Ireland Travel Guide

Completely down to earth, beautiful, rugged, friendly, quaint, historic, Ireland is a place where superlative tend to run out. Lying on the western fringes of Europe, it's a small island but one which has contributed to the world a disproportionate number of characters and cultural richness. The people of Ireland are legendary folk of good humour who have spread their influence around the globe. St. Patricks day is surely one of the most recognised expat celebrations the world over, and Guinness one of the most well known beverages. The irish are always the life of any party, and a holiday to Ireland will probably explain why.

The rolling green beauty of Ireland has history and tradition ingrained into every corner. From the tiny colourful seaside village of Kinsale to the thriving Marble Bar in Dublin, you will find traditional music, food, and plenty of conversation wherever you travel. The ruins of civilisation past are evident throughout the lands, in fields and cities and they tell of a country which has been inhabited for millennia. There are many tales of saints and sinners in Ireland and a trip of any length of time here will uncover a few.

Dublin, Ireland's capital is an mix of laid-back charm and go-getting determination. It has a friendly, historic and lively central area with plenty to see and enjoy. It's a city that has given the world many fine artists, musicians, and writers of literature and poetry. It was the home of such literary giants as James Joyce, Bruce Shaw and Bram Stoker and more recently birthed the likes of U2 and Sinead O'Connor. Visitors flock to St James Gate, the site of the famous Guinness Brewery, St Stephens Green and the dozens of wonderful pubs which are dotted throughout the city.

Regional Ireland is no less delightful the counties of Cork, Donegal, Killarney, Limerick and Waterford are possessed of bucolic perfection and villages and towns that will delight. Discover a countryside that is alive with fascinating history, dramatic scenery, villages, markets and winding country drives that reveal surprises around every bend. For fine, authentic food, head to County Cork and southern Ireland - acclaimed as Ireland's gourmet county, it's full of fresh seafood, lively farmers’ markets, excellent local produce and a number of critically acclaimed restaurants. The west of Ireland is wild and enchanting with scenic rugged coastlines, soaring mountains and some of the friendliest people in Ireland. Northern Ireland will surprise many, aside from the history of Belfast and Derry, there is plenty to see along the stunning coastline, including the remarkable Giants Causeway, just one of the destinations along what is one of the best coastal drives in the world.

Ireland becomes a favourite of many who go, her wild landscapes contrast with the warm embrace of the towns and villages and with the open manner and genuine welcome you will feel from her people, resulting in a mix of experiences that is unique anywhere in the world.