Ireland is a rip-off to holiday in – but our businesses are faced with higher costs than their European counterparts, a travel expert has warned.

It comes after Newstalk Breakfast host Shane Coleman said he was put off having a staycation in Ireland by the "staggeringly" high prices.

Shane said he was quoted €2,000 for three nights at a Clare hotel for himself, his wife and two children.

He was also quoted €1,220 for two nights in a B&B, and €3,195 for three nights in a four-bedroom house.

Freelance travel writer Megan Virgo told the show she believes Ireland is a rip-off destination.

"I think, in the grand scheme of things, generalising, I think a lot of people can say that Ireland is a rip-off to holiday in," she said.

"I think it comes down to your needs versus your wants. If you want to say in major cities or you want to go to hotspots you will be paying a high price.

"Is that fair? No ... but when you do a deep dive, there are higher operational costs for the hospitality industry in Ireland versus other European countries."

Ms Virgo said commercial rates, insurance, energy, labour costs and wages are all higher in Ireland.

'Damaging Ireland's reputation'

Ms Virgo said there is also some greed and price gouging going on.

"I think it's damaging as well for the reputation of Ireland," she said.

"I think it's something that should be regulated because it doesn't seem accessible."

Ms Virgo said some good deals can be found in rural spots "off the beaten track".

"One place that I found is Ardnavaha poolside cottages in west Cork," she said.

"It's just five minutes from Clonakilty... and in the middle of the cottages they have an outdoor swimming pool that is heated.

"There's also a tennis court and lake."

Ms Virgo added that prices at the cottages start from €135 a night.

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