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A real-life look at kissing the Blarney Stone To see an itinerary that includes the Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone click here. If you are interested in travel to Ireland, take a look at our group travel page here for open seats. We just love Ireland and would love to tell you all about it. Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull together all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too. Call today at 407-517-4744 and the frustration of doing it all yourself. #vibranttravel #Irelandtrip #TriptoIreland #Ireland #Irelandtravel #TraveltoIReland #destinationireland #ExploringIreland #irelandtravelagent #irelandtravelpackages #visitireland #tripstoireland #discoverireland #irelandexpert #irelandtravelagent

A video montage of Blarney Castle and Grounds Welcome to Blarney Castle and the famous Blarney Stone. Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull together all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too. Call today at 407-517-4744 and the frustration of doing it all yourself. #vibranttravel #Irelandtrip #TriptoIreland #Ireland #Irelandtravel #TraveltoIReland #destinationireland #ExploringIreland #irelandtravelagent #irelandtravelpackages #visitireland #tripstoireland #discoverireland #irelandexpert #irelandtravelagent

Updated: 12/29/2021 To be honest, there are far too many great pubs in Dublin to limit it to 4. So, in this first article, I am including the top 4. The first two received the most votes with the rest following right behind them. The results were achieved with an unsophisticated compilation of public information posted online, and one vote given to each mention regardless of position in the top ten lists. To understand the culture of Ireland you must understand the meeting place, the local pub where you can enjoy a pint and some craic. Craic means fun times. Known for atmosphere, friendliness, and charm the Irish pub reminds us of a time gone by before cell phones, and binge-watching. Ireland is known for many things but what comes to mind for many is its Guinness, a stout beer, and you will hear many pubs claim they serve the best pint in town. When they say, "have a pint", they mean Guinness. Of course, they also offer a variety of beer in the establishments, as well as wine and cocktails. Historically, when pubs opened, they served various purposes, so you will see pubs followed by “and grocery” or “and hardware”. To help with a few Irish words in this article here are a few to remember. A Snug is a private area separated within the pub, a small cozy section found in traditional pubs for more private conversations. Originally, they were for the ladies, match-making, and sometimes business deals. Typically is had its own door, a bench, a window for drinks, and was completely private. Pubs each have a great history and a little research will turn up some interesting stories you would expect from a country blessed with the art of storytelling. There are over 7,000 pubs in Ireland and a good portion in Dublin. Given the daunting task of deciding which ones to try, I’ve searched for the best pubs in Dublin, and here is the list with the most votes. The Long Hall and Toners were tied with the most votes with the rest right behind them. The following establishments all serve the perfect pint of Guinness so read on and Slainte! The Long Hall Established in1818 and is one of Dublin’s oldest and most famous. An original Dublin pub with a striking red and white exterior. It survived the Celtic Tiger Boom, a term referring to the economy of the Republic of Ireland from the mid-1990s to the late-2000s, a period of rapid real economic growth, then a subsequent severe economic downturn. Licensed since 1766, this pub is one of Dublin’s oldest, most beautiful, and best-loved pubs, abundant in traditional charm and exuding genuine Victorian originality, the interior dates from 1881. The bar has been open for more than 250 years, with an interior that has remained the same since 1881. It has elaborately carved wooden partitions, antique clocks, and mismatched chandeliers. These Victorian features make for a cozy, welcoming pub; a place where you want to settle in for the night and hang out with friends, and a near-perfect pint of Guinness. The name of the pub originates from Dublin pub lore as a consequence of the long narrow hallway snug, that ran parallel to the back bar. The pub is the product of traditional Victorian design symmetry in which the sum of its parts, including elaborate gold leaf enhancements, meticulously handcrafted wood carvings, beveled and ornate glass all come together to create one of the iconic examples of 19th century Dublin pub life. The pub boasts visits from celebrities, prominent politicians, musicians, and playwrights. Irish rock legend Phil Lynott recorded ‘Old Town’ in the bar in 1982. Attentive bartenders, a friendly welcome, and a great atmosphere await you. It is renowned for great Guinness and is very busy on the weekends so try a visit during the week to avoid the crowds. Address: 51 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2, D02 CP38, Ireland Toner's Award-winning pub on Baggot Street Toner's Pub was established in 1734. Today it is an award-winning pub. Toner's is one of Dublin’s oldest and most famous of the traditional pubs, which was named the overall winner of the “Best Traditional Pub” in the National Hospitality Awards 2014, Dublin Bar of the Year in 2015 at the Sky Bar of the Year Awards, and “Snug of the Year” 2010, a competition hosted by Powers Whiskey. The classic red and black exterior makes this pub easy to spot. The original features in the pub will transport you back in time, from the old stock drawers behind the bar from when Toner's first opened as a bar and grocery. Other original features include the glazed cabinets, elaborate mirrors, brass bar taps, and flagstone floors. The pub was frequented by many of Ireland’s literary greats, including Patrick Kavanagh, and rumored to be the favorite pub of W.B. Yeats. The snug is said to be the only place he would drink when he liked to have a few drinks. Today, it’s a place for a drink after work, with a mix of older and younger crowds. On game day it gets quite lively or maybe rowdy is the right word. They are known for the, let's say “attitude” of the barman and a great pint of Guinness. They have a nice-sized beer garden in the back, which gets great reviews. It’s great for warm days and heated when it is cold. The Brazen Head The building dates back to 1198. The Brazen Head is Irelands oldest pub, steeped in history and lore. There building served as a hostelry in 1198. The present building was built in 1754 as a coaching inn. A coaching inn was a place that travelers could stop to get a bite, drink, and rest the horses. The Brazen Head appears in documents as far back as 1653. According to the Brazen Head, the pub was used by Robert Emmet to plan the Rising of 1798. With its proximity to Dublin Castle, then the seat of English rule in Ireland, it was the perfect spot to plot against British rule. Being close to the quay, churches, and the courts made it a hub of activity providing a great opportunity to pass on intelligence without being discovered. Unfortunately for him, his rebellion failed and in 1803 he was put to death for high treason in a rather gruesome manner. As a result, Emmet’s ghost is said to haunt the pub. The United Irishmen of 1916 and the leaders of the War of Independence, including Michael Collins, gathered at the Brazen Head for meetings to plan the revolution. The pub came close to destruction during both the Easter Rising of 1916 and the Civil War of 1922. During these turbulent times, the Four Courts nearby were destroyed and today, the walls of the pub display photographs from this time in Irish history. As Dean of Saint Patrick's Church, it is believed that Jonathan Swift would have passed the pub every day and he mentions the Brazen Head in at least one of his writings. Irish poet Brendan Behan and novelist James Joyce often frequented the pub as well. Joyce even mentions the Brazen Head in "Ulysses". For something to eat, try beef and Guinness stew or a big bowl of steamed Irish mussels. The food here is fantastic with all the Irish traditional dishes available but best to make a reservation if you expect a table. The venue is also famed for its live music and storytelling. An absolute must on any trip to Dublin. As a side note, it is one of this author's favorites and they make a mean gin and tonic. Address: 20 Lower Bridge St, Usher’s Quay, Dublin, D08 WC64, Ireland The Cobblestone The Cobblestone considers itself “A drinking pub with a music problem”. The Cobblestone is in one of Dublin’s oldest neighborhoods, Smithfield, a quick walk from the Luas (tram) stop and about a fifteen-minute walk from the city center. This pub is for both locals and tourists so if you are looking for authenticity, this is it. It is authentic and old in appearance with pine-wood floors and dark paneled walls. The Mulligan family has been playing Irish music for five generations built on a family tradition of respect for music and culture. This pub is all about traditional Irish music so stop by for traditional music every night. It has an Irish music jam session with well-known Irish musicians, plus classes if you want to learn the instruments. They offer Bluegrass, country, folk, singer-songwriter nights, singing, dancing, and history talks too. Check the schedule if you want to participate in the fun. Address: 77 King St N, Smithfield, Dublin, D07 TP22, Ireland So if you are planning a trip to Dublin, make sure to check out these 4 pubs, at the least. If you are interested in pubs in Ireland, ask us about the Irish Pub tour. It is offered in small groups touring around Ireland at some of the most notable Irish Pubs. Learn about the tradition, history, and purpose of the pubs, and have a few pints along the way! Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland. Ask about the Ireland Pub Tour! Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull all the details needed to create memorable hassle-free trips. Call today at 407-517-4744 and end the frustration of doing it all yourself.

Two Traditional Irish Pubs to Try in Dublin To understand the culture of Ireland you must understand the meeting place, the local pub where you can enjoy a pint and some craic. Craic being the Irish word for fun times, and the Irish know fun times. Known for atmosphere, friendliness, and charm the Irish pub reminds us of a time gone by before cell phones, and binge watching. Ireland is known for many things, but what comes to mind for many is it’s Guinness, a stout beer, and you will hear many pubs claim they serve the best pint in town. When they say “have a pint”, they mean Guinness. Although you can order other beer in many of the establishments, as well as wine or a cocktail. Historically, when pubs first opened, they served a variety of purposes. You will see pub names followed by “and grocery” or “and hardware” indicating all the character and history you would imagine from an Irish pub. You may hear a about snugs in the descriptions. A Snug is a private area, separated within the pub, a small cozy section found in traditional pubs for more private conversations. Originally, they were for the ladies, match making, and business deals. Historically, is had its own door, a bench and was completely private. Pubs each have a great history and a little research will turn up some interesting stories you would expect from a country blessed with the art of storytelling. There are over 7000 pubs in Ireland and a good portion in Dublin. Given the daunting task of deciding which ones to try, I’ve narrowed the search to the best pubs in Dublin and here is the list with the most votes from the web, blogs, travel sites, and magazines. The popularity of pubs with unique characteristics and charm are in the eye of the beholder so it ended with many all tied after the top 2. The Long Hall and Toners received the most mentions with too many remaining tied to include in one article. If you are in Dublin try one of these two tor stop in another as you pass by. You won’t be disappointed. The following establishments all serve the perfect pint of Guinness so read on and Slainte! The Long Hall Established in1818 and is one of Dublin’s oldest and most famous. An original Dublin pub with a striking red and white exterior that has survived the complete reconstruction of the buildings around it during the Celtic Tiger boom. A term referring to the economy of the Republic of Ireland from the mid-1990s to the late-2000s, a period of rapid real economic growth then a subsequent severe economic downturn. Licensed since 1766 this shrine to antiquity is one of Dublin’s oldest, most beautiful and best loved pubs, abundant in traditional charm and exuding genuine Victorian originality, the interior dates from 1881. The bar has been open for more than 250 years, with an interior that has remained the same since 1881. It has elaborately carved wooden partitions, antique clocks, and mismatched chandeliers. These Victorian features make for a cozy, welcoming pub; a place where you want to settle in for the night and hang out with friends and a near-perfect pint of Guinness. The name of the pub originates from Dublin pub lore as a consequence of the long narrow hallway snug, that ran parallel to the back bar. The pub is the product of splendid Victorian design symmetry in which the sum of its parts including elaborate gold leaf enhancements, meticulous handcrafted wood carvings, beveled and ornate glass all come together to create one of the iconic and leading lights of 19th century Dublin pub life. The pub boasts such celebrities as prominent politicians, musicians, and playwrights. Irish rock legend Phil Lynott recorded ‘Old Town’ in the bar in 1982. Attentive Bartenders, a friendly welcome and a congenial atmosphere await you. Renowned for great Guinness. It is very busy on the weekends so try a visit during the week to avoid the crowds. Address: 51 South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2, D02 CP38, Ireland Toner's Established in 1734 Established in 1734 and is an award-winning pub. Toners is one of Dublin’s oldest and most famous of the traditional pubs, which was named the overall winner of the “Best Traditional Pub” in the National Hospitality Awards 2014, Dublin Bar of the Year in 2015 at the Sky Bar of the Year Awards, and “Snug of the Year” 2010, a competition hosted by Powers Whiskey. The classic red and black exterior makes this pub easy to spot. The original features in the pub will transport you back in time, from the old stock drawers behind the bar from when Toners first opened as a bar and grocery. Other original features include the glazed cabinets, elaborate mirrors, the brass bar taps, and flagstone floors. Frequented by many of Ireland’s literary greats, including Patrick Kavanagh and rumored to be the favorite pub of W.B. Yeats. The snug is said to be the only place he would drink when he liked to have a few. Today it’s a place for a drink after work, with a mix of older and younger crowds. Game day it gets quite lively or maybe rowdy is the right word. They are know for the, lets say “attitude” of the barman and a great pint of Guinness. They have a sizable beer garden in the back, which gets great reviews. It’s great for warm days and heated when it is cold. Address: 139 Baggot Street Lower, Dublin 2, Ireland There are many favorites in Dublin so I can’t leave you here with only two. Watch the newsletter for the mini e-book release that will include the entire list. It will be made available to our subscribers as a complimentary resource. In the meantime, if you find yourself in Dublin or anywhere in Ireland, pop in the local pub and experience the craic, storytelling, and welcoming spirit of the locals. Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland. Vibrant Travel works with curious travelers looking for authentic journeys, enriching experiences, and unique destinations. Call or schedule a consultation for more information. 407-517-4744

The Iconic and Breathtaking Cliffs of Moher We have all seen the iconic pictures of the Cliffs of Moher, pronounced like “mow-er” or "mo-her", but being there in person, will take your breath away. This dramatic view has been featured in many movies including Harry Potter, The Princess Bride, Leap Year, and many more. Once there you’ll understand why. A favorite for locals and visitors alike, this is Ireland's most visited natural attraction. The cliffs of Moher are in County Clare in the southwest of Ireland along the wild Atlantic Way. These majestic cliffs are awe-inspiring at 702 feet at their highest point and 5 miles long. The rocks were formed over 300 million years ago. They house over 20 species of seabirds, one of which is the ever-popular puffins. If you are a puffin fan, let’s face it aren’t we all, the best time to see them is between May and June. The cliffs have been attracting tourists since the end of the 16th century, mostly nobles back then, but now it is an attraction for all travelers and Irish alike. In fact, O’Brien’s Tower was built in 1835 as a viewing platform to allow tourists a stunning view of the cliffs. It remains a popular part of the cliffs and was restored in 1970, 2008, and again in 2019. On a clear day, you can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, the Twelve Pins, and the Maum Turk mountains in Connemara. Looking south you can view the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands in Kerry. Visitor Center Visit the subterranean visitors center, built in such a way as to not affect the appearance of the cliffs and the natural beauty of the area. It even has a grass roof! The center has a café, gift shop, and exhibits. Try the bird’s-eye-view virtual reality experience of the cliffs. Take the path to Hag’s Head rock or just stroll the path along the cliffs. If you love to hike, take the 3-hour hike to the adorable town to Doolin. If you are lucky you will be able to hear musicians playing traditional instruments and music while you gaze at these breathtaking views. From the serene beauty of a Celtic harp to the lively reels of a tin whistle player, this is truly an authentic Irish experience. Branaunmore Rock at the Cliffs of Moher Branaunmore rock, 219 ft high and just off O'Brien's Tower on the Cliffs of Moher, is one of the rock formations which protrude from the Ocean. Originally part of the main cliffs, erosion has caused it to separate from them. Geologists acknowledge, that it will eventually be lost to the ocean but for now it is inhabited by thousands of seabirds. Rainbows at the Cliffs of Moher Ireland can produce all 4 seasons in one day. The periodic rains and sunshine that burst through clouds create a constant stream of rainbows. If you're lucky enough to witness a rainbow while traveling to the Cliffs of Moher, you surely have the luck of the Irish on your side. Sunset over the Cliffs of Moher Hikers to the Cliffs of Moher will delight in the pure magic of the sunsets over the Cliffs. Watching the sun dip into the Atlantic Ocean is a treat for all who visit Ireland. With the Visitor Centre open until 6 pm, you can grab a quick bite at the café and then head out to watch the sun go down creating a stunning view along the Cliffs. When you are in Ireland, don’t miss the opportunity to see the cliffs. The gentle sweeping hills of County Clare against the majestic Cliffs of Moher, and the rugged Atlantic will be a memory to hold dear. Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull together all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too. Call today at 407-517-4744 and the frustration of doing it all yourself. If you enjoyed the article please like it and share it with your friends. To get notified when I post articles, videos, tips, and give-aways, subscribe here. #vibranttravel #Irelandtrip #TriptoIreland #Ireland #Irelandtravel #TraveltoIreland #destinationireland #ExploringIreland #irelandtravelagent #irelandtravelpackages #visitireland #tripstoireland #discoverireland #irelandreview #irelandexpert #irelandspecialist #irelandtravelagent #irelandblog #cliffsofmoher

Ireland welcomes you with “Cead Mile Failte”, one hundred thousand welcomes. Just a short time there and you will experience the friendly nature of the people and come to learn that they feel strangers are just friends they haven’t met yet. Getting There and Getting Around Getting to Ireland can come in many forms and here are a few. An immersive ocean cruise around the Island for those travelers that don’t want to pack and unpack several times. For anyone wanting to see as much as possible of the Island, try a small group coach tour or better yet a private driver tour. Select a hotel and stay in one area a then take day trips to attractions or stay in Dublin and experience the city. There are also trains if you want to try both north and south. Remember, Northern Ireland is on the pound sterling and the Republic of Ireland is on the euro. Anyone comfortable driving on the left, may also consider a self-drive trip. One absolute must is a castle or manor stay while you are there for at least one night for an amazing experience. Popular Sites in the Republic of Ireland Ireland has so much to offer and narrowing down the sights to just a few of the biggest really depends on why Ireland is on your list. Travel the wild Atlantic way for small towns, rural landscape, and sheep! A foodie must go to Galway, the gastronomic capital and university city. Guinness Storehouse, Irish whiskey distilleries, and pub tours abound around the Island as well as Game of Thrones and Star Wars tours. Here are a few of my favorite must see sights. A few days in Dublin is a must if you can. Dublin is a chapter in itself but let’s see if I can give a few options. Do some shopping on Grafton Street, see the countless museums, look for the statue of Oscar Wilde lounging on a rock in Merrion Square. Visit Dublin Castle, built on the site of a Viking fortress in the 13th century. Spend some time walking the grounds at Trinity College and see the Book of Kells. The book of Kells contains the four gospels in Latin and is the most richly decorated of Ireland’s medieval manuscripts. Make sure you get tickets in advance Visit the Guinness Storehouse, just beyond the city center is a 7-story attraction telling the story of Guinness the national drink, with a bar on top called Gravity Bar, which has the most amazing views of the city. Of course, it goes without saying, but I’m saying it anyway, try out a few pubs. They are central to the culture of Ireland. They are steeped in lore, history, and a great way to meet the locals. Dublin is just the beginning of the adventure, start your trek around Ireland and try some of these sometimes breathtaking and sometimes just-plain-fun sights. · Blarney Castle- Kiss the Blarney Stone and gain the gift of eloquence. · Cliffs of Moher and the Burren · Cobh, the last stop for the Titanic · House of Waterford Crystal · Ring of Kerry · Dingle Peninsula This is just a taste of what there is to do and see in Ireland. If Ireland is on your list, decide what you want from a vacation, do a touch of research, or call your travel advisor, and get ready for Cead Mile Failte from the amazing people of Ireland! Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull all the details needed to create memorable hassle-free trips. Call today at 407-517-4744 and end the frustration of doing it all yourself.

As you approach you will see shops on the right of the Visitor's Center that are built into the cliffs as is the visitor center itself. When you exit the visitors center turn right to follow the path to see the iconic view of the Cliffs and make your way to O'Brien's tower. From here you will see views of Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. As you make your way to O'Brien's tower up a series of stairs and pathways, there are places along the way to take the most amazing pictures of the Cliffs. The Cliffs stand approximately 700 ft tall above the Atlantic Ocean. They will take your breath away at the majesty, the iridescent green on the top of the cliffs, and the sheer size and their ability to withstand the barrage of waves. The views from all sides are stunning. Take pictures up the walkway and after visiting the tower you can continue to walk behind it for a look back. Once you've seen that side, walk back past the tower and down the walkway and up the other side where you will be walking on top of the other side of the cliffs. There are many viewpoints here as well. You'll see cattle grazing in the field as you maneuver the paths. It is partly paved and partly dirt path. Shale rock has been placed to prevent falling. Pro tip: Take pictures from all angles and take lots of them. The weather changes from sun to rain so you never know what you'll get and even then it changes. Try to get a bit of the foreground in the pictures it helps to show the immensity of the cliffs. Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull together all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too. #vibranttravel #Irelandtrip #TriptoIreland #Ireland #Irelandtravel #TraveltoIreland #destinationireland #ExploringIreland #irelandtravelagent #irelandtravelpackages #visitireland #tripstoireland #discoverireland #irelandspecialist #irelandtravelagent #cliffsofmoher

Enjoy this video montage of Giant's Causeway. It is an awe-inspiring destination with huge basalt columns formed millions of years ago by volcanic eruptions. This slide show takes you down the path and along Giant's Causeway. Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland here. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull together all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too. Call today at 407-517-4744 and the frustration of doing it all yourself. Planning a trip on your own? Here are a few tour favorites. Click the image to see the tour. #vibranttravel #Irelandtrip #TriptoIreland #Ireland #Irelandtravel #TraveltoIReland #destinationireland #ExploringIreland #irelandtravelagent #irelandtravelpackages #visitireland #tripstoireland #discoverireland

Let me take you on a short journey from the visitor center through the path to the rock formations and some tips along the way. Giants Causeway is a Unesco World Heritage site in Northern Ireland. It was formed over 60 million years ago from volcanic eruptions and the warming and cooling of lava flow over that time. It formed 40,000 interlocking hexagonal basalt columns. The formations jet out into the Irish Sea and on a clear day, you can see Scotland from this magnificent and magical place. Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland here. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull together all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too. Call today at 407-517-4744 and the frustration of doing it all yourself. V #vibranttravel #Irelandtrip #TriptoIreland #Ireland #Irelandtravel #TraveltoIReland #destinationireland #ExploringIreland #irelandtravelagent #irelandtravelpackages #visitireland #tripstoireland #discoverireland

Why travel to Ireland with us, besides the breathtaking beauty of Ireland, friendly people, and castles? Find out why in this 30-second video. Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland here. We just love Ireland and would love to tell you all about it. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too. Call today at 407-517-4744 or schedule a consultation below and end the frustration of doing it all yourself. Would you like to receive notification of special values on this and other vacations as they happen? Subscribe below. If you are looking for authentic experiences, see our list of "20 Surprising Experiences You Never Imagined You Could Have on a River Cruise". Request your PDF copy below.

A fun, interactive experience and a must-do next time you are in Dublin. No trip to Dublin is complete without a visit to Jameson Bow Street. You will approach the distillery through an alley of sorts and the first thing you see is the copper pot used to distill the whiskey. The original Jameson Distillery Bow Street opened its doors in 1780 but moved the distillery to Middleton in County Cork in 1971. Now Jameson Bow Street is a visitor center, this is where you will get guided tours, tastings, or just visit the bar. Before we talk about the tour, let’s tell a few secrets. Why is it called "Irish" Whiskey? To be called Irish Whiskey a spirit must spend a minimum of three years maturing on the island of Ireland. So, what’s the secret? Jameson Irish Whiskey is made by blending rich pot still whiskey made from both malted and un-malted barley, with the finest grain whiskey. All are distilled three times to achieve the smooth character of the whiskey. The barley is grown locally in Ireland, and the water comes from the Dungourney River, which flows right through the working distillery in Middleton. The maize is pure as the sun from a farmer in the South of France. No genetically modified maize for Jameson! A triple distillation process that has been going on since the beginning is the reason it is so smooth. And you’ll never guess where the casks come from. Yes, the United States, well Spain too. Another secret, these specific casks are used because they originally aged bourbon and fortified wine, thereby leaving some of that flavor in the whiskey. Now on to the tour. The “Bow Street Experience” is the basic package. It is interactive and the guide is quite the storyteller as you would expect, making the experience all that more interesting. During this sensory experience, you will smell, taste, and learn about the ingredients, blending, and maturation process behind this famous whiskey. You will compare and contrast American, Scotch, and Irish whiskey. Finishing the visit with a Ginger and Lime, and Jameson whiskey of course, in the bar amid a giant flatscreen with Jameson demonstrations, whiskey keg lined walls, and chandeliers made of whisky bottles. You can even get a bottle of whiskey engraved with your name on it. There are a variety of options when it comes to tours and you can combine a few to save. Here are some options. The Whiskey Cocktail making class where you’ll make and drink three cocktails. Cabs are available at the street if needed 😊 Another option is the Jameson Black Barrel blending class where you blend your own whiskey to take home. And you will be able to see the only live maturation warehouse in Dublin. Another option in the maturation warehouse is the cask draw experience. A guided tasting of four premium Irish Whiskies including exclusives from Jameson distillery is also an option. No matter what you choose, make sure to print your tour certificate and have your Ginger and Lime before you leave, it just might be your new favorite. Don’t forget to make a stop in the gift shop for some Jameson to take home. Pro Tips: Buy tickets in advance, and bundle to save a bit. And ladies, shirts run a size smaller than you would expect in the gift shop. If you are into the stocking stuffers, grab a few shot bottles of Jameson Black, I did. Shh. Slainte! Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland here. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull together all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too. Call today at 407-517-4744 and the frustration of doing it all yourself. #vibranttravel #Irelandtrip #TriptoIreland #Ireland #Irelandtravel #TraveltoIReland #destinationireland #ExploringIreland #irelandtravelagent #irelandtravelpackages #visitireland #tripstoireland #discoverireland

One of the most important monastic sites in Ireland This monastic site, commonly called the monastic city, sits in the middle of the Wicklow Mountains and is full of history and magnificent views. It has become one of the most important monastic sites in Ireland. The solace and peace you’ll feel here are unlike many of the other sites we talk about. There is so much more to this area than just this site, but for our purposes, we will talk about the immediate area. You’ll start this tour by passing through an arched walkway. The first ruin you’ll see off in the distance is the “Round Tower” that stands thirty-three meters tall. Built nearly 1000 years ago by the monks of St Kevin’s monastery, you’ll notice the door to the tower is not at ground level and that is because. it was used as a refuge for the monks when they were under attack. The door, at that level, was harder to get to. Next, you’ll pass the Celtic crosses and gravestones. You’ll see a grave that is thought to be the grave of St Kevin himself. Although this is not the only claim to be his grave. St Kevin’s Church is next, also known as St Kevin’s kitchen, is well-preserved with a round tower. There is also a cathedral on the site that still has a few walls, partial arches, and windows but the roof is gone. Here they have placed some of the oldest gravestones. There are other ruins here as well but these are the most impressive. Once you leave the main area, cross the bridge, and turn right toward the lake. In this forested area you see ferns that go on forever, and openings where you will see the bright green pastures that climb up the mountains. Follow the path to the lake. The view from the lake is not-to-be-missed. You will not believe your eyes as you look up at the Wicklow Mountains. Pictures don’t do it justice. It is peaceful, quiet, and stunningly beautiful. On a still day, you’ll see the reflection of the Wicklow Mountains in the lake. Here you will find ducks, lake grass, birds, and more views of the bright green pastures all making for memorable pictures you’ll cherish forever. Give yourself a few hours, at minimum, here if you want to take a leisurely stroll on the various pathways. There are walking tours and hikes around the Wicklow National Park if you are here for a few days. On the way back from the lake, take a few moments to admire the views from the bridge for great pictures of the stream with the tower and church in the background. Click the link to see our Group Trips to Ireland and beyond or get Inspiration for your Trip to Ireland here. Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull together all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too. Call today at 407-517-4744 and the frustration of doing it all yourself. If you enjoyed the article please like it and share it with your friends. To get notified when I post articles, videos, tips, and give-aways, subscribe here. #vibranttravel #Irelandtrip #TriptoIreland #Ireland #Irelandtravel #TraveltoIReland #destinationireland #ExploringIreland #irelandtravelagent #irelandtravelpackages #visitireland #tripstoireland #discoverireland #irelandreview #irelandexpert #irelandspecialist #irelandtravelagent #irelandblog