Three of Ireland's best hotels have just one thing in common: superb hospitality. Otherwise, they're as different as chalk and cheese, as the saying goes. These are upscale lodgings with highly individual character.Ireland's Best Hotels The Falls Hotel and SpaThe Falls Hotel and Spa just outside the village of Ennistymon in west Ireland's County Clare, stands on 50 wooded acres above ... Read Full Article
How Would You Like Your Shamrock? Ask the Ravenous Traveler
“How would you like your shamrock,” asked the bartender. It was my first trip to Ireland. I’d ordered a Guinness; I was seventeen; and I had no idea what he was talking about—confused as much by his thick Irish accent as by the question. “How would you like your shamrock,” he asked again. After receiving another blank stare, the bartender shook his head and handed me a perfectly poured Guinness ... Read Full Article
Glendalough Valley in the Wicklow Mountains of Ireland
The monastic settlement of the Glendalough Valley in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains is one of the most beautiful and haunting places in Ireland. And, it’s a bit surprising that this isolated area is not far from Dublin, one of Europe’s busiest metropolises. The untouched wilderness of the Glendalough Valley, with its ancient stone buildings, down to earth locals, and circuitous route (there is ... Read Full Article
Must-See Sights for A Weekend in Dublin
When you truly love a city, one of the hardest questions to answer is: what are the must-see sights? My answer often depends on my mood and the person asking. There’s climbing to the top of the Sugar Loaf Mountain, exploring locals-only parks, and finding the last few independent bookstores. But if you’re visiting Dublin for the first time, there are some essentials to see first. These must-see ... Read Full Article
Best Pubs in Western and Central Europe (well…some of them!)
Usually, the thought of a tasty, ice cold brew at the end of a long trek is what keeps even the most intrepid traveler fueled and focused when life on the road gets a little hard going. Thankfully, pretty much everywhere you go in Europe you’re up to your waist in world-class brew, and better yet, a veritable variety of amazing venues in which to relax, unwind and meet great people while you ... Read Full Article
Newgrange, a Touch of Prehistoric Ireland
About 5,000 years ago, the people who lived in what is now Ireland's Boyne Valley, built vast monuments to honor their dead. Newgrange, about an hour’s drive from Dublin, is the best known. This United Nations World Heritage Site draws 200,000 visitors per year. If you’re interested in ancient mysteries, prehistoric Ireland's Newgrange is a must.Newgrange is a huge mound of stone and turf ... Read Full Article
Living Truly Green in Dublin, Ireland
The term Eco-friendly and being green may be new to the travel world, but Ireland has a long history of sustainable, nature based and culturally sensitive travel choices. If you are looking for Eco-friendly activities, transport, accommodation and organic food, Dublin, Ireland is a good choice for your next holiday. Upon arriving in Dublin, the largest city in Ireland, Eco-conscious travelers will ... Read Full Article
Visiting Ireland’s Killarney National Park
Killarney National Park is a beautiful and massive park tucked away in the far southwest corner of Ireland. Surrounding the shores of the also-enormous Lough Leane, the park is full of fun and is almost a holiday in itself. To help you navigate the park, here are a few suggestions in getting there and what to see once you’re there.Getting ThereThe easy option is to join one of the many ... Read Full Article
Dublin Dining Guide
Your first impression of Dublin might be somewhat beer and bar-focused; however, as a result of years of economic boom, the city has become a gastronomic capital. From simple pub grub to more grandiose experiences, Dublin has something for all budgets and all palettes.Tip: Be sure to see our post for hotel suggestions, Where To Stay In Dublin - Editor's Picks.Key: $ = inexpensive, $$ = ... Read Full Article
Ireland’s Historic Castles
A visit to Ireland would not be complete without a visit to one of its historic castles. Both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland have some fine specimens. Located on the northwest coast of Ireland, Carrickfergus is Ireland's best-preserved Norman castle. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, this massive stone fortress includes a keep, guardroom, storeroom, kitchen, chapel, hall, ... Read Full Article