How do we sum up an experience?  What can be said?  Can manipulated images and curated words properly express the infinite panorama that envelops us when we visit a new space?  There are certain qualities that permeate every aspect of Irish culture that could only be described as truly magical (no leprechaun references here!) and hopefully the pictures and captions presented will provide a sufficient context for our experience in Ireland.  Of course there is a stunning landscape, but the most beautiful thing about Ireland is the people. The Irish have a wicked sense of humor and some of the kindest hearts you will ever encounter… it is not unusual to see a local on the way to work stop to help a confused tourist looking at a map, give them directions and suggest a pub along the way in case they get thirsty. ^^^We chose a budget airline to take us from Glasgow to Dublin; Ryanair offers the fastest, most frequent, and most affordable flights.  Flying is often considerably cheaper than train or bus. ^^^The …

When visiting Dublin, make sure to visit the scenic countryside at some point, maybe in between those marathon pub sessions.  It’s a great way to sweat out those poisons that accumulate in your body after abandoning all sense of decency and diving headfirst into reckless abandon.  Was that a bit much?  Dubliners would say no.  Well they would probably say something more like feck it sure it’s grand!  We stayed in Dublin for five days with a wonderful Irish couple who took us on a hiking trip in the Wicklow mountains; this is where the water in Guinness comes from.  Why does all this relate to drinking?  Ireland is known for its politeness and sobriety so I have no idea.  We visited the Glendalough Trails in the Wicklow Mountains National Park and trekked across a 9km trail (Spinc and Glenealo Valley White Route) that spanned waterfalls, grassy hilltops, and scenic valleys. ^^^ The Poulanass Waterfall is the first natural wonder that intersects the trail. ^^^There are 600 wooden steps that lead to the crest of the cliff; this …