Cork City is something of an outsider among Irish towns. Dublin is the capital, of course, and Galway is famous for its stunning Atlantic coast and romantic link with the Claddagh ring. But what about Cork? Ireland’s third most populous city has a lot going for it. It’s surrounded by tourist hotspots such as Bantry […]
Tag: exploring ireland
A Bere Island Retreat into the Spiritual Sublime
The New York City Museum of Moving Images currently features an emotion-simulating piece of artwork that at first appears static, yet changes to reflect the expressions of the onlooker (Exhibitions). On the wall it hangs. A representation of Caspar David Friedrich’s painting The Wanderer. A viewer stands from a distance, with his face to a […]
Read More… from A Bere Island Retreat into the Spiritual Sublime
The Itinerant Irish–Macweeney’s story of the Irish at Large
Irish travelers, also referred to as tinkers or gypsies, are said to have broken off from the “settled” Irish about a thousand years ago. They have a long history as craftsmen and tradespeople. As one source notes, “the sound of a hammer hitting an anvil,” warranted them the nickname of “tinkers” (Rock, Lauren). The […]
Read More… from The Itinerant Irish–Macweeney’s story of the Irish at Large
Near the heart of Ireland–Athlone and Beyond
In leaving Ireland, I remember a song I heard on RTÉ radio a few days before returning to the United States. Its lyrics went: I left my heart in Athlon, my heart is an empty stone.” Still, I think of those lyrics today and envision the images of the place that captivated me as a stranger to the land. There is a […]
Read More… from Near the heart of Ireland–Athlone and Beyond
Saint Patrick and the Ridding of the Snake
To some, Saint Patrick and the myth of riding Ireland of snakes is an allegory where the snake represents evil and Christianity is the cure—the eradicator—to that evil. Yet, others trust the geography of the island in answering the no snake question. Before the Emerald Island was an island, it was covered by ice. According […]
The Blarney Stone and the Eloquence
The Blarney stone is world renowned for giving those who kiss it the gift of the gab, meaning the ability to speak well. Presumably, the word means, also, to speak well in order to gain favors. The definition of ‘blarney’ is: to influence and coax with fair words and speech without giving offense. A Queen […]
Exploring Ireland – Limerick City
Ireland is known for its charming cities and its unsurpassed natural beauty. If you’re considering a trip to the Emerald Isle, there are so many great places to see and explore, and one of them is definitely historic Limerick City. Limerick City was founded by Vikings, who constructed a rugged, marble-walled city close by the […]
How to Find the Best Hiking Trails in Ireland
Ireland is world-renowned for its unique and exquisite beauty, and this natural splendor is often best appreciated up close and personal. If you’re into outdoor activities and you want to experience the Emerald Isle from a more personal vantage point, hiking through the country may be a great vacation idea for you. Ireland’s many top-notch […]
Read More… from How to Find the Best Hiking Trails in Ireland
Exploring Ireland – Dunguaire Castle
Located in County Galway, Ireland, Dunguaire Castle is a picturesque remnant of the sixteenth century. Today, this unique edifice, which features a high tower and a stone wall, is one of the county’s most popular tourist attractions. According to local lore, the castle even brings good fortune to those who spend time at the front […]
Exploring Ireland – Boyne Valley
Known as one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions, the picturesque Boyne Valley is located in the Emerald Isle’s north-east region, and it spans both County Meath and County Louth. This land was an ancient settlement for the Irish, who called it ‘Bru na Bóinne’. Today, this area is the home of some stunning attractions, […]