Kerry, Fall is wonderful in Ireland - far fewer tourists, so the roads are easier to navigate. I'd say September or October would be perfect. As to the self-catering cottage, it is a good idea. Since the Euro has taken off and the dollar has declined, even pub meals can be pricey, but you can shop in grocery stores and local supermarkets and farm markets and make wonderful meals for yourself. Last year that's what we did. We found a local cheesemaker and between soup and brown bread and the occasional roast chicken, we ate in our little cottage like Kings! My only advice is to enjoy it and live like a local. Noreen in NY **************Start the year off right. Easy ways to stay in shape. http://body.aol.com/fitness/winter-exercise?NCID=aolcmp00300000002489