This trip was a first for both Andy and I. Neither of us had traveled to Ireland before, and we didn’t really know what to expect going into it. We heard it was green, and that there’s a strong affinity for dark beers there (putting Andy in his natural element). We heard there were leprechauns and banshees, stone fences and sheeps galore. All of this sounded great to us, but for some reason, it was never on our bucket list.
It’s a good thing we went anyways.
Dublin Area
At this point in our epic journey across the Atlantic, we were getting pretty tired of touristy spots. So we stayed far away from the typical Dublin stops like the Guinness Factory, or the Jameson Factory, or the Waterford Crystal Factory. We still found Dublin to be plenty awesome, and is one of our favorite cities we’ve ever been to.
In and Around the Galway Area
Our lovely Dublin hosts Fabio and Amy mentioned that once we got out of the city, we’d see the real Ireland. “The West is best!”, was the expression they used; and since Amy was born and raised in the west of Ireland but now lived in Dublin, we figured she’d be a good judge. The West coast did not disappoint.
The Connemara
This is the stuff dreams are made of. Irelands only fjords make their way inland, butting up to soaring mountains rising more than 2,500ft straight out of the water. And all around you is nothing but long rangey grasses and sheep, with nary a soul to be seen.
Ireland is everything we heard about and so much more. We’ve got plenty of stories coming your way, but we wanted to put up some pictures real quick just to give you a sample of the awesomeness that is Ireland.
We’ll never forget our trip to the emerald isle, and we can’t wait to go back.
What’s your favorite part of Ireland?
Shelly says
My husband and I went to Ireland this past winter. It hadn’t really been on my bucket list either, but I was so happy we went. Ireland is beautiful and fun. What could be better than great scenery, visiting castles and small villages during the day and going to pubs, drinking beer and listening to great music every night!
Becki says
Thank you for the wonderful comment, Shelly! We couldn’t agree more with you – Ireland was and is amazing. One of my favorite parts is when we were driving around and just seeing random castles and ruins out in the fields and imagining what they have been through and who had one lived there! Such a great day dreaming country :)
Sam says
Alphie fits right in!
Becki says
He does! He is already begging to go back and I don’t blame him – I want to too!
Ruth says
I don’t know why but I have never been attracted to Ireland. Nevertheless, I fill like I am going to have to visit one day or another. Photos and experiences like yours make me more enthusiatic about the island.
Becki says
Hi Ruth, thanks for your comment – and I know exactly how you feel. I remember growing up and being excited to tell people that I was Native American, and my mom always said ‘hey, you’re Irish too!’ but I never gave it a thought to consider going to Ireland. The moment we stepped off the plane and going through customs (which is never fun), was exciting because people are so lively and fun there. We never came across a person that wasn’t helpful or wanted to chat, and never came across a view we cared to forget. Ireland is a place that will take your breath away and leave you wanting a bit more each time. I can’t wait to get back!