Testimonials from the clients of Rising Road Irish Tours

Testimonials from our Ireland Tours

Our past traveling companions have "the final word." They'll convince you!

"Rising Road Tours created a memorable ten-day holiday in Ireland for our small group. Each day's activities, led by Dr. Sam Couch – our driver/guide – brought new surprises: delightful farm house stays, magnificent scenery, well chosen historical sites, Irish story tellers, and a steady supply of wonderful en route coffee stops, local Irish pubs, and restaurants. Sam's extensive knowledge about Ireland and his many Irish acquaintances kept us entertained from plein air high cross rubbing to the sacred and dark interior of Newgrange. A trip not to miss!"

Bill & Mary Todt
May 2010

"In May of 2010, I joined a group of seven other people in a driving tour through Ireland. We met Dr. Sam Couch at Shannon Airport and proceeded, for the following ten days, to drive around Ireland, exploring and enjoying the gorgeous countryside. Dr. Sam was a most knowledgeable tour guide, always sensitive to the needs of our mixed group. I would highly recommend him to anyone interested in such a venture. He displayed a thorough knowledge of the troubled and complex history of Ireland and its people. His command of history and archaeology was most impressive. I have traveled quite a lot and found Sam to be the best all-around guide I have ever experienced. His personable nature, kindness, and mastery of all things Irish left me with a greatly enlarged vision of that beautiful country and its rich history. I give Dr. Sam Couch five stars!! He found wonderful accommodations and fine restaurant experiences for our tour group everywhere we went. Sam went beyond the call of duty to arrange my concert at the Sligo Country Club. I could not have asked for a more wonderful and enlightening ten days in Ireland!"

Dr. Joe Utterback
Concert Pianist
Stratford, CT
May 2010

"This letter is to tell you and anyone else who might inquire how much Judy and I enjoyed the 'Taste of Ireland' tour we took with you in August 2008. The tour was everything you advertised and everything we hoped for — scenic, relaxing, educational, and an introduction to out-of-the-way places that are the true Ireland of the past. We think that without your guidance we would have driven right past some of the things we found most memorable — from Neolithic tombs to a storytelling woodcarver to a B&B with the well of a saint in its pasture. As a history buff, I particularly appreciate your knowledge of the history that surrounds the places we visited, while Judy liked the feeling of being pampered with your handling of every detail of the trip. Most of all, we appreciate your ability and willingness to tweak the tour 'on-the-fly' to accomodate both the weather and desires of our particular group.

Thank you for a wonderful experience."

Reed & Judy Ferrill
August 2008

". . . to represent important parts for me. There was, of course, the lush green landscape – the magnificent churches, the sense of history, friendly people and of course for me bountiful food and tea and scones. I am glad my grandfather was Irish because I felt a close tug with this so beautiful country. Thank you."

Iona M. Bell
Toronto, Ontario
August 2007

"Our Ireland trip was a two-parter: "before Sam" which centered on our daughter's destination wedding, and "with Sam" for which we booked a post-wedding mini-tour of the West. At the time we made that booking we were in an organizational mess and hadn't even planned where to stay or what to see for the two days prior to the wedding festivities themselves. We were astonished when, despite its being completely outside the scope of our tour time with him, Sam came to the rescue, recommending a variety of places to stay, things to see and do, and even car-rental connections. We'd never experienced and couldn't conceive of that level of caring from any other touring venue.

Such caring is a hallmark of Sam's that we experienced throughout our marvelous time with him. The tour itself was an exercise in care for our interests, tastes, and convenience. If he ever wearied of our marathon photography or penchant for stopping to schmooze with every dog in sight, we never knew it. He enthusiastically and informatively led the way through greater- and lesser-known prehistorical and historical sites (his love for Ireland simply shining through often stormy off-season weather when fainter-hearted tour leaders would have shamed us into staying indoors) and, although he must have visited them many times, genuinely shared our endless fascination with them. Moreover, he knew where the best pubs, food, and bargains were to be found, and had a positive genius for selecting unique, well-appointed, charmingly-hosted B & Bs.

We'd hesitate to refer anyone to Dr. Sam Couch who'd be more comfortable with canned, chipped-in-marble, take-it-or-leave-it touring. On the other hand, we unreservedly recommend him to those who might appreciate scholarship with laughter, schedules that allow some flexibility, and who just might like adventuring with the most knowledgeable and considerate of all possible guides."

The Aleksics
Ramona, CA
March 2008

"For many years my daughter and I have dreamed and talked about 'THE TRIP' to Ireland we would take someday. We went, we were not disappointed and will go back again. The reason is Dr. Samuel L. Couch, owner of Rising Road Tours. He brought the country to life while showing us the best parts of Historic Ireland. Everywhere we went we were greeted by locals who know Sam and were happy to see him and have us visit them. Because he made information personal and up close, Sam told us things we could not have gotten out of the guide book. While listening to him speak you could envision the events happening and the people they were happening to.

Never having been outside the United States we were nervous about travel overseas. Sam sent us information that suggested what to bring for clothes and spending money and photo taking, etc. We were given all the information we needed, we followed it and we had a vacation that ran very smooth and was very enjoyable. The craftsmen we visited, and purchased from, were all first rate in their field. Shipping was arranged for the larger items and those we took with us were packaged very well. We were even able to take lessons on the national drum of Ireland, the Bodhran, at the Irish-language college of Oideas Gael.

Sam was very flexible, as my husband and I like more structure in our lives and my daughter and her husband love to go where the wind blows them. He is very accommodating, funny and made the whole trip so interesting, it was a joy to get up each morning and wonder "Where are we going today and what lies around the next curve in the road."

Gamble/Nasseff families
St. Paul, MN
Aug/Sept. 2007

"Thank you again for a wonderful time. I loved Ireland. Could go back there in a heart beat."

Liz Polak
Creighton, NE
Sept 2007

"Ireland is remarkably fascinating place to visit. No matter if your interests are in the culture, history, music, language or people, you will find something of interest in every corner of the country. I greatly enjoyed my time rambling across Ireland with Sam. Sam was a very perceptive guide with a diverse knowledge of Ireland and was able to seamlessly make a mid tour alteration to county Donegal, which was a highlight. Our tour took us from rural and historical Ireland in the north and west to a Pub 'hijacking' in Derry and St. Patrick's day in Dublin."

Keith Merriam
Flin Flon, Manitoba, CANADA
March 2007

"Our family of three spent eleven days in June 2007 exploring the northern half of this enchanting island. Before the trip began, I had several conversations with Sam, gave him input on what we were interested in (contemporary and ancient history), and then he created our fascinating itinerary which allowed for flexibility and spontaneity.

Our group was small – only two other traveling companions and Sam gave us his undivided attention. He has an encyclopedic knowledge and contagious love of Ireland. And he delivered his commentary as we rode down the lanes in an articulate manner, spiced with marvelous stories and good humor.

We spent our nights in charming bed and breakfasts with folks whom Sam has known for years, started off the day with the famous Irish breakfast and ended the day full of adventure at excellent restaurants Sam had chosen for us.

We didn’t have a thing to worry about – Sam did all the driving & planning, and we just had to concentrate on having fun – which wasn’t hard!

Going to Ireland with Sam means seeing Ireland in a personal way, and not just as a tourist. I’ve had the opportunity to take some wonderful trips during my 58 years, but this was the best trip I have ever taken."

Kathy Huffstetler
Raleigh NC
June 2007

"Thanks for our great trip and for your wonderful knowledge of Ireland."

Daisy Wilson
Hamilton, Ontario, CANADA
Aug. 2007

"We really enjoyed the tour, it's just a pity these tours are too short! "

Angela Benvenuto
ITALY
Aug. 2007

"Thank you for the great time Sally and I had in Ireland and Scotland. The trip was very interesting and the countries and people were wonderful. We loved the quaintness and the cute little villages that make it so different than our great country. You were a marvelous guide! Sally still talks about your thoughtfulness and kindness, your knowledge of Ireland taught us so much. We really loved Ashford Castle and the other castle where the monastery [Kylemore Abbey] was breathtaking. Ireland will be forever a great memory because of your planning and guiding our trip. Randy and I loved the golf we thought Doonbeg was spectacular. We also loved our tour of Scotland… We loved Saint Andrews and had a great time. We loved going to church and meeting the wonderful people for Sally and I the best part of the trip was making a new friend. Dr. Sam Couch. You’re the best! Thank you for our great trip and wonderful memories. Please don't hesitate to use us as a reference. God bless you and keep you safe as you travel."

Dan and Sally Wilder
Port Angeles, WA
June/July 2007

"As I look back over 2007 today, the best time period was of course our tour with you of Ireland. As you know, I've been on numerous high-end tours to various parts of the world. But no trip was as wonderful as our days in Ireland with you. A few times in one's life, you meet a person that immediately you know you would like them to be a forever friend. And that describes you Sam.

From the time we met you at the hotel until we parted at the Shannon airport, those days with you were marvelous. It was like touring with best friends at favorite places. We saw so many wonderful places and more important, met incredible Irish folks. Also ate well everywhere... and ah, desserts...such memories, especially the Bailey's Irish cream cheesecake!

We're doing well. Rich is seeking a (new) job.... if it was up to him, he'd find a job in Dublin. He did fall in love with that town. If you ever know any banking people in Dublin, send them my son's way. :) My son from Taiwan is home for the holidays for 4 weeks. It's so good to have both of them home at this time of the year. When I have extra money again, I would like to take both of them back to Ireland...and of course, I expect you to be our tour guide.

Since July, when anyone mentions thinking of going to Ireland someday, I tell them about you and email them your website."

Lee Ferris, San Diego
June 2007

"My husband and I, together with a friend, traveled to Ireland with Sam Couch in July 2006. Since our contacts had been only by telephone and email, we first met Sam at the Dublin airport. Within a few minutes, we knew we were in the best of hands. The trip Sam planned with out particular interests in mind was perfection. We saw Ireland's many facets, spectacular sights, stayed in excellent B&Bs, ate in varied well-chosen restaurants. We spent quality time in the Irish countryside with several of Sam's friends and truly traveled roads not usually traveled.

As for Sam, he is a bright, sensitive, caring person who anticipated our every need. He is extraordinarily knowledgeable and generously taught us so much. We were fortunate to meet Sam Couch and travel with his Rising Road Tours."

Lillian Hoffman, New York
Summer 2006

"My daughters and I were privileged to go on Sam's Christmas Ireland tour. Although it was chilly and the crowds were non-existent, I feel we saw twice as much as we could have if we traveled at another time.

The bed and breakfasts were wonderful. The people were very friendly and accommodating and we had an interesting insight into Irish life. The Irish countryside was breathtakingly beautiful and the history was astounding. I was amazed at the very old towers, castles, tomb sites, etc. that were just a part of the countryside sitting among houses. Sam has an unlimited knowledge about Irish history, sites, and culture both past and present. I think we learned a lot more from Sam than we could have from books and it was more fun.

One of our favorite places was Dublin. The historical sites were wonderful. We really enjoyed the one day on our own — traveling on the bus and walking the city. The shopping was great. We all brought an extra bag and ended up buying another one! My daughters and I had a wonderful time and would love to go back on another tour. Sam would be our only choice and I would highly recommend his tour for anyone thinking of visiting beautiful Ireland."

Jackie Pritts, Aurora, CO
Christmas 2005

"I thoroughly enjoyed our trip to rural Ireland. We stayed at 3 different Farmhouse B & B's and did day trips to historical sites. We got to visit with each of our hosts and learn about the way they operate their farms. We also shared about our cattle operation. Sam was our personal guide every step of the way. He knew the country and where best to take us. At five persons, our group was small (Sam's groups are limited to between 4-7 people). It was a wonderful size for a personal tour. Sam even added a trip to a cattle sale. It was very different than the US with three small separate sale rings running as the same time.

The trip costs less than I expected. I used the internet to find less expense plane tickets. From New York to Ireland is only 5 1/2 hours actual flying time. It takes a little longer on the way back-- something about the air currents. There were no added on costs or extra expenses. ALL lodging, meals, and admission to activities were included in the price."

Vivian Couch, Buffalo Gap, SD
Christmas 2005
Truth in advertising: Married to Sam's first cousin.

"I loved the trip and neighbors and friends (and also myself) are amazed at how much we were able to see and experience during our short two weeks. I felt that we were exposed to so many different facets of Irish culture and history and that just would not have happened on any other tour. Your taking care of the details of the trip and the driving made the trip very enjoyable."

Mary G. Smith, San Francisco, CA
May 2005

"Thanks very much for your trip, which was so well planned, and so interesting. I have been in 17 countries, on various trips. I did live in New Zealand for a year, but your trip was the only other one in which we really got a good grounding in the history of the country, and got a good all around look at the geography, the various counties, the cities, and met the people close up... I...appreciated your hard work, and the attention to little details. I loved not having to worry about accommodations, and not having to drag out our wallets after meals, and just walking into museums and visitor centers. Also, your driving us about was appreciated... There were a lot of added touches - Ita's House and her poetry recitation, Ben Bulben, W B Yeats, being out on the boat with Paddy, looking up at Slieve League, Michael Quirke, and walking down the trail to the Giant's Causeway, the High Crosses at Monasterboice, Newgrange, Kilclooney, Kilmainham jail, Kylemore Abbey, Purcell House, Aughnanure Castle, the Cliffs of Moher... Lots to think about, and remember - thanks again."

William Wehrmeister, San Francisco, CA
May 2005

"I received the CD of the Ireland photos... I'm looking forward to viewing them because they will refresh the memories of an exceptional trip. We were indeed fortunate to have such a learned and considerate guide. So many aspects of the trip would not have been possible without you - the visit with [Sligo woodcarver] Michael Quirke, our stay at Gleann Cholm Cille, the boat trip by Sleabh Lieg (sic), the great pub music, the tour of Parliament, and lots more."

Therese M. Gill, San Francisco, CA
May 2005

"We never ceased to appreciate Doctor Sam's planning. Because of business contacts he has developed over years of leading student seminar-tours to Ireland, our needs were well met... At a recent get-together of the group we shared a regret and a hope. Regret: Too little time over there. Hope: We might do it all again."

Spencer and Betty Campbell, Blairsville, GA
December 2003

"In spite of my Irish & German ancestors I have a tendency to crave & thrive on good organization and Sam Couch easily qualifies for an A+ in that area... The three days we spent in the village of Gleann Cholm Cille typified what we encountered throughout our entire trip. We were warmly welcomed by the owner of the B&B where we stayed. We had some free time, enjoyed good food, and yes, visited several archaeological sites. I had been to Ireland several times before, but Sam... showed me a new Ireland... Sam's easy going manner didn't mask his having done his homework, his knowledge of the terrain over which he was leading us, and the interpersonal skills he used not only with the group members, but also with the owners of the places we stayed, the restaurants and pubs we visited, and, oh so much more."

Elaine M. Johnson, Weathersfield, CT
December 2003

"...this December four members of my family attended Dr. Couch's trip to Ireland. We had a wonderful time. The food was excellent and the accommodations superb. The camaraderie with the B&B owners was a very valuable experience. I felt the trip was extremely educational and I learned a great deal about Irish History, culture, eco-tourism, and gained a knowledge of religious and ceremonial sides that go as far back as 6,000 years... I felt Dr. Couch was a very good educator, and the trip was well planned and executed. I would happily recommend it to anyone."

Mary Beth Wiles, M.D., Blairsville, GA
December 2003

"I highly recommend Dr. Couch's tours. My sisters, mother and I were fortunate to accompany him through Ireland, where we were given unique glimpses into Ireland's ancient and modern history. My visit to Newgrange is one of the highlights of my travels. This is the best way to see and learn Ireland - with an expert on its history and culture. Not so incidentally, Dr. Couch also knows the best places to eat and shop!"

Cynthia Cornell, San Mateo, CA
Summer 2001

"I was fortunate enough to travel to Ireland with Sam Couch as a guide. Sam took care of the biggest details to the smallest. Sam knows Ireland from shore to shore. We only had to sit back and enjoy the beautiful country and people. I would joke later, it was almost like going with the human encyclopedia of Irish Culture and Geography. No question went unanswered and certainly we felt as if we were actually seeing sites and meeting people that most tour groups would never have access to. Comparing my trip with (those of) others who have traveled to Ireland has made me appreciate Dr. Couch's expertise even more... Sam's love and respect for Ireland is so obvious it is almost as if he is sharing his treasured gift with all who go with him. In our traveling it was apparent Sam is very respected by the many Irish people he knows there. I strongly recommend Sam Couch. I hope many others have the trip and memories of a lifetime."

Lorna Hoff, Post Falls, ID
Summer 2001

"I've traveled to many countries and most of the states. Many were self-guided but I've done the tour bus and cruise ship thing also. Of all my trips, touring Ireland with Sam Couch as our guide was the most enjoyable and memorable. Sam made all the lodging arrangements, did all the driving and knew the good places to eat. Thus we could relax and enjoy each moment of the trip. He was extremely patient with us and we never felt hurried.

Sam's intimate knowledge of Ireland's history, people and culture helped guide us to many sites rarely visited by tourists. He answered our many questions as we went along adding to our enjoyment and appreciation of what we were seeing. We came home with a scrapbook full of memories and a deeper understanding of Ireland and its people.

One final note: If you haven't traveled to Ireland, by all means go. It is an interesting country and the Irish treat Americans like family who are coming home to visit, as so many are. If you want to get the most out of your trip, tour with Sam Couch as your guide."

Bob Baker, Clarkston, WA
Summer 2001

" 'Ireland!' What a magic word. 'Ireland!' What a magical place to me.

I have been blessed to tour three times with Sam and explored North, South, East and West. Thanks to Sam's vast knowledge of the country and his ability to make it come alive, I felt that I was walking closely with my ancestors. Sam is an excellent tour guide and helped me to grasp the thousands of years of history in which this land has been inhabited and the beauty that surrounds it. It is really a green wonderland.

The Irish people are truly the most hospitable I have ever met and Sam introduced me to friends who like to tell wonderful stories and share tea, scones, and good beer in their homes and pubs. I yearn to return every year.

Don't miss the opportunity to "live" Ireland with the best tour guide I know."

Tish Ryan, Boise, ID

"After a lifetime of dreaming and a year and a half of planning 3 members of my family and myself flew off to Ireland to meet Sam Couch. For a period of 3 weeks in June 2001 Sam showed us the Ireland that he loves. Hoping that we had not set our expectations too high, both Ireland and Sam's tour turned out to be the experience of a lifetime. We toured from Shannon to Galway, Sligo to Donegal and on to Dublin. The trip was relaxing and each day we experienced something new. Time was taken to explore each and every place that we wanted to visit. Sam shares his vast knowledge of Ireland, the people and their culture with the lucky people who travel with him. Give yourself a gift, go on a tour of the Emerald Isle with Sam and Rising Road Tours."

Molly Baker, Clarkston, WA
Summer 2001

"When I planned my trip with Sam Couch, I had no idea what a life changing experience it would be! We began our journey in Dublin with relaxed walks throughout the city which were filled with food, sights and the history of this wonderful city. Sam's knowledge and perspective on Ireland enhances the tour to a degree that has to be experienced to be truly appreciated. After 4 wonderful days in Dublin we ventured out west to Donegal and the world renowned "Fiddlers' Week" in small the village of Glencolumbkille. We sat in the two small pubs in the Glen and listened to traditional Irish musicians perform in a way and a setting that touches me to this day. Sam's friendships with the people there made us feel connected to this place in a very real way. As we traveled about Donegal we happened upon a roadside place and by chance caught the world famous group Altan playing their wonderful mix of traditional Irish music in a very intimate venue. Sam took us about and showed us the rugged beauty out in the west of Ireland. If you would like to experience Ireland in a relaxed and intimate way, then I highly recommend you travel with Sam. Others may be able to show you the sights of Ireland; but Sam allows you to experience Ireland's true treasure — It's people!"

Jerry Pastore, Pullman, WA
Summer 2000

"My husband and I travelled the length and breadth of Ireland with Dr. Couch, and the trip was great — both enjoyable and educational. His knowledge of history, culture, music, language, and geography greatly enriched our visit. Sam has many wonderful local connections that bring a real "added value" to the trip — we met people, visited sites, and heard concerts that would never have been possible without his experience and planning. A particular highlight of the trip was the time we spent in the Gaelic-speaking part of Ireland. Sam has a special (and contagious) feeling for this country, and we look forward to our next visit to Ireland with him."

Lisa Rossbacher, Ph.D., President, Southern Polytechnic State University, Atlanta, GA
Summer 1999

Rising Road Tours
828-648-8893 (Tel) ~ 888-648-8893 (Toll-free) ~ 888-371-8895 (fax)
sam@risingroadtours.com

P.O.Box 9322, Moscow, ID 83843 USA