Ireland
The Emerald Isle - a country without a ‘touristy’ feel and plenty to explore
Travellers looking for a destination full of charm, friendly people, solid service without a "touristy" feel and plenty of places to explore should plan an Ireland travel experience. In addition to pubs and Riverdance-style step dancers, Ireland also features local musicians, friendly locals, stunning scenery, ruins and historical sites, and golfing to enjoy at a relaxed pace.
Nearly everyone will find something to enjoy when travelling in Ireland, be it the green countryside, Irish whiskey, shopping, bicycling tours or wandering sheep. Traditional culture still thrives at this destination, and even becoming one of Europe's economic successes hasn't changed the Emerald Isle's people or way of life too much. Travelling to Ireland where its known for good service, lots of accommodation options and little crime is ideal for any keen traveller. Even the souvenir shops seem rather low-key.
A hint, do not rush your travel around Ireland. Although it's possible to drive the length of Ireland in less than a day and to traverse the width of the country in a few hours, you might prefer to settle in and explore a particular region, whether on foot, on horseback or behind the wheel—mindful, of course, of wandering sheep on small back roads.
Dublin
Dublin, is the small, charming, eminently walkable city visitors expect, and the corner pub offers a warm welcome. Travelling to Dublin should include a visit to the excellent museums, a stroll through the beautiful parks and other cultural offerings such as castles and churches, but make sure you have enough time for socialising, this is what makes this destination thrive.
Dublin is a city in transition, from medieval capital to exciting commercial centre—a hip, electric city, astonishing even visitors who make it their business to stay on Europe's cutting edge. Dublin's unpretentious charm is still there, but chic urbanity has moved in beside it. Now known for its vibrant nightlife, Dublin has become a favourite holiday destination for European visitors. You could holiday in Dublin for over a week and still not cover all the attractions.
WHEN TO TRAVEL to Dublin
People think it rains all the time in Ireland, yes it does rain a lot but it is very rarely heavy. One can enjoy travelling to Dublin anytime as this city’s weather is slightly better than the rest of the country. Dublin can have long beautiful sunny days particularly during July and August. The coldest months are in January and February but a warm cosy pub is never far away.
Cork
Cork, situated on the south coast of Ireland, is the country's second city after Dublin and the largest city in the province of Munster. Most of the city centre is located on an island in the River Lee, so be prepared to cross many bridges from there to the other parts of Cork’s attractions.
Ever since the Viking period, Cork has had a strong reputation for independence, and Corkonions often refer to their city as the true capital of Ireland. Over the last couple of decades the city has changed rapidly as a destination, with heavy investment in the city's cultural life and infrastructure. Cork was European Capital of Culture in 2005 and proved to the world what locals have known all along: Cork attractions include a unique, diverse and extremely welcoming culture.
Key Cork attractions include Blarney Castle (a short bus ride away from the city), the old English Markets for great shopping especially for food lovers, Whale watching west of Cork cannot guarantee you would spot whales but the ocean is teaming with life, St Finn Barre’s Cathedral a 19th century old church and of course the numerous pubs and cafes all around the city for some true Irish hospitality.
WHEN TO TRAVEL to Cork
It is said that Cork has 2 seasons – wet and sunny and both can occur on the same day. The warmest and probably the busiest time of year is June and July. November through to February is normally the wettest. Winter can be quite cold and wet but remember some of Cork’s attractions-the warm welcoming fires in the cosy Irish pubs.
