I fully agree about the specialness, and the value, of NW Ireland. It's also a marvelous gateway to Northern Ireland; Ballyliffin is less than two hours from Portrush. But those dissing Bandon for its costs, jet-setters, weather or remoteness simply haven't done it right, or are contradicting themselves, at least as regards weather and remoteness as Nova Scotia and old Scotia (Scotland) are remarkably similar in those respects (depending, of course, on where you're coming from and your affinity for Goretex). The last three January visits I've made to Bandon I've never paid a green fee more than $75 nor lodging more than $120/nt. As for the weather, 21+ rounds (the+ for The Preserve, Sheep Ranch and, now, PunchBowl) saw one round with a smattering of foggy drizzle (Bandon haar), two holes of rain (remember, in 21 rounds) and at least 8 or 9 rounds with temps 60 or better. Lastly, if the thought that the guy who just bought you a Guiness might have arrived via his own jet is offensive to you, then simply head a few miles into town for as much genuine folk as you'll find anywhere.