An Irish Journey Woolens, Linens and Lace Plus historic sites and

An Irish Journey
Woolens, Linens and Lace
Plus historic sites and gorgeous scenery!
A tour to inspire a quilter's creativity!
September 16—30, 2016
Limited to 22 participants
We're going GREEN! We've planned a tour to Ireland and Northern Ireland with fun and new adventures every day! As we travel in this beautiful country and learn about Irish culture and history, we will
visit many tourist sights, including Woolen Mills, a
Lace Museum and a Linen Museum. We'll have to
look hard to find leprechauns, pots of gold and
lucky four-leaf clovers.
We meet in Dublin, where the tour begins, and
spend time in the two capitol cities: Dublin and Belfast. In Dublin we visit St. Patrick's Cathedral, Trinity College and Dublin Castle. We then head north,
crossing the border into Northern Ireland for visits
in and around Belfast, including the new Titanic
Belfast, the Irish Linen Center and the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, the Giant’s Causeway and northern coast.
With our coach and driver, we head south back to the Republic of Ireland. In the next days we visit a few museums
and castles (with a chance to kiss the Blarney Stone), along with woolen mills and the Avoca Handweavers Centre.
We have planned beautiful coastline drives taking us along the Ring of Kerry and the Cliffs of Moher. Photo ops and
more photo ops each and every day!
Crossing the midlands, we return to Dublin and spend some free time before our final dinner together. The following
day, our adventures come to an end. With a suitcase filled with souvenirs and memories, it is slán to Ireland.
We have given careful thought and attention to details, as we planned the visits and activities on this year's itinerary.
Since the first tour in 1995, we have worked diligently to offer you the best possible experience. Jeanne Mills and
Suzanne Cox are seasoned travelers, who love new adventures. Join us for an exciting fun-filled trip.
Come, be inspired as you travel with friends, quilters and others,
who love travel adventures and want to learn about the culture and history of Ireland.
September 16—30, 2016
Tour cost is $3900 per person, double occupancy in a twin room.
A few single rooms are available; single room supplement is $700.
Look closely at our itinerary and tour details. Print the brochure and share the itinerary and details with friends.
We encourage you to sign up now; space is limited. Please contact us with your questions.
Itinerary for the September 16-30, 2016 Tour to Ireland
Friday, September 16—Flying day
The journey begins! From the airport closest to your home, take your overnight flight to
Dublin, where the group meets and the tour starts. Since our nearest airport is SFO, Suzanne Cox and I may take a direct flight to Dublin on Aer Lingus. If you need help with
your flights, check with quilter/travel agent Suzanne. Her phone # is 707-864-1385.
Saturday, September 17—Day 1, ARRIVE IN DUBLIN (D)
Welcome to Ireland! After clearing customs and collecting your bags, make your own
way to our Dublin hotel. Please keep in mind that check-in at Dublin hotels is normally
2:00 pm. The hotel will try to accommodate earlier arrivals, but this is not guaranteed.
The remainder of your day is free to explore. This evening get to know your traveling
companions while enjoying a Welcome Dinner (D) in our hotel.
Sunday, September 18—Day 2, DUBLIN (B)
This morning after breakfast (B), meet with your professional Irish driver/guide, who will take care of us for the during
our journey. Our first stop will be for a guided visit of St. Patrick's Cathedral. Built in honor of Ireland's patron saint,
the Cathedral stands adjacent to the famous well, where tradition has it that St. Patrick baptized converts on his visit to
Dublin. Next, we have a guided visit through parts of Dublin Castle, which was the seat of power and government for
many centuries, and today plays a leading role in European Union activities. We then travel a short distance to walk the
courtyards of Trinity College, to its library and world treasure, the 8th century Book of Kells.
This evening, we immerse ourselves in Dublin's rich literary heritage on a literary pub crawl through Dublin. This
walking tour is a wonderful introduction to Dublin's literary past and exciting pub culture. We'll embark on an animated and entertaining journey through the sights and sounds that inspired great Irish writers including James Joyce,
George Bernard Shaw, Brendan Behan, Sean O'Casey, Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde and W.B. Yeats - not forgetting
modern scribes like Seamus Heaney, Eavan Boland, Paula Meehan and Brendan Kennelly. Dinner on your own.
Monday, September 19—Day 3, DUBLIN / BELFAST / TITANIC (B)
After breakfast and with suitcases packed, we head north towards Belfast.
On arrival we are joined by a local guide for a panoramic living history
city tour of Belfast. Afterwards, we visit the newly opened Titanic Belfast. It is located in the heart of the city, on the slipways where RMS Titanic was built. We will relive the entire Titanic story from her birth in Belfast to the fateful maiden voyage and her eventual discovery on the seabed.
The remainder of the afternoon and evening are free.
Tuesday, September 20—Day 4, BELFAST / LISBURN / HOLYWOOD / BELFAST (B)
Our first stop today is for a guided visit of the Irish Linen Centre &
Lisburn Museum. The Museum aims to collect, safeguard and interpret
artifacts and information relating to the Irish linen industry and the history of the Lagan Valley. We explore Ireland's
industrial heritage in the Museum's award-winning exhibition, "Flax to Fabric; The Story of Irish Linen". We trace the
history of linen production in Ulster, from the earliest times to the present, and see live spinning and weaving demonstrations. The Irish Linen Center & Lisburn Museum's galleries also feature a range of temporary and visiting exhibitions, featuring the history of Lisburn, and its people; local artists, from Blackshaw to McCloy, textile and linen display, local poets, writers and personalities.
We then visit the Ulster Folk & Transportation Museum. We'll be immersed in the world-famous story of Irish emigration, which the museum brings to life. Following the emigrant trail, we'll journey from the thatched cottages of Ulster, on board a full scale emigrant sailing ship leading to the log cabins of the American Frontier. We'll meet an array
of costumed characters with traditional crafts to show, tales to tell and food to share. After returning to the hotel, the
remainder of the afternoon and evening are free.
Wednesday, September 21— Day 5, BELFAST / GIANT'S
CAUSEWAY / BUSHMILLS / BELFAST (B/D)
After breakfast, we journey to the Giant’s Causeway, taking in
the natural beauty of the northern coast. As we walk around, we
can admire the hexagonal rock columns and gaze out at the
crashing waves along the dramatic coastline. Afterwards, we
travel to Bushmills to visit the Old Bushmills Distillery, Ireland's oldest working distillery. The Bushmills Brand Experience encompasses guided tours around a working distillery with
all the associated sights and smells, tutored whiskey tastings, a
specialist whiskey shop and a well-stocked gift shop with exclusive Bushmills merchandise. After the tour, we will be offered a whiskey or soft drink in the 1608 Bar. We return to
Belfast and dine as a group in our hotel.
Thursday, September 22—Day 6, BELFAST / AVOCA / MACREDDIN VILLAGE (B/D)
After breakfast and with bags stowed in the bus, we leave Belfast and travel south towards County Wicklow. We are
stop to visit one of the oldest castles in Ireland, Malahide Castle. Set on 200 acres, this magnificent and historic 12th
century castle has been home to the Talbot family for over 800 years. Then, it’s on to visit the birthplace of the
"Avoca experience", and the origin of the company's name, Avoca Handweavers. We visit the Visitor Centre which
tells the story of its beginnings in 1723. Next we tour the Mill, where we meet the weavers at work. Built on the
banks of the Avoca River, from where it used to draw its power, Avoca is said to be the oldest extant manufacturer in
Ireland and, indeed, one of the world's oldest. Afterwards, we drive through the scenic Wicklow countryside as we
make our way to Macreddin Village and dinner at the hotel.
Friday, September 23— Day 7, MACREDDIN VILLAGE / NEW ROSS /KILKENNY (B)
After breakfast and stowing our bags in our bus, our first stop is a visit of the Ros Tapestry. The Ros Tapestry Project is a massive community initiative in progress in the County of Wexford. Conceived in 1998 the tapestry is being
developed by over 150 dedicated volunteers. The fifteen embroidered panels, 6 feet by 4 feet each, depict events
around the Anglo-Norman arrival in the South East of Ireland, specifically the founding of the town of New Ross,
County Wexford, by William Marshal and Isabel de Clare.
Our next stop is a visit to the Cushendale Woollen Mills, and then it’s on to Kilkenny, undoubtedly Ireland's loveliest inland city.
Saturday, September 24—Day 8, KILKENNY (B/D)
Just a few kilometers away, we head to Stoneyford for a visit of the Jerpoint Glass Studio, an Irish handmade glass
company and a true family business. Established in 1979 by Keith and Kathleen Leadbetter and their small team of
glass blowers, they have built Jerpoint into an internationally recognized name. From the viewing area at the glass
studio, we will see the skilled glassblowers perform their magic as they turn flowing red-hot molten glass into the
beautiful Jerpoint shapes, right before our eyes.
After our visit, we return to Kilkenny to enjoy a guided visit of Kilkenny Castle, built in the 13th century and, for
almost 600 years, home to the powerful Butler family. Afterwards, explore Kilkenny on your own. In medieval times
this was a prosperous trading center and the narrow streets still follow ancient routes. This evening we have a group
dinner in our hotel.
Sunday, September 25—Day 9, KILKENNY / CASHEL / BLARNEY / KILLARNEY (B)
It's luggage packed and back on the coach after breakfast. We travel south towards County Kerry, pausing for a guided visit of the Rock of Cashel. This is a
spectacular group of medieval buildings set on an outcrop of limestone in the
Golden Vale, including the 12th century round tower, High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, 13th century Gothic cathedral, 15th century Castle and the restored Hall of the Vicars Choral.
Next, we travel south to Blarney Castle with its magical stone that gives the gift
of eloquence, some say gab, for a kiss. We will have time to explore and shop in
Blarney Woollen Mills, too! Afterwards, we continue on to Killarney, our base
for the next three nights.
Monday, September 26—Day 10, KILLARNEY NATIONAL PARK (B)
Today, after breakfast, we visit Killarney National Park, Ireland's oldest
National Park. It includes the world famous Lakes of Killarney, as well as
the mountains and woodlands that surround them. We'll take a short cruise
on Killarney's largest and most picturesque lake, Lough Leane. We set sail
from the 15th century Ross Castle, taking in the amazing scenery and heritage attractions including O'Sullivan Cascade and the monastic ruins of
Inishfallen Island.
Next we visit Muckross House, a magnificent Victorian mansion and one
of Ireland's leading stately homes. The elegantly furnished rooms portray
the lifestyle of the landed gentry, while downstairs in the basement, one
can experience the working conditions of the servants employed in the
House. The Gardens at Muckross House are renowned world-wide for
their beauty. Though the azaleas and rhododendrons will not be in blooming season, we can appreciate the extensive
water garden and an outstanding rock garden, hewn out of natural limestone.
Tuesday, September 27—Day 11, THE RING OF KERRY (B)
We will travel the road that winds around the beautiful Iveragh Peninsula, better known as the Ring of Kerry. It is
undoubtedly one of the most magical places in all Ireland. Here mountains, valleys, lakes and sea blend into a landscape that is often breathtaking beyond words. A number of stops will allow us to marvel at the spectacular scenery,
walk around the colorful village of Sneem and pause at Moll's Gap for amazing views of the Lakes of Killarney. This
afternoon we head to Kenmare for our visit to the Kenmare Lace Museum. Time permitting, we will have some
free time in Kenmare.
Wednesday, September 28—Day 12, KILLARNEY / ADARE / CLIFFS OF MOHER / GALWAY (B)
Pack your bags! We leave Killarney and head north towards Galway today. We pause in Adare, a designated Heritage Town, and one of the prettiest and friendliest villages in Ireland. Then, on to the majestic Cliffs of
Moher, rising 700 feet above the pounding Atlantic waves and stretching
5 miles along the cost of County Clare in the west of Ireland. From the
cliffs on a clear day, one can see the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.
O'Brien's Tower stands near the highest point and has served as a viewing
point for visitors for hundreds of years.
Afterwards, we travel through the Burren and on to Galway, where we
will enjoy a panoramic tour before checking in to our centrally located
hotel. You are free to explore Galway this evening.
Thursday September 29— Day 13, GALWAY / DUBLIN (B/D)
This morning we leave Galway and make our way across the midland and return to Dublin. We will check into the
same hotel, where we began our tour. There will be plenty of free time to explore or catch up on some last minute
shopping. This evening we leave the hotel and travel to the base of the Dublin Mountains for a final evening of food
and traditional entertainment in Taylor's Three Rock Pub.
Friday, September 30 —Day 14, DUBLIN / USA (B)
One last time, pack your bags and gather up your memories and souvenirs. It’s time to head back home, unless.....
If you are interested in spending a day in Dublin a day before the tour begins, or would like to stay in your hotel room
for an extra day at the end of the tour, please contact Jeanne as soon as possible. [email protected]
September 16-30, 2016, An Irish Journey
Trip Details and Registration
The price of the tour includes the following:
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Cancellation Fees and Refund Policy
Notice of cancellation must be in writing.
13 nights in 4-star hotels
All breakfasts, 5 dinners
Land travel by private coach
Admission to all museums
Private guided visits in museums
Guide and driver gratuities
Extensive pre-trip preparation
Porterage of one suitcase per person
 Initial deposit (A) of $400 is non-refundable.
 If you cancel on or before May 1, 2016, you will
get 90% back of your March 1, 2016 payment (B).
 If you cancel on or before June 15, 2016, you will
get a refund of 50% of your tour payments (B+C).
 If you cancel after June 15, 2016, there is no re-
Not included in the cost of the tour:
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Air fare & transfers between airports and
hotels (arrival & departure)
Lunches & dinners not included in itinerary
Beverages for included meals
Optional activities, admissions, etc.
Travel and trip cancellation insurance
Personal expenses
Cost of the tour per person is $3900 (double occupancy in twin room).
A minimum of 18 participants is needed to proceed
with the tour at this price. Your deposit will be fully
refunded if the minimum is not met. To register for
the tour, print out the registration form from the last
page of the brochure, and mail it with your $400 deposit to Jeanne. Please make checks payable to
Jeanne Mills.
A few single rooms are available. Contact Jeanne for
details. Cost of the single room supplement is $700.
fund.
Trip cancellation insurance and health insurance
are strongly advised, so that you will be protected if
you find it necessary to cancel the tour or return home
early. We will mail you an insurance brochure so you
can be informed.
We cannot be held responsible for changes in the itinerary that result from actions taken by our suppliers, the
weather or world conditions. In good faith we will
make the best possible alternative plans.
Tour details are subject to change based on size and
energy of the group, as well as new exhibits and ideas
coming to light.
If you would like to arrive at our hotel in Dublin prior
to the start of the tour or remain at the end of the tour,
contact Jeanne. Cost per night per person:
Sharing a twin room + breakfast is $122 per night.
Single room + breakfast is $184 per night.
Payment Schedule
Payment A. Non refundable deposit due with registration
Payment B. March 1, 2016
Payment C. May 1, 2016
Add single supplement
Add hotel+breakfast per extra night in Dublin: $122 or $184)
$ 400
1750
1750
700
See cost details above or on registration page
I am unable to accept credit cards.
Need help with your air tickets and/or your travel insurance? Our quilter/
travel agent, Suzanne Cox, will be happy to help you with your these.
707-864-1385
[email protected]
Meet the Tour Organizers and Leaders
Since 1995, Jeanne Mills has been organizing and leading annual art and textile tours, visiting places
that quilters, textile buffs, inveterate travelers and those looking for inspiration, will enjoy. Jeanne is
an experienced European traveler, who has spent many years living and traveling in France. She is
co-founder and past president of the Monterey Peninsula Quilters Guild and works part time at Back
Porch Fabrics quilt shop in Pacific Grove, California.
Jeanne Mills
Suzanne Cox, is a quilter, inveterate traveler and travel agent, and, since its founding over 30 years
ago, a partner in Empty Spools Quilting Seminars. During five sessions each spring, Empty Spools
Seminars brings nationally and internationally known quilt teachers to Pacific Grove’s Asilomar
Conference Grounds.
In spite of our love of France, in 2016 we are excited by our plans to visit Ireland. Jeanne Mills Tours
is not affiliated with any tour group. We have been counseled by Marc Kavanagh of Journeys
Connect, which will provide our coach and guide.
Suzanne Cox
Our objective is to provide travelers with opportunities to discover and take home creative ideas for their future artistic endeavors. We have planned the itinerary to include textile, artistic and cultural activities, which we believe will
interest all travelers.
We reserve the right to make changes in the daily activities according to the needs and energy level of the group, the
weather and new museum exhibits, ideas, suggestions and information coming to our attention.
Please note: Due to limited capacity on the coach, there is a limit of one suitcase per passenger, plus one small piece
of hand luggage, which might be stored inside the coach. When offered by the hotels, porterage for your larger piece
of luggage is included.
You must be able to keep up with the pace of the group. Participants must be in good physical health to participate in
this moderately strenuous tour. There will be much walking, sometimes uphill; we may climb and descend many steps
and navigate cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces. In Dublin and Belfast, we will be on our feet all day long.
Please check with your doctor if you have specific health concerns, and contact Jeanne if you would like further information regarding the pace of the excursion ([email protected]).
Starting in March you will receive monthly electronic newsletters, filled with descriptions of the cities, towns and villages, as well as museums, monuments and places of interest on our itinerary. Included will be suggestions for packing and pre-trip reading. Before the tour begins the group will be invited to meet in Pacific Grove for an introduction
to us and each other, and for an overview of the tour’s destinations and activities. This is a chance to have your questions answered and to share your ideas and specific interests. Jeanne is always available to chat by phone, 831-6478973, or email to answer your questions. (P.S. I do not “text”.)
Friends and family members are welcome. On this tour, matching up those who would like a roommate may not be
possible. Please consider coming with a roommate, or taking a single room.
As you experience Irish culture, there will be time to browse in the shops, discover a treasure, find the right moment
for a photo, make a sketch, meet the locals and spend time with other travelers on the tour. A myriad of new ideas and
adventures will be yours to take home.
For a fabulous journey and memories to last a lifetime come, travel with us!
September 2016, Journey to Ireland Tour
Registration Form
Sign me up for the September 16—30, 2016 tour to Ireland.
Name:
(as it appears on your passport)
Address:
City, State, Zip:
Home Phone #
Cell #:
Email address:
I will be sharing a room with:
I would like a single supplement, if available.
Extra nights in Dublin? Before tour begins? ___________ At end of tour?_______________
(Cost per night per person: sharing a twin room is $122 per night; a single room is $184.)
Any disabilities or health problems we should be aware of?
Name & phone number of emergency contact:
Signature:
Date:
Please send me this registration form with a check for $400 (your non-refundable deposit).
If you are interested in travel insurance,
please contact Jeanne before sending in your deposit check.
831-647-8973
Make check payable to Jeanne Mills and mail to:
Jeanne Mills, P.O. Box 51143, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
831-647-8973
Sorry, we are unable to accept credit cards.