Tracey McNamara: Founder of Away to Ireland
What inspired you to create Away to Ireland and did your personal connection to Ireland shape that?
I created Away to Ireland out of my passion for all things Irish. I first visited in 2017 and felt an immediate connection to the landscape, the music and the people. I have returned many times since then and that feeling has never wavered.
I began to help family and friends plan their trips (in between mine) and loved the creative process of producing a unique experience for them.
My father’s ancestors came from County Kerry and I recently returned with my aunts, cousins and sister to visit the areas where they lived, worked and worshipped. That was truly a trip of a lifetime.
Recently we have discovered that my mother’s ancestors came from County Donegal, which I have always found to be a special place. I look forward to uncovering more about our “northern” roots as well!
Can you tell us about your professional background and how it led you to the trip planning business?
My professional background is in nursing. I have been an obstetrical nurse for close to 40 years and I love my job. I love getting to know my patients, and I almost always find a connection to them through friends, family or church. I guess that comes with living in the same town all your life! I work part-time now.
However, I plan to fully retire at the end of this year and devote more time to my business. Getting to know my clients, their interests, goals and dreams for their trip inspires me to create an itinerary as unique as they are.
What would you say are the most common misconceptions about Ireland that you hear from many people who want to visit?
The most common misconception I find with my clients is that they think they can “see it all” in one week. After hearing their initial plans, I always try to help them understand that Ireland is like a fine wine, not a beer! It should be savored slowly so you don’t miss the magic that is Ireland!
Many people dream of visiting Ireland but are often overwhelmed with the process. How do you guide them through it?
I guide my clients by first listening to them. From there, I take some time to ask them questions that give me a better understanding of their expectations and desires for their trip.
In my mind, creating an itinerary is like putting together a puzzle.
We begin by working on their transportation, destinations and accommodations, then the day-to-day activities and tours, and finally I offer them recommendations for pubs and restaurants. I always include a packing list and cost-saving tips as well. I am available up until their trip, and have even been contacted by a few clients during their travels when unforeseen circumstances arose and they needed guidance.
What kinds of clients do you usually help?
My clients vary, from families of up to 15 as well as couples and groups of friends. I love the variety of people I get to work with!
It keeps it interesting and exciting.
Ireland has so much to offer. How do you help clients choose between the iconic sights they often want to put on their itinerary and hidden gems?
We always start with their “must see” list and go from there. If they mention multiple sites that are similar, I may suggest alternatives to provide an interesting mix of experiences.
I mean, how many castles can you see before you say enough?!
I offer suggestions they may not have considered like a falconry or hurling experience. I also encourage them to consider that “less is more” when it comes to Ireland. The magic of the island is usually in the places that aren’t on the list; the ones you discover along the route.
Is incorporating Ireland’s culture, i.e. music, pubs, and history something you try to do when creating itineraries for clients?
I always encourage my clients to absorb as much of the history and culture of the country. From the tragic history of Kilmainham Gaol to the iconic trad music of Doolin, you cannot truly experience Ireland without understanding and embracing its roots.
I have been blessed to partner with some incredible small businesses that offer exceptional experiences like Dublin Heritage Walking Tours and Corbetts Traditional Irish Food Experience. I look forward to expanding this network of people who truly embrace the best of Ireland.
I have also expanded my offerings to include small group tours with an incredible private driver guide that I have worked with for over 5 years.
Do you have a favorite region of Ireland that you recommend to your clients? What influences that choice?
Choosing one region as my favorite is as difficult as choosing a favorite child, but I would say that my two favorite regions would be Connemara and County Donegal.
The rugged, untamed and moody landscapes speak to me more than anywhere else that I’ve been. I’ve always been a fan of the “road less traveled” and this may also be why I am drawn to the west and north.
How far in advance would you suggest that travelers start planning their Ireland trips (whether it’s through you or if they are doing it by themselves)?
I highly advise my clients to start planning at least 6-9 months in advance, if not more. That being said, if someone reaches out closer to their dates, I will do my best to assist that person. The closer they are to their dates, the less options will be available for transportation and accommodations as well as the more popular tourist sites. The price will also be higher closer to their travel dates. The days of being able to “wing it” are gone for the most part, sadly.
How do you see Away to Ireland evolve in the future?
I recently expanded my services to include hosting small group tours twice a year, including a tour for a maximum of 6 people that will take place from Sept. 6-15. In addition, I plan to collaborate with a local Dublin genealogist to create heritage tours similar to the one my family experienced.
If someone expressed being on the fence about visiting Ireland right now, what would you say to that person?
If someone expressed being on the fence about visiting Ireland, I would first ask, why?
The majority of my clients are US based and many have trepidations especially now in our heated political climate. They fear that they will be treated negatively in Ireland. I reassure them that Ireland is the perfect destination due to the warmth and acceptance of the Irish, especially for those traveling abroad for the first time.
Ireland can be a great first country to explore and can open their eyes and minds to more travel in the future!
Where can people find out more about your business?
If someone is interested in a custom itinerary or a small group tour, I would direct them to my website, where they can view my services, complete a contact form, schedule a free consultation and browse my gallery from previous trips to Ireland for some inspiration!
Tracey’s business is based in Maryland. She is a member of the Ireland on a Budget Tour Guide Network.
