Have you noticed that the price of flying these days is inversely proportional to the amount of hassle involved? The next time you’re standing in customs in your unmatched socks while security disarm you of your potential weapons and accuse you of plotting to take over the airplane with a pair of tweezers, consider the joys of a holiday at home. OK, not your home because that wouldn’t be a holiday, but in that great Irish institution, the B&B.
Tradtional B&B welcome
There is something very heart-warming about Irish B&Bs. Usually family-run, they have long been a hospitable and sometimes rather eccentric offering of endless cups of tea, dubious wallpaper and that perennial favourite, the full Irish breakfast. Where else can you sit in someone’s living room and get the best local tourist information while surrounded by First Holy Communion photographs?
When it comes to holidaying in Ireland, there has been a major shift in value for money perceptions, from 49% in the early ’08 season to 61% at the end of the ’09 season, but with B&B occupancy rates still falling (demand fell by 25% in the ’08 -’09 period), offering quality accommodation at a good rate is more important than ever.
There is huge variety across Ireland’s 2,500 B&Bs, from modest suburban homes to grand country houses. Rates differ widely, but start from about €35 per person sharing/€45 single occupancy. Be warned, there are a few B&Bs that are little more than a spare room and a badly-painted sign. In fact, B&Bs are the only type of accommodation that don’t legally have to be registered. Always look for Fáilte Ireland approved accommodation. Fáilte Ireland has just launched a new star grading system for B&Bs, with two to five stars being awarded based on a number of “quality areas”. You must have a minimum of two stars to be approved and regular assessment ensures that standards don’t slip. This very welcome development is a great barometer of value for money, giving you a much better idea of what you should expect for your euro. The system has just begun so you should start seeing stars later this year.
61% planning to holiday at home
Recent surveys carried out by Failte Ireland show that 61% of Irish people are planning a holiday in Ireland this year and 74% of these will be short breaks. While hotels are still the most popular choice, B&Bs are fighting their corner and really do offer a far more unique and personal service. While bed and breakfast is still standard fare, many B&Bs also offer the option of excellent home cooked dinners. Again the price will vary depending on the establishment, but expect to pay upwards of €25. Some are even happy for you to bring your own wine, so check before you book.
Supporting local tourism is a win-win situation. Save on hassle, money and the environment by avoiding air and sea travel, keep the economy afloat and gain a new-found appreciation of your own country. Just remember to shop around and look out for the Fáilte Ireland seal of approval.
For more information on B&B accommodation in Ireland visit:
www.discoverireland.com
www.bandbireland.com
www.irishfarmholidays.com
Tags: B&Bs, holdiays in Ireland, short breaks
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