Ireland has so much to offer that it's easy to waste your vacation deciding what to do. A far better idea is to plan what you want to do before you get there so that you can really enjoy what Ireland has to offer. Here are three great ways to make sure that you do:

1. Check out the restaurants

The internet is a great source of information and there's nowhere better to check out Ireland's best restaurants. Whatever you do, or wherever you stay, you're bound to be within driving distance of a great place to eat, and you shouldn't pass up the opportunity to give them a try. From trendy Dublin eateries to the fabulous fish restaurants in Kinsale, you'll find something to make your taste buds tingle.

2. Think about what you want to do

Want to have two or three rounds of golf when you're visiting? Looking for a taste of the traditional music and storytelling? Can't wait to see rare birds or go Dolphin watching? Whatever you want to do with your holiday, it's worth spending a little time researching what's available. For example there are lots of golf courses in Ireland, and you may want to play a couple of nearby links courses, or just find a driving range. Alternatively, you could book a deep sea fishing trip or a day's pony trekking before you even arrive, ensuring that you have a couple of activities planned. Be warned: the wonderfully slow pace of rural Irish life may mean that if you don't plan ahead, you'll be too relaxed to do anything!

3. Ask the locals

If you've decided to wait until you get there, the best source of local information, like any holiday destination, is the people who live there. Whether it's the hotel owner, waitress, gift shop manager or someone you meet in the street or on the train, this is a great way to find a secluded beach, a spectacular cliff-top walk or the best local produce.