Gene from Charlottesville, West Virginia asks: I would like to know who to contact about a small group (10-12 people) to travel specifically to Ireland.  What do you suggest?

Peter answered: There are travel agents that specialize in group travel, but when you’re going to Ireland where language won’t be a problem, my suggestion is to just do it yourself. To do it yourself, call the resort where you’d like to stay and talk to their director in sales, who could cut you a better deal for a group than the reservations specialist.  When you make that call you have to remember that it’s not just about the rate but also about the value added extras that you ask for because if you don’t ask for it, you won’t get it. Ask: Can my kids eat or stay for free? Will you throw in a free group dinner? Will we get a free excursion while we stay there?  Is transportation provided?  What about parking?

If you don’t want to have these conversations than any reputable travel agent can organize this for you.  Just try to find someone who specializes in the region you wish to go to or the experience you wish to have.

For more information on group rates, see Peter’s tip on planning group travel.

George in Westland, Oregon asks: When we travel to France, we will be driving a rental car from Hertz.  I have checked with our US car insurance agent and they will not provide coverage outside of the US.  Our US Visa card does provide collision damage coverage but nothing else.  What coverage is needed in France?

Peter replied: The minute you leave the continental US, you’re going to have to buy the insurance coverage from the operator overseas.  Your own insurance won’t cover you and neither will your credit card.  You need to deal with it over there and sometimes that can be rather expensive. Also, before you get that car and sign the contract, take a picture of the car from all angles so that if they accuse you of damaging it, you have proof.

For more information on Hertz abroad, see the news report on Hertz Acquiring Dollar and Thrifty.

By Peter Greenberg for Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio