Land Of The Green Shamrock...

Ireland

September 20 - October 10

This past autumn, I had the privilege of spending three weeks in the Emerald Isle, a place of great physical beauty with the warmest and most gracious people one could hope to meet.The second largest of the British Isles, politically, the island is composed of two separate countries:The Republic of Ireland, taking up 5/6 of the territory and, currently, a part of the EU, and Northern Ireland whose allegiance is with the United Kingdom.

The island joys a western maritime climate, mild, but changeable with plenty of cloud cover and abundant rainfall during the fall and winter months. The mountains are low-lying, the rivers are navigable, and the vegetation is lush; a green-hued landscape enchants the eye wherever one looks.

Ireland’s colorful traditions have influenced other cultures all over the world. Irish literature, music, language, and Gaelic games have infused themselves into the hearts of many…and who hasn’t been told stories of leprechauns and pots of gold! Saint Patrick, the country’s patron saint, is celebrated yearly and a grand excuse to drink Irish beer, the consumption of which in Ireland is the 2nd highest per capita after the Czech Republic.

The first few days of my adventure were spent in County Kerry, the southwest coast of the country. Whether it was the breath-taking view of the Ring of Kerry,  the narrow mountain pass of the Gap of Dunloe, the music coming from the pubs of Dingle, or the cobblestone streets of Adare, it was the perfect introduction to the country’s physical beauty and the gracious warmth of its people.

On the way to Slea Head, the westernmost point of Ireland, these ancient stone huts known as "Beehive Huts" hide stories of a time long past.

Fish and chips, beer, and pie at a local pub in Annascaul Village. Tom Crean, who explored Antarctica with Ernest Shackleton from 1914-1917, opened the pub and it's filled with photos of his many adventures.