You never forget your first time in Ireland.  Actually, you never forget anytime spent in Ireland.  Like many others, to me, Ireland feels like home.  Yes, it may sound trite or clichéd, but it is so true!  This is not only because I have Irish ancestry, it is also because I seem to have always been drawn to Ireland.  I have been fascinated by the history, enthralled by the music, I’ve embraced the culture and have been swept away by the beauty.

Pictures can tell you a story of a trip to Ireland; so can words.  But neither, by itself or together, can truly ever make anyone who hasn’t gone “home” understand what it is like. 

The natural beauty of Ireland is breathtaking.  I have looked on in awe at the wonder of the green hills dotted with sheep and stood amidst ruins of those of a bygone day.  As someone who loves to take pictures, I tried to capture every moment digitally to tell the story of my vacation for my friends and family.  I kept notes on where the pictures were taken & the history of the sites.  But this is never enough!  One has to experience it for oneself to truly understand the life changing experience going to Ireland is.

I have had to promise, under threat of being disowned, to take my sister with me next time.  See, I have been selfish so far and have only gone by myself.  Yes, I have been part of a group once I got to Ireland, but I have never shared it with someone close to me.  I can’t wait to experience her joy of going to Ireland for the first time with her!  I’ll also be able to translate some Irish as I am currently leaning Gaeilge.  (I might never be fluent, but I am darn sure going to try!)  Ireland has always been a part of me, now I am trying to be a part of it through its beautiful native tongue!  This is especially true in the West of Ireland (where I have been on a lovely Wild West Irish Tour in 2013!)  There is just so much about Ireland that I love and I will never tire of experiencing the magic that can be found in Ireland.

Ireland touches something inside of you.  It has touched my heart and soul.  I love the beauty of the land, the amazing culture, the hospitality of her people, but I think most of all, I love the sense of belonging I feel when I am there.  It is a feeling that you want to always have.  You can easily become addicted to traveling to Ireland, but it is a pretty great addiction to have.  Whatever may come in my life, going back to Ireland will always be on the agenda.  It doesn’t matter when it happens, I am content to know it will.

So, until I can go “home” again, I will just say Slán go fóill – goodbye for now.

Tell us why YOU want to experience the ‘Wild West’ of Ireland, and you might win a free 9-day trip there, courtesy of Wild West Irish Tours and WOW Air. Get the details!