Ireland Golf Vacations and Golf Travel Testimonials
"I wanted to thank you for a wonderful trip to Ireland. It was my first time there and I was blown away!! I recently received my partial refund for our flight and wanted to say thank you. I believe there are many great travel companies available in the golf travel business that can put a great trip together, but the exceptional companies handle adversity with ease. You and your staff handled a very difficult situation wonderfully. Johnnie's willingness to drive us to Dublin was amazing, and then all of the behind the scenes work that went into getting us this refund was incredible. Thank you for all that Celtic Golf did for our group" - Tom Gilbert, PGA
"Words can not express our sincere Thanks for the great and memorable time our group of the PGA Professional had in Ireland. As most of my peers conveyed to me - "Lets do this again soon!" - Dan C. Haskell, PGA President, Philadelphia Section PGA
"I wanted to thank you for all you did to make our recent trip to Ireland on behalf of the Philadelphia PGA. This was an opportunity of a lifetime and a week of golf I won't soon forget. The entire week and the way we were treated was first class" - David J. Pagett, PGA
"The trip with the Philly PGA was awesome and I wanted to thank you and the staff of Celtic Golf for a great time....The trip was flawless...Celtic Golf gets an A++. " -John Shapcott, PGA
"I'm not sure how the trip could have gone better." - Geoffrey Surrette, PGA, Executive Director, Philadelphia Section PGA
"Thank you so much for the trip to Ireland. It was my first time overseas and it couldn't have been better. Johnny was a great tour guide/bus driver and enhanced our trip a great deal. I am looking forward to going back in the future. Thanks again for everything, it was a trip I will never forget." ~Mark Anderson, PGA, Honorary President, Philadelphia Section PGA
"Thank you so very much for putting this event together. I enjoyed the golf and hospitality...The memories and friendships will last a lifetime." ~Patrick Shine, PGA, District Director, Philadelphia Section PGA
Scotland – October 2011
"Joe – I can't thank you enough for arranging a memorable trip to Scotland for my group. It was fantastic. John Bryan was most gracious as our driver and all the lads in my group commented the same. Please pass this on to him. The "trade" was well worth it but I will never go back without staying in those rooms!!!!! We all signed the "BE BACK" book. Thanks again....you are the best!" Most Sincerely Dick (Richard M. Stewart) Golf Professional Kalamazoo Country Club
Ireland – September 2011
"Joe/Jerry– Another trip in the books – it was GREAT! Thanks for all your help – everything went seamlessly and you guys once again made me look good in front of my members! I appreciate all you do more than you know and truly value the relationship we have developed – I’ll continue to refer as much business as I can. Again, thanks for everything – I have a LOT more trips planned that will involve Celtic Golf! " ~ Best, Jim Smith Jr. | PGA Director of Golf | The Philadelphia Cricket Club | Honorary President
Ireland · August 2011
Joe – I wanted to thank you for putting a fabulous trip together for us. The trip ran smoothly and without a glitch. Our driver was fantastic. Other than Princes, we had caddies at all the courses which worked out well for us. As far as the courses they were all top rate.I think as a group, Royal St. George's was the favorite; although I don't feel the same. My personal favorite was Sunningdale (Old); right up there with Royal County Down in terms of beauty. I thought Sunningdale (New) was one of the most challenging courses I have ever played. I also thought Hillside was a stunner. It has the beauty and ruggedness of an Irish link but it was also exceptionally manicured for a links course. Walton Heath was one of the most hospitable clubs that I have played at. Again, thanks for your hard work; it paid off for my group. ~Michael L. Anania
Ireland · August 2011
"Josephine. I wanted to sincerely thank you and Jerry for a fantastic golf vacation. I cannot say enough wonderful things about our driver, accomodations and the golf! This was my first visit to Ireland, but certainly won't be my last. And the ONLY way to go is with Celtic Golf. I won't reiterate the absolute beauty of Ireland, the kindness of the people who live there, the fantastic accomodations we had or the amazing courses we played, because I am certain you've heard all that before. But, with regard to our driver, you should be quite proud that Brian O'Donoghue is part of your organization. He had great insight and knowledge on everything we threw at him. He even found me a surfboard to try to get a few waves in between rounds. He was extremely responsible and knowledgeable. He became a part of our wonderful vacation and I cannot say enough great things about him. Thank you to you and Jerry for a great trip. I will be recommending Celtic Golf and Brian as a driver to anyone planning a golf vacation to Ireland." ~Sincerely Adam Walcoff
Scotland · July 2011
"Job well done to you folks for our trip last week. Everything was great and John the driver was terrific. The Torrence Course (St. Andrews) was better than the write ups i saw before the trip. All in all a wonderful experience. Cannot wait to book another in 2014." ~Ed Brzezowski
Ireland · July 2011
"Jerry & Jo. We are back home from yet another fantastic trip to Ireland. Thanks so much for all you do to help keep this special tradition alive for the Darien High School Golf Family. I think this may have been the most consistently excellent group of courses we have played in our six trips (Royal County Down, Ardglass, Royal Portrush, Portstewart, Portmarnock and European Club). Ardglass - the last course to make the itinerary - turned out to be the favorite of many in our group! I have been following the development of the European Club almost from it's inception. When we got there I got to spend about fifteen minutes privately with Pat Ruddy that I will not soon forget - a real treat for me. The golf course was all I hoped as well - a favorite for several in our group. The bus was wonderful and of course we spent this incredible week with the one and only Johnny Whalen who regaled us with his expertise, passion, attention to detail and ever present sense of humor. Our enjoyment was enhanced immeasurably by his contributions. He is is an honorary member of the DHS golf team family and a credit to your organization. I miss him already. My only concern on the trip was Johnny's persistent cough. Probably nothing serious but as someone who cares about him I encouraged him to have it checked. I hope he did not take offense. I certainly do not mean to interfere where it is not my place to do so. I only want the best for him - he deserves it. Please pass along my thanks to everyone at the office who helped out. With gratitude and appreciation and wishing you every happiness and success." ~Thomas O'Donnell
Scotland · June 2011
"Greetings. Joe, and just got back from a really enjoyable trip. I wanted to thank you for the organization - everything worked really well, and was greatly appreciated. I would particularly like to thank you for the Kingsbarns recommendation - spectacularly beautiful course, was one of our favorites. We were generally very lucky with the weather, although the final day at Carnoustie with constant heavy rain and a 3 club wind will probably remain our most 'memorable' experience because of it. Great course, and clearly difficult under the best of conditions, but the back 9 into the face of the wind will linger in my mind for a long time. As one friend said - will make for a good story at the 19th. All the best, thanks again, we will definitely be back to you should we decide to go again, or maybe Ireland." Eddie Robinson
Ireland · May 2011
"The trip went great! The courses were amazing and the hotels excellent. Getting the driver, John Hartigan, is the only way to go. John exceeded all our expectations and greatly added to our trip. The Irish people have to the world s friendliest. The weather was sunny and mid 60 s each day. Not a drop of rain. Thanks for putting together a great trip." ~ Iz Cakrane
Ireland · April 2011
"Once I decided I was going to Ireland for a golf trip with 11 of my closest friends from high school, there was only one company that I was going to let handle my trip...Celtic Golf. Working with Jerry and Josephine Quinlan is like dealing with family. I think it becomes more important to them that we enjoyed our trip then it was to us. Their passion for what they do is unmatched. Our accommodations at the Vaughan Lodge in Lahinch and the Ross Hotel in Killarney were second to none as they were both immaculate. The courses we played form Lahinch to Tralee to Ballybunion to Doonbeg to Waterville are some of the best in the world. And of course Old Head....WOW!!!! This was truly a once in a lifetime trip for this group of friends and Celtic Golf made sure it was one we will never forget."
Warmest Regards,
Sean Fitzsimmons
Ireland · October 2010
"Just a quick note to again thank-you for setting the trip up for Matt and I to play golf with your Pro-Am. We had a wonderful time, the food and accommodations were grand, and the golf was fantastic. As I shared with you, any time you create a day to be remembered forever in one's life – it is a great day indeed. I know we will always remember this trip with fond memories" All the best, Mark Feighner
Ireland · September 2010
"I recently traveled to Ireland with Dick Stewart and others and wanted to communicate my gratitude for a trip well planned and especially my compliments to our coach driver Johnny for a delightful and informative experience!!" ~ Dr. Charlie Zeller
Ireland · September 2010
"Joe and Mike. The trip was all we thought it could be. The accommodations and courses were well received. The weather was pretty good. A little rain three or four mornings was not an issue. The wind at Tralee was steady at 40 plus mph.The course was closed for part of the day. The golfers will talk about the wind for the rest of their lives. Our bus driver was extremely capable and deserves special thanks. Most of all the Irish people were the highlight of the trip for me. Thank you and everyone at Quinlan for your professional service. It was a pleasure to work with you." ~Jack Connors
Ireland · July 2010
Josephine – Just a quick note to let you know how much we enjoyed our trip to Ireland. Thank you so much for all of your recommendations, and especially for arranging for John Clifford to be our driver. He was the perfect match for our family and we felt very well cared for. He made suggestions throughout our stay that really enhanced the experience. We came to think of him as one of "The Ryans" by the end of the journey which made our leaving that much sadder.
This was the trip of a lifetime for all of us - we are grateful. ~Susan Ryan
Scotland · July 2010
Jerry – Now that I am over my jet lag, I can take a minute or two to write and thank you for a great trip and great experience. I can see why you have been successful in your business, with all of the great planning. We all had a great time, and are really quite interested in trying to put something together to Ireland next year. Maybe the Hanleys, Pedersens, and Pfeifers can get a couples tour arranged. Our wives would really enjoy a customized trip, with some golf and sightseeing. Thanks again ~Gary Pedersen
Scotland · British Open · July 2010
Jerry – I cannot think of any possible way the seven-day British Open Tour could have been better, thanks to your expertise in planning and execution. In this, my first experience with Celtic Golf, all of my expectations were exceeded. Frankly, I did not anticipate that "getting around" would be as much fun as the events. I was especially impressed by the low key manner of Mark, John, and yourself, in that any and all of your vital directions were seemingly presented as suggestions to friends. I'm already talking and recruiting for the next trip with you....IRELAND, 2011. Please keep me on your mailing list. Thanks so much to you and all concerned for an unforgettable experience. ~ Ken Hanley Lakeville, MN
Ireland · July 2010
We returned last evening and I really wanted you to know that the trip was excellent. We had the most wonderful time and even the weather cooperated for most of the trip. John, our driver, was amazed at how nice the weather remained. We got a little more rain on the last couple of days but with interspersed sunshine when we needed it. I want to compliment you on the well planned journey. It was everything we imagined and more. You chose wonderful places to stay and had great recommendations for sight seeing. Every hotel was amazing and different from the other. It's a shame we didn't get to enjoy the castle more but we were off during the day seeing the sights. Also, I would appreciate it if you could please convey our thanks and compliments to the bus company for their excellent driver. John Clifford was the best. He was interesting, funny, informed, and very accommodating. They couldn't have picked a better fit. We let him guide us because he did such a great job. He really went above and beyond and I thought you and his employer should know that. We are grateful to him for making our trip as enjoyable as it was. Be sure we will be telling everyone we know about your wonderful service and we do hope to return to that beautiful country again in the future. Thank you for a job well done! ~ Doreen
Ireland · June 2010
My name is Shane Mason, and I am a recent graduate of Pepperdine University. I was a member of last week's Pepperdine group that was hosted by Celtic Golf. I would like to thank you for a wonderful experience in Ireland. The trip was one of the highlights of my life, and the schedule, golf, and accomodations us were superb. In addition, Johnnie (our host and driver) was an absolute delight - my enjoyment of the stay was due in large part to Johnnie's competence, wit, and wisdom! Johnnie is a tremendous asset to your company. Thanks again for a unforgettable experience. ~Shane Mason
Ireland June 2010
I wanted to thank both Josephine and Jean for the fabulous trip around Ireland that I won through the Solheim Cup. I arrived home last night and wanted to let both of you know that from the Aer Lingus flights to the beautiful golfing and accommodations we had a wonderful time and of course the beautiful country. Josephine, the golfing was fantastic and the accommodations were wonderful, I've never felt so pampered. I am glad that you recommended the Old Head course in Kinsale (WOW). The B and B suggestions of Woodlands (Kinsale) and Roncalli House (Galway) were good and I wanted to give you good feedback so you could recommend them again. I have already recommended Ireland travel and of course Celtic Golf to friends. Thank you both again for putting together this wonderful trip." ~ Karen Carson and Guest
Scotland · May 2009
"I just completed a fourteen day trip in Scotland put together for twelve of us by Joe Dwyer and we could not be more pleased. All the accommodations were perfect and as we expected and the golf arrangements were as ordered. John Bryan made the trip even better with his banter and his superb helpfulness, all day, everyday. I am two for two with Quinlan's (Celtic Golf) and couldn't be happier. In September, 2007, I was with the University of Washington golf team in Ireland with Brendan and Johnny. Brendan helped a buddy and I to stay on for 3 more days and get another 5 rounds in. Because of his expertise and Quinlan's (Celtic Golf) fine job I contacted Brendan about a year ago to help put together an '09 Scotland trip and was referred to Joe. I could tell from day one that he was going to make this happen for us. I laid our our golf course goals, living arrangement needs and Joe did a fabulous job putting a stunning itinerary together. Even when we had to made a mid trip correction it was pulled off without a hitch. I know you've been in business a long time and know what you're doing but may I congratulate you on your great staff, here in the US and your reps driving the coaches in Ireland and Scotland. I hope these economic times are not too hard on you. I'm trying at this very minute to recommend Quinlan's (Celtic Golf) to anyone who's headed to Ireland or Scotland. I'm sure we'll be doing business again as well. If you ever need an endorsement or testimonial, I'm your guy. All the best to you and Quinlan's (Celtic Golf)." ~Rick Keating
Ireland - Father and Son Tournament · May 2009
"Our trip to play in the 14th Annual Father & Son Tournament was a wonderful experience and one my grandson or I will never forget. Everything was first class and I was so proud to expose Edward to the people, process and outstanding manner in which everything was conducted. You and the team you lead are true professionals in all you do. Thanks so much. I enjoyed meeting your wife and visiting with her. I am inviting you and Jo to Leesburg, Va., to play golf, visit DC and the area, or do what you like. My wife, Chris, would really enjoy having y’all visit. You will like our course and Jo could make it around hitting the shots she wanted too. So, please let me know when it is possible to visit. This year or the next or after, you always have another friend in the Washington, DC area.
Jerry, I also thank you for playing with us at Ballybunion and adding to the great time we had. You are a real pleasure to be around and the example you set is excellent. Our golf at Lahinch was another memorable day. We played as a twosome, enjoying the course and being together. No one in front or pushing us—and the weather was great. I sent Joe a note for setting it up. Thanks for making the opportunity available for me and Edward and we look forward to seeing you again in the near future." ~Ed Gould
Ireland - September 2008
"We had a terrific time! Our group of 8 thoroughly enjoyed themselves and just absolutely loved the courses we played. We want you both to know how much we appreciate the time and effort you put into making our trip such a great success. The itinerary you put together was fantastic, as were all the accommodations. I most certainly will recommend Celtic Golf to anyone I know who is considering a golf trip! I can't wait until our next excursion! Thanks again." ~Jim Smith | Pennsylvania
Ireland - August 2008
"We wanted to thank you again for planning such a fantastic trip to
Ireland for us. Kevin and I thoroughly enjoyed the accommodations you
reserved for us, and the golf courses were also incredible - just as
advertised. Yet, I must say, what we always remember the most about our world
travels are the people we meet - and the experience would not have been
as special if Tony McCarthy had not been our tour guide and bus driver.
His knowledge of the country, its history, and the Irish people, was so
valuable - and if he ever decides to stop driving a bus he could be a
very successful stand up comic. What a DELIGHT he was! Our best to you and your staff. We are so grateful for ALL you did." ~Janey & Kevin McCarthy | Maryland
‘Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.’
~ William Arthur Ward
Southwest Ireland 19th Anniversary Tour – July 2008
"Finally back home in Oz and back to the grindstone – have now caught up with all the ‘bushfires and band-aids’ to get the office back in order. For Jill and myself, I would like to express my grateful thanks for a fantastic week of great golf, and, more importantly, great company. It is always interesting to see diverse groups in backgrounds, age, and interests interacting with each other, and I felt really happy to be part of lovely company with never a glitch for the whole week. Maybe it had something to do with the organization and feeling generated by you both. It will remain in my memory bank, along with the satisfaction of playing those great courses and the luxurious accommodation, particularly at Doonbeg. Please keep me in touch with arrangements for the 20th Anniversary Tour for 2009. I already have two friends considering your tours, and I will be showing them the photos that Jill took of the tour to whet their appetite. Once again, my sincere thanks for a great time." ~Peter Blair | Australia
Portugal - October 2008
"We loved the trip! The hotels you had us in were great, our drivers
and Margarida were attentive, engaging, and fun to be with, the courses
were top notch, the food great , the people friendly, the sights were
fun to see, the cities were clean and safe. Some of my friends asked - "Why go to Portugal?". After being there, I now tell them it is a must trip."
~ Dave Knudsen | Pennsylvania
South Florida PGA ~ Ireland Pro-Am – July 2008
"I just wanted to let you know how much fun we had during our trip to Ireland with the South Florida PGA. All of my team and I had a blast each and every day. You need to be commended for all your hard work and attention to every detail. The Killarney Park Hotel was perfect, the golf courses outstanding, the drivers and their wonderful care during transportation excellent, and I’ll even give you credit for the beautiful weather. It was truly a memorable and special week. On behalf of all, The Old Collier Golf Club Team – thank you for your hospitality and professionalism. We all look forward to our next time with you." ~Steve Waugh | PGA Professional, The Old Collier Golf Club
Scotland – July 2008
"Words cannot describe how great this trip was and how much Johnny
and I enjoyed the courses you selected. It was definitely a golfer’s
dream trip. We did our best to absorb every memory the excursion had to
offer. The Castle course had a view to behold overlooking the cliffs into the
Firth of Forth. It’s a great cliffside course with amazing views of St.
Andrews from the 4th and 17th tee, and probably the most challenging of
the courses due to all the gorse and berms in the middle of the
fairways. You had to hit and putt to spots – something we Americans are
not really accustomed to.
The Old Course experience was truly that – an experience we could write
a book on. Caddies were knowledgeable and very friendly…and all the
drama that comes with having a golf course in the middle of town, next
to the beach, with patrons lining up along the fence line, watching
unknowns tee off…so much anticipation and excitement you could feel the
adrenalin rush. It did not help that Tom Lehman was walking off 18 and
watched us tee off. Hitting over the Old Course Hotel at the 17th Road
Hole and enjoying fine single malt Scotch on the hotel balcony after
the round made it that much more breathtaking. I will never forget it.
At Prestwick, we played our best rounds with Johnny driving the green
at 18 and making eagle in front of the caddies at the clubhouse. It was
a pleasant surprise that we only had to walk across the street and
through the gate from the hotel to play the following morning. After
the round, we passed on lunch to see the opening round of The Senior
Open at Royal Troon. It was a great day there as well as we walked
another 18 following the likes of Norman, Watson, and Sandy Lyle, as
well as Tony Price.
Needless to say, our Turnberry 18 turned out to be our hardest and most difficult round. We spent the morning star struck, having run into Greg Norman and Chris Everett in the hallway of the Westin on their way to their helicopter parked in front of the hotel. We ran into and spoke with Colin Montgomerie at the Turnberry Golf Academy bearing his name…so concentration was not at its peak and we suffered playing from the tips…with the wind having picked up, it was more golf course than we could chew…the golf course won that day. I could ramble on forever, but I better stop. Thanks again for assisting Linda in putting this fantastic gift together for me. I will never forget it."
~David Soto | Tennessee
Ireland – June 2008
"We had a wonderful trip. Our driver, Ned, was simply outstanding. Every detail of the trip was perfectly planned and went smoothly. We are already thinking about another golf trip with Celtic Golf, possibly to Spain and/or Portugal." ~R. Cooper | Washington
Ireland – June 2008
"We’re back now and I want to tell you we all had a fantastic time. Everything was perfectly organized and I take my hat off to the fine people at Celtic Golf. It was truly a memorable experience. Our driver, Johnny, was just terrific. He was a true friend and he really exemplified Irish hospitality. I certainly will recommend Celtic Golf to my friends and look forward to being a repeat customer." ~Tim Witzel | `Canada
13th Annual Father & Son Tournament – May 2008
"I just had to email you and thank you for what was an unbelievable time in Ireland last week. The trip was perfect – we experienced all types of weather from 45 degrees and 30 mph winds to 75 and sunny with no wind. The golf courses were stunning – all 4 are now in my top 10. The accommodations, food, and company were all superb. I met some people with whom I am certain will develop into longtime friends. Again, many thanks to each of you and your company." ~Bob Fischer | Pennsylvania
Wales – May 2008
"My parents and I just returned from our trip to Wales and had a wonderful time. You were right – it is truly a beautiful place and the people were super friendly. The courses were just grand!" ~Paula Anderson | Texas
13th Annual Father & Son Tournament – May 2008
"We so enjoyed being a part of the Father & Son group. Everything went like clockwork. The Killarney Park staff and food were “amazing”. The courses we tried to play and did finish will remain in our memories for a lifetime. Thank you for all that you and your enthusiastic staff did to make our holiday so wonderful! I was a travel consultant for the last 25 years and I know the effort you put into making things work. We will be sure to recommend your company and hope to join you again." ~Anita & Dennis McFadden | Pennsylvania
France – May 2008
"I just thought I would let you know our trip to France was absolutely beyond our expectations. Our driver, Chantel, was an absolute sweetheart. She foraged through the Pyrenees with our van till we found someone to direct us to a distant cousin of my Dad’s. Once that contact was made, we were off to the races, so to speak. The golf was good and the accommodations were excellent. Thanks again for putting together a great trip." ~Scott Erreca | California
13th Annual Father & Son Tournament – May 200
"It’s hard to believe it’s been 2 weeks since we have returned from the Emerald Isle, participating in the 13th Annual Father-Son Tournament. The trip was, in a word, awesome. Originally, I was planning on organizing a trip myself, for my Dad and me, celebrating my 40th and his 65th birthdays. We wanted to play Ballybunion, Old Head, Waterville, and Tralee, and we wanted to go Memorial Day week. Then, I came across your web site. It must have been meant to be – the exact courses, the exact week, and you had already done all of the work for us. Even if I could have spent the hours organizing all of the tee times, hotel accommodations, airport transfers, transportation to and from every course, there is no way it would have been as seamless as your tour made it.
But much more, the camaraderie of all the other Father-Son pairs made the trip that much more memorable. Your drivers are simply the best. They make the bus rides part of the highlights – their knowledge of Irish culture and history, and even a joke or two are fantastic. The Killarney Park Hotel was in a great central location, with a great staff and restaurant to boot. Moreover, the personal touch you and your staff showed, whether it was the greeting at the airport, the welcome dinner, the personal stories, and countless other details, made us feel that we were part of your family. It was like we were visiting our Irish cousin who happened to be well-connected at all of the best golf courses in Southwest Ireland.
I have already recommended your services to many friends, and my Dad and I
are already talking about when we can come back. We will definitely be
using your services again, but, this time, we will probably have to take our
wives with us. We know that they will be equally impressed by everything
your company has to offer. Thanks for such a memorable trip."
~Dave Schoenfeld | Georgia
Scotland – October 2007
"I wanted to write back to let you know our trip last week to Scotland was amazing. Everyone in my group had the time of their life. The golf, the pubs, the country were all top notch. We even had the pleasure of hitting the Old Course ballot on the 1st day. We were very lucky about the weather, too, while we were there. It only rained the day we played Carnoustie, but, fortunately, the wind wasn’t there, so the wetness was not a big deal.
When you sent your last email stating that John Bryan was your #1 driver in Scotland, I was thinking you probably say that about all your drivers. Well, I was completely wrong about that one. John couldn’t have been a better driver, tour guide, and friend. He made us feel so comfortable and relaxed while we were there for the week. I couldn’t have asked for a better guy. All of his recommendations on restaurants and pubs were right on. You are very lucky to have such a wonderful person who is very passionate about his job.
Lastly, I want to thank you again for putting together such a wonderful trip. My
friends and I really hope that one day we will get to head back and play some
of the other courses that we missed out on. I appreciate all that you
did for me to make my 40th birthday trip a memorable one."
~Dave Wildes | California
Ireland – September 2007
"Just wanted you to know that we had a spectacular trip to Ireland last week. The weather couldn’t have been better. Someone told us that it rains in Ireland!! We were so lucky with sunny days and warm weather the entire trip. I also want you to know that all of our accommodations were wonderful, especially the 19th Lodge at Ballybunion. Mary and James were so pleasant and friendly. Their accommodations were clearly outstanding! Everything from the hospitality, to the sheets and showers, and the breakfast were the best.
However, the most memorable part of our trip, in addition to the wonderful golf courses we played, was our driver and guide, John Keane. We could not have had anyone better!! He attended to our every wish and was a true professional and a gentleman. He was so knowledgeable about the history and culture of Ireland, and interacted with us as though we were old friends. He made every step of our trip a joy!
Thanks to you at Celtic Golf for the arrangements, accommodations, and itinerary. You
are a class organization!! This was truly a vacation we will never forget."
~Cindy & Don Venema | Pennsylvania
Scotland – September 2007
"We would like to forward the highest praise to our driver. We found David to be a complete gentleman who helped to make our visit to Scotland as relaxed and enjoyable as possible. Please mention to him that we will always be impressed with the delicate way that he navigated the car through a herd of cows without using the horn. As I said previously, a true gentleman!" ~Rob & Ginny Baker | Massachusetts
Ireland – July 2007
"It is with full satisfaction that I write to thank you for planning our golfing vacation to Ireland last month, which myself and my brothers arranged to celebrate our father’s 70th birthday. Thank you for providing us with your best driver, Derry O’Keeffe. He smoothed the way and greased the skids in innumerable ways during our trip – Ballybunion and Lahinch foremost in our minds. He secured us the best caddies, planted us in the best pubs, and made sure the Guinness was cold.
The highlight of our trip occurred when we were passing through a small town in Tipperary, when Derry learned our grandmother had emigrated to the U.S. from there. Thanks to Derry, I saw the church where my grandmother had been baptized and stood before the nearby grave of her great-grandfather (my ancestor), who had died in 1836. Although it seems we no longer have any living relations in Ireland, my family now certainly feels like we do in your man, Derry O’Keeffe.
Although every other hotel on our trip was a five-star hotel, the 19th Lodge was our favorite. Mary and James Beasley made our stay at the 19th Lodge most hospitable. We enjoyed overlooking the fairway of the 2nd hole at Ballybunion, but it didn’t help us play it the next day. It looked narrow, and it was narrow! As Americans, we were thrilled that Mary and James had met our current President George Bush (as evidenced by the fine photograph in the TV room); as my brother Evan (who is a Major in the U.S. Army) remarked, he has never before had his eggs cooked by a lady who had met his commander-in-chief. Meeting James and Mary, and their lovely family, was another high point of our trip.
You have our family’s highest recommendation."
~Foster Wollen | California
Ireland & Scotland – May 2007
"Having just returned from our pilgrimage to Ireland and Scotland, Anna and I would like to thank you most sincerely for having arranged this truly wondrous golfing trip for us. The flawless planning and execution thereof was remarkable, and even the weather with one or two exceptions, was really surprisingly benign.
Accommodations were generally excellent. The Killarney Park Hotel was most comfortable and pleasant – excellent cuisine and staff. As far as the golf courses were concerned, the selections you made were unbeatable. We were very graciously received at every clubhouse, and we were most pleasantly surprised by the quality of the visitors’ locker rooms! The starters everywhere were friendly and professional, as were the caddies.
Doonbeg was a total delight, and we loved the tranquility of the bucolic countryside with the cows adjoining the fairways – to say nothing of the greenskeeper’s sheepdog who scours the gorse for lost balls and deposits them on the fairway for his master. Doonbeg was, in every way, quite extraordinary – a totally satisfying, comfortable, and beautifully run complex.
On our last day golfing, we were paired with two Greek gentlemen from Cyprus who were non-golfers until two years ago, when one of them built a golf resort on that island and they decided it might be well for them to learn something about the sport, and hence their visit to Scotland. Honestly, we had a ball throughout our trip and once again thank you and your associates for this splendid outing. We have already praised your organization to a number of our golfing pals." ~Bill & Anna Mann | Florida
Portugal – September 2006
"I just wanted to take a minute and tell you how wonderful our trip to Portugal
was. We are the group of fourteen in the Violette golf party. Our
guide, Helena, was absolutely fantastic... everyone loved her. She was
so attentive to every detail, and such a pleasure to be around. We could
not have asked for a better person. She gave us a great deal of knowledge
about the country and its history – every hour was taken care of. We
have been on past Jerry Quinlan trips and they had all been fantastic. This
lived up to that great reputation."
~Tommye Anne Violette | Florida
Ireland – August 2006
"Just wanted to drop a note of thanks for the wonderful trip. The arrangements were fantastic, the accommodations were outstanding, and our driver was so good, he felt like part of the family by the end of the trip. I just wanted to say thanks for your efforts, and the great job you do. With the golf and moving around, it would have been easy to have a hitch somewhere – but that was not the case, as the pre-arrangements were perfect. Your organization is the best. This is my second trip with Jerry Quinlan’s Celtic Golf, and if I live long enough and am prosperous enough, it will not be my last. Thanks again for such an enjoyable time in a wonderful country. " ~Chip Herndon | Tennessee
Ireland – July 2006
"We wanted to pass along our sincere thanks to you and all the people at Celtic Golf who made our trip to Ireland so special. Our trip went off without a hitch and everything was first class, especially John Keane, our driver and guide, who made the trip so very special. He charmed our wives and impressed us all with his knowledge of Ireland and its history. He went out of his way to make sure the girls were able to do all the things they wished, while getting the golfers to and from the golf courses on time. His choices for restaurants were excellent. We would highly recommend Celtic Golf to anyone wanting the ultimate Ireland golf vacation. We miss John already and we look forward to returning to Ireland in the near future." ~Sam Lindsay | California
Scotland – July 2006
"Just wanted to thank you for a fabulous trip. No wonder you guys have been successful for so many years. Everything flowed beautifully. Rusacks was a hit. Channings is also a really nice hotel. My son and two friends have a memory for life. Thanks again for a first class performance." ~Art Ryder | Arizona
Scotland – July 2006
"We had a wonderful time in Scotland, and I want to thank you for doing such a great job. The accommodations were wonderful and the golf courses were fun to play. Steve got a hole-in-one on the St. Andrews course and we all saw it! That was exciting. We all got to play the Old Course, which completed the trip. Our driver, Arthur, was great, and he really took good care of us. Thanks again." ~Gail Lastinger | Georgia
Ireland – July 2006
"I just returned from the trip of a lifetime. Everything from start to finish exceeded all my expectations. The schedule – starting with the K-Club, followed by Portmarnock, Lahinch, Ballybunion, Waterville, Tralee, and finishing at Old Head – was the perfect layout. Each day and each course had something new to add to the entire Irish experience. I wouldn’t change a thing other than to add another day or two. The entire trip was incredible.
Extra special kudos to Johnny Whelan – you are fortunate to have such a colleague. From the moment he first met us, we felt like we were with family. I can’t imagine a better way to tour the countryside than listening to John’s knowledge of the local history, only to be followed by his enticing description, hole-by-hole, of the ensuing Mecca which awaited us around the next breathtaking corner. All the while, everything was taken care of in first-class fashion. Thanks again for making everything so special." ~Sean Collins | Pennsylvania
Scotland – June 2006
"The trip that you organized for us in Scotland was truly the “trip of a lifetime”, and, believe me, we have had many wonderful trips during the years. The hotel accommodations were first class, the food (and beverages) were wonderful, and the golf experience could not have been better – with the exception of a downpour at Turnberry; however, we waited a couple of hours and completed our round – what else should we expect?
For us, the best money we spent was to have the car and drivers for the entire trip. The two drivers that we had were wonderful, accommodating, and true gentlemen. My wife, whose heritage is part Scottish, is a real history buff, as am I, and this was a dream come true, especially for her. We saw battlefields, ruins, churches, castles, etc., and the experience was enhanced by the historical knowledge of our drivers. All of this without the hassle of trying to find out where to go and what to see.
Our introduction to golf in Scotland came on the first day when we played Royal Dornoch. We had a 4:30 tee time. Coming up the 16th fairway, the sun was setting and we could hear bagpipes playing in the distance in the town square. Welcome to Scotland – does it get much better than this? We both want to thank you for organizing the trip, and we will highly recommend you to anyone who is planning a similar excursion." ~Ross Creber | Canada