Photograph by David G Kelly

Dubliners have become used to the sight of giant blue luxury buses criss-crossing the city. For most, these buses are a welcome sight.

Aircoach, a private company operating special routes to and from Dublin Airport, provides the most comfortable service at the comparatively cheapest prices in the city – and possibly the whole island. For just €7 one way or €12 round-trip, travelers are treated to luxury leather seats, free bag carriage, climate control, and a video introducing Dublin to tourists. Compare this to a €30 one-way taxi from downtown Dublin.

Travelers from Cork and Belfast are also in luck. The Aircoach operates services from both cities at €12 one-way and €18 return.

Children under five travel for free and children between five and 12 years of age travel for just €4. Senior citizens also qualify for discounted fares.

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photograph courtesy of Simon_K

An interactive article on BBC News today lists Northern Ireland as a favorite travel destination for Londoners. It would appear that continuing stability, increasingly interesting cities, and good airlinks are all paving the weekend break way.

Two cities we’re geared up about are Belfast, where C.S. Lewis was born, and Derry, home of the Sperrin Mountains. (We don’t mean to ignore Lisburn and Newry, friends. We don’t have a lot of space here to splash out.)

We hear St. Patrick’s Day in Belfast will be off the hizzle this year. Of less seasonally specific relevance are the mini-packages offered at Derry area hotels. Some of these are of remarkably good value.

And here’s another lucky charm. Patrick Bronte, father of the famous Bronte sisters (Emily, Anne and Charlotte) was born on March 17, 1777. You can visit the original Bronte home in Banbridge by taking a quick jig east of Newry. We wonder if March 17 will see a birthday celebration.

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