The various considerations when traveling in Ireland are really the same for any country, other than a few things particular to the Emerald Isle, such as being prepared for rainy weather and unique sightseeing opportunities such as Giants Causeway. Ireland is a country with a special aura about it, and this is not only evident in the plucky spirit of the people, but also in the well-preserved sense of history. Dublin, for one, is at once urban and hip, but also compact and Old World - a perfect walking town. Medieval-looking churches stand next to popular bar and shopping districts, literally steps away from neighborhoods with ethnic restaurants, museums and the like. You probably won't even need to rent a car if you're "just doing Dublin", especially if the Guinness headquarters is on your list.

But, that would be cheating yourself, for the balance of the true charm of Ireland lies in its supernaturally green countryside, which is dotted with towns full of spirited folk, and fascinating history written into every acre of this spectacular island nation. Traveling in Ireland, one can easily see why the Irish have traditionally fought so hard for their own sovereignty--this is a truly special place. Rent a car, and the whole country is at your feet, and can be done in a few days to a week's time. An economy car can be picked up for relatively cheap.

Ireland is brimming over with quaint and rustic bed and breakfasts, "self-catering" cottages, hotels and hostels, for the student or budget-minded traveler. Traveling in Ireland, you can sacrifice a 4 or 5-star luxury bed and accommodations for a more "Old World" experience, and save some money. For instance, Redclyffe Guesthouse, outside of Cork, offers a double-occupancy rate that's comparatively very affordable. The rooms are still comfortable and charming, and well above Motel 6-style accommodations for the price. Limerick features Ireland's tallest hotel, the Clarion, along with other big names in lodging such as Radisson and Travelodge, but it also has a wealth of bed and breakfast-style getaways designed to appeal to a more, shall we say, Romantic sensibility, at very competitive rates compared with the big names in lodging.

Ireland will charm you with a gleam in its eye, a poem in its heart, and songs about long-dead warriors, and greet you at the door with a smile. And, you can easily do a week in Ireland for well under the cost of an ocean cruise. Part of the unique charm of traveling in Ireland is its compact and very "doable" size, though that diminutive stature is packed full of mystery, tradition, castles, friendly and loquacious people, and the most iridescent and hauntingly beautiful green hills and meadows you'll ever see in your life.