I recently returned from my first trip to Ireland and it was amazing! We were given 10 days to experience the itinerary that we will be providing guests of the Emerald Isle tour, and it was a wonderful experience. While the trip presented its share of challenges (i.e. learning as much as possible about Ireland and its history in 10 days), our group shared many laughs, ate like kings and queens, and stayed in some amazing places.
Our trip began in Dublin where we stayed at the Westin Dublin, a 5-star hotel situated accross the street from Temple Bar and Trinity College. We got the chance to explore Temple Bar (where I had my first Guinness IN Ireland), see what Dublin was like in Medieval Times, pour the "perfect pint" at the Guinness Storehouse, view the Book of Kells, and begin to make Dublin feel like home.
After a few days in Dublin, we departed for Killarney, making a few awesome stops along the way. We stayed at the Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa, which is right accross from the Killarney National Forest. The next morning we awoke to a jaunting-cart ride through the forest to Muckross House.
We also embarked upon a bike-ride through the national forest, and concluded the day with an evening listening to traditional Irish music in a pub (sipping on Guinness of course).
The next day included a sailing excursion off the coast of Kenmare. We concluded the day with cheese tasting, which was accompanied by wine and traditional Irish dancing...and the dancing somehow became very interactive. :)
The morning after, we departed for Shannon, where we would spend 3 evenings in Dromoland Castle. The castle is incredible and is nestled between private acres of green hills and forests. On the way to the castle, we stopped by the fishing town of Dingle and got the chance to see portions of the Ring of Kerry. Upon arriving at Dromoland, we were greeted outside by the hotel staff and immediately made to feel like royalty.
We soon journeyed off to Bunraty Castle to enjoy a Medieval banquet with great food, fun entertainment, and Mead (wine made with honey). For those who have never slept in a castle before, allow me to say that it is truly an AMAZING experience. May you all get the chance to feel like a Lord or Lady sometime in your life!
We took the next day to visit The Cliffs of Moher, see the Burren, and visit an authentic, working Irish farm. It was an action-packed day, and we concluded it with a private "farewell" dinner at Dromoland.
At the farm, we got the chance to make home-made scones, feed lambs, watch the farmer shear a sheep, observe sheep herding, and eat our scones (some were better than others).
We ended our time together with an English-style horse ride. I hadn't been horse riding since I was a child, so it was great fun to do it again. Of course, Gradlough (my horse) got a bit testy and decided to go crazy a few times. I'm not ashamed to say I got a bit nervous, especially when the trainer had to hop off her own horse in order to contain dear Gradlough. Never a dull moment with me.
In the midst of all these fun and exciting activites, we spent our time learning about Ireland's history, telling Irish tales and folklore on the coach, and developing the skills needed to make us great Adventure Guides. It was a very busy week and I feel like a sponge that has retained A LOT of water!
The trip made me realize what an awesome opportunity I have been given and what a great gig this is. I look forward to a magical summer in Ireland, as I get the chance to introduce the beautiful island to many new travelers and see their eyes light up as they sip their first Guinness, hop upon a jaunting cart, sleep in an authentic castle, or gaze upon the Cliffs of Moher.
I depart on June 16th to lead my first trip which commences on June 21st. I'll be out there for 2 trips in a row (which means I'll also be spending my birthday in Ireland) and return for a week of rest in mid-July.
May we all have a summer of great growth and unforgettable experiences!
Palmer
