If you’re headed to the Emerald Isle, you’ll find everything from untouched landscapes to busy tourist-filled shopping areas. It is a porting haven, as the locals are particularly renowned for their love of football, rugby and Gaelic soccer. If you’re not a rugby or football fan, however, you’ll become one fast and if you’re not a drinker, you’ll still be handed a Guinness or whiskey while you’re there. Whether you’re spending a few days in Ireland as part of a bigger UK trip, or Ireland is your only destination, you’ll find plenty of things to do and occupy your time in the Emerald Isle.
Go to a Pub or on a Crawl of Several Establishments
Pubs are part of the Irish culture. Most of the pubs are old, some dating back to the 1880s. The Irish have done a great job keeping the old-school charm of these quaint buildings, making few modern updates. A pub is the best place to take in the real Irish atmosphere. They’re a talkative bunch, so feel free to strike up a conversation with the locals. You’ll likely get to experience some Irish music too. Get ready to sing along, because the locals won’t have anything less. Even if you are not a keen drinker or someone who prefers soft drinks, you cannot fail to become immersed in the Irish culture and effervescent sense of humor.
Visit a castle
You’ll find an abundance of two things in Ireland: pubs and castles. A lot of the castles are restored and offer tours for visitors. Each one is steeped in history and has its one unique story. The Bunratty Castle is a popular stop for many. Or, if you’re staying in Dublin, take the train a few stops to Dalkey and check out its castle and surrounding town. The nearby Shannon is also home to the wonderful Dromoland Castle, which boasts a golf course and acres of spectacular and lush countryside.
The Cliffs of Moher
If you’re looking for a breathtaking view, head to the western edge of the island and visit the Cliffs of Moher. These giant rock cliffs soar about 700 feet into the air and jut into the Atlantic Ocean. Unlike many attractions in the states, this site isn’t a tourist trap. You won’t find giant hotels overlooking the site, there just a few tasteful shops sitting near the parking lot, and there are few safety features. You can check out the castle that sits atop a cliff and take amazing photos from just about any spot along the walking trail. This is particularly idyllic for couples in search of romance, as the resort provides a wonderfully intimate backdrop.
Tour Dublin
Check out the island’s capital on foot or by bus. There are several great bus tours that allow you to get on and off as you’d like. It’s a little easier on the feet this way. Popular places to check out include local museums, the jail, shopping areas and popular bar areas. The jail offers a lot of history about the Irish uprising and is a great stop for history buffs. Popular bars include, Temple Bar and Boer’s Head. Both have historic significance and are popular tourist stops, so they are well worth a visit for anyone with broad tastes and preferences.
The Bottom Line for Travellers
If you’re looking for more information about Ireland or the UK, AviaDirectory.com has a lot of great information about the area. You can learn about more attractions, places to stay and get the latest news from popular cities in the UK. Browse around to see if the region is a place you’d like to visit, and check out http://www.avivadirectory.com/Regional/Europe/United-Kingdom/Countries/England/ today.
