Ireland -- you have to see it to believe it!

I took my own words to heart, and spent two weeks relaxing. I just enjoyed living in the moment for two whole weeks! I turned off my phone during the day and avoided checking emails. It helped that I had delightful company and was touring Ireland.

Words can’t really describe how beautiful Ireland is. The countryside is breathtaking and peaceful at the same time. The summer days are long – with sunrise somewhere around 4am (or so I am told) and sunset around 11pm. They have what my sister calls “free air-conditioning.” Our two weeks were around 60-65 degrees Fahrenheit. Perfect hiking weather, and cool enough to keep the windows cracked open at night. All that fresh air is rejuvenating!
We started our trip with a few days in Dublin. It’s a big city, full of hustle and bustle. At first, I think they could tell I was an American by the way I held my purse tightly by my side. It was a few days later when I finally relaxed and realized that I never really felt threatened at all. The roads are narrow and winding, but I never saw any road rage or violence. In fact, I saw very few police officers. People seem to take life in stride.

The two weeks we were there included EURO 2016 and the Republic of Ireland could not have been any prouder of their soccer team! The Mayor of Paris actually gave the Irish fans an award for their exceptional behavior at the tournament! When does that happen?! She especially made note of their generosity and joyfulness. They enjoy their sports, and certainly enjoy their drink, but there is a goodness there that is very refreshing.

Without getting into the politics of the day, I have to note that we were in Ireland when Britain had their Brexit vote. It is amazing that everyone we met wanted to talk about it. I have never seen so many people so well-versed in politics and world events. They all wanted to talk about our election, but we were all taking a break from politics!

We went into Northern Ireland to see the Titanic Museum and learn about the history of Belfast. We grew up seeing the fighting in Belfast on the evening news, and it brought back a lot of memories. My grandfather was born there and as a teenager had a job on the crew building the Titanic. He emigrated to America a few years after the Titanic tragedy. It made the tour very personal.

From there we spent a night in a castle – a real treat! What’s so fabulous about Ireland is that you can immerse yourself in the ancient civilizations at Newgrange and the Hill of Tara, medieval times at Glendalough and the Dublin Castle, and the more modern history in Belfast and Dublin. But it’s really the people who make the trip so charming. I didn’t have a single rude sales person or waiter. Everyone was helpful and cheerful! They richly deserve their reputation for graciousness and hospitality. I hope you’ll take the time to see for yourselves!

Blessings,
Barb