Jody Halsted
Writer, Ireland Expert & RV owner
Jody Halsted is a freelance writer with a mad passion for Ireland, her RV, and 'off the beaten path' travel.
PROJECTS
campingtipsforeveryone.com
RV Rental 101: Motorhome Rental Tips for Beginners | RV Camping Tips
An RV vacation seems like the perfect trip. What could be better than an epic road trip to an amazing destination, enjoying nature that surrounds you without the need to set up a tent or stock a cabin?
That was exactly the thought that led my husband and I to plan our first RV vacation.
And what led us, after that memory-making RV vacation, to purchase our own motorhome.
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk Shuttle with Bernard Clarke | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 50
The Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk has become an incredible attraction along County Clare’s Wild Atlantic Way. Bernard Clarke of the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk Shuttle Bus joins me today with a few tips on using the shuttle, and information on the walk itself.
familytravel411.com
The 411 on the Black Hills and Mount Rushmore with Kids
Southwestern South Dakota is known primarily for one thing, and while you won’t want to miss your chance to see that massive monument carved into the side of a mountain, you may be wondering what else there is to do in the area–especially if you’ll be visiting Mount Rushmore with kids?
With over 5 million acres of hiking and cycling trails, rock climbing, caves, and paleontological sites, you won’t run out of options as you explore nature’s playground in South Dakota.
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Old Irish Traditions That Survive in Modern Ireland with Felicity Hayes-McCoy | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 48
I am thrilled to welcome author Felicity Hayes-McCoy back to the podcast. It wasn’t that long ago when Felicity first joined me on the podcast to talk about her book The Library at the Edge of the World, her first book to publish in the US.
A while back I received a question from a reader about the old Irish traditions, beliefs, and superstitions that survive in modern Ireland. As Felicity and I delve into this topic you’ll soon understand why I chose her for this fascinating discussion!
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Everything You Need to Know About Car Rental in Ireland
Renting a car in Ireland is the best way to experience everything the country has to offer. You will be able to explore Ireland at your own pace, not on someone else’s schedule. You can stay longer in an area you are drawn to, change your itinerary at will, or just take the long, meandering road to your next destination.
But car rental in Ireland isn’t as simple as it is in other places.
Family Rambling
Things I Wish I had Known Before Visiting the Field Museum
The Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago has earned its reputation as one of the country’s greatest museums- and rightfully so. But there are just a few things I wish I had known before we visited.
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Revisiting Doolin with Anthony Moloney of Doolin Inn & Hostel | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 47
The last time I stayed at Doolin Hostel was in 2016. I found it much the same as I had during our stay in 2014: clean, comfortable, welcoming. The only noticeable change was that we didn’t have to wash our own dishes after enjoying the light continental breakfast.
It’s obviously time for me to return because during the winter of 2016 and before the reopening in 2017 some big changes happened.
Join me as I chat with Anthony Moloney, the owner of Doolin Hostel and Doolin Inn, about the changes to his business, and what has changed- and remained the same- in Doolin.
thefamilybackpack.com
Handling Food Allergies When Traveling in Ireland with Kids
Experiencing new foods is one of the great joys of traveling. Food is a triple layer of culture to be seen, smelled, and tasted.
Dining in foreign countries can be a challenge when a member of your family has food allergies or restrictions. It can be difficult to know how food is prepared or what those unique foods actually have in them.
Ireland has been listing allergen information on its pre-packaged foods since 2005, and in 2014 allergen labeling was added to restaurant menus.
store.irelandfamilyvacations.com
Ulster Overview (Northern Ireland and Donegal)
This fast-paced itinerary takes you to the highlights of Ulster, including the Giant's Causeway and Belfast city, while also introducing you to places along the famed Causeway Coast that you've never heard of. And yes, there are tips on Game of Thromes sites, too.
Arrival and departure are from Dublin Airport, but the circular route of the itinerary means no backtracking.
This itinerary is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
irelandfamilyvacations.com
The Heart of the Burren with Tony Kirby | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 46
Join Jody as she talks with Tony Kirby, author and Burren guide, about what makes the Burren in County Clare such a fascinating and unique destination in Ireland.
familytravel411.com
The 411 on Glacier National Park with Kids
MONTANA, Glacier National Park with Kids – One does not arrive at Glacier National Park by chance, a side trip on the way to another destination. For most visitors the park is a multi-day drive or rail trip, or- at the minimum- a few hours flight followed by a few more hours of driving from all but the very closest airport.
The most important factor to your vacation success is to begin planning early (6 months to a year depending on your lodging preferences) and have, at least, a general itinerary to make the most of your vacation to Glacier National park with kids. Here’s how I recommend you
irelandfamilyvacations.com
How Many Reasons Do You Need to Spend a Few Days in The Burren in County Clare?
The Burren in County Clare, famous for its barrenness, is one of the most unique places in Ireland. Its limestone terrain, hardy vegetation, and rugged animals, both wild and domestic, mark the contrasts of the area. Bare stone gives way to open grazing land. Towering limestone cliffs drop abruptly into the ocean. And beauty appears out of nowhere.
It’s easy to spend 2-3 days (or more!) exploring everything the Burren has to offer! Choose a few of these highlights to create your perfect Burren itinerary!
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Traverse Journeys Small Group Guided Tour of Ireland | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 45
Jody talks to Laura Hamm of Traverse Journeys about her small group guided tour of Ireland – and why this is the only group tour Jody is actually recommending.
Be sure to refer to the show notes for a special, exclusive offer for Ireland Family Vacations readers and listeners for the tour in May!
CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen.
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Relax and Unwind at Lough Eske Castle Hotel in Donegal
Unlike many castles hotels in Ireland, Lough Eske Castle Hotel in Donegal doesn’t offer a plethora of estate activities.
And that’s not a bad thing. Our stay at this Donegal castle hotel was peaceful and unrushed. In fact, it was likely the most relaxing 2 days I’ve ever experienced in Ireland.
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Steph Chastain on Couple vs. Family Travel in Ireland | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 44
Steph Chastain on Couple vs. Family Travel | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 44
Jody is talking with fellow travel blogger, Steph Chastain from InfiniteIreland.com about the differences between traveling as a couple and traveling as family with kids.