Volcano, Flights, Rooms, Etc

Hello, Everyone,
Here are some updates... I'll also send this info in an email in the next couple of days.

Volcano
According to the news, the volcanic eruptions in Iceland are "over" and there should be little, if any further interruptions (no pun intended) of air travel. Even if the volcano did continue, the tour company considers this an Act of God and would give full refunds.

Flights
The volcano did affect flight prices with a sudden jump due to their attempt to recover revenue, and a $160 per round trip surcharge for fuel. This should drop off soon. I am seeing RT flights from MSP for about $1275 right now with Delta to Shannon or Dublin, but down to $1050 from MSP to Dublin with Expedia (multiple airlines, including Air Lingus). The good news is that there continues to be a lot of open seats on Delta Flight 122 which is the one most will take if flying Delta from JFK to SNN. There are currently 90 open seats. I check this every day.
While I am trying to find the best fares, you are in no way obligated to wait for me. Several of you have already purchased your flights.

Arrival
When we arrive in Shannon or Limerick (in the case of those flying to Dublin and taking the train to Limerick) our tour company will retrieve us from the Airport or Train Station and deliver us to our lodging. We will need your arrival time sometime after you book your flights.
Rooms have been booked for all attendees for Monday night, August 9th in Shannon. If you do not need your room that night, please let me know. Payment for the rooms can be made at arrival, in cash, or travelers checks. Not with a Credit Card. I believe it's $45 per person, double occupancy. I'll get the single upcharge amount.

Departure
For those flying back from SNN on the 19th, you will be shuttled to the airport. For those taking a train back to Dublin, you will be shuttle to Limerick Station.
As you know, Kate and I will be taking the train to Dublin and then on to Belfast for regular concerts that weekend. You are welcome to join us. Just drop me an email and we'll help with arrangements.

Recommended Reading
Tom Pigott, our tour guide, recommended Frank Delaney's "Ireland" and I just finished it. It's a FABULOUS book. Written as a novel about the influence an itinerant nameless storyteller has on a nine year old boy as he matures, it weaves storytelling into the plot line so that you get a wonder picture of the history and struggles of this little island, 2/3rds the size of Iowa. I HIGHLY recommend you read this book before going on the trip. Kate's reading it now and I'm going to read it again when she's done.

Please feel free to write or call if you have ANY questions. bill@billandkateisles.com 218-340-4404
Bill