In anticipation of one of the world’s most important holidays, following are some random tidbits about one of the best countries on the planet!

“Gobsmacked” …. my all-time favorite Irish expression (as in, “I was gobsmacked when I heard the news.”). Here are some other translations you might need for your next trip:

• “Press” = cupboard
• “Wrecked” = tired from the night before
• “Boot” = trunk of the car
• “Crisps” = potato chips
• “Chips” = French fries
• “Ossified” = very drunk
• “Jumper” = sweater
• “Cuppa” = cup of tea
• “Fierce weather” = wet weather, cold weather, windy weather, drizzly weather, etc.

A top-of-mind list of places to see and things to do when you go back to Ireland for a 2nd (or 3rd, or 4th) time . . .


(because we all know you wanna go back!):

• Kinsale – A pretty and colorful town on the south coast. Known as the “foodie capital” of Ireland. Book a walking tour with Don & Barry – a most enjoyable and informative experience.

Scenes of colorful Kinsale.

• The Dunbrody – An authentic replica of a “famine ship” – not unlike the one that probably brought my Murphy ancestors across the Atlantic. Actors portray typical passengers and explain the horrid conditions that passengers endured during the 6-week crossing. Sobering . . .

• The Aran Islands – Windswept, barren, rocky and desolate … and beautiful. They still speak Gaelic here. Definitely worth a visit – especially if the weather is favorable. (HINT: On the way back, have a cup of seafood chowder at Gus O’Connor’s Pub in Doolin.)

Scenes of captivating Inishmore, largest of the Aran Islands

• Murphy’s Handmade Ice Cream in Dingle (as far as I know, we’re not related…) – On their website they list current flavors, upcoming flavors and “worst flavor ever made: Smoked Salmon Ice Cream (horrible!)”. The drive to get there – along the Dingle Peninsula – is stunning. Stay into the evening to enjoy some of the best Irish music you’ll ever hear.

• Viking Splash Tour in Dublin – One of the dumbest, funnest things I’ve done … on a World War II amphibious vehicle, there’s no possible way you won’t have a good time on this improbable tour.

• Mt Juliet Estate – Southeast of Dublin by about 60 minutes, this pretty property is an idyllic way to slow down the pace of your trip and soak up a few days of luxurious Irish leisure. Walk through the woodlands or into the pretty village of Thomastown. Visit the gorgeous horses in the pasture or the “pups” – offspring of the hunting hounds. Dine in their Michelin-starred restaurant. Enjoy spa, golf, equestrian activities, fishing, clay pigeon shooting, biking . . .

Scenes from Mt Juliet Estate, near Thomastown

• Go to an Irish horserace. Racing is a big deal in Ireland, and it’s a great way to meet and commiserate with the locals. (Find out which pub they’ll visit after the meet.)

• Belfast is a great base for exploring the north of Ireland. Don’t miss the Titanic Exhibit, take a Black Taxi Tour to visit the neighborhoods that were the scene of the “Troubles” not too many years ago and head up to the Giant’s Causeway. If you’re early enough, settle into a “snug” at The Crown, while admiring the Victorian-era woodwork, tile and stained glass of this landmark – it’s one of the great bars of the world.

All these memories of Ireland are stirring a yearning . . .

. . . maybe it’s time to put a WOW! Travel Club journey together? I’d be sure to confirm the most delightful, humorous tour guide I’ve ever worked with and show you bits of Ireland you’ve never seen before. Are you in?

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Thanks – and Happy St. Patrick’s Day!!!!