Our Guide to Ireland
A Full Route & Some Simple Tips
This week on One Slice at a Time, we’re giving a full, honest look at Ireland. We break down the route we use for our own clients, and share the stops that stand out.
Start in Dublin… but don’t stay yet
We both plan Ireland the same way: land in Dublin, pick up the car, and head west. Do Dublin at the end when you’re already close to the airport.
No wasted time. No backtracking.
The Ring of Kerry: slow, steady, and worth two days
The Ring of Kerry works best when you give it space. Two days is ideal.
A few simple rules help:
Start early
Go clockwise
Expect tight roads and cliff edges
Give yourself time for pull-offs
Where to stay:
Kenmare the first night, then loop through the ring and stop in Portmagee before swinging back toward Killarney.
If you like films:
Skellig Michael sits right off the coast and is where Luke Skywalker hid out. If the seas allow, you can visit by boat.
The quiet cliffs that beat the crowds
Most folks go straight to the Cliffs of Moher. They’re great, but there’s a small cliff line near Portmagee that gives you clear views with far fewer people. On a clear day it hits just as hard.
A rare thing happened when Ryan visited:
He saw a full rainbow from end to end. The whole curve. That doesn’t happen often.
The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher
On the drive north, the Burren feels like you’ve landed on another planet — rock, wide views, and long silence.
Then there’s the Cliffs of Moher. You can stay near the visitor center, or you can drive to quieter pull-offs and take a short walk to the edge.
If the water isn’t rough, the boat trips below the cliffs are steady and give you a good sense of scale.
Doolin: the small town with the loudest music
Doolin is tiny and known for live music.
Every trip, Ryan ends up at Gus O’Connor’s Pub more times than he’d admit. Pints, music, warm food, and a room full of people who never seem ready to go home.
You can also take ferries from here to the Aran Islands. The slower pace there feels like stepping back in time.
Galway: food, shops, and a killer pizza stop
Galway is a quick switch back to busy streets, music on every corner, and late nights.
Stay in Eyre Square if you can. The Hardiman is a classic spot with a piano in the lobby and small rooms that work fine for a short stay.
If you love food:
Do not skip Dough Bros. Yes, it’s pizza in Ireland. Yes, it’s that good.
Cork, Kinsale, and Cobh
Cork is packed with food stalls and local flavors.
Right outside town, whiskey lovers can tour the Jameson Middleton distillery, which is totally different from the Dublin one.
From there, head south toward Kinsale or Cobh.
Kinsale has bold seafood and a ghost tour that leans into the fun.
Cobh is known for its link to the Titanic and has solid walking tours.
End in Dublin for the smoothest flight home
Here’s the part most folks don’t know:
If you’re flying back to the U.S. from Dublin, you clear customs in Dublin before boarding. When you land at home, you walk straight out like you took a domestic flight.
Because of that, you need at least three hours at the airport.
While in Dublin, don’t skip:
Trinity College and the Book of Kells
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Temple Bar
The Guinness Storehouse (the view from the top floor bar alone is worth it)
Simple ways to do this trip
You can tackle Ireland four ways:
A bus tour
A private driver
Small groups
Driving yourself
Most visitors do fine behind the wheel, but remember: other side of the car, other side of the road.
Want help planning Ireland?
This is one of the trips we plan all the time.
If you want someone to set up the route, book the towns, handle the details, and talk through the pace, reach out anytime.
Travel Destinations We’d Do Again… and the Ones We Wouldn’t
A real talk episode on dream trips, Disney favorites, and the places that didn’t deliver.
In this week’s episode, Stephanie and Ryan break down the trips that hit the mark — and the ones that didn’t.
We’re covering high points like Tahiti and Belize, the trips that stay in our regular rotation (Disney Cruise Line and Disney World), and the places we don’t plan to go back to.
You’ll also hear Ryan’s latest Crusty Review from Dublin, featuring a black pizza crust that shocked both of us.
If you’re planning your next trip, this episode gives you simple, honest insight into what’s worth your time and money.
Our Top Picks for Weekend Getaways
That Feel Like a Whole Pie
If you need a vacation but only have a weekend, then this is the episode for you!
This week's episode focuses on weekend trips that give you the chance to reset without needing a full week away. We talk about three cities that are easy to reach and fun to explore in just a few days: Montreal, Charleston, and San Diego. We also share how to make Disneyland or Disney World work as a short visit and which weekend cruises make the most sense. If you’re looking for a quick couples trip, we also talk about Sandals Royal Bahamian — a simple, no-stress beach stay with its own private island.
If you want help planning one of these trips, send us a message or schedule a call. We plan these trips every day, and we can make the details simple so you can actually relax.
Giving the Gift of Travel
3 Christmas Trips for the Whole Family
Skip the crowded stores and give your family something better this year—the gift of travel.
On the latest One Slice at a Time episode, Stephanie and Ryan share three trips that make the perfect present: European Christmas markets, a Disney Cruise or Adventures by Disney, and a Caribbean all-inclusive escape. Each one delivers memories that last longer than any gadget. Mekong River (Cambodia & Vietnam)
This trip centers on daily life along the water — floating markets, bright colors, warm hospitality, and deep cultural traditions. It’s a calm way to experience a part of the world that can feel intense if you try to do it on your own.
European Christmas Markets — Vienna, Budapest, and Nuremberg with river cruise magic
Disney Cruise Line or Adventures byDisney — effortless, multi-generational fun
Caribbean All-Inclusive Getaway — Beaches Turks & Caicos or Negril
Crusty Review: Giordano’s Deep Dish in Orlando
Pro Tip: “Christmas in July” — double the fun, half the stress
Ready to give the gift of travel? Send us a message on our contact page or email bookings@oneslicepod.com
Beyond Europe: Four River Cruise that will Surprise You
When most people think of river cruises, they picture Europe.
But other river trips offer a strong cultural connection, history, and a slower pace that feels personal. In this week’s episode of One Slice at a Time, we talk about four of them.
Mekong River (Cambodia & Vietnam)
This trip centers on daily life along the water — floating markets, bright colors, warm hospitality, and deep cultural traditions. It’s a calm way to experience a part of the world that can feel intense if you try to do it on your own.
Nile River (Egypt)
This trip brings you close to history, with guided support the entire way. You see major sites in Cairo, sail the Nile, and visit ancient temples and villages with local experts who help the experience feel grounded and informed.
Magdalena River (Colombia)
This is the most lively and expressive of the four: music, food, movement, performance, and strong cultural identity. It’s still early in tourism's development, which makes the experience feel closer and more personal.
Columbia & Snake Rivers (Pacific Northwest, USA)
For travelers who want to stay closer to home, this trip offers big landscapes, local wine, and American history in a slow, relaxed format.
If one of these trips sounds like something you’d want to talk through, reach out. We plan these personally and can match you with the style and pace that feels right for you.
Iceland
by Land and Sea
Stephanie planned the Ring Road. Ryan cruised the fjords. Which Iceland trip wins?
In this frosty slice of One Slice at a Time, Stephanie and Ryan debate the best way to experience Iceland. From puffin spotting and glacial rivers to black sand beaches and hot springs, they break down both styles—cruise versus road trip—so you can pick your perfect Iceland adventure.
Myth Busters
The Worst Travel Advice We’ve Ever Heard
In this episode of One Slice at a Time, Stephanie and Ryan expose the worst travel advice they’ve ever been given — and why following it can ruin your trip faster than cold pizza.
They break down bad tips like “wait for last-minute deals,” “just wing it,” and “never check a bag,” sharing what travelers should actually do instead.
Whether you’re planning your first big trip or your fiftieth, this episode serves up practical insight with a side of pepperoni-flavored humor.
Beyond the Mouse: Disney for Adults
Exclusive Itineraries, VIP Tours & Fine Dining
When most people think “Disney vacation,” they picture kids, character meet-and-greets, and family rides. But Disney has a whole side designed for adults that goes far beyond day drinking in Epcot.
In this week’s One Slice at a Time podcast, we explore:
Adventures by Disney Adult-Only Trips – Think private after-hours tours of the Sistine Chapel, wine tastings, and VIP access across Europe and Japan.
VIP Tours in the Parks – Skip the lines, explore hidden areas, and enjoy a stress-free park day with celebrity treatment.
Upscale Dining & Lounges – From Michelin-starred Victoria & Albert’s to the new Geo 82 lounge in Epcot, Disney offers culinary experiences perfect for grown-ups.
The Disney magic doesn’t fade when you grow up—it just gets more polished. Whether you want a global guided adventure or a more refined park visit, Disney delivers.
The Best Destination Weddings
Stress-Free, Affordable and Unforgettable
Planning a wedding at home can quickly spiral into tens of thousands of dollars — and stress. At Sandals and Beaches Resorts, couples can say “I do” with the sand between their toes, gourmet dining at their reception, and their honeymoon already included.
Here’s why we love Sandals weddings:
Cost Savings: Packages start around $7,500 and go up to $14,000 for larger groups, compared to $30–40K just for a venue at home.
Flexibility: Adults-only Sandals Resorts and family-friendly Beaches Resorts mean you can include (or exclude!) kids easily.
Built-In Honeymoon: Breakfast in bed, candlelit dinners, and the option to hop to another resort for extra romance.
Unforgettable Guest Experience: Your family and friends aren’t just at your wedding — they’re on vacation.
And if you’re not in the wedding phase? Sandals also offers vow renewals and anniversary celebrations that are just as memorable.
Cruising in Alaska
Wildlife, Glaciers and Questionable Pizza Toppings
Alaska’s short cruise season packs a big punch: glaciers, wildlife, and once-in-a-lifetime excursions. Stephanie and Ryan share their best tips for making the most of your Alaska sailing.
This week on One Slice at a Time, we’re heading north! Alaska cruises are unlike any other — from breakfast on your balcony while glaciers glide past to excursions like dog sledding and the White Pass Railway.
We break down the top cruise lines for families, couples, and luxury travelers, plus why booking excursions early is the smartest move you can make. And don’t miss Ryan’s Crusty Review — this time, it’s all about pizza ovens at home.
Top Travel Tips
Save Time, Money & Stress
Travel doesn’t have to be stressful-
especially when you’ve got a slice of wisdom on your side. In this episode, Stephanie and Ryan share their 10 best travel hacks for families, frequent flyers, and first-time adventurers alike.
From TSA PreCheck vs Global Entry to Ziploc outfit hacks, grocery delivery, private transfers, and even travel insurance, you’ll learn how to skip the stress and focus on making memories.
🍕 This week’s Crusty Review? Airport pizza. Spoiler alert: it’s not winning any awards.
Cruising for Good
How to Raise Dough on the High Seas
Ready to do good while having a great vacation?
Planning a vacation can do more than create memories—it can make a difference. In this week’s episode of One Slice at a Time, Stephanie and Ryan talk about how nonprofit groups can use cruises as a powerful fundraising tool.
From weekend sailings out of Florida, New York, or Galveston, to short cruises from Los Angeles, charities can raise money while supporters enjoy a vacation together. Every cabin booked sends funds back to the cause—just like a 5K or golf tournament, but with sunshine, ocean views, and built-in fun.
The episode also highlights Folds of Honor, a nonprofit that provides scholarships to the children and spouses of America’s fallen or disabled service members and first responders. It’s a reminder that travel can be more than an escape—it can give back.
Listen now to learn how your favorite charity could plan a fundraising cruise, and why this is one of the most unique ways to raise support while bringing communities closer together.
👉 Ready to explore fundraising at sea? Contact Stephanie and Ryan at Creating Magic Vacations to start planning your group cruise today.
Last Minute Spring Break Ideas
With and Without the Kids
Think you missed the chance to plan spring break? Not so fast.
In this episode, Stephanie and Ryan share last-minute spring break trips you can still book that balance fun, relaxation, and luxury. Whether it’s traveling with the kids or sneaking away adults-only style, you’ll walk away with real ideas you can actually put on the calendar.
Highlights:
👨👩👧 Family-friendly: Private catamarans, Spain getaways, luxury ranches
🍹 Adults-only: Tahiti cruises, Disneyland Paris, Sandals Royal Bahamian
🍕 Ryan’s Crusty Review: Barcelona pizza that scored eight out of eight
Disney at Christmas
How to Plan the Most Magical Holiday Trip
Peppermint churros, Very Merrytime cruises, and snow on Main Street—it must be Disney during the holidays!
In this episode, Stephanie and Ryan break down everything from Disneyland’s festive overlays to Disney World’s after-hours parties and those famous gingerbread resorts.
Meltvin gets his moments to shine, leading us into the Crusty Review and reminding you that Stephanie and Ryan are your go-to for holiday Disney planning. Whether you’re dreaming of a December cruise, a California getaway, or a Christmas week at Disney World, this slice is full of tips, laughs, and holiday spirit.
👉 Share the episode with friends, subscribe, and leave a review—we’d love to hear what slice of Disney you’re biting into next!
Cape Town and Sala Beach House
The Perfect Bookends to a South African Safari
If you’re planning a South African safari, here’s the secret nobody tells you:
the “before” and “after” stops can make your trip just as unforgettable as the safari itself.
In our latest episode of One Slice at a Time, Ryan and I share how we turned our safari trip into a full-on luxury travel experience—starting in Cape Town and ending at the breathtaking Sala Beach House in Durban.
From the moment we stepped off the plane in Cape Town, the VIP welcome from Live Life African Safari Getaways set the tone. We’re talking private greeters, seamless luggage handling, and a guide who made every moment easy and fun.
Cape Town Highlights
Table Mountain: Skip-the-line tickets and 360° gondola views over the city.
Cape Winelands: Pinotage, bubbly, and some of the best wine we’ve ever had.
Boulder Beach Penguins: Tiny tuxedoed locals in their natural habitat—adorable is an understatement.
Sala Beach House in Durban
After safari, Sala Beach House was the ultimate exhale. This private beachfront villa on the Indian Ocean gave us:
Spacious luxury suites and a villa all to ourselves
Gourmet breakfasts and a farewell dinner planned with the chef just for us
Monkey “security patrols” to protect our croissants (mostly successful!)
Pizza Talk
Ryan also gives his famous Crusty Review, and let’s just say… stick to Cape Town for your pizza fix.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Whether it’s penguins, Pinotage, or pampering by the ocean, Ryan and Stephanie can help you design a trip that hits all the right notes.
Contact us here to start planning your dream South Africa experience.
What to Expect on a South African Safari
Wildlife, Luxury Lodges & Cape Town Pizza
Ryan’s safari rookie days are officially over. This episode is packed with wild animal sightings, food highs (hello, Cape Town) and lows (Durban mall pizza, yikes), and the story of how we help you plan an unforgettable, fully customized African safari.
In This Episode:
Why Cape Town earned its 2024 foodie crown
Real safari stories: elephants at the pool, a wild dog hunt, and a dozen hyenas
Luxury lodge stays: nThambo Tree Camp & Umkumbe River Lodge
Beachfront luxury at Sala Beach House
Crusty Review: Cape Town = chef’s kiss, Durban = pizza sadness
How we work with Clint from Live Life Safaris to plan your dream trip
Want help planning your safari?
We’ll schedule a Zoom with Clint, customize your itinerary, and make your bucket-list trip stress-free from start to finish. Start the conversation.
Next Episode:
We dive deeper into Cape Town & Sala Beach House and why they’re the perfect start and end to a safari adventure.
Popcorn, Pillows & Palo: Inside Disney Cruise Concierge Life
A Look Inside the VIP Life on Disney Cruise Line (Without the Refillable Mug)
Is Disney Cruise concierge worth the upgrade? In this episode of One Slice at a Time, Stephanie shares what it’s really like to cruise concierge—from pillow menus and private lounges to early cabana access and actual humans who memorize your cappuccino order.
Ryan’s not convinced (he’s still chasing ice cream on Deck 11), but the perks keep stacking up: free popcorn, private character meet-and-greets, and someone literally walking you off the ship while others stand in line with luggage.
Plus, don’t miss the Crusty Review of a Curacao pizza place with a better logo than pizza.
🎧 Listen in and decide if you're team concierge or team refillable mug.
Frozen Pizza and Polar Plunges
This week on One Slice at a Time, Stephanie grills Ryan about his most ambitious trip yet—a group cruise to Antarctica aboard the World Navigator with Atlas Ocean Voyages. If you’ve ever thought Antarctica was out of reach, think again. Ryan breaks down exactly what’s included, how he planned this polar plunge-worthy adventure, and why this trip is more all-inclusive luxury than arctic expedition campout.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
Why Antarctica? (Hint: Maggie's bucket list)
What’s included in the trip—and what’s not
The real deal with the Drake Passage
Camping, kayaking, and other wild add-ons
A frozen pizza showdown on The Crusty Review
Interested in joining the Antarctica group trip?
Message Ryan and grab one of the remaining cabins.
Adult-Only Escape or Family Mayhem? The Truth About All-Inclusive Resorts
Is Sandals really the gold standard—or is Beaches where the magic happens?
In Episode 4 of One Slice at a Time, Ryan and Stephanie go head-to-head on one of the biggest debates in travel: all-inclusive resorts. Ryan’s all in on Sandals—luxury, no kids, and as many desserts as you can carry. Stephanie makes the case for Beaches—family-friendly fun, ice cream trucks, and a lazy river staffed by Elmo.
We break down what’s actually included (spoiler: not always what the brochure says), share real experiences from both sides of the age gap, and introduce a new segment: Ryan’s Crusty Review, where he rates resort pizza with a very serious system.
Also in this episode:
🍕 A pizza-scented sunscreen ad that went too far
🏖️ Why room category really matters
💡 How to avoid hidden resort fees
One Slice or the Whole Pie? Splurging vs. Saving at Disney
Pizza, parades, and premium upgrades-oh my
Planning a Disney trip but don’t know where to spend and where to skip? In this episode, we’re breaking down which upgrades are actually worth it-and which ones you can leave behind without missing the magic.
Stephanie and Ryan go slice by slice through all the options:
Lightning Lanes
On-property vs. off-property hotels
Dining and character meals
Ticket options
Souvenirs and extras
Whether you’re a budget-conscious or ready to roll VIP-style, we’ll help you figure out what actually makes your trip better-and what just eats your wallet like a turkey leg on Main Street.