Discover Ireland Like Never Before
Crafting Your Unique Irish Adventure
Embark on a journey that unveils the heart of Ireland, tailored just for you.
Our Story
A Bit More About US
Thank you for your interest in learning more about how Independent Ireland came into being.
When I founded, Independent Ireland, I was growing increasingly concerned about the rapid growth of mass tourism and its varied impacts on the destinations we served. It was harder and harder to uncover places untouched by the negative side of the industry’s expansion. When marketing muscle overshadows authentic expertise, both travelers and host communities lose out.
Finding a genuine, immersive experience—one not already trampled by the crowds—became more challenging. Yet every traveler’s motivations and expectations differ, from the free-spirited wanderer to the time-conscious organizer. We decided to serve a more discerning market, one that values meaningful encounters over cookie-cutter itineraries.
This is no hobby for us. We’re fully dedicated to our work, running our business seven days a week and sending countless clients to destinations all around the world. We value you, your vacation, and the hard-earned money and precious time you invest. We believe both are far too valuable to entrust to random internet searches or sources with questionable expertise.
Our aim is to help you find those memorable moments in the journey, to rediscover that childlike curiosity about the world, and to enjoy each step along the way.
Meet Our Expert Team of One (But Growing)
Evan McElligott
Owner
A seasoned travel professional with over 25 years of experience, Evan began his career in his native Ireland. Fresh out of college, he joined an airline and worked his way through various roles—from sales and reservations to management—acquiring a deep understanding of the industry along the way. Driven by curiosity and a passion for new horizons, he ventured overseas to Australia and New Zealand before eventually making his home in Portland, Maine. Yet his journey never truly settled; to date, Evan has visited nearly 50 countries and continues to add new destinations to his list each year.
Traveling with Evan is both inspiring and unpredictable. He’s not one to stick to well-trodden paths; instead, he gravitates toward local neighborhoods, hidden gems, and genuine cultural encounters. His Irish charm makes it easy to connect with people everywhere he goes, ensuring that each trip becomes a unique, personal adventure filled with meaningful interactions and lifelong memories. He approaches his clients’ vacations the same way he approaches his own travels—with authenticity, spontaneity, and a keen sense of discovery.
No matter how far he roams, Ireland remains central to Evan’s heart. He frequently returns to stay current with the latest trends, meet with hoteliers, and forge relationships with key figures in the travel world. This ongoing engagement keeps his expertise fresh and ensures that when he crafts an Irish itinerary, it’s nothing short of exceptional. His in-depth knowledge, genuine love for his homeland, and unwavering enthusiasm make Evan one of the foremost experts at curating the perfect Irish experience.
Our Philosophy
At Independent Ireland, we believe that travel is more than just visiting new places; it’s about creating meaningful connections and unforgettable memories. Our philosophy centers around crafting personalized journeys that reflect your unique interests and desires. By combining your vision with our deep-rooted knowledge of Ireland, we ensure that every adventure is as unique as you are. Whether you’re exploring ancient castles, strolling through picturesque villages, or discovering hidden coastal paths, we are committed to providing an experience that resonates with your spirit and leaves a lasting impression.
Begin Your Irish Adventure Today
Embark on a journey that is uniquely yours with Independent Ireland. Let us help you design a travel experience that captures the heart and soul of this enchanting land. Connect with us to begin crafting your personalized itinerary and explore Ireland like never before.