With St. Patrick’s Day approaching, eyes (Irish and otherwise) are on Ireland as a top travel destination, as well as inspiration for annual green-clad celebrations, here locally. Whether you’re headed to Ireland or staying stateside to celebrate, AAA is “going green” this week with travel planning expertise, events, tips and great deals for a memorable journey to the Emerald Isle and offering celebration suggestions and safety tips for those staying closer to home. 

Destination Ireland

With 35 million people in the United States claiming Irish ancestry, Ireland continues to be a very popular choice for American travelers, regularly rating as one of the top international travel destinations. AAA Travel agents are seeing a strong demand for booking Ireland trips for this spring and summer.

“Ireland is, for good reason, always a favorite place to travel for AAA members,” said Ragina Cooper Averella, Manager of Public and Government Affairs at AAA Mid-Atlantic. “The country provides one of Europe’s best values, is easy to get around, and has authentically Irish cities and hamlets full of friendly people, great food and drink, as well as traditional music to tap your feet to.”

On March 15, AAA will host a free Destination Ireland travel event that will highlight why Ireland is a top travel destination. Attendees will receive travel tips and information, learn about must-see Ireland spots, and have access to exclusive show offers.  AAA Travel experts will be on hand to answer questions and help plan your Emerald Isle trip.

Destination Ireland – Free Travel Events

Local AAA offices

Thursday, March 15

6:00 p.m. (note, some stores are starting at 7:00 p.m.)

Space is limited, call or visit AAA.com/Events  to RSVP for the event nearest you.  Additional information on traveling to Ireland, including top 10 Ireland experiences, travel tips, cruising Ireland, guided vacations and where to stay can be found at AAA.com/Ireland.

If you are staying stateside to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, AAA Mid-Atlantic says don’t press your luck or the gas pedal if you’ve been drinking.

“Whether you will be gathering with friends at a house party or on a pub crawl at a downtown location, if alcohol is part of the festivities, make sure you designate a sober driver, call a taxi, use a ride share service, or take public transportation to ensure you get you home safely,” advises Averella.  “This year the potential for crashes is greater with the holiday falling on a Saturday, and the day-long college basketball tournament on TV, which is often an alcohol-involved pastime.”

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