“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
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
Ancient Limerick: a Slice of Irish Legend
Limerick ....however you define it - take your pick! Whether it be the witty, sometimes naughty rhyme or the dashing cultural / commercial center on the River Shannon; just the name "Limerick" will make you think of green shamrocks and poetic verses that will make you kick up your heels. The city of Limerick (the third largest in the Republic of Ireland) boasts an abundant history that ... Read Full Article
Kissing the Blarney Stone
Ever thought about lying down on your back, leaning your head backwards over the edge of a castle tower, and puckering up to a moist piece of stone? If so, that’s exactly what you’ll get to do when you go to kiss the Blarney Stone. The Blarney Stone, officially known as the Stone of Eloquence, is a stone laid in the parapets atop Blarney Castle, a medieval fort near the city of Cork. The stone ... Read Full Article
The Joys and History of Irish Beer
Discussions of Irish beer usually begin and end with one word: Guinness. There is no doubt that Arthur Guiness’ great creation is the most famous beer in the world, let alone in Ireland. But there is much more to the beer scene on the Emerald Isle than just the meal-in-a-glass that draws all the headlines. Of course one cannot simply ignore Guinness when dissecting Irish beer. In the ... 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
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
Ireland’s Wonderful West Coast
One of the popular travel routes people take when going to Ireland is up the west coast - starting from Cork and heading north through the Dingle Peninsula - to Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher, and ending in Galway. This is a fantastic trip, rugged enough to require hardy boots and a good tent, but still peppered the entire way with cozy beds for the weary and some of the best pubs ... Read Full Article
Ireland’s Magical Giant’s Causeway
It seems impossible that such a tiny island can have so much to offer the traveller and tourist, but everyone heading for Ireland must understand that you can never go just once. If you are a Game of Throne fan, check out these GOT tours from Belfast. Many include a stop at Giant's Causeway If this is your first trip to the Eire, or your sixth, you should make your way north to County Antrim ... Read Full Article
Enjoy the Nightlife and More in Kilkenny, Ireland
The small city of Kilkenny is known for its eponymous castle and preservation of its medieval history, but this Irish destination also offers lively nightlife and great shopping. The town is a popular weekend destination for many Irish denizens. Whether interested in history, shopping or a vibrant nightlife, Kilkenny offers all in a condensed, easily navigated city center. From Dublin Airport, one ... Read Full Article