Prices Down in Ireland

Ireland is bidding for more summer travel from the United States with a series of price cuts.

For example, the Irish Hotels Federation has begun a 10% reduction on lodging and dining at all participating hotels until Sept. 30. In addition, you get one night free for every six nights booked.

If you’re going from England to Ireland (more than 40% of Ireland’s traffic from the United States takes this route, according to the Irish Tourist Board), some new low fares are available.

Aer Lingus, for example, is offering a round-trip rate from London/Heathrow to Dublin for about $93 at this writing.

This rate, which can be booked in the United States, is only available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and for traffic originating in England only. Requirements are 14-day advance-purchase and Tuesday night stay-over.

Contact the Irish Tourist Board at (212) 418-0800, your travel agent or Aer Lingus at (800) 223-6537.

Hilton International has also been active on the summer bargain scene with 26 hotels in Europe and Israel providing lower rates plus extra perks such as daily buffet breakfasts at all but two of the properties (one in Geneva and one in London).

The Premium Plus Summer Bonus runs until Aug. 31. Based on double/twin occupancy, the per-person room rates would be $45, $60 or $80 ($90, $120 and $160 per couple) depending on the hotel. If you’re traveling solo, figure on a 50% single supplement.

These rates are guaranteed, so you wouldn’t be hit by any currency fluctuations lowering the value of the dollar. Of course, if the dollar should go up, you’re still locked into these rates, which are lower than the standard room prices.

In addition, the rates cover all taxes and service charges. Guests also get a welcome gift and drink, and a room-delivered English-language newspaper.

At some hotels you may also receive a coupon or ticket for complimentary admission to a local attraction.

Reservations must be made in the United States at least 24 hours before arrival. Contact travel agents or call (800) HILTONS.

Also offering summer saving is KLM. In cooperation with Avis, KLM is making available a rental car for $5 a day with unlimited mileage, if you fly round trip on the carrier to Amsterdam.

The offer is based on two people traveling together and you have to rent the car for five to seven days. The car can be picked up and dropped off at either the airport or downtown Amsterdam.

The offer is good until Oct. 31. Contact travel agents or KLM at (800) KLM-7777.