Any particular destinations in mind? As with most places, the bigger the city, the more expensive it is. People are generally very friendly and the Guinness is next to goodness.
When I was in Europe courtesy of the US Army 45 years ago, I spent a few weeks touring the south coast from Rosslare (Cuan Ros Láir) on the east coast to Killarney (Cill Airne) in the west. Had a grand time, including a visit to Blarney Castle's Blarney Stone.
Last August went with part of my family to the west central part through the counties of Clare (Contae an Chláir), Galway (Contae na Gaillimhe), Roscommon, (Contae Ros Comáin), and Tipperary (Contae Thiobraid Árann). Having attended college in Galway, my wife has a lot of friends there. Attended a wedding (a 3 day party in Ireland) on the Tipperary side of Lough Derg. A grand time was had by all.
Planning to attend another wedding this summer near Dublin, which will also involve some ad hoc visiting and touring through parts (un)known.
Where in Massachusetts are you? I'm in Boston.
Aer Lingus has direct flights form Boston to Shannon or Dublin.