Page 367 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Ireland

TR A VEL INFORM A TION  365

On the Road

One of the best ways to see Ireland’s magnificent scenery
and ancient sites is by car. Driving on the narrow, twisting
country roads can be a pleasure; often you don’t see another
vehicle for miles. It can also be frustrating, especially if you
find yourself stuck behind a slow-moving tractor or a herd of
cows. If you don’t want to take your own vehicle, you’ll find car
rental in Ireland no problem. All the international car rental
firms operate in the Republic and are also well represented in
the North. Touring by bicycle is another enjoyable way of Irish-language road sign instructing
seeing the best parts of the island at your own leisurely pace.
motorists to yield or give way
What You Need Petrol
If you intend to take your Unleaded petrol (gas) and diesel
own car across on the ferry fuel are available just about
(see pp362–4) check your car everywhere in Ireland. Although
insurance to find out how well prices vary from station to
you are covered. To prevent a station, fuel in the Republic and
fully comprehensive policy in Northern Ireland is expensive.
being downgraded to third- Almost all the stations accept
party coverage, ask your VISA and MasterCard, although
insurance company for a it is worth checking before filling
Green Card. Carry your insur- up, particularly in rural areas.
ance certificate, Green Card,
proof of ownership of the car Road Maps
and, importantly, your driver’s
licence. If your licence was The road map on the inside
issued in Great Britain, you Rural petrol pump back cover shows virtually all
should also bring your pass - the towns and villages men-
port with you for ID. passenger indemnity insurance tioned in this guide. In addi tion,
Membership of a reputable and coverage for third party, each chapter starts with a map
breakdown club like the AA fire and theft, but not damage of the region showing all the
or Green Flag National to the vehicle. If you plan to major sights and tips on getting
Breakdown is advisable unless cross the border in either around. If you plan to do much
you are undaunted by the direction, however briefly, you driving or cycling, you should
prospect of breaking down in must tell the rental company, obtain a more detailed map.
remote parts. Non-members as there may be a small Ordnance Survey Holiday Maps
can join up for just the duration insurance premium. are among the best road maps.
of their trip. Depending on the To rent a car, you must show a You can usually get town plans
type of coverage, automobile full driver’s licence, held for two free from tourist offices (see
clubs may offer only limited years without violation. US pp350–51). The tourist boards of
services in Ireland. visitors are advised to obtain an the Republic and Northern
international licence through Ireland both issue free lists of
AAA before leaving the States to suggested routes for cyclists.
Car Hire
facilitate dealing with traffic The National Trails Office web-
Car rental firms do good busi- officials should problems occur. site is a good online resource.
ness in Ireland, so in summer
it’s wise to book ahead. Rental –
particularly in the Republic –
is quite expensive and the
best rates are often obtained
by renting in advance. Broker
companies, such as Holiday
Autos, will shop around to get
you the best deal. Savings can
also be made by choosing a fly-
drive or even a rail-sail-drive
vacation, but always check
for hidden extras.
Car rental usually includes
unlimited mileage plus The road signage outside Dublin Airport

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