This beauty, Putóg Dhubh (meaning Black Pudding), perches alertly on Neil's arm during the outstanding Ireland School of Falconry Hawk Walk on Ashford Castle Estate, County Mayo.
MEET TODD AND KAREN
Todd and Karen are seasoned world-travelers and had the distinction of having taken the most Rick Steves Tours in our group . . . next up for them is Rick Steves Switzerland to celebrate their son's graduation from University! Our Favorite part of Rick Steves Ireland Tour There were many highlights on the Best of Ireland Tour. Besides the great tour mates and tour guide, Joe, the Falcon experience was fabulous. We also loved the Giant’s Causeway and the lovely town of Dingle. Our #1 Best Travel Tip . . .Travel light and have an open spirit. In addition to getting to know our tourmates, we had a lot of great conversations with the locals. Irish people are so friendly and welcoming! |
MAY THE ROAD RISE UP TO MEET YOU
KNACKERED OUT | Clew Bay Hotel (one night) TUCK IN
CRACK ON
|
Tour Day 10. Connemara Countryside
Never take a bet from an Irishman when drinks are on the line . . .
Was the lesson we learned. After a delicious "Seafood Experience" lunch in Leenane sampling oysters and mussels grown in the cold indigo waters of Killary Fjord (just across the street), we boarded the bus and continued our journey towards Westport. Joe, taking the bus mic in hand, wagered he'd buy us all drinks at dinner if we could make it without seeing a sheep ON the road. Game on! Game off. Within the quarter hour there were the infamous sheep, and indeed, they were all over the road. Joe laughed and said he'd never driven this stretch and not seen sheep on it that the bus had to dodge. The incident inspired the following Limerick ... A Limerick by Neil In which he recounts the saga of our lost wager with Joe. We hoped that the sheep would cower From the road up into the bower But Joe won the bet No drinks will we get At least 'til happy half-hour. |
|
MEET MARGARET
Margaret is a well-heeled traveller and super-smart scientist from the San Francisco Bay Area. Sadly, she lost her beloved husband to cancer last year. This is her first Rick Steves Tour - Margaret embraced it all with zest! My favorite part of the Rick Steves Ireland Tour I enjoyed all of Ireland but certain places left their mark. Kinsale highlighted the cultural aspect of Ireland with the lively outdoor singing and dancing by the locals enjoying the weekend regatta festival. The Dingle Peninsula highlighted the relaxing beauty of Ireland. Lastly, Derry highlighted the history of Ireland from the walled city of Derry to the more recent civil unrest of the Troubles. My #1 Best Tavel Tip . . . Get to know your fellow travelers to experience the area through their eyes as well. |