Pre-trip Planning Part 5

Can you believe it!  We're 2 days to go on the countdown timer and I haven't finished packing yet!  Moe and I just talked on the phone for about an hour (she's in Calgary, I'm in Arundel) to go over who brings what.  That way we don't get 2 bottles of shampoo and conditioner, 200 band aids, and no power adapter.

There have been a few changes since the last time I posted, mostly with accommodations.  Thanks to Trip Adviser for steering us away from Knockree Hostel and the water problems there.  We found a cozy little B&B called Coolakay House instead.

Check out where we'll be resting our weary bodies along the way on the Accommodations page.

Another change has to do with Ireland Train workers union strike coming up.  We had to switch to the bus option to get from Killarney to Doolin, which in actual fact takes about the same amount of time and costs less, so no harm done and we'll be travelling with the locals for sure!

I've also added a half day trip to Balleycastle, where we will be visiting the family homestead of Sydney Bellingham, founder of Arundel, Quebec.  Apparently Sydney left home at 15 years old to seek his fortune in Canada.  He became a businessman, lawyer, journalist, and a member of parliament in the Legislative Assembly of Quebec. Bellingham Castle  now operates as a B&B, and the hosts are going to give us a private tour!

I've got a few more items on my To Do list before leaving Michel behind to start building our house. Paperwork is not his strong suit, so I'm trying to wrap up all the permits, surveys, colour choices for siding, etc. before I leave.  Once that's all done, I'll double check my last minute shopping list for Ireland and hope it all fits!

Don't forget to check out the TEMPLE BAR WEBCAM on Tuesday, August 26 at either 3:00 pm or 5:00 pm Montreal time.  That will be 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm Dublin time.  The plan is to try and be there for both times, but circumstances beyond our control may delay our appearance.  We will be standing in front of the door while waving at the webcam - and we may even come across the street to talk to you (you won't be able to see us as we'll be under the webcam so you can hear us).

We will make another appearance on Friday, September 12 at the same times (3:00 pm and / or 5:00 pm Montreal time) when we spend our last two nights in Dublin.  We hope to have Tony (Wendy's brother) from Scotland with us, so you can imagine what kind of night that will be!

Please post some comments on this home page so we stay connected to you all!  We'll be posting as often as we can so come back often.  Until next time - Sláinte!