In April this year, I headed for a bestie break in Ireland with a group of girlfriends.
The deal, advertised as a bestie weekend, was very popular, and booked out, so we were lucky to find a date that suited us all.
Everything about our trip was great fun.
As you’d expect, we created a WhatsApp group and discussed every little detail. What would we pack for the bestie break? Day dresses, evening wear, swimsuits, walking shoes, heels… Who would volunteer to carry some extra make-up? Where would we lunch?
While breakfast, drinks and dinner were included in the package deal, we had to sort out where we would fit in two lunches in the midst of all that action!
We also had to zero down on a wellness treatment. What would it be? A facial, pedicure, back massage, sauna? So many choices!
In the end, our friendcation was perfect. We managed to sneak in two wonderful lunches and had a great night with cocktails, followed by a three-course dinner. Once back at our rooms, we ended the night with some dancing, and just a little bit of gossip and swapping ghost stories!
The next day we had a leisurely breakfast. We all agreed that the wellness package was a lifesaver – it put our busy feet and minds to rest.
We came back with hundreds of photographs, memories to last us a lifetime, and the kind of silliness that only comes when you are with friends. Plus, we had an impromptu fashion show in our rooms, and created a fun dance reel!
Does this tempt you to plan one of your own?
So what can you expect if you are planning a bestie break? If you’re a local, or if you are visiting Ireland, what’s on offer?
Pampering, Indulgent and All-Inclusive
Our package (at The Glenroyal Hotel, Maynooth) allowed us two gorgeous, large-sized rooms that were interconnected — those rooms became our fashion walk ramp! Usually, most breaks that are advertised as a bestie break include some or all of the following: cost of the room/s, breakfast, dinner and cocktails, a spa and pool deal. Some are tailored to offer special, exclusive shopping experiences and the fancier ones would have a hot tub with champagne on offer.
For example, this one tempts us all with an option to “escape with your bestie to the Villa Rose for a night of catch-ups and relaxation. Enjoy a Stay with Breakfast, Dinner and an Exclusive Shopping Experience at McElhinney’s Department Store.”
The Maldron Hotel, Derry, also has some great offers aimed at friends who want to vacation together. Their bestie break includes bottomless cocktails, buffet breakfast, access to fitness suite, and comes with an option of “No prepayment required & free cancellation up to 1 day prior to arrival.”
Sometimes these packages can also be marketed to couples and friends both. Like this particular deal which is framed as ‘Couples & Besties Pamper Break.’ It offers services on similar lines to a bestie break, with a ‘One Night’s Bed & Full Irish Breakfast, Main Course in The River Bar on One Evening, a 30 minute pamper treatment, a luxury foot soak, followed by herbal tea and Fresh fruit.’
Very enticing, isn’t it?
Visiting Ireland with Friends
If you are planning a trip to Ireland with your best friend or a group of friends, there’s just so much that can be tailored around your needs. You may want to combine a bestie weekend with some great sightseeing. You could choose Galway as your base and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture. From fun pubs, thriving music and food scene, going to the Roisin for a dance — you’ll have a blast!
Or you and your pals could try chasing friendship goals in Dingle, Kerry – where you will be smitten by its cobblestone pathways and stunning coastline. Include a tour of Dingle Distillery or a private boat tour in the Dingle peninsula.
Even Dun Laoghaire can be so good for a group of friends who just want to have some fun! You can explore its pubs, cafes, eateries as well as take a stroll down its pier. Plus, it’s so camera-friendly with its many brightly coloured houses and oodles of typical Irish charm!
No matter what part of Ireland you choose for your bestie break, you will find an array of options. From some of the loveliest pubs, events and concerts to activities that are tailored for your group. Think horse riding, a chauffeured drive past the Killary Fjord, themed tours to see the places where famous series and films were filmed, walking or cycling along the green ways… Or even a trip to take in some of the most impressive lighthouses of Ireland!
For a bestie break, Ireland sure doesn’t disappoint.