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
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.
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Luxury in Mayo – Stay on the Ashford Castle Estate
It’s a location that appears at the top of every ‘Best Hotels in Ireland’ list – the Ashford Estate in Cong, Ireland. Whether it’s Ashford Castle topping the ‘Best Castle Hotels in Ireland’ list or The Lodge at Ashford Castle making the ‘Top 10 Hotels in Ireland’ list, there is no doubt that a stay on the Ashford Estate in County Mayo is a terrific addition to an Ireland itinerary.
irelandfamilyvacations.com
Exploring the Waterford Greenway | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 43
Jody is talking about Ireland’s sunny Southeast in this episode. Join her and guest speaker John Purcell, owner of Waterford Greenway Cycle Tours and Bike Hire as they discuss the Waterford Greenway.
irelandfamilyvacations.com
What to Do on the Dingle Peninsula in 2 Days
Though the Dingle Peninsula is small, there is plenty to see and do. I recommend a two day Dingle itinerary to really enjoy the unique sights and opportunities of this peninsula.
fullsuitcase.com
Best American National Parks to Visit With Kids
With so many National Parks to choose from in the United States, how do you know which ones are best suited for a family trip… I asked fellow travellers to share their experiences visiting some of the best national parks with kids.
Glacier National Park contribution by Jody Halsted