HELP! What To See And Do In Ireland?

Poststructural Pub
21

Sorry I haven’t responded sooner, but I’ve been real busy trying to tighten up the loose ends before we leave (which, btw is Wednesday 5/26). The second worst thing about traveling is getting ready to go - the worst thing, especially about this trip, is/will be the coming home. I’m not even there yet, and already I don’t want to come back.

Thank you all for your fabulous suggestions. I know it sounds like we have bitten off more than we can chew in our two week stay – I feel sort of like a kid with just a couple of hours to spend in an amusement park – I want to do it all, but don’t have the time. Like many of you, I do not care to drive through places, staying only long enough to see a particular sight and then move on – I prefer to linger in a given area and better experience its colour and charm. I know it’s childish, but every place sounds like the place I want to be. We just need to prioritize.

Yes, I am fully aware of the historical and cultural significance of Dublin, and after hearing about staying on the outskirts of the city and taking public transit which is a great idea I had not thought of, may give it a go (again, time is a factor). We have to get to Cahir in County Tipperary for family research (and also Cobh, to check ship passenger lists). My wife suggested heading straight to Cahir upon landing at Shannon, to be certain that we finished the research without being too rushed at the end of the trip. She always makes good sense to me. My feeling now is to head south to the Dingle Penninsula upon arriving at Shannon, then eastward toward Cobh and Cahir. Do that and maybe Waterford in the first week, and play the second week by ear. I really want to experience the west coastal region. And Dublin. And the Midlands. And the north. And. . . Sigh!!! I know… my wife said that we can always go back to experience what we miss on this trip… but that’s another story.

I’ve been waiting for over 30 years for this trip which is probably why I seem so flakey. I know that it will all sort itself out while we are there. I am just grateful for the opportunity to finally go to Ireland, and am grateful for all of your kind advice and suggestions.

Thanks,

Will O’Ban

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If you’re on the east coast anyway to see Dublin and Newgrange (and Newgrange is a must, the oldest man made structure on the planet), Glendalough is very cool, too, historic and beautiful. It may be the only pine forest you see in Ireland, and it also has a round tower in good shape, as well as the remains of the monastery there. It’s not far south of Dublin. Do a search for both Newgrange and Glendalough to see some pix and decide if it’s worth it to you.

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Thanks for the info, Blackhawk. I was aware of Newgrange, and also of Saint Kevin and the monastic ruins at Glendalough. I just couldn’t recall the names of the two sites or exactly where in Ireland they’re located. [Seem to be having this problem recalling names more and more lately.] I do indeed find both of these to be especially interesting and have planned on visiting them for the last number of years – only, if you hadn’t jogged my memory then I probably would have forgotten until it would have been too late. This memory thing is getting to be really frustrating. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone. I know my 11 year old son will enjoy both of these sites as much as I will.

Thanks again!

Will O’Ban

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You’re very welcome, Will! Now we just want to hear some stories when you get back!

Blackhawk