Fabulously researched travel guide! The authors really did their homework. I don't think I've ever encountered such a comprehensive travel guide in my life! I didn't need to red the whole book, but as I going to visit in the next year or so, I wanted to have a look/see of this book. I certainly hope someone does one on Scotland... What I did was look up all the places I know I will be going to and was amazed at all the info: how to get around, where to stay, where to eat, what to see and do, etc... Then I browsed the book for other places and things I may want to take in on side trips I will include on my travels. I don;t want to miss a thing if I can help it! Anyway, I will be purchasing this book and recommend it to anyone going to visit the fair country. great book!

Simply paging through the table of contests was amazing! Authors John and Sally McKenna have compiled so many listings that not enough a resident could hope to have enough time to visit each in person. The final test was coming, though, as now I would check the listings to see if enough information was included for the book to be considered effective.

The authors include a “How To Use This book” section, which is definitely needed. In fact, there were so many codes that I questioned whether I would be able to remember them all. Every restaurant, hotel, or site of interest is cross-referenced with the maps so that users can easily find what they are seeking. While I thought the system they used (abbreviations, codes, and their own “ticks”) might be difficult to remember, after looking up a few listings I found it was very easy.

There are also codes for exceptional accommodations, informing us the place is in an outstanding location, is a special setting, or is a world-class spot. Rate prices are also broken out, allowing travelers to plan with their budget in mind. Walking tours also are greatly detailed, right down to the recommended footwear one should bring.

Additional random thoughts: I also discovered a yearly television event called “The Late Late Toy Show” and had some fun watching that with the kids (www.rte.ie). Most other books like this one have pictures, but I thought the decision to not include them was a smart one. Using the book and a laptop, tablet, or phone at the same gave me all the pictures I could want. Adding graphics to the book would only slow download speeds and would unnecessarily make the book twice as big. The McKennas split up the listings geographically (including the islands), and large cities like Belfast received their own sections.

Overall, “Ireland the Best” falls at the top of all the travel information books I have ever used. Five stars.

A very good guide to Ireland full of interesting and unusual advice. Strongly recommended to people who want to travel to Ireland because it's really helpful.
Strongly recommended.
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher

A fantastic travel guide written by two experts in the area, John and Sally McKenna, this is truly the authoritative guide to Ireland. Filled with juicy tidbits on where to go, what to do, and what you should definitely see when visiting the Emerald Isle. Some of the descriptions of restaurants and cafes were mouth-watering, I've already put together a shortlist of places I've got to eat! The guide helpfully includes social media handles, email addresses and websites to further assist in your planning. I also loved the fun facts about various places in Ireland and the mapping. A must-have for every traveller to Ireland!