Mary

and in some ways, it was the best way to travel. I didn’t have to worry about someone else’s needs. I could eat when I wanted to.. I could go see and do what ever I wanted.

Since I was alone, I stayed away from Dublin. I spent the first half of the trip in Bunratty (near Shannon) at the Ashgrove House- Sheila and Frank are AWESOME hosts. Food was to die for, rooms were clean and spacious, rates compareable, but the conversations were the best! I did day trips- went to the Cliffs of Moher (which is beautiful, make sure you go on a sunny day- start early!), went on a dolphin watching adventure, drove out to Loop Head, and saw the last pub til New York (Any Nora Roberts fans?).

Then I drove down to Killarney. Bigger city, so expect the unexpected. Very quaint however- did a tour of the Ring of Kerry, got talked into doing a 10 mile bike/hike… saw a beautiful waterfall in the national forest..

Overall, a great trip. I still remember much of it todays… and I hope to go back again one day.

DEFINITELY take a tour for this. With all the buses coming and going, (unless youre very brave or very stupid) the idea of driving is scary!

We stopped quite a few places along the way, so you get to see a lot of places, and try to do things, and such. Many opportunities for pictures, and lunch. It is an all day thing.. wear comfortable shoes!

Went to Durty Nellies in Bunratty (county Clare, by Shannon). Was great, but expect lots of tourists.. don’t expect to meet a lot of locals at this pub at least.

Another tip.. I stayed at a nearby BnB.. the owners invited me to go to the pub thats within Bunratty Castle. Its where the locals go- awesome, AUTHENTIC musicians, drinks.. definitely the stereotypical- breaking out in song type of places. :)

Wear comfortable shoes!!! Expect a short trek up to the top to see the cliffs.. and then a trek up the tower. Also be prepared to pay to go up the tower. But it is definitely worth it!