Ireland’s first Cistercian Abbey in County Louth lies in ruins, cupped in the hollow of protective hills, listening to the ever gurgling sounds of a busy stream. A still and peaceful setting, it’s easy to imagine medieval monks living, working and praying in this idyllic setting. It is one of Ireland’s thin places, a spiritual […]
Lessons for Tourists to Ireland
Here you'll find tips for exploring Ireland and getting off the beaten track. Let's discover the road less traveled and and venture along the highways and byways where hidden Ireland is waiting for you.
County Louth – The Land Of Legends
County Louth, also known as the Land of Legends or The Wee County, lies along the east coast of Ireland. It may be the smallest of Ireland’s thirty-two counties, but don’t overlook this little corner of the Emerald Isle. It boasts multiple heritage sites, dramatic scenery and amazing historical and medieval towns. From the […]
Inspirational Irish Words And Sayings
Irish language words are lyrical and soothing and can bring peace and calm. My Irish ears find solace in these uplifting sounds, and in the lilting syllables of the Irish language, one of the six Gaelic languages. And so today, let’s examine the power of Irish words to soothe our troubles. The Comforting Sounds […]
Visual Proof You Must See Sherkin Island
Are you a nature lover looking for a quiet retreat away from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Then Sherkin Island off the coast of West Cork may be the perfect spot for a peaceful getaway. Visiting an Irish island can be a truly memorable experience, especially when the sun shines. Ireland is an […]
Celtic Christening Gowns As Family Heirlooms
Christening gowns are part of our Irish cultural heritage. For centuries these gowns have been a meaningful way for Irish families to express their faith and family traditions. They’re symbolic works of art. Christening dresses are often called baptismal gowns. In the past, Irish babies of both genders wore a gown when being baptized. Today, […]
Old Irish Boreens
Boreen is a word used frequently in rural Ireland. It’s a beloved term, conjuring homesickness and nostalgia for many. But have YOU ever wondered what this frequently used little word means? And so, today I thought we might explore, WHAT is a boreen? Origins Of The Word Boreen: The word ‘boreen’ literally means “little […]
7 Avoidable Mistakes When Planning A Trip To Ireland
Planning a vacation to Ireland comes with many challenges and indecisions that tend to overwhelm people. There’s so much to see and do in Ireland despite it being such a small country. Am I doing too little? Is my plan too much? Will I miss the important parts? Today I’m delighted to share some great […]
Irish Famine Burial Pits In Skibbereen
Abbeystrewry Graveyard in Skibbereen is a beautiful, yet poignant memorial to the victims of the Great Irish Famine of 1845 to 1850. Over 9000 men, women and children were laid to rest here, in an unmarked, mass grave. In today’s blog post, we’ll explore the significance of the Irish Famine Memorial in Skibbereen, County Cork. […]
Easter Stories Of Saint Patrick
Did you know there are old Irish stories and legends linking Saint Patrick to the Feast of Easter? After celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day in the middle of March we often put our patron saint to the back of our minds for another year. Few realize he has deep and meaningful connections with Easter. And so, […]
Turas Éireann – An Irish Tour Company That Goes The Extra Mile
Turas Éireann, a new Irish tour operator, is offering experienced, driver-guided, luxury tours of Ireland for groups of up to ten people. The good folks at Turas Éireann bring you Ireland at your leisure. The name is pronounced thur-iss eh-ron, and means Irish tours or travels. Dermot, the Irishman behind the company, contacted me to […]
