Dublin or Shannon to fly into ?

[Elaine Hurst]

I have a question about flying into Ireland.  Which international airport is "better" to fly into, Dublin or Shannon?  I have heard Shannon is much easier, but that maybe there are less options for international flights. (?)  It wouldn't be until next summer, so I can come to Art in the Open in 2011.  If I wanted to travel to the western part of Ireland to see that area too, would it be "easy" to rent a car?  Ha...I have never driven, only been driven, on the left side of the road....I might be a danger out there!

[Tony Robinson]

Hi Elaine.
I've never flown into Shannon airport but I understand it is fine. Dublin has just opened a new 2nd terminal building which has all the bells and whistles but I guess the important thing is which side of the country you want to visit, East or West Coast? Not that there's much difference by US standards but you may as well save yourself a couple of hours driving.
Or if there is a cheaper flight to one or the other.
So on the whole I'd say it just depends on your itinerary.
Is that what you were asking?

[Elaine Hurst]

Thanks, Tony. I am thinking ahead for next summer. I am planning on the Art in The Open event, so the east coast for that. I would also like to see the a little of the west coast if I could fit it in, time-wise. There is plenty of time to think about it, but I thought I would get some ideas.

[Tony Robinson]

That is great to hear, Elaine.
Yes, definitely, Dublin for Wexford and Art in the Open plein air.
You will get by with lifts and walking during the plein air festival to keep down the cost of car hire and you can maybe hire a car afterwards to do a bit of touring up the west coast. But of course, if you do the journey the other way around, touring first and afterwards visiting Wexford and the festival then you may choose to fly into Shannon. Depends on your preference and schedule.
The festival begins on Friday 29th July 2011 for 3 days with exhibition on the fourth day (1st August). There will be some additional paint-outs around the county just before and just after that.
Looking forward to meeting you next summer.

[Elaine Hurst]

Thanks, Tony. Yes, I have wanted to go to Ireland for a very long time, and the plein air festival gives me the perfect excuse to make the trip next summer. Glad to know the dates so I can look for cheaper flights as the time draws closer. I think I would probably come to the festival first, then go west, but that could change too. I am very much looking forward to meeting everyone I have gotten to know online through Plein Eire.