I went to Ireland in 2004. After some checking around I decided to go in mid May, which is right at the beginning of their summer tourist season. I was really happy with the decision. The weather was nice, most tourist attractions were just opening for the season and the attractions were less crowded than if I had decided to take my trip in June or July.

Personally, I'm not a big fan of traveling with a tour group because I like to be a little more independent. I did do an Irish educational day tour at Causey Farm just outside of Dublin, Ireland. Causey Farm is run by a really nice family and they have a truly great program. If you're going anywhere near Dublin I would highly recommend checking them out. The day I spent at their farm was one of the highlights of my trip!

As for travel guides for Ireland... you really can't beat Rick Steves for common sense, down-to-earth advice and recommendations.

I hope all this helps! Oh, one more tip...if you're going to Dublin be sure to look into the Dublin Pass. For a flat fee you get in to a wide variety of Dublin and Dublin area attractions. The pass saved me quite a bit of money and even gave me the opportunity to visit a few attractions that I might not have if I would have had to pay for them separately.

Good luck and happy trip planning!!
Source(s):
http://www.causey.ie/index.php
http://www.amazon.com/Rick-Steves-Ireland-2009/dp/1598801139/ref=pd_bbs_sr_...
http://www.dublinpass.ie/dublinpass/

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