DERRY JOURNAL Editorial: A staycation in Ireland this summer needn’t cost the earth

Following the lockdown, most accommodation providers, despite the hit they have taken this year, have been sensible and reasonable in their approach to pricing for what will largely be a home crowd this year. But there are some that are charging ridiculous fees, and costs vary massively often within the same area.

An unsuspecting late booker could rock up in popular areas along the west coast of Ireland to find a lot of places are booked out, and three nights in some hotspots could leave you with little change out of 1000 euro. And that’s before you strap on a mask and head out for a bite.

Bargains are like hen’s teeth this year and spotting one should come with some sort of prize (a free night somewhere maybe?).

Dublin is surprisingly one of the cheapest options, and while prices vary widely in Derry and Belfast, generally rooms here, and indeed across Donegal, are also much more affordable options.

An industry survey in early July conducted by the Irish Hotels Federation showed very low occupancy levels of 23% and 26% for the peak summer months of July and August compared to 90% last year. Obviously the COVID lockdown and international travel restrictions are the big factors in that, but price is surely another.

Many people simply can’t afford it. This should be a golden opportunity for everyone to get to know the Irish cities, towns, counties and rural areas too often overlooked for sunnier climes, but if it’s going to cost the earth to do that (unless you are willing to camp or stay in a hostel, which are perfectly viable options) and the cheaper options are all booked up, the only real choice for those on a tight budget and without access to a caravan or holiday home is to stay put in the north west, appreciate and discover what’s on your doorstep or opt for day trips.

And with so many great places to visit and stay locally, thankfully there’s no shortage of options for those that are doing just that.