According to a recent survey by Global Traveller magazine, the Emerald Isle takes the top spot as the world’s most beloved tourist destination.
If you’ve yet to experience the wonders of Ireland up close and personal, perhaps 2013 should be the year to make it happen.
When you board a plane bound for this exciting, British Isles locale, you certainly won’t be disappointed.
Ireland offers visitors access to stunning heritage sites, charming villages and cities, and warm, friendly people.
Rich in character and natural beauty, the Emerald Isle offers superior return on investment for travellers, any time of the year.
To help you learn more about the world’s favorite tourist destination of 2012, we’ve compiled a quick guide to a few of Ireland’s most revered attractions.
The Cliffs of Moher
For a taste of adventure, be sure to visit Ireland’s gorgeous and dramatic Cliffs of Moher.
Rising to a height of 214 meters, these stunning cliffs tower over the Atlantic Ocean, on the Western coast of County Clare, Ireland.
When gazing out to sea from your vantage point on the clifftop, you’ll be able to spot the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and the Maum Turk Mountains of Connemara.
Inspiring and all-natural, this striking rock formation is truly one of the Emerald Isle’s natural wonders. No trip to Ireland is complete without a visit to the timeless and beautiful Cliffs of Moher.
Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone
To tap into Ireland’s rich and colorful medieval past, be certain to plan a trip to Blarney Castle, where you may access the lauded Irish “gift of gab” by kissing the legendary Blarney Stone.
Known as one of the Emerald Isle’s most visited historic sites, Blarney Castle is located in County Cork. Once occupied by the MacCarthy family and the Lords of Muskerry, this stone fortress features eighteen-foot thick walls.
You will find the Blarney Stone within the battlements near the top of the castle.
According to Blarney Stone lore, giving the stone a little smooch is the key to being able to talk your way out of almost anything.
Dublin
Ireland is about much more than dramatic stone formations and ancient strongholds.
To experience the Emerald Isle of today, spending some time in the country’s capital city is essential.
Dublin is a potent blend of modern amenities, such as shops and restaurants, and historical elements (including the pretty, Ha’Penny Bridge) that bring the spirit of the past to colorful life.
When visiting the city, be sure to take in its key attractions. See a show at the revered Gaiety Theatre, visit the Dublin Zoo, and explore the bustling and sophisticated Temple Bar area, with it’s boutique hotels and thrilling nightlife.
Celebrate Ireland with a Handmade Irish Charm
Why not treat yourself to a touch of Gaelic style, by adding our Tara’s Diary Green Shamrock and Crystals Charm to your Tara’s Diary Charm Celtic Bracelet or Pandora Charm Bracelet?
This signature design is crafted from sterling silver and glittering Swarovski crystals, and it features Ireland’s most famous symbol.
The Shamrock plant was used by Saint Patrick, to prove the existence of God in the natural world.
He believed that each of the plant’s three leaves symbolized Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Choosing this meaningful charm is the perfect way to honor your own Irish heritage this year.