Ireland – 5 things you don’t know

In honor of my office assistant Emer, and last weekend’s St. Patrick’s Day holiday; I’d love to introduce you to Ireland.    Let’s take a look at what this fabulous country has to offer as a destination! Ireland is a unique and fun-filled country with breathtaking scenery, charming people, and attractions that are legendary.  The Irish are widely considered to be some of the friendliest folks in all of Europe.   Upon your arrival, you will soon understand why Ireland has been such an inspiration for poetry, theatre, music, arts, and of course – adult beverages!

Ireland is an island Northwest of Continental Europe.  Ireland is separated from the larger island of Great Britain by the Irish Sea.  A bit of trivia for you, Ireland is the 3rd largest Island in Europe!  Politically, Ireland is divided in to The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.  The Republic of Ireland covers approximately 5/6th of the island is largely where most of the tourists visit.  Northern Ireland is located on the northeast of the island.  The total population of Ireland according to recent statistics is approximately 4.5 million.
Ireland is an easy area to visit and tour; Ireland is easily accessible via most major air carriers from the US.   You can be on a guided tour or travel independently; both will provide you with an excellent experience in Ireland.  The accommodations range from bed and breakfasts to castles!  Ashford Castle, Castle Leslie, and Dromoland Castle are just a few of the castles that have been turned in to hotels.

Because of the mild climate and frequent rain that provides the lush vegetation in the country,  Ireland is often referred to as the Emerald Isle.  There are 3 World Heritage Sites in Ireland:  the Brú na Boinne, Skellig Michael and the Giant’s Causeway.  Some of the most visited sites in Ireland include Bunratty Castle, the Rock of Cashel, the Cliffs of Moher, Holy Cross Abbey and Blarney Castle.  The West Coast of Ireland has the most breathtaking views and coastline.  Dublin receives the most tourists and is home to the Book of Kells, the Guinness Storehouse, several other popular attractions, and of course, Irish Pubs.

About those 5 things I promised you ……

Did you know that according to recent statistics, nearly 50% of the Dublin population is under the age of 27?  This certainly explains why Dublin has the reputation of “party central” where the Guinness never stops!

Did you know there are no snakes in Ireland?  That’s right, none!  

Until the 1970’s, Ireland was dry on St Patrick’s day; no pubs were allowed to open on March 17th. The only place where a person could legally acquire alcohol was on a train, or at the annual dog show in Dublin’s RDS stadium.

The official first language of the Republic of Ireland is not English, it’s Irish (sometimes called Gaelic).  One of Irish’s many curiosities compared to English is the absence of words that directly translate into “yes” or “no.”  When asked if someone is “Going to the pub?,” the answer might be “I am,” as opposed to “yes.”

Dalkey, a suburb of Dublin, is Ireland’s “Beverly Hills”, home to a number of Irish celebrities.  Among them are the authors Maeve Binchy, Roddy Doyle and Hugh Leonard as well as the film directors Neil Jordan and Jim Sheridan.   Several international music figures, including U2 members Bono and The Edge, Enya, Chris de Burgh and Van Morrison also call Dalkey home. Among former residents were James Joyce, George Bernard Shaw.

oh and …… The Irish consume in average 131.1 liters of beer per year – the 2nd highest per-capita consumption after the Czech Republic.   SLAINTE !!! (Cheers to your good health)

Lovely Day for a Guinness

Ireland has so much more to offer than what I can possibly cover in this small space.  I encourage you to seriously consider Ireland for your destination.