Resources

http://www.ireland.ie/Regions.aspx

http://www.visitdublin.com/

The primary areas of population concentration in Ireland are Dublin (953,000), Cork, Limerick, Galway, and Waterford. As of 1999, the population was estimated at 3,744,700 million. Ireland is unique in that a large percentage of the population is concentrated in the younger age groups. Approximately 43% of the population is under the age of 25 and around 27% is under the age of 15.

The people of Ireland are free to practice their own religion, and the majority of the Irish people belong to Christian denominations. The vast majority are Roman Catholics, while a small percentage are Protestant, which includes the Church of Ireland, Presbyterian, and Methodist. There is even a tiny but long-established Jewish Community.

The Irish language of the people developed from Celtic immigrants around 600 BC and continued to exist during the initiation of the linguistic diversity of both the invading Normans and Vikings over the centuries. The Normans were the first immigrants to bring the English language to the country. Although it was established little by little in Ireland, slowly but surely English became the primary vernacular from the second half of the 18th century to today.

Music

To know the history of culture, all it takes is to listen to the music of that culture. Ireland's music is steeped in history. Years before the Irish people were composing ballads in English, the Irish were writing thousands of songs in Irish. The unstable political climate of the country has profoundly impacted the music that flows from its people.

Traditional Irish music is the music of the community, passed on orally and by ear from the older generations to the younger generations. Traditional music began primarily in the rural areas of Ireland and is today a living tradition with adaptations and embellishment of numerous musicians.

Perhaps the most famous music of Ireland is its Irish Folk Music. It is the music and song in the national heritage, and comprises older Irish melodies and songs, the rich element of dance music, and the Anglo-Irish songs of the countryside. In Irish Folk Music, the melody has priority.

The most admired musical instrument in ancient Ireland was the Harp, and it was included in the most primitive legends. During the ancient times of Gaelic speaking Ireland, music was incorporated into every element of life from birth to death to work. European music was also a major aspect of banquets and ceremonial events for the rich.

Today, Irish musicians and songwriters have coupled poems from the past with new-fangled melodies. Some of the most famous musicians to come out of Ireland include: Peter, Paul, and Mary, Bob Dylan, U2, the Clancy Brothers, and Sinead O'Connor.

Dance

Some of the first practitioners of dance were the Druids, who with their religious ceremonies, sought to give praise to the Sun and the Oak trees. Their circular motion of dance has lingered to some degree in the modern ring dances. Even after Ireland became known as a Christian country, the people still continued their rudiments of dance and music. In fact, the peasantry played music simply for the enjoyment of dancing.

The Normans had a considerable impact on Irish dance music as they brought their culture to Ireland in the 1100's during their invasion of the country. "The Carol", a popular Norman love-song dance, became evident in the towns they subjugated. The traditional Irish dances were military regiments that were acquired by the Irish men who traveled to Europe and brought its influences back to Ireland. It is believed that the jigs were directly passed on from England.

By the beginning of the 20th Century dancing was an integral aspect of the social life in rural Ireland. Dancing was participated in the home and referred to as a "House Dance". The Catholic Church did not approve of dancing and eventually banned House Dances in 1935 through the Public Dance Halls Act.

Theater

William Butler Yates and Isabella Augusta Persse established the Irish Literary Theatre in 1899. The goal for its existence was to promote Irish poetic drama, however, the actual outcome was native-born plays. The theater was eventually housed in the Abbey Theatre and Irish history became the predominant theme of the productions in the beginning years.

Ireland's most famous internationally recognized writers from the early 20th Century include George Bernard Shaw, James Joyce, George Russell, and Sean O'Casey. William Butler Yates was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1923, and since then Ireland has continued to produce numerous extraordinary playwrights. Today the Abbey and Peacock Theatres, found in Dublin, make up the National Theatre of Ireland. Ireland's impressive literary heritage is known across the globe.

Food and Drink

The country of Ireland offers a dazzling agricultural economy evidenced in the delicious fare that Ireland tenders today. During the 19th Century, the potato was the primary staple of one third of the population partly due to the Great Hunger. In the second half of the 20th Century, however, the food in Ireland became significantly improved. Ireland saw the birth of a new generation of culinary chefs make a significant progression in the Culinary Arts. Gone are the days of bland potatoes; today's Irish food is often creative, tasteful, and fresh.

A Full Irish Breakfast can keep hunger away for most of the day, as it is very hearty and mouth-watering. Soups and sandwiches are a regular lunch item. The mid day meal in rural Ireland is typically the most substantive meal throughout the entire day. However, those who work in the city, enjoy dinner as the largest meal of the day.
If eating in Ireland, you can expect to enjoy naturally raised lamb, as it is a key ingredient in many recipes including Irish Stew and Roast Leg of Lamb. Potatoes continue to be a staple of the Irish diet, and beef is the traditional Sunday roast. You may even be treated to "a taste of Ireland" with a slice of Soda Bread or homemade Brown Bread.

The Irish are known for enjoying their brewed beverages. Even in ancient times, the Irish would delight in home brewed beverages, the most popular being Mead. Whiskey in Ireland dates clear back to the 12th century while tea was introduced to Ireland in the late 17th century.

Beer continues to be a favorite beverage for the vast majority of the Irish, from stout and microbrews to ales. The most enjoyed beer in Ireland is Guinness, and it is brewed at St. James Gate, Dublin. The culture of Ireland can be seen fully in the oft-quoted phrase, "The closer you get to Dublin the better the Guinness."

Resources

http://www.visitireland.com/aboutireland/culture.asp

http://www.ireland-information.com/reference/populat.html

http://www.irlgov.ie/aboutireland/eng/landandpeople.asp

Day One: Shannon, Ireland - Galway

On day one, arrive at Shannon International Airport and transfer to Galway where you will spend your first day. After getting settled into a hotel of your choice, finish the afternoon touring the city of Galway.

Day Two: Galway - Connemara - Galway

Spend day two enjoying Connemara, the most romantic area of Ireland. Connemara is an extensive peninsula surrounded by the arid and stony coastline of Galway Bay in the south. It is a land of contrasts. The rugged landscape provides diverse scenery with its majestic mountains protruding from a region decorated with numerous lakes, rivers, and bog lands. In the northern region, visitors will appreciate the spectacular fjord of Killary Harbor and the mountains that form the backdrop for many lakes and large bog regions.

Begin by stopping at Connemara National Park Visitor Center for some information on the area. Next, explore Connemara National Park. Diamond Hill, a mountain in the park, is the perfect backdrop to the region. While in the park, enjoy an audio-visual show, self-guided nature tours, and a wonderful exhibition on Connemara's landscape. Pack a picnic lunch and stop in at one of the picnic areas in Connemara National Park. If you have time, visit Inishbofin Island, a charming island of rocky cliffs and beautiful turquoise beaches. The natural harbor is definitely awe-inspiring.

In the afternoon, cycle to the coastal fishing village of Roundstone, which was established in the 1820's. Explore the Franciscan Monastery built in Roundstone during the 1830's. Next, stroll through the cafes, craft shops, and art galleries in the village.

Day Three: Galway - Cliffs of Moher - Kenmare

Day three will begin by touring the Galway Heritage Center. Next, visit the crystal factory where you can take in an audio-visual presentation on the city of Galway and its crystal.

In the afternoon, leave Galway and head for Kenmare. Make sure you take a route that will lead you through the Cliffs of Moher. These cliffs are the most spectacular cliffs within the country as they protrude from the Atlantic Ocean at 705 feet and stretch over 4 miles long.

Continue driving to Killimer where you can board the Killimer-Tarbert car ferry to cross over the River Shannon to Tarbert. This twenty-minute ferry ride is one of the most enthralling highlights of the west of Ireland's Shannon Region. Spend the night at Kenmare.

Day Four: Kenmare to Dublin

Spend day four in the exciting cultural center of Dublin. Begin by taking a walking tour of the city, as Dublin is ideal to discover on foot. Begin at Trinity College, the city's most popular landmark. Many famous people have graduated from the College, including Jonathan Swift, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett.
Next, travel west of Trinity College to Dublin Castle, the seat of British rule in Ireland. Proceed to Merrion Square, Dublin's most graceful region, with its classical Georgian houses adorned with dramatic doorways and canopies.

In the afternoon, visit the historic center of the city found south of Liffey; it still possesses much of its original charm and character. Yet it is hot with electricity due to the urban restoration it has undergone in the last decade of the 20th century. Temple Bar is the place to be in this section of town with its delicious dining choices, chic pubs, and discos. Towards evening, stroll through Phoenix Park, one of the largest city parks in Europe, and observe as the city unwinds at the close of a long day.

Day Five: Dublin to Waterford

Rise early on day five and leave Dublin to head for Waterford, a beautiful city bordered by the sea and separated by two upland ranges. The drive along the coastal road is very scenic and you will want to stop for several significant landmarks along the way. First, visit Blarney Castle, known throughout the world for its infamous Blarney Stone. If time, stop in at the Woollen Mills and Blarney House. Next, drive through the small harbor town of Dungarvan. Stop to explore the clifftops of Helvick Head.

En route to Waterford, observe Ardmore, an ecclesiastical site established by St. Declan in the 6th century and recognized for its extended, beautiful beach located against high cliffs. End the drive at Waterford Crystal where you can enjoy an organized tour in which the various stages of crystal manufacture are illustrated from the blowing, cutting, and engraving process.

Day Six: Waterford to Kenmare

On day six, travel back from Waterford to Kenmare. The charming town of Kenmare is the ideal location to explore the South West of Ireland. Spend the day taking a scenic drive along the Iveragh Peninsula. This 105 miles of picturesque scenery will provide you with the chance to explore the Ring of Kerry, a site known all over the world. This drive is one of the most picturesque and dramatic drives in the country of Ireland. Visitors will appreciated the spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean as you drive along the coastal road as well as the lakes, mountains, and peat bogs. You can stop in at the numerous historical landmarks, charming villages, or sandy coves and beaches.

In the afternoon, visit Muckross House, a nineteenth century country home containing a folk museum. Stroll through the beautiful gardens behind the house, taking notice of the famed rhododendrons. In the evening, visit Sneem Village, which rests at the foot of a majestic mountain range overshadowed by the 2,245 feet Knockmoyle. The focal point of Sneem Village is the bridge over River Sneem, which connects the "hour-glass" shape village together. Take the time to explore all the unique, brightly colored homes in Sneem.

Day Seven: Kenmare to Shannon

Wake up on your last morning early in order to visit Killarney National Park, found to the north of Kenmare. The park provides amazing views of the Lakes of Killarney and 10,000 hectares of woodland and majestic mountains. If you have time, visit the well-preserved Ring of Beara to the south. There are numerous archeological sites that can be explored in this rugged and beautiful region.
In the afternoon, you can travel back to Shannon, Ireland in order to reach your connecting flight home.

Resources

http://www.iexplore.com/eintmap/Ireland/45912

http://www.maldua.com/malpag/connemara_galway.htm

http://www.kenmare.com/about/index.html

http://www.12travel.ie/ie/Cork_Kerry/Sneem.html

The country of Ireland is situated in the North Atlantic Ocean and is divided from Britain by the Irish Sea to the east. The beauty of the landscape is evident in the country's central plain, an area enclosed by a ridge of mountains providing some of the most diverse and pristine scenery in Europe. Whether you prefer to stroll along the peaceful sandy beaches or drive along the 3500 miles of coastline speckled with rocky cliffs, Ireland is sure to be one of those magical places you just can't get enough of.

Day One: Dublin

On day one, arrive at Dublin International Airport. Travel to the hotel of your choice for check-in and to unpack before exploring the city.

During the afternoon, enjoy the excitement of a walking tour of Dublin, Ireland's young and eccentric capital. Dublin stretches across the Liffey valley from the headlands of Howth in the north to Dalkey. The city itself is complex, with an idiosyncratic sense of humor, and idyllic to discover on foot.

The historic center of the city is found south of Liffey, and still possesses much of its original charm and character. Yet it is still buzzing with electricity due to the urban restoration it has undergone in the last decade of the 20th century. Temple Bar is the place to be in this section of town with its delicious dining choices, chic pubs, and discos. Visit Trinity College while in the area, the city's most popular landmark. Many famous people have graduated from the College, including Jonathan Swift, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett.

Next, travel west of Trinity College to Dublin Castle, the seat of British rule in Ireland. Proceed to Merrion Square, Dublin's most elegant region, with its classical Georgian houses graced with dramatic doorways and canopies. Within this square Oscar Wilde lived at 1 Merrion Square, Daniel O'Connell at 58, and WB Yeats, at 82.

Or, if sports are your thing, attend the races at Leopardstown. You may find you have the luck of the Irish. Golf is also a wonderful option, as some of the best golf courses in Europe are found in Ireland. Or, go to Croke Park and encounter Gaelic football and hurling in their true home.

If you have time, visit the National Gallery, which holds one of the most impressive collections in Europe, and houses works by Reynolds, Hogarth, and Gainsborough. Next, proceed to the National Wax Museum located at the corner of Granby Row and Dorset Street. Towards evening, stroll through Phoenix Park, one of the largest city parks in Europe, and watch the city unwind at the end of a long day. Dublin Zoo is found within the park.

At night, enjoy dinner and good conversation in a local pub. Abbey Tavern is an excellent choice with its original stonewalls, open turf fires, and live performances of traditional Irish music and dance nightly.

Day Two: Dublin to Wicklow

Begin day two by rising early in the morning and driving south of Dublin a few miles to the County of Wicklow. Keep in mind that many of Ireland's roads are very narrow and heavily traveled. Wicklow is affectionately coined the phrase "The Garden of Ireland", and is known around the world for its beauty. Spend the day basking in the beauty of this amazing countryside with its forests, waterfalls, mountains and lakes. Whether you desire to take a leisurely walk alongside a river or beside the sea, or embark on a trek over the mountains or through the forests, today is the day to do so. This county is replete with nature trails, old coach roads, and mountain paths used by medieval monks. In addition, there are numerous deserted settlements and forts.

At the northern end of Wicklow County, visit Bray, an energetic seaside resort with an ambiance of Victorian allure. Spend the afternoon on the beach, which not only provides a great sand area but also amusement arcades as well as the National Sea-Life Center.

Toward late afternoon visit Killruddery House Gardens with its beautiful formal gardens and Glencormac Gardens to the southwest of Bray. Or, explore the exquisite 18th-century house of Powerscourt. Be sure to take the footpath that guides guests to Powerscourt Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Ireland, dropping 400 feet high. In the evening visit Wicklow Historic Gaol where you are sure to hear stories of the dismal events of Irish history.

Day Three: Connemara

Spend your last day in Connemara, the most romantic area of Ireland. Connemara is an extensive peninsula surrounded by the arid and stony coastline of Galway Bay in the south. The rugged landscape provides diverse scenery with its majestic mountains protruding from a region decorated with numerous lakes, rivers, and bog lands. Don't be surprised if you run into some artists painting the landscape as artists travel to this region from all over the world.

Begin by stopping at Connemara National Park Visitor Center for some information on the area. Next, explore Connemara National Park as you cannot visit this region without seeing the Park. Diamond Hill, a mountain in the park, overlooks the area. The park offers an audio-visual show, self-guided nature tours, and a wonderful exhibition on Connemara's landscape. Pack a picnic lunch and stop in at one of the picnic areas in Connemara National Park. If you have time, visit Inishbofin Island, a magical island of rocky cliffs and pristine turquoise beaches. The natural harbor is truly breathtaking.

In the afternoon, cycle to the coastal fishing village of Roundstone. This village originated in the 1820's. Explore the Franciscan Monastery built in Roundstone during the 1830's. Next, meander through the cafes, craft shops, and art galleries in the village. Stop for dinner at one of the local pubs. Drive back to Dublin in the evening to catch your flight the following morning.

Resources

http://www.iexplore.com/eintmap/Ireland/45916

http://www.maldua.com/malpag/connemara_galway.htm

http://www.visitdublin.com/seeanddo/SeeAndDo.aspx?id=207

Ireland: Overview and History

Overview of Ireland

Geography of Ireland

Climate of Ireland

Ireland - The People and Culture Overview

The People of Ireland

The Culture of Ireland

Final Thoughts

Ireland - Activities and Attractions Overview

Ireland Attractions

Ireland Activities

Final Thoughts

Ireland - Major Cities and Regions Overview

Regions of Ireland

Major Cities of Ireland

Final Thoughts