter fans-I took a real steam train via Goathland which was the station the "Hog warts Express" departed from in the film "Harry Potter & The Sorcerer's Stone. Then onto York, which I loved! It is a walled, Medieval City. So interesting with wonderful history, a beautiful cathedral and great shopping and eating. Especially, World-Famous Betty's dessert shop-which if you join me next April we will be visiting on our "Eat Dessert First" Tour.

I also visited the Cotswold's the most famous stone villages that look like they belong in a fairytale. I always think of "Beauty and the Beast" with the singing village people selling their wares and living in their thatched roof cottages. The city of Bath was my next stop and this was the first" Spa" during the roman times. A very historic city that you would need at least a day in and lovely hotels to pick from. My flight into Ireland was quick and easy into Dublin. Ireland is everything you ever dreamed of-40 shades of green and the friendliest people I have ever met in my life. You just say hi to a local and they are immediately welcoming with a story about their life and buying you a pint of Smithwicks! Their local beer. It was so delicious and went down so easily! The pubs were so fun and one can always find a great meal for lunch or dinner and great conversation!

My tour started in a southerly direction through Kilkenny, Cashel, visiting the Rock of Cashel where St Patrick first converted the Irish King to Christianity in the fifth century and perhaps Ireland's holiest monument. Staying at a lovely 5star 18th century house formerly the Bishop's Palace), located on 20 acres of gardens and complete with real ghosts. As witnessed by five of my traveling companions! Passing the city of Cork, visiting the quaint fishing village of Kinsale and the "gourmet capital of Ireland". Then onto my favorite stop of the trip that you should all know about in an area called, Kenmare. Sheen Falls Lodge, here you can stay for at least 2-3 nights, set along side the most beautiful falls and stream in a 5 star property that offers fishing, tennis, wonderful hikes, gourmet dining, afternoon tea, snooker just like pool) and a beautiful spa. One of the most serene and romantic places that I highly recommend for not only couples but can accommodate families for summer months. Traveling the next day in a northerly direction past Dingle peninsula and stopping at the Cliffs of Moher, a sheer precipice 5 miles long which rises to a height of 668 feet above the Atlantic. On our way back to Dublin for stay in a city that not only has history, famous writers,actors, great builders, music, art but most importantly, the brewers of GUINNESS! Yes, you can take a tour and hang around for some tasting. An exciting city with many great areas for eating, shopping and just knocking back some pints! Ireland is truly affordable with people who love their country and are so happy to share it with you! If this sounds like a trip for you-it can be arranged between myself and a fabulous company, IN QUEST OF THE CLASSICS, I relied on their expertise and they have the best hotels, itineraries and surprises that no one else has to offer. So, if you are interested in my tour next year of England, DESSERT FIRST, An Introduction to Classic English Desserts, a visit to the Cotswolds, Lake District, York and London. April 24-May 7, 2003. Or you desire an Ireland trip please call me at 818-990-4053 ext. 130.

Jennifer Schwartz