but dusk begins to fall at 4:00 p.m. in the winter months. For first-time visitors, the best times to go are mid-April to mid-October.

2. What should you take with you to Ireland?
As the departure day approaches, try to pack as lightly as possible. Rental cars in Ireland are not big (even the station wagons) and four golfers sharing one car will have problems if they have brought more than one suitcase and a medium-sized golf bag each. Having said that, there are certain essentials. The first is a reliably waterproof rainsuit and either one pair of comfortable, completely waterproof golf shoes or a second pair to wear when the first becomes waterlogged. On the windy links courses, umbrellas are more often than not a nuisance. Two or three all-weather golf gloves will be useful. Bring one wool and one cotton sweater, and one cotton turtleneck shirt - even in July. A sports jacket and tie is required apparel in certain parts of some clubhouses, and worn more frequently than in North American clubs. Finally, bring enough golf balls to see you through your trip, and lots of wooden tees and pencils. The latter will not always be available.

3. About Tee-times
Tee times, at least for the "championship" courses, should be arranged in advance. This is particularly true if you are planning to travel between June and September, when demand is at its greatest. Courses to which we would recommend reserving well in advance for starting times in the summer months are Waterville , Killarney, Ballybunion, Lahinch, Rosses Point , Royal Portrush, Portstewart, Royal County Down, Baltray, Portmarnock, Royal Dublin and The Island. Remember that a green fee in Ireland is often payment for a day's play, not just one round. Be sure to specify if you wish to play one round or two and request tee-off times for both rounds if you are going thirty-six. If you are, be sure to leave yourself enough time for lunch -- Irish clubs will often estimate a pace of play that is quite brisk. If you plan to hire a caddie, this should also be specified to the club in advance. Some Irish clubs require a letter of introduction (from your home club) and/or a handicap certificate. You may never be asked to produce either of these items, but carry one along just to be on the safe side.

4. Hiring Caddies, Buggies, Clubs
If you plan to hire a caddie, a buggy (golf cart) or clubs this should also be specified to us in advance and we will make every effort to facilitate your request. However, it should be noted that many clubs only provide buggies to golfers who require them for medical reasons. Golf clubs, while usually available for hire may not be of the highest standard and it is recommended that golfers bring their own set.

5. Handicap Certificates
Some Irish clubs require a letter of introduction (from your home club) and/or a handicap certificate and even though they rarely ask for them it is best to bring one along just to be on the safe side.