Ireland 2010
OG Adventure
Ireland is a magical place. If I began writing about everything I love about that country right now, I would probably be done in 10 years (dramatic, I know, but I am a slow typer and I love Ireland SO much).
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Anyway, every visit to the country has always left me wanting more. In an ideal world, Ireland is where I would live out my days... in the peat-scented air and writing novels all day, every day. Fairytales come true?
Top 10 Things
Ireland Edition
Achill Island (Mayo)
Ennis (Clare)
Galway (Galway)
Cliffs of Moher (Clare)
Wicklow Mountains (Wicklow)
Sligo Town (Sligo)
Ring of Kerry (Kerry)
Kilkenny (Kilkenny)
Temple Bar (Dublin)
The long winding roads and random things along the way
Which airport do you fly into?
I have flown into Shannon (SNN) and Dublin (DUB). Both are the cleanest, nicest, uncomplicated airports I have ever been to.
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SNN is found on the west coast of Ireland where many people enjoy their start up or down the Wild Atlantic Way - apparently the most beautiful road trip you can take in the Emerald Isle. I have journeyed along some of it, and definitely agree.
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If you are more inclined to cities and all they have to offer, you should fly into Dublin. After all, driving cross-country can't take more than 3 hours (from Dublin to Shannon).
Should I drive or use mass transit?
While I have experienced Ireland both ways, the most memorable times I've had in the country were the times I controlled where and when I went. If I needed an extra day to explore all that Galway has to offer, I could do it. If I thought turning right would be more exciting than turning left, I could do it! If possible, driving yourself around the country is an experience of a lifetime and well worth the flexibility.
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On the fence?
My suggestion would be to gauge your comfort-level with driving on the opposite side of the road. If it makes you unbearably nervous, traveling via tours / mass transit is probably your best bet. Transportation is usually clean and friendly; however, don't invest too much energy into hoping that everything will run on time. Be patient. Enjoy the views. Sip on some Guinness. Realize that you are in one of the greatest most beautiful countries in the world.
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Driving:
automatic
not cheap
make sure you go over how all the buttons work (speaking from experience)
26 +
get the insurance
turning left (keep close)
turning right (a loose turn)
open all windows (fresh air, duh)
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More questions to come.