Ireland

This magnificent, elegant and enchanting land of magic and giants is proof that paradise isn't all about sizzling, clear waters lapping up over the white sands and the boiling hot rays of the equator.

Ireland is home to some of the most beautiful, rolling green hills, rugged coastal beauty, wildlife, and of course some of the most delightful, loveable people you'll ever meet. With stories of kissing the Blarney Stone, the Giant's Causeway, and the magical leprechauns, you'll be in for a great story.

You can probably guess from the above that Ireland is all about the stories, be it the history or the people who tell these enthralling tales.

Geographically, Ireland can be found kissing the Atlantic to the northwest of Europe, sitting above Spain and west of the United Kingdom.

Before we proceed, it's time for a slightly uncomfortable talk about Ireland's history. There is a lot of conflict over whether Northern Ireland should be part of Ireland or the United Kingdom, and it was only in 1998 that the Good Friday Agreement was signed declaring peace. This is absolutely something you need to know when talking about Ireland or Northern Ireland. These tensions have caused death and destruction across both Northern Ireland and Ireland alike. Whilst the countries are in peacetime and the Troubles are in decline, there are factions who still attempt to reignite the fire, which once again has sadly raised its head in April 2019 with the killing of a journalist in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.

So, What's Special?

The countryside has some truly raw scenery, whilst in the towns and cities the most colourful flowers are hanging from every bar, shop, and pub.

The whole country is a sight to be seen. However, it's the people that make Ireland so special. Everyone you meet will greet you with a smile, a happy song or a story. The Irish are more than welcoming and will get you involved in any event ongoing in the town.

It's their stories that win you over though. Everyone has one they are dying to tell; some will speak of their history, some tell stories of family and friends, whilst a vast number of people will tell tales of magic, mystery, and makebelieve, and it's these that grip you, making you want to hear more and more.

If you are lucky, you'll experience the full Irish tradition of song and dance, which tell yet more stories passed from generation to generation. You'll be left with a smile on your face from your first meeting to the last. It's absolutely the people that make this wondrous land so special.

Our Experience

Greg has been lucky enough to visit Ireland on three occasions, taking in the traditions of the countryside, the towns and the capital city Dublin twice.

My first trip to Ireland led me around the south of the country, travelling from the eastern towns of Waterford and Cork, passing some of the most fantastic castles and clifftops, leading me to create my own stories such as kissing the Blarney Stone.

I travelled the coast, leading up to the stunning wildlife reserve of Dingle Bay, again with its own stories of a local dolphin who has made the harbour it's home.

Both my other trips to this glorious country have been to the capital city, Dublin. My most recent trip was in July 2019 and involved seeing the sights, exploring the local foods, drinks, and nightlife with a group of friends who I first met in Bali in 2018, one of whom lives in the city itself.

Our Advice

We have a lot of advice for your trip to Ireland, but the key to enjoying the country to the max has to be get involved, join in and put yourself out of your comfort zone.

What we mean by this is join in the singing: if you get pulled up on stage, dance like no one is watching, and go all out to throw yourself into the tradition. Eat local foods, try a Guinness and listen to the stories. You really will find the best of Ireland when you're diving headfirst into it.

To Summarise...

Ireland, in general, isn't overly expensive - with the exception of Dublin - and even then you can spend a lot less here than a lot of European capital cities.

Make sure you listen to the locals. They know the best places to eat, drink, and will help you no matter what it is you need. They will guide you to some of the best activities in the area. Make sure you get involved in the tradition, listen to the stories and make your own stories with the most amazing people.