Fodor's newest travel series is designed for travelers who want to travel well and spend less. With candid reviews and a fresh outlook, Fodor's upCLOSE points the way to authentic experiences that will take travelers away from the crowds and close to the culture -- without having to spend a fortune.Fodor's upCLOSE Ireland is smart, fun, and informative. It gives you quirky, never-obvious facts about major sights, as well as the lowdown on the minor ones. It's in-the-know about what's going on. It reveals the essence of the Emerald Isle and helps you get the most Ireland for your travel dollar. In short, it's the best of all possible travel companions.All the places to go, from Doolin to DonegalCastles and gardens, crumbling abbeys, and prehistoric ruins What to do on Bloomsday, Glendalough, by moonlight Mountain walks and lough-side biking Where Yeats roamed and roistered Shopping for crystal, lace, sweaters, and funky fashionTell-all reviews of small hotels and cozy B&BsWhere to stay that's charming (and doesn't cost an arm and a leg) Fluffy-quilted hostels with sea views and snug kitchens Lace-curtain guest houses and Georgian town-house B&Bs (and which ones serve the tastiest bacon and brown bread in the AM)The buzz on restaurants, pubs, and musicPerfect pints and brainy chitchat: the best pubs in every town Where to find jazz and jukeboxes, hip-hop and traditional music Tea shops and cybercafés, best bets for sandwiches and pizza, fish-and-chippers and beyondPractical info, great mapsAirfare deals and how to get around Tips on traveling smart and losing the crowds Clear, easy-to-read maps