Fibula: I got the same response from Barholm as MudGuard, which certainly poses me a dilemma too. I am keen to come again (along with Sandy) BUT I do not think that I can afford the extra cost of a B&B. I feel that it would be the last straw on the cost of the trip.
Including B&B, car parking at Birmingham Airport, cheap bmibaby flights to Belfast International Airport at off peak times, car hire (incl insurance excess waiver and petrol) and spending money for the two of us, the total comes out at a minimum of around £450 and it starts to get too expensive for me, a poor pensioner! All together now "Ahhh"!!
However, unlike Leadfingers, mooman & MudGuard, I have not yet booked the flights, so I await your advice on whether you will be:
(1) sticking with the February dates nomatter what (but possibly considering alternative cheaper accommodation, such as large self catering houses*, if Barholm is not available?) or
(2) looking at a change of date to March, as suggested by Linda at Barholm (but that would obviously mean extra costs for those who have already booked flights!).
Perhaps it would be best to wait and see whether Barholm's tendering arrangement actually results in the work will be carried out this winter. If not, I presume there should be no problem!
"For I am free** to go abroad ...!"
Alan
* For instance, I see from the Ards Borough Council Accommodation List that there are three cottages at Barr Hall Barns which could put up 12 people but I have not contacted them yet to check availability and whether they would do a long weekend, rather than a whole week.
** But unfortunately it isn't free!