Anonymous wrote:Norway is gorgeous and not everyone has been there. You will be the talk of your group OP for trying something a little different. Avoid Ireland...it rains all day/night long

Although it can have dramatic scenery, Norway is very expensive and not a great choice for a first time visitor. Ireland is beautiful and the people are incredibly friendly, so that actually would be a much better destination, although significant driving would be required to do the country justice. There are good reasons why first time visitors stick to the major cities.