Ireland has been lingering on my bucket list for years, never clamoring for attention. Some places make a scene – Paris dazzling with its Eiffel Tower sparkle, Bali swinging across Instagram feeds – but Ireland? Ireland has always played it differently. Green and misty, wrapped in folklore and the scent of Guinness, it waited with a kind of quiet confidence, knowing its moment would come.
This year, it did.
September appears to have become my unofficial travel month. Something about the post‑summer lull makes it the perfect time to sneak away. But as of late July, I still hadn’t booked anything. Then one evening, in a burst of chaos‑method spontaneity, I decided: Ireland it is.
Why the Wild Atlantic Way?
When you Google “Ireland itineraries,” you’re immediately overwhelmed with options. Castles, cliffs, cities, whiskey trails – it’s like a buffet where everything looks good. But one route kept popping up: The Wild Atlantic Way.
For those who haven’t heard of it, the Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,600‑mile coastal route that hugs Ireland’s rugged western edge. Think dramatic cliffs, tiny fishing villages, winding roads that look like they were designed by someone with a sense of humor, and views that make you question why you ever thought your phone camera was “good enough.” It’s basically Ireland’s greatest hits album, played on repeat.
So, naturally, I picked that one.
Booking in a Hurry (and the Single Traveler Struggle)
There’s something thrilling about booking a trip less than two months out. It feels rebellious, like you’re outsmarting your own calendar. Of course, the downside is that your work schedule is already jam‑packed, so finding dates that fit is like playing Tetris with your PTO.
When I finally found a tour that worked, I hit “book” with the confidence of a woman who had just decided she deserved this. Except – plot twist – I got a message saying I’d need to call someone. Ew.
Turns out, many group tours only plan for a certain number of single travelers. They had to call every hotel on the itinerary to make sure they could accommodate me. Luckily, they could. Hooray for persistence.
Flights were next. And here’s where I had a little travel‑hack win. While waiting for the tour confirmation, I put a flight itinerary on hold – just in case. Once I got the green light, I double‑checked prices and found the exact same flights for $400 cheaper. Cancelled the hold, booked the cheaper one, and boom: I was starting this trip $400 richer. (Or at least that’s what I told myself as I mentally allocated those savings to pints of Guinness and souvenir sweaters.)
The Calm Before Takeoff
My flight was at 7:30 p.m. on a Saturday, which turned out to be perfect. I had the whole day to relax, run errands, and even color my hair. Nothing says “vacation ready” like fresh roots.
My mom drove me to the airport, with my nephew tagging along as the cutest little send‑off crew. Terminal D at DFW is usually chaos, but somehow I breezed through bag check and security. Travel luck really came through for me.
Champagne and Salted Margaritas: Lounge Life
Thanks to my American Airlines credit card, I knew I had Admirals Club access. But at the international terminal, the Admirals Club and the fancier Flagship Lounge share an entrance. The check‑in agent scanned my ticket and said, “You’re flying international – you get Flagship.”
Was it my Premium Economy seat? My status? A clerical error? I didn’t ask. I just smiled and walked in.
Within seconds, someone offered me champagne. Obviously, I said yes. The food was still “lounge food,” but elevated – think fewer sad cheese cubes, more artisanal vibes. They even had a DIY margarita station with salt rims. If this was the pre‑game, Ireland had a lot to live up to.
Premium Economy Dreams (and Realities)
Boarding my flight to London, I was pleasantly surprised to find my Premium Economy seat was also in an exit row. Translation: legroom for days. Premium Economy is basically Economy’s glow‑up cousin – slightly wider seats, a footrest, a nicer blanket, and a tiny amenity kit that makes you feel like you’ve made it in life.
Did I wish I was in Business Class, fully reclined with champagne on tap? Of course. But I managed a few hours of sleep, which is basically winning the lottery on an overnight flight.
Layover Life: London Edition
Arriving in London, I had a few hours before my Belfast connection. Lounge access once again saved me. I wasn’t hungry, so I balanced my exhaustion with a double espresso and a mimosa. #balance
Hello, Belfast
The short hop to Belfast was uneventful, which is exactly what you want in a flight. By the time I landed, I was running on fumes. I grabbed my bag and debated transportation.
In my pre‑trip research, I’d somehow convinced myself an Uber would cost $100. But it was raining, I was tired, and the thought of navigating buses with a transfer and a block‑long walk with a suitcase was a hard no. So I pulled up Uber anyway. The fare? Less than £10. Even with airport fees and a generous tip, it came to just under £19. Hallelujah.
And because the universe loves a good cliché, my driver’s name was Paddy. Could it get more Irish?
Settling In
At the hotel, I checked in, found my room, and had a blissful two hours to decompress before meeting the group.
That evening, we gathered in the hotel restaurant. Our guide, Catherine, introduced herself, and I met the 17 other travelers who’d be my companions along the Wild Atlantic Way. Honestly, I don’t remember much about the dinner. By that point, I was so exhausted I could barely keep my eyes open. I’m pretty sure I was the first one to excuse myself and head to bed. Sometimes, the best travel decision you can make is to surrender to sleep.
Final Thoughts (for Day One)
Travel days are rarely glamorous. They’re a mix of excitement, exhaustion, and small victories like saving $400 on flights or discovering that Uber is way cheaper than you thought. But they set the stage.
Ireland was already charming me, and I hadn’t even seen the cliffs, castles, or coastlines yet. If Day One was any indication, this trip was going to be full of surprises, little wins, and stories worth telling.
FAQ: Kicking Off My Wild Atlantic Way Adventure
Why did you choose the Wild Atlantic Way? The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,600‑mile coastal route along Ireland’s western edge. It’s packed with dramatic cliffs, fishing villages, winding roads, and iconic views. Think of it as Ireland’s “greatest hits” playlist – perfect for a first‑timer who wants a little bit of everything.
When is the best time to visit Ireland? I went in September, which has become my unofficial travel month. The post‑summer lull means fewer crowds, cooler weather, and slightly better prices. Just pack layers and rain gear – sunshine is never guaranteed.
How far in advance should I book a group tour in Ireland? I booked less than two months out, which felt spontaneous but came with some hiccups. Many tours limit the number of single travelers, so booking earlier gives you more flexibility. That said, last‑minute can work if you’re persistent.
What is the “single supplement” for solo travelers? Many group tours charge extra if you want your own room. Some waive it if they can pair you with a roommate, but availability is limited. Always ask before booking so you’re not surprised by the cost.
Is Premium Economy worth it for transatlantic flights? Yes, if you value extra legroom, wider seats, and small perks like a footrest and amenity kit. It’s not Business Class luxury, but it’s a noticeable upgrade from standard Economy, especially on overnight flights.
How much does an Uber from Belfast Airport to the city cost? Surprisingly affordable. My ride was under £19 with fees and tip. Public transport is cheaper, but if you’re jet‑lagged and it’s raining, Uber is a convenient option.
Do you need lounge access for international flights? Not a necessity, but it makes long travel days infinitely more comfortable. Lounges offer food, drinks, Wi‑Fi, and a quiet place to recharge. If you have a credit card that includes access, it’s worth using.
What should I expect on the first day of a group tour? Mostly introductions, logistics, and fighting off jet lag. Don’t expect to see major sights right away. Day One is about settling in, meeting your group, and getting ready for the real adventure.
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