Category Archives: first trip to Ireland

Favorite part of Ireland

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If you had the opportunity to travel to Ireland, how would you plan your trip? I mean if you could choose a perfect scenario, what would it be? Well a good friend of mine back in March visited Ireland in what I would call the perfect visit. Yes the perfect visit, to include a stay at the farm, a tramp through the bog, an emergency with a cow, a wee bit of the water of life, a beautiful church, and a description of his favorite part of Ireland.

Favorite part of Ireland, It started off like this:

The Invite: “Hey Steve, I have a place in Ireland and I’m headed over in March, would ya like to come over?” and with that the perfect trip to Ireland begins. The perfection starts with the lack of over thinking the trip. There is a destination, a place to stay, and someone who knows the area, not scheduling itineraries or bus tours or cramming too much stuff into too little time.

The destination: An Irish farmhouse out in the raw and beautiful Connemara coast near the little town of Carna. The farm is used by locals to graze cows and sheep and in turn they watch out for the farmhouse while It’s owners are away. (Which is a lot of the time). Carna Connemara region of Galway is nestled on the shores of Galway bay and best known for the cottage of Irish patriot Padraic Pearse.

So two friends from this side of the Atlantic arrive In Galway to the man’s family farm. A simple place not far from the Sea. The first thing that gets noticed is the amount of people that meander through the cottage. Though the cottage is technically “owned by Steve’s friend, there are plenty of guys who turn out their live stock on the land, look out for the place, duck in out of the rain, or maybe have a sip or two to fortify their spirits. The next thing that’s noticed is the lack of concern by the owner of all the folks tramping through the cottage, just the normal way of doing things. I suppose it’s common for more rural areas where people rely on each other, a camaraderie that gets lost in other parts.

Now the beautiful Irish scenery might be enough and maybe this would be your favorite part of Ireland, but nothing says memorable like a local emergency.

favorite part of Ireland

Where’s Bessie?

The boys are in the cottage and a few of the local fella’s are welcoming the man back, when a man runs into the cottage with news of a cow in distress. Farmers start coming in from all over the town, they start looking for the poor beast across the meadow  grass covered bog. Steve described walking across the grazing area as treacherous, definitely needed your wellies, soft, wet, don’t know how the cows make it across.

Well the cow in question is located but with a serious problem, She was birthing a calf unsuccessfully. The calf is already gone and the cow herself isn’t doing well. The farmers all are helping, every hand is needed and used, including the yank on vacation for the week. Eventually a tractor brings in the ailing cow and the event is discussed, washed over with a bit of Jamesons. Now having a cow nearly pass doesn’t make for a perfect trip to Ireland. But being involved, helping out, and being useful certainly does.

You may think this was his favorite part of Ireland, being useful, out in the fields, but not quite.

Next it’s on to a little bit of site seeing.

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The beautiful and impressive Kylemore Abbey. Now there are many parts of this impressive structure and awesome panoramic views that would make this your favorite part of an Irish vacation. But every story hits each person different, so to quote my friend these are his impressions:

Pics 3516 and 3547 are taken in KyleMore at the KyleMore Abbey

The crucifix hangs in the chapel at Kylemore.                                                                    That place was built by a wealthy cotton baron, his wife died during a trip to Egypt. He could not bear the thought of her in the cold ground, so he built a mausoleum and a chapel for her.

 

It truly is a beautiful sight and sentiment.

 

The last pictures sent have more sentimental value with friends of the Duke and movies in favorite part of Irelandgeneral. The famous Quiet Man bridge and cottage made famous by the movie was a must see for Steve. I wonder if pretending you’re Sean Thornton coming back to Ireland was his favorite part of Ireland?

 

And of course the Cliffs of Moher, a favorite of all tourists really are worth the trip, pick a sunny day if you can or at least not a misty foggy one.

favorite part of Ireland

But even the majestic Cliffs of Moher and the great Atlantic wasn’t the whole answer to what is your favorite part of Ireland. So to quote the man directly,

“My favorite part was sitting in the farmhouse and the locals and old timers would drop by and sit and talk a little.

It was a nice way to get to know the locals and hear some of the stories.  All very respectful and happy to see us.

The surprising part was traveling for miles through wide open areas, many parts of the area where I was, look mostly the way they have for centuries.”

Hope that helps, talk soon,

Steve.

Ireland’s a funny place with many sides. If you have the opportunity to visit in the rural parts  with a resident you will see parts of Ireland most will never see. For at the heart of why we emigrant sons and daughters go back is to connect with the heartbeat of Ireland, her people.

I’ld like to thank my friend Steve Reilly for the pictures and comments, and hope you enjoyed finding your favorite part of Ireland,

Cheers.

 

Ireland weather prediction 2013

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Unlike fat flim flam man Albert Gore and his get rich scam of Global warming, there seems to be a way to predict Irish weather.  Weather Guru Ken Ring, who Irish farmers have taken under their wing in assistance for Ireland weather prediction may be the answer to Irish weather. Mr Ring uses moon readings and data from a number of monitoring stations here for his long- range forecasts, which have been closely monitored by Irish farmers in recent years.

Ireland weather Predictable?

Ireland weather
Now the tillers of the land and the raisers of livestock seem to have faith in Mr Rings predictive prowess, but how does this help an American tourist visiting Ireland? Well, Mr Ring’s predictions warned of Ireland’s coldest winter and March, and very chilly May.
Perhaps if you are saving for that once in a lifetime visit to Ireland in the summer you might want to have the weather odds in your favor.
Best times to visit Ireland this summer?
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According to Mr Ring, who also does long-range forecasts for New Zealand and Australia, he is advising people to take summer holidays in Ireland in the first half of July or the second half of August. The prediction is for a summer scorcher with the best chance for sunny days and warm temps for this period. I say go to Ireland on a warm summers day, where the brilliant blue skies are only outdone by the gorgeous green landscapes. Besides the spots all wish to see, the Cliffs of Moher, The Giant’s causeway, the different gardens, Ring of Kerry, there are simpler and mighty things to do and know.
  • Know the summer sun stays high in the sky and lasts into the night.
  • The strands or beaches are hidden gems, go for a swim. (try the copper coast)
  • Walk to the pub and  enjoy the warm weather.
  • Play a round of golf off the beaten track.
  • Ride a horse, Kayak, canoe, fish, hike, wander.
Now if perhaps your Irish weather prediction is off by a day or two and you get a bit of rain, embrace the Irish weather and try these simple pleasures.
  • On a rainy summers day the pubs are always dry and comforting.
  • A trad session is just as lively on a cool wet day as a warm dry one.
  • A rainy cool day is a great excuse for a bowl of lamb stew and a pint on sustenance.
  • A walk in the rain is a must do activity in Ireland, nothing  is quite like it.
  • Good excuse for a turf fire.

 

Now if you want to have a bit of fun and break one of my cardinal rules of visiting Ireland, you might want to read up on Mr Ring’s methodology of weather prediction, lunar patterns, sunspots, wind patterns, and bring up global warming. You will be looked upon as an imbecile, you will be welcoming an onslaught, but once you have listened to the pleasant dismissive argument, know that no argument you come up with will win your host over. Political arguments in Ireland are a great way to spend a frustrating day. Or you could let the political debate alone and enjoy a glorious day in the first two weeks of July or the last two weeks in August, according to mr Ring.
Cheers.

Visiting Ireland for the first time?

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The High time for visiting Ireland is fast approaching, the months of June, July, and August, are perfect for a family trip.

visiting Ireland

Visiting Ireland , a few tips

What to expect when Visiting Ireland

 

Festivals! A nice way to plan your trip to Ireland is to find a festival and explore that section of the country. My favorite festival would contain traditional Irish music, or traditional Irish folk music, but their are a myriad of others to choose from. From theDingle traditional music Festival in Kerry to the Galway Oyster festival to The Rory Gallagher festival in Cork to the Bray summerfest in Wicklow, there’s plenty to do. Check out  Irish festivals 2013  for more Ideas

visiting ireland

Dublin an the famous Grafton st.

 

When visiting Ireland during the summer expect it to be a bit crowded as this is the high time for tourists. The sights everyone has heard of and wants to see, will be crowded with people trying to see them. Be patient, and explore a bit off the main sights and roads. The best part of visiting Ireland is had in small stores and pubs in little towns no one has heard of outside Ireland.

Be polite and act like a guest. The local population is known for their friendly inviting way. Do yourself a favor and be polite. The pub is a great place for a chat, provided you use proper pub etiquette. Please remember that In Ireland you drive on the opposite side of the street not the wrong side of the street. When you need transport from a friend in a vehicle it’s called a lift not a ride.

visiting ireland, glendalough

 

B&B’s are lovely places to stay but be aware they charge by the person not the room. Hotels in many cases will be a better value, especially around the town centers. It can pay to compare, though the location makes a big difference in your enjoyment when visiting Ireland.

The last of these quick tips for visiting Ireland deals with a courtesy that is extended to hotel guests that is quite foreign to we American visitors. If you stay in a hotel with a bar, the bar is available to you after hours.

An example:  Upon coming back from dinner and visiting in Galway city I rang to be let into my Hotel room at the Spanish Arch hotel. There’s a fellow there doing a bit of cleanup who asks  ”Would you like a pint before turning in?” I told him that would be nice, but I didn’t want to make him stay late. His reply made it easy to enjoy a pint, “I’ll be here till 8 am. glad to have some company.”

Ireland has many sides to explore when visiting Ireland, The landscapes, seascapes, people, customs, history, genealogy, art, music, and even a pub or two. Remember to relax, and follow the tips for enjoying your time.

Cheers. 

Go visit Ireland, You won’t live forever.

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Go visit irelandI write this entry as Cypress citizens wealth is being confiscated by their government, and the EU, to pay off some of their debts. The Worlds financial analysts start playing a game of dominoes with the other economies of the world, and I’m pretty sure I saw chicken little running down the streets of Washington D.C.. So why would any one in their right mind go visit Ireland?

 Why, go visit Ireland?

  1. It is as beautiful as they say.  Behind all the hype and legend, there lies just pure beauty, unspoiled and raw. Be it the thundering surf in Donegal, up the Malin Head or down to Bundoran. The cliffs of Clare, and the music of Doolin. The Slea head of Dingle, the Beara peninsula of Kerry. You can get lost in the rugged coastlines of Ireland.
  2. You can relax. Slow down. Enjoy some real food. I implore people when they go to visit Ireland, not to cram too many things into too little time. There are nuances to be found, life altering nuances, that can’t be experienced in the seat of a bus. Visit the smaller towns, have a bit of tea and a scone, or a coffee and a danish, and listen a while. You may find yourself having  a nice chat.
  3. Enjoy a real pint. A solitary pint in a near empty pub on a drizzly soft day in the Hills of Wicklow is my idea of heaven. Sure there are plenty of good times and laughs to be had in the pubs of Ireland. I can’t say enough about the lively music and pleasurable chats to be had. But unlike most places Ive been, a pint of plain in an Irish pub has a unique flavor and feeling that is hard to describe.
  4. Go for a walk. There are whole organizations predicated on hillwalking in Ireland. There are Irish vacations that lead you hiking across the wondrous country side. There are ways for young people to camp and hike their way across the country side. Staying in a farmers field one night and cliffside the next. There is the lovely walk past georgian doorways on the Dublin streets. Ireland is made for walkers.
  5. Go visit Ireland and re-discover the Sea. Paddle it, swim it, walk by it, fish it, sail and travel on it. Ireland has it all. Look into Sea Kayaking from Cork, to Kerry, Clare, and Galway.
go visit ireland

Galway Ireland

 

These are some of the reasons to visit Ireland, I’ve tried to stay away from the stereotypical Irish vacation schpeels. The Leprechauns and pot of golds, the beggorrahs and Top of the morning to ya’s, that are fun to joke about but are just part of the tourist hype. All tourist companies will present their product in the best light. They will provide tourist sites and entertainment, which will be entertaining. Take a few days off the tourist trail and discover the real Ireland.

The Number one reason to visit Ireland now? 

You won’t live forever. There will come a time when you won’t be able to walk the streets of Dublin, or play a round of classic links style golf. Times are coming when your digestive tract just can’t handle a pint of Guinness. Go now while you can, while you can enjoy it. Spend the kids inheritance, they are just going to waste it on a college education anyway. Better yet, take them with you, rediscover your family while discovering Ireland.

Cheers, and enjoy.

Other posts for your first trip to Ireland

Irish tourist Information

Irish or Irish descent, it depends.

Visiting Ireland, a guide for your Ireland vacation.

Donegal Bound

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Donegal Native and Super Irish Blogger of  emeraldsire.wordpress.com was nice enough to invite all to her part of the world, enjoy.

Donegal Bound

chewingTotally delighted to have been asked by Brian to submit a guest post for his wonderful site! Foolishly though he decided to let me choose a topic….he obviously didn’t hear that I am terrible at making decisions. You should of seen the list of possible topics I came up with …then the hours I spent chewing on my pencil figuring out which one I REALLY wanted to talk about.  It was getting close to lead poisoning when I decided that maybe I should just keep it simple…. and tell you a wee bit about Donegal  my home county.

First before jumping too ahead I think a wee bit of a geography lesson is required. Now pay attention folks, there is a small pop quiz at the end. No pressure but I am expecting 100% from you all.

map

Donegal or Dun Na Gall is located here in the beautiful North West of Ireland.  In Donegal, you will find the most Northerly point on the island of Ireland  ( Malin Head ) . Despite our location in the North of the country and being situated in the province of Ulster, we are part of the Republic of Ireland. We are a border region which means that we share fields with a few neighbours…..from the Republic of Ireland, Sligo and Leitrim and from the Northern Ireland side, Derry, Tyrone and Fermanagh. Have I lost you yet? Well don’t worry; I think the Dept. of Education have caught wind of my moon-lighting as a Geography teacher so it’s best I stop now.

Now that you know where we are … what are we like? I took a survey of one (that would be a very unbiased me ) and survey says…..

We are an extremely friendly bunch of people and if you ever get a chance to call into one of our homes, you will find out just how much we love hosting. “ Ah sure go on, one won’t kill ya” is a popular selling line for the quick cuppa….. You will soon learn that refusing a Tea lovequick cuppa or treat from your host is not in your best interest. Donegal natives are born black-belts in banter so expect high doses of quick witted humour served up with a side order of sarcasm. Make sure you leave your feelings at home, as we are all fond of slagging but be warned it’s one thing us slagging ourselves off … but it’s another you slagging us off…expect repercussions if you dare get so brazen. Please take us all with a pinch of salt… chances are we’re just having the craic with you and it’s our way of showing you that we like you or  that we don’t. Our sense of humour can be confusing for blow-in’s ( ie visitors) but  maybe this ad for  Donegal Catch from a few years ago best sums it up and might clarify any questions you might have on the matter.

Slieve League WmWorth noting, Donegal people are very proud folk especially when it comes to our wee beachwmcounty but on the flip side we are all also extremely modest. Yes modesty is definitely  a defining trait of ours. You would never hear us boasting about our long deserted Blue Flag beaches or regaling you about the views from one of Europe’s highest cliffs at Slieve League . Since modesty is so ingrained in our psyche it wouldn’t dawn on me to tell you about the breadth-taking scenery you will find as you drive along our stunning and dramatic coastal roads like the Inishowen100 or how we are home to Glenveagh National Park one of only 6 National Parks  in the country.

Conas ata tu?If I was the bragging type, I suppose by now I would be telling you that Donegal is a thriving Gaelic speaking county so not only can you immerse yourself in our traditional language but experience many other Irish traditions like our music and dancing.And if we met in person I would be houling my whist (keeping quiet) on how the county is home to some of nature’s greatest stars like Sharks, Dolphins and even the odd pod of Orca Whales. Even if I had known you for a while I might not mention that in Donegal you can experience the natural phenomenon that is the Northern Lights.

CastleI could probably tell you all about the monuments dating back to over 9000 years dotted around the county as well as the castles, forts and other places of interest but again it may appear that I am tooting the county’s horn on how rich we are in history.
This far flung county is the birth place of Rory Gallagher, Enya and Daniel O’ Donnell and donegalwhat all Donegal folk know, we are a bit closer to heaven here than anywhere else in Ireland with Saint Colmcille, one of Ireland’s national saints being born in Gartan.I suppose at this point, if I was really going to town on the ultimate boast  I would tell you that Donegal is also a second-home to many celebrities both Irish and International and that only the most glamorous of chicas  Ms. Sarah Jessica Parker of Sex of the city fame chooses to spend her summers here every year.

 

king jimmyIf you’re a sports fan you may wonder about what were like for sports here in the North West and sure I might just tell you were not too shabby in this department at all. However, you probably find out soon enough we are the 2012 champions of Gaelic Football,  that we are internationally known for our quality surfing, that we have some of the best kept secret cycling routes in Ireland, we are home to one of the  longest golf courses in Ireland and Europe as well as being an international rally destination.  All of this on top of the fact with so many mountainous areas, it is a great place for hiking and with so many lakes, rivers and beaches water activities are huge part Donegal collageof our weekends.

Well now that I thought a little more about it, I am terribly disappointed folks not to be able to share more details to you about my home county. You understand that it is just the type of us up here, that I wouldn’t want to be seen bragging all over the Internet about Donegal being the best county in Ireland and a must for all visitors to come and see. The whole thing would be terribly distasteful and so it brings me right back to chewing my pencil and wondering what to write about.

 

 

Visiting Ireland, a guide for your Ireland vacation.

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Travelers guide to visiting Ireland.

visiting ireland

visit Ireland today

Step 1.  To visiting Ireland,                 Decide to go!

I know this sounds simple put I’ve written posts on the subject. There is always the dream to travel to Ireland, but it takes commitment to go.

So once you’ve made your New Years resolution to travel to Ireland, follow through, you won’t regret it.You’ve decided to go to Ireland. Now determine which type of Ireland vacation you are looking for.

Are you visiting relatives in Ireland?

If so be prepared. When I visit my cousin in Wicklow these are the things I know will happen:

  • I will stay for a short visit with cousin’s in laws that will last at least an hour.
  • The cup of tea will be 3 or 4 cups.
  • A bit of food will be the best meal of the week.
  • My life history will be kindly drawn out of me.
  • My choice for bed and breakfasts will be looked down upon as I could have stayed with a relative. Waste of money you know.
  • Needless to say you can be overwhelmed with hospitality,but do the right thing and except it, embrace it, enjoy it.

Step 2. Decide if a tour is your thing.

The tour bus guided Irish tour.

This is perfect for people who like everything planned for them. The Irish tour guides are professionals and their aim is to have all enjoy their Irish experience. The tour operators will let you see the iconic sites of Ireland, The Guinness Brewery, The Cliffs of Moher, The Ring of Kerry, New Grange. The tour guides have intimate knowledge of each of these Irish tourist hot spots and will set up  accommodations and events to keep you entertained.

  1. A guided tour is recommended for retirees and people uncomfortable with driving in Ireland. The Irish drive on the left side of the road. The country roads are narrow, winding, and full of scenery. Most rental cars are standard transmission, do you remember how to use a clutch?. Oh and those roundabouts can take a bit getting use to, just remember to go in the direction that seems unnatural.
  2. A guided tour of Ireland is perfect for large groups. Family reunions, Family weddings, Large golf groups, all are perfect for a bus tour. Unless you have lots of extra time, the convenience of a guided tour will provide your guests with a good overview of what Ireland has to give. So when you have a big group visiting Ireland board the bus.

visiting Ireland

You have decided to visit Ireland on you own or a self catered tour of Ireland.

This is my favorite way to see the beautiful island of Ireland, it allows for some freedom on your trip. Some reasons to go it on your own.

  1. Take the time to enjoy and appreciate the breathtaking sites of Ireland. Many times you will find yourself in a town that just grabs your heart, you have the option to stay a bit longer, get a real feel for the area.
  2. Self guided tours to Ireland allow you to explore off the beaten path. Checkout small towns, farm country, local festivals, you choose.
  3. Provided you use proper etiquette, it allows you to interact with local Irish people. Some of the best chats have been had in one pub towns in a slow little hamlet, In these country pubs it is essential you use good pub etiquette
  4. Stay in one section of Ireland. Many try to cram to much Irish site seeing into too little time. Staying in one section of Ireland let’s you appreciate the beauty of each region.

There are chauffeured trips also.

These are a nice combination, a local fellow will drive to the sights he thinks you will like, local knowledge of restaurants, pubs, attractions. Personal service and local knowledge. This is especially nice if your in a small group and don’t want to waste your time trying to figure out how things work or where to go. Checkout Cie tours chauffeur program

What you need to pack on your trip to Ireland.

  • Passport and drivers license,
  • Electrical converters, USA blow dryers, electric razors, or devices will not work without converters, you also have to checkout your devices to see if they are dual convertible. (whether they can be used with a conveter switch without frying your device)
  • Prepare for rain and sun. Ireland is an island and is effected by the jet stream and the Atlantic ocean. Many a day will start sunny and warm to end up drizzling and cold. I have spent a week in Ireland where every day was in the eighties, I needed sun block and sun glasses. Once I was at a festival where the morning temperature was mid seventies, to end with me shivering in my shorts and tee shirt, at below fifty degrees. So be a boy scout and be prepared.
  1. Pack a waterproof or resistant windbreaker.
  2. Dress in layers.
  3. Under armour shirt.
  4. Non cotton sweater, fight the urge to pack you aran knit see tourist.
  5. Two pairs of comfortable walking shoes.
  6. Portable umbrella.
  7. Tooth paste, sun block.
  • rent or purchase a pay as you go mobile phone. Your mobile phone may be able to work in Ireland but at a huge cost. There are phone stores in most towns that sell pay as you go phones, you rent the phone and purchase time on the phones, recharge at the stores also.
  • Take some Euro with you.
  • Leave some room in you luggage for gifts or clothes you will buy in Ireland.
  • Find a B&B or Hotel for the first night and a B&B in your desired area. Checkout B&B in Ireland for more info. Remember B&Bs charge by the person not the room. You can always negotiate a bit, especially off season. Also if you are staying in one town, a base camp, consider renting a house for your stay.

So now you have packed for the rain that may or may not come, you have packed for the sun that may or may not come.

What airline did you pick? what airport?

  • I always choose  a direct flight to Ireland, this includes the flights that stop at Shannon airport and continue on to Dublin. I have friends and relations that will save some money going through London or even other European cities, but for an Irish vacation flight, go direct. When you travel through another country before going to Ireland it adds another layer of customs. You are entering another country and they have to make sure you qualify to continue. My daughter when going to an Irish music Fleadh arranged her flight which took her through London. There was a problem with her luggage and she almost wasn’t allowed to continue on. In the end she made her flight, but her luggage showed up three days later. When you have a week to ten days to enjoy your trip to Ireland, you don’t want to spend it in the airport.
  • Consider using Shannon Airport. Shannon Airport is a breeze to leave from, and it is located close to many tourist destinations. If you visit Dingle, Galway, Donegal, consider flying to Shannon.
  • Dublin airport is a bustling place, but not too daunting. The real problem with Dublin airport is people expect to land, rent a car, and drive to a destination. This can be problematic.

Things to consider when arriving in Dublin Airport.

  1. Most in the States leave in the evening (7pm or 8pm eastern time), fly for six hours, arrive in Dublin  (7am or 8am Dublin time) get luggage, bus to the rental car.
  2. Drive the congested streets of Dublin during rush hour, on the opposite side of the street, with a standard transmission, with the stick shift on the right side.
  3. Fight off falling asleep as the planned sleep during the flight never was achieved.

Give yourself a break, either stay a day or two in Dublin or take a bus to your destination and rent a car there. Staying in Dublin lets you plan on staying in a nice Dublin Hotel, plan a day of sight seeing, and catch up on your sleep.

Examples:

  • Going to a Fleadh in Letterkenny in Donegal we caught a bus from Dublin airport, you don’t really sleep, maybe a catnap, but you don’t have to worry about driving three hours on roads you have never been on before, fighting the nods the whole way. You never truly relax, until you have made it to your accommodations.

 

  • Going to Enniskerry Wicklow just outside of Dublin, I usually take a bus from the airport to Enniskerry, I try to sit near the front of the bus and nicely ask the bus driver to remember me when the stop comes. You can fall asleep on the first day without knowing it.

 

  • Even when I was staying in Dublin, I would take a bus, it really is a simple way to get out of the airport. The taxis are a bit more expensive but again when you are tired they are a good option, especially if you are staying at a Dublin B&B.

visiting Ireland

On your first day in Ireland try to stay awake until after dinner time. This can be hard, but you are better off taking a short nap or two and try to get your body adjusted to the time difference as soon as possible. If you can stay awake until eight or nine your chances of sleeping through the night are much better. Don’t worry by the end of your vacation you will be completely use to Irish time.

Once you wake up consider this your first day in Ireland. Start your day with the full Irish breakfast. Many will look at the two eggs, Irish bacon, Irish rashers, black pudding, white pudding, cooked tomatoes, mushrooms, toast, good Irish butter, and a pot of tea, and be intimidated. Don’t be, This meal sticks with you and allows you to not have to worry about lunch. It also takes a bit of time, start to relax, pick a spot to visit and explore.

If you are in the city, take the tour of Dublin, get the ticket that allows you to get on and off all day, This way you can check out the city at your pace.

If you are in your base camp to explore the countryside of Ireland, rent a car and start. Ireland is country with many sides and interests, follow your dreams and discover Ireland. I have visited Ireland over a dozen times and I still feel like there is so much more for me to see.

I’m listing a few must sees in Ireland and a few hints on being a good tourist in Ireland.

  • Dingle peninsula
  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Kinsale
  • O’Donahues, Dublin
  • Kilmainham Gaol
  • Galway city
  • Slieve league,Donegal
  • Malin head, Donegal
  • Mizen Head, Cork.
  • Copper Coast, Kilkenny
  • Portmonack Golf Links, Dublin
  • Royal County Down Golf Links, Down.
  • Ballybunnion Golf Links, Kerry
  • Ring of Kerry
  • Angling, Killarney.
  • Harbour Bar, Bray.

This list could be endless, never really got into hiking Ireland, Kayaking Ireland, Irish hill walkers, biking Ireland, The beaches or strands that are just breathtaking.

Some last random thoughts-Tip a waitress 10%, a cabbie the same, no tipping for a bartender they are professionals and are paid well. Take a taxi home from the pub or walk, Ireland has strict driving under the influence laws and are famous for roadblocks. Your shower has an electric pump that will need to be turned on in order to work, if you stay at a hotel with a bar you have access to the bar after hours.

 

Just remember when you go, that we are visitors in their country. We are of Irish descent not Irish citizens, take the time to listen, be polite, and enjoy some of the best chats you’ll ever have.

This is a thumbnail guide to visiting Ireland, There is so much more. I would be interested in any comments on the subject you have, please leave your experience in Ireland, and any tips to help others out.

Cheers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Visit Ireland in 2013

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visit Ireland in 2013

visit Ireland 2013

This is the year Ireland calls her wayward sons and daughters back to her green and lovely shores. The Gathering is full under way as Tourism Ireland extends a welcoming hand for all to visit Ireland in 2013. Take advantage of some of the group deals available in the states and elsewhere to join groups of like minded, like named, liked county origin, of descendants of Ireland, to enjoy your visit to Ireland

visit Ireland in 2013

Safety in numbers.

We tourists sometimes take a beating for being too exited, too awesome, too pushy, too naive. This Gathering will lessen the pain as there are always safety in numbers. The tour operators will do a fine time taking care of the large tour groups as always. So if you are not the type to learn the culture, or to figure out how the ebb and flow of your surroundings work, stay in a tour. The Gathering is a good Idea and I hope they do well.

visit Ireland in 2013

ring of Kerry is a must see.

If you are a bit more adventurous wander off the beaten path and explore. On a trip through the Ring of Kerry, which is a must see if you are traveling up the west coast of Ireland (Sort of like having to checkout the Grand Canyon when visiting Las Vegas). My wife and I stayed in Killarney, where we took in a cabaret style show. I still regret never getting out of the tourist zone of Killarney, we left never really seeing Killarney at all. Some spots have a large touristy zone to, well, sell to tourists. When we where at this show most there where entertained and convinced that The actors and professional musicians where performing an Irish session. This was anything but a real session though, This show did have a silver lining, we had the chance to meet other people who were sucked into the tourist show by mistake. We had a great chat with a couple from Perth Australia which was worth the over produced strains of my wild Irish rose. this Australian guy was a giant, funny, loud, opinionated and a howl.

visit ireland 2013

Australian tough guy to be.

My Australian friend reminds me of an exception to some of my etiquette rules. He was genuine. There are some of you out there who can get away with being loud, intrusive, and backslapping, the hard part is that there is no rhyme or reason to it. Either you are a gregarious fun loving Aussie giant or your not.

visit Ireland in 2013

visit ireland 2013, enjoy life.

So if you visit Ireland in 2013 with a gathering group, plan to take a few days in an out of the way place. Have a chat and a pint in a real Irish pub. Take a stroll through a green Irish field. See some of the thin places in the world. Look out over the Atlantic ocean on a secluded cliff with the wind in your face and the sun on your back, and enjoy living life. This is the international rule that trumps all others. Ireland can stir the soul, it can remind you of the power of nature, it can remind you there is a God, it can remind you that we all have a place in this world, it can be rejuvenating. Visit Ireland in 2013 and find your passion.

Cheers,

 

 

Enjoying Ireland, means knowing when to walk away.

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enjoying Ireland

enjoying Ireland sometimes means running away

If you read the last post about being the stereotypical American tourist then you will enjoy the flip side in Travel etiquette, the all knowing Irish host. Most in Ireland are engaging, interesting, and jovial types. Most are a pleasure to chat with and an hour or two over a pot of tea or a pint or two is time I will treasure. We Americans take our lumps on being too excited or gregarious but it is not always our fault. Sometimes you get sucked into conversations with folk who know everything and wish to drag you into their world. My first suggestion is to politely walk away, my second suggestion is to politely run away, and my third suggestion is to not worry about being polite and sprint away.

Examples

  1. In Tullamore for a festival I asked an older man for directions to a certain pub, his reply- ” American eh, well you would probably like the singers hall better, there everyone has to be quiet and hushed while folk recite poems or ballads, You know controlled, not like in the streets and pubs were people enjoy themselves.” now this comment in writing could be construed as helpful, but you needed to hear the disgust in his voice as he said it.  Walk away, Walk away, Walk away
  2. In Letterkenny there was a really good fiddle player I heard at a session, he was engaging while performing but I didn’t pick up on the fact that he was acting the part of being welcoming. Later in a hotel session the fellow was demeaning to the tourists around, this was his time not theirs. Walkaway, no sense in trying to convince him other wise, walkaway.
  3. In Doolin in a quiet time of the year I had a fellow try to convince me that the last hope for mankind was East Germany and the communist political system. Run away, Run away , Sprint.

These little snippets are not to turn you off to enjoying Ireland, they are the exemptions that if you are not aware can ruin your trip. There are miserable know it all people all over the world, when you only have 7, 10, 14 days to stay in the beautiful island of Ireland don’t waste it on energy mood stealing people, Walk away, Walk away, Walk away, and bump into some one pleasant.

Cheers.

American tourists need to have a sense of humor

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As is my way and the goal of this humble web site, I want you to enjoy your trips to Ireland. American tourists can be lucky, they can have beautiful weather, they can interact with wonderful, helpful, humorous, inviting local people. The hospitality of the Irish is one of the most marketed and deserving an attribute placed on a population. There are ways to aid in this hospitality and ways to deaden it. Please, try to have a sense of humor, you will say and do things that are considered ill mannered or just silly, if you can manage to laugh at yourself you will lessen the effects of said faux pas. I once sat in a pub and listened to how “we Americans” think that the almighty dollar rules our lives, this fellow went on a bit and he believed he was doing me a service, enlightening me so to speak. Now if this conversation was back in Boston I would have given this fellow an earful, but I wasn’t in Boston. I was on vacation in Cork Ireland, I waited till a bit of humor came along and laughed, waited for some common ground to show itself and agreed. I could have argued but what would that have produced? My goal was to enjoy my trip as an American tourist. The funny thing was after exiting the conversation other observers in the pub came over to chat. “I see you met Sean” “what part of the states you from”. The time spent being patient with this pub philosopher was being taken in by other patrons, one to see if their was a laugh in it for them and two to see if this American tourist was alright, it’s nice to pass the “Sean” test.

american tourist

George Berkeley – Great Irish Philospher“Young man, there is America, which at this day serves for little more than to amuse you with stories of savage men and uncouth manners.” George Berkeley.

There will be times when a bit of give and take is in order, a bit of “slagging” to use an Irish term. If you have been deemed to have either a quick wit or you have been deemed to be completely clueless you may be in for a bit of teasing. Try to be the one that has a quick wit. The game of one upping each other in the pub can be hilarious and exhilarating, putting you on the express train to acceptance. If you are an American tourist with a sense of humor you will have a blast. A word of caution, choose your words wisely, Know that nothing is off limits to your opponent but things will be off limits to you. I once was in O’Donohues on a January night alone and popped in for a pint. There was a group of Dubs teasing a clueless American tourist when they moved on to me, fresh meat so to speak. Well after questioning their gender, preferences, drinking prowess, etc. we all had a good laugh, The best thing is when you can get the group to start slagging themselves. After the bit of fun, these fellas told me some good spots to hit for food, another pub or two they liked, and some free passes to the Gaiety theater to see a Doors tribute band. All without asking for help, sometimes it helps an American tourist to just have a sense of humor.

American tourist

The Gaiety theater not a bad place for an American tourist to spend a night 

 

Cheers.

Irish tourist Information

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I have written a bit about some of the unwritten rules for Irish tourists and some Irish tourist information in general. There is constantly advertised on Irish travel brochures, radio shows, television a certain storybook vision of Ireland. This mythical, magical, sunny, and friendly Ireland, can exist but normally it is a theme park image of what the Irish tourism bureau thinks we tourist want to see. “Travel in seven days and see the quaint Irish farms, the pubs of Dublin, The Giant’s causeway, the cliffs of Moher, The Ring of Kerry, The Dingle peninsula, relax and enjoy the famous Irish hospitality as you are welcomed with a thousand welcomes.” With promotion like this surrounding an American tourist’s first trip to Ireland, no wonder some can be confused and perplexed.

Irish tourist?

So I’m asking for Those out their on other Blogs or Cyber space to send a few comments on the Real Ireland.

What should a tourist do to enjoy there first, and many times, only trip to Ireland?

I’ll start off,

  1. Learn your surroundings  and wait to be included into conversation. We Americans love to start conversations, sometimes it’s best to relax, enjoy a pint at the pub, and see if a conversation finds you organically.
  2. From Mairead at Irishamericanmom  … I always think tourists try to pack way to much into the first day when they arrive in Ireland. Somehow they think they will get a grand sleep on the plane and will have no problems lasting that whole first day in Ireland without taking a nap. Then into the bargain they sometimes book their first night in a hotel with live music, and can’t get to sleep until the session ends downstairs. My advice is to book your first night in a quiet place, so you can get a great night’s sleep and be ready to rock and roll the second day.
  3. From Aoife at the Daily Spud .…… It’s ironic that the best advice for a tourist can often be to void the touristy places. While some of the places on the well-worn tourist trail are worth a visit, there are just as many others that will reward the intrepid visitor
  4.  Tip 2 from the Daily Spud ...If food is your thing (and why wouldn’t it be), you could do worse than to pick up a copy of the McKennas’ Irish Food Guide (disclaimer: I am a contributing editor for same). It will point you in the direction of good local food right around the country (because, to be fair, it’s not always obvious where to look).
  5. Emerald from Emeraldsire.wordpress.com… had given Irelandsfavorites this tourist tip, translation to follow…..Us Donegal folk, we love nothing more than a bit of a slagging… and no 1 is safe….  but be careful… slagging or taking the mick is not for the fainthearted or sensitive souls…
    Never start a slagging session with a local that you can’t finish…             Always a bit of fun the American translation would be a game of give and take, or a match of wits, mostly good hearted, sometimes cutting or biting sarcasm. In the end don’t give it if you can’t take it. …. As is my way a story of a bit of tourist based slagging that saved my night once in Tullamore. I had just dealt with a miserable old toad of a man who I let get under my skin while waiting for a friend. He was insulting really, and he left me with a bad mood brewing. My friend never shows, and I walk around the block past a pub overflowing from the ongoing festival when I hear “Hey checkout the pegs on that fella”  Now normally I would let this go, but hey, I’m pi- , er upset. I ask the guy why he’s checkin out some fifty year old guys legs, but I think it’s nice for his sister to take him out on the town. It ended peacefully.
    6. Susan from vibrantireland.com suggests …..I would say spend time-day/s not hours, in a few well chosen places vs trying to see the whole country! Do a good bit of research, & as well as the main tourist websites also look at smaller ones/blogs- they often great finds/tips. My personal tip for a coastal ‘hidden gem’ is Waterford’s Copper Coast. A few days there are magic!

We’ll see if this gets any traction, There are many Irish Blogs from Ireland, (not trying to be redundant) and I’d especially be interested in how Tourists stick out and what they as Irish locals would recommend to enhance a tourist’s first trip to Ireland. I think the perspective of Irish born citizens and American tourists are quite different and surprisingly unknowing of how each effect the other.

So come on now help out your long lost brethren enjoy their first trip to Ireland and in the process prevent a tourist nightmare from happening in your bit of Ireland.

Cheers and be heard, comment.