AboutDavid Walsh Expertise As something of a transport expert, I have a darn good understanding of Irish transport
issue, both the good and the bad. I have travelled all over Ireland and I have been in every
county at least once. A lifelong resident of Dublin, I am a Dublin Taxi Driver so I know my
way around the city very well and all sorts of interesting nuggets. I also write quizzes so I
know a bit about everything, so to speak, including some of the quirky stuff! If it's about
Dublin, I'll be stuck not to know something about it; pubs, sights, history, stories and
more!
I am also a DJ with vast amounts of expertise in the industry, I am a quailfied rugby referee and have watched soccer for some 20+ years in Ireland,
Experience I have been working as a taxi driver for some years now; I am also interested in transport and current affairs and I know something about everything.
Education/Credentials I have an Irish Leaving Certificate; I also undertook the first year of a H Dip in Radio with Journalism, so it goes without saying that my communication skills are up there.
I am a DJ and have a good base in music.
I am a qualified rugby referee.
I would like to buy a first class rail pass for unlimited trips throughout Ireland for 6 days. I have done some checking on the Internet but am confused. Is there a rail that services entire country of Ireland? Or do I have to buy a separate pass for Northern and Southern Ireland?
Thank you
Answer Hi Kirsten,
There is two train companies operating within Ireland; Irish Rail in the South and NIR/Translink in the North. Both companies operate a Dublin-Belfast service. NIR services are commuter only so there isn't any first class accommodation except on Dublin-Belfast services; personally speaking first class isn't worth the excess but if you wish you can upgrade on the day on Irish Rail services.
The best value train ticket to suit you is probably the new Irish Rail Trekker ticket. It cost €100 and allows you 4 days unlimited train travel in standard class on Irish Rail trains and it cover you to and from Belfast. Interrail tickets will also cover you for the same journeys but they are somewhat dearer although they offer a 6 day ticket. Interrail is only available to certain European citizens; check their website for details.
Some Irish Rail tickets are available online with heavily discounted rates so it may work out cheaper for you to book some tickets this way; you will also get a reserved seat at no extra cost.
I hope this helps; feel free to ask me more if you need to.
