As far as Ireland, don't go to Dublin. Sure, it's a big city with a lot of sights to see, but if you want IRELAND, go west. Immediately. Stay in Galway, which is the perfect home base, and go to the Aran Islands, the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, The Ring of Kerry, etc. Plus, Galway (especially around Christmas) has the the best nightlife in Ireland. They have something for everybody and the best traditional music outside of Doolin.

Any other questions, feel free to PM me.