| T.R | Title | User | Personal
Name | Date | Lines |
|---|
| 313.1 | First Installment | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Wed Jan 06 1988 10:02 | 103 |
| We arrived at Shannon and somehow with no mistakes made it to our
accomodations (Woodlands Guesthouse in Adare). When they took us
to our room, which was ice cold, my wife asked, " Can you turn on
the heat as we will be sleeping soon?" And the reply was, "Sure,
but the heat is on!" Well, they provided us a space heater which
did the trick.
****** 12-13-87, Sunday ******
Before turning in we went down for a bite of breakfast. Well, it
was one of many huge Irish breakfasts: porridge (or oatmeal), brown
bread, eggs, bacon and sausage. The sausage in Ireland is better
tasting than that in USA. I rarely have it in the USA. Michelle's
scrambled eggs were the best she had ever had (until later in the
trip!)
We basically ate and slept that first day. It was quite cold, windy
and overcast. I went for a walk and had a Guinness at the guesthouse
bar. My first Guinness in Ireland was poured by Mr. Dick Fitzgerald.
He and his wife own/manage the Woodlands Guesthouse (and seem to
have a thriving business). I promised Dick that he would be forever
known as the pourer of my first Guinness in Ireland. By the way,
it was great and the first of many during the trip.
***** 12-14-87, Monday ****
The next day we drove to Limerick and exchanged a lot of dollars
for a few IR�. Then on to Bunratty Castle. Our main reason for
visiting was to see the Irish Wolfhounds and visit Durty Nellys.
We were very sad to find out that the last one had died 5 years
ago. We tried to explain that the Wolfhounds "made the castle",
but I'm not sure they understood our biased point. The castle was
impressive, but obviously commercialized.
On to Durty Nellys where we had a pint and some Sheperds Pie (very,
very tasty!) for lunch.
Then we drove back into Limerick to the local Tourist office. It's
in a renovated building which was designed by O'Reilly and Associates
out of Dublin and won an award!
Then we drove west along the south edge of where the Shannon meets
the Atlantic. Saw some very beautiful sights, but it was too dark
and overcast to get good photos. Saw a Franciscan Abbey. It was
N69 that we were driving on. We were brave and took a shortcut
back to Adare and made it! It was a very narrow and winding road
and poorly sign posted.
We took a nap, had dinner, and socialized in the Guesthouse Pub
that night.
***** 12-15-87 *****
We drove to Galway today as I had some business to discuss with
one of the folks up there. It was rather challenging to drive the
windy road in the dark and drizzle, with a frightened wife by your
side, but we managed.
Now, yesterday they were supposed to have had a cake for my wife
for her birthday, but they forgot. I reminded them this morning.
So when we got back from Galway we went to dinner. Another incredible
feast. Then the cake came and it was, of course, very tasty. We
asked the hostess to let everyone in the dining are know that they
should help themselves (as we had food coming out our ears) to the
rest of the cake. My wife also added, "tell them that they should
share in my birthday wish of 'Many more future trips to Ireland'".
Well, we were charmed by the patrons response. Each would wave
and smile and say thank you -- and the real surprise was how many
that said yes. In the USA they would have been skeptical and
unbelieving that someone could make a nice gesture (my opinion and
a generalization-not always true).
The next day we drive to Killarney. We fell into an incredibly
deep and sound sleep.
***** 12-16-87 *****
We woke up to a blue sky, little wind and mild temperatures (summer
in Ireland!).
First stop, Rathkeale. First, a very old church that was being
restored by volunteeers. Then, we met Col Sean O'Driscoll of Castle
Matrix. We had considered staying there, but we just couldn't afford
it. We definitely stay there next time, it's incredible. We highly
recommend it. It's an authentic castle. We had found out about
Castle Matrix from Debra Forrest of Digital Canada whose sister
is married to Sean. Col. O'Driscoll and his wife were prepared
to have us stay in the off season, but were nice enough to understand
our decision and gave us a free tour, and had us over for tea.
What we thought was going to be a 20 minute stop ended up being
about 2 hours.
On to Killarney...on the way we finally saw our first good view
of Ireland's hilly/mountainous and green (patch work quilt effect)
land. INCREDIBLE! And this is in the winter! It's even better
in the summer.
As darkness fell we reached Kathleen's Country Cottage just outside
Killarney. (highly recommende.
We went immediately into town and ate at "The Laune" (a pub), again,
very tasty and hearty meal. We went back to Kathleens for a nap
and back into town and found live music at "Tatler Jacks". Good
Crack. Stayed well past 11 pm closing until they kicked us out.
Next........ Thursday, 12-17-87
|
| 313.2 | Installment number 2 | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Thu Jan 07 1988 10:32 | 79 |
| ***** 12-17-87, Thursday *****
While my wife "did her hair", I went for a run (or jogging as some
like to say). Again, I was realizing a dream, running across the
green fields of Ireland. I couldn't have picked a better spot:
a field overlooking Killarney along the main Limerick-Killarney
Road. I could see the spire of the main Cathedral and dominant
on the skyline is Muckross Abbey. Then I ran across the highway
down a side street, across a railroad bridge and came across a
cemetery that overlooks Killarney. Even the Irish cemeteries are
beautiful: the Celtic Crosses, the large Crucifix and lter, estatues
of Mary and Joseph, etc.
After the run I retraced the route with my wife, esp. the cemetery.
We went into town and while my wife shopped, I hung out at the
Laurels Pub, talking to two very nice Irish gents, about 60 years
old. Had a few pints and a bite of lunch.
Then we went to the Muckross House for a tour--very interesting
and beautiful grounds. (want to stress here again, that we were
told constantly that it (gardens, etc.) was horrible in the winter so
you can imagine how beautiful it must be in the summer).
Then we went to the Silver Scissors hair salon as we were told the
owner has a Wolfhound. We brought her a bouquet of flowers. She took
us to her home and let us ease our "Wolfhound Withdrawal". We now
have visiting rights whenever we please!
Then (still the same day) we went to O'Reilly's Restaurant and Pub!
One Mrs. O'Reilly met another Mrs. O'Reilly! I had a pint. Made
reservations for dinner at O'Reillys tomorrow night. (All locals
had been telling us that O'Reillys had great food and crack--of
course, this pleased us considerably!)
We ate at the "Flesk" for dinner and then had an easy night, preparing
for the Ring of Kerry drive tomorrow!
***** 12-18-87, Friday *****
The Ring of Kerry was gorgeous. We were extremely lucky with partly
cloudy skies and mild temperatures. We climbed a large hill/small
mountain overlooking Caragh Lake - fantastic. The sun was coming
through the clouds in a spotlight fashion illuminating the patchwork
quilt below us!
We found another O'Reillys establishment in Waterville which a
combination post office and store. Our "relations" inside were
lovely people. Waterville is a very pretty village.
We got about 2/3 around when darkness got us. Another exciting
drive in complete darkness, rain, hairpin curves, etc. My wife
became more religous during the trip with her constant praying.
(I kinda enjoyed it, actually)
Then to O'Reillys for dinner. It was fantastic! We ate dinner
with a very nice gentleman there on business. Dermot O'Reilly and
his wife are the owners of O'Reillys, very nice people. I met their
14 year old son, John O'Reilly - very good kid! The crack that
night was great, probably the best of the trip. There was an accordian
player and his father and sister were there, too. We sang along
a many songs. The was a very sweet older man named Justin, who
is the caretaker of the cathedral. He reminded of a Wolfhound:
a gentle giant. He had huge strong hands, like he could rip a brick
out of the fireplace if he desired; but that if someone was about
to step on a mouse he would intercede and save the mouse!
I drank several Paddys/lemonade. Not lemonade as USA calls it,
but sort of a orange soda to dilute the whiskey a little - very
good.
The best part of this night: Dermot O'Reilly put me behind the bar
for a few minutes to tend the bar!! Several patrons taught me how
to pour a GUINNESS! My first one: perfect!!
At 11pm the lights were shut off out front ande the partying continued.
We finally got home about 1:15 am.
Next, Saturday, 12-19-87
|
| 313.4 | Someday my "Prints" will come (Kodak Theme Song) | STEREO::BURNS | Only Things Missing Are Guinness & Rain | Thu Jan 07 1988 14:12 | 26 |
|
re. 3
It thought the former owner of that castle was .....
"The Duke, Duke, Duke, Duke of Earl" ....
(I think paddy Culbert fell asleep)
keVin
|
| 313.5 | | TPVAX3::CULBERT | Free Michael Culbert | Thu Jan 07 1988 15:44 | 8 |
| I'll have you know I've not been sleeping a wink but reading all
about the visit that seems to be full of exciting times for those
involved. Now you two hush up and let the festivities continue.
This stuff has a classical aire to it and should be taken in as
we sip a fine wine with mellow music in the background.
|
| 313.6 | Installment 3 | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Fri Jan 08 1988 09:58 | 173 |
| Thanks, Paddy. Now, I'll continue. If you're sleepy, please go
to bed.
***** Saturday, 12-18-87 *****
We climbed a large hill/mountain with a waterfall. Can't remember
the name, but it's on the same road as the Muckross House. Once
you're at the top you've a beautiful view of the Lakes of Killarney.
We had originally planned to drive Dingle today, but the weather
is overcast and misty. A friend we had met at O'Reillys insisted
on giving us a bottle of poteen (Irish spell poitin) as a gift.
We picked it up tonight.
***** Sunday, 12-20-87 *****
We went to see a Killarney artist and bought a beautiful painting of
Dingle where Ryans Daughter was filmed. Mass at the Cathedral and
on to Kinsale. Kinsale is south of Cork and is situated on the
bend of a river just as it goes out to see. We ate dinner at the
Cottage Loft in Kinsale.
***** Monday, 12-21-87 *****
***** through Saturday, 12-26-87 *****
We're staying at "Ard Carrig". (means high rock) It's a beautiful,
beautiful Georgian home full of Irish antiques/art. It's owned
by an American couple who have moved to Ireland to retire. They've
been in Kinsale 4 years and love it. It's a little high (�20 per
person sharing) but worth. Breakfasts are incredibly large, and,
you have choices of traditional Irish or today's gourmet specialty.
Ardcarrig has an incredible view of Kinsale. Kinsale is somewhat
"cosmopolitan" with a few Americans, English, Spanish, French, etc.
that call it their home. It has an inexhaustible supply of excellent
restaurants.
My fingers are getting a little tired so I'm going to just give
you the highlights of our stay here.
We attended Christmas Day mass at the Friary and it was said by
Father O'Reilly! (the whole town, even the non-Catholics, loves this
priest). We were able to visit another Wolfhound named Conor.
We met a couple (California lady and her Belfast boyfriend) who
are together restoring a large house to be a Country Inn. It's
called the Scilly (pronounced Silly) House and they are aiming for
an April opening. We recommend that you give it a try. We went
for several walks, James Fort, Charles Fort, Scilly Walking Tour,
etc. I was able to go for another run. We attended the Christmas
Day swim for Charity and had Christmas Dinner at the Actons Hotel.
We met several Americans. We met the 4 American Managers and their
families associated with a nearby American pharmiceutical firm and
we had Christmas Eve drinks at one of their homes. We met a writer
from Calif. who was visiting Ireland for 2-6 months to write a novel.
On Sunday the 27th we got an early start on our drive to Dublin.
***** Sunday, 12-27-87 *****
through
***** Wednesday, 12-30-87 *****
The drive from Kinsale to Dublin was by far the easiest driving
in Ireland. A two lane highway with as hard shoulder and only a
few curves.
We saw the Rock of Cashel on the way--impressive, unfortunately
it was closed.
We found our bed/breakfast in Dublin and our only bad experience
in Ireland.
They had Central heat, but only had it on 2-3 hours per day.
Meanwhile, in their part of the house they had a space heater.
They agreed to leave the heat on in our room overnight, but then
didn't leave it on. So after one night we left and stayed at the
Mount Herbert Inn in Ballsbridge, Dublin. Mount Herbert had "saggy"
beds, but was warm and convenient to Dublin.
About the 23rd the "laidbackness" or Ireland had eroded our notekeeping
to nothing. Now I'm relying strictly on memory.
In Dublin we:
Went shopping, attended the Greyhound Races (Shelbourne), attended the
Horse Races (Leopardstown), walked around Trinity College (buildings
closed during the Holidays unfortunately), went shopping, attended
live music at The Merchant Pub. (Met a John Joseph O'Reilly, Garda,
who looked as if he had seen a ghost when we met!) There are
individual stories to tell about each one of the above, send mail
if interested.
One of the days we were in Dublin we did a driving tour though County
Wicklow. Incredible. Saw "Kevin's Kitchen"--where St. Kevin hung
out and had several churches, etc. Saw some gorgeous beaches.
Missed most gardens due to season.
One night I was able to meet with Dermot O'Sullivan and his family
(my wife was very tired and couldn't make it--we had been drenched
in a rainstorm at Leopardstown). They live is a very nice area
of Dublin by a golf course. He and his wife have three beautiful
children and a nice home. We sat by the fireplace, trading stories
and discussing Ireland, etc., etc. Four or five hours passed as
if it was only 45 minutes. Thanks, Dermot for your hospitality
with very short notice!
***** 12-31-87 *****
We were not all that impressed with Dublin, just another big city.
Even though they were about to celebrate their "millienium", we
decided to move on to Cavan town, the part of Ireland where the
O'Reilly clan originates. We stayed at a Bed and Breakfast that
was ok. The problem was that the people staying next door to us
decided to tak all night and so we didn't slep very well. Tonight
we had a wonderful dinner at a local Hotel. Unfortunately, my wife
was feeling sicker from our Leopardstown experience.
***** Friday, 1-1-88 *****
Started out the new year by meeting with Mr. Liam Ferrie, his wife
and one of his sons at the Derragarra Inn at Butlersbridge, near
Cavan. Liam and family were staying with relatives at Enniskillen
and understanding my wife's reluctance to cross the border, was
nice enough to drive an hour to meet us just over the border at
Butlersbridge. We had a lovely conversation for a couple of hours,
then we both needed to be heading our own direction. Thanks, Liam,
for going out of your way to meet with us; it was truly a pleasure.
Then we drove to Galway and arrived at Mike Hughes home (a.k.a.
the snake) around 5 pm. Unfortunately, I was exhausted from the
drive (I did all the driving) and starting to catch my wife's virus;
and my wife was out of it as well. The Hughes decided to serve
us tea--we had forgotten that tea means some form of dinner--before
we could object dinner was being served. Meanwhile, Snake was
entertaining us with some great stories. I just wish we hadn't
been zombies. Meanwhile, Brida (Mike's wife) went out of her way to
find a B&B for us that night and she couldn't have done a finer
job--it was probably the best place we stayed (B&B's) the entire
trip. Thanks so much, Mike, for your hospitality. We will definitely stay
in Galway for a long time, next trip, so we can share more with
you.
***** 1-2-88, Saturday *****
This morning we drove through part of Connemara. We were lucky,
once again, with partly cloudy weather. Connemara's incredible!
Pressed for a decision on the most scenic area we saw, Connemara
may be it. Have some incredible photos.
On the way back in to Galway, we saw an incredible rainbow over
Lough Corrib. (Dam camera didn't catch it, but it's etched in our
memories)
We drove to village north of Ennis to stay for the last night. (A
"farmhouse", can't remember the name or village, send mail and I'll
look it up.
***** Sunday, 1-3-88 *****
(+Sat. night, 1-2-88)
That night we went to a local pub (Clarke's). The owner went to
a lot of trouble to give me an empty Gin bottle to put our poitin
in (as it turns out we walked right through customs with hardly
a delay). We went to Sat. nite Mass (28minutes, perhaps a record?--
no this priest has done Mass in 25 min. according to the locals!!)
We retired early as we had to pack and get to the airport in the
morning. Overnight I came down hard with the sickness of my wife.
The owner of our accomodations is buddies with a local pharmacist.
On the way to the airport, the pharm. gave us some strong medicine.
On the plane I sweated out the sickness during the first 5 or 6
hours.
Next, I will make some miscellaneous comparisons with US and Ireland.
|
| 313.7 | | CALLME::MR_TOPAZ | | Fri Jan 08 1988 16:17 | 15 |
| re .6:
> ***** Saturday, 12-18-87 *****
> A friend ... insisted on giving us a bottle of poteen
> ***** Sunday, 12-20-87 *****
If Saturday was the 18th and Sunday was the 20th, I gather
that there isn't much poteen left over.
--Mr Topaz
p.s.: If O'Sullivan lives next to a golf course, how come he
isn't a better golfer?
|
| 313.8 | last installment for now | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Fri Jan 08 1988 17:26 | 89 |
| What's in a date?
Lot's of poteen left. Would appreciate any suggestions for ways
of drinking it! One we heard is Margaritas!?
Here's one of the "cultural" items I wanted to bring up:
In the US and you have someone over. You ask:"Would you like some
tea or coffee, etc.?" Your guest says, "No." That's that.
In Ireland, it seems, the first few "No's" are taken to mean "Maybe".
Finally, after several "No's", it is really taken to be no.
Is this generally a true observation?
Another interesting item we noticed is how well versed the Irish are
on World Events, particularly the US. They know a heckuva lot more than
we do about our own country, it seems!
Along the politics line we had some interesting discussions with
Irishmen (meaning Irish mankind, i.e. men and women) about Gary
Hart. Basically the Irish said that politics and personal life
should be completely separated.
I don't want to start an argument here, but..... I feel tha the
US press is horrible and definitely make too much of the personal
lives of the candidates. However, the way someone handles their
affairs outside of politics, I think, can be indicative of the way
they might act in office. E.G. If you bought a house from Mr. X
and later found it to be defective and flawed, would you then
turnaround and buy a building from him!?
Or, if someone makes a commitment of marriage for life, then cheats
on his/her spouse--how well is that same person going to hold other
commitments?
The Irish we talked to disagreed no matter how we presented the
analogy of Gary Hart. They said that a similiar incident in Ireland
would be swept under the rug and the concentration would be on the
politics of the candidate.
Another rather "sticky" item we realized after the same discussion:
Since divorce is outlawed in Ireland, when a couple realizes they
aren't meant for each other (let me stress that I'm just passing
on what I heard and am making no judgement, etc.) that the husband
will just leave and start over. His new wife will be called a fiancee
and they'll even build a home together, etc.
My wife and I's opinion is that the US has a problem of divorce
being too easy to get. I.E. couples give up too easy-break up on
some crazy insignificant problem. However, there are some situations
where divorce perhaps can be justified and therefore should be
available. So perhaps Ireland is too far the other way, just the
US is too far the opposite way.
With regards to church, we had an idea of the following point but
I wanted to mention it: It was a little disappointing that there
wasn't more music in the Irish Liturgy. The way Communion was
served-where everyone just piles up at the front was interesting,
whereas in the US, we go row by row. I must say that Christmas
Mass was fantastic with 3-4 choirs, guitars, etc., etc. We were
moved to tears several times during Christmas Mass. Also, there's
a lot more kneeling than in the states which I think is neat.
Getting directions in Ireland was a little interesting. Most times,
after getting several minutes of advice from a local that we asked
along the street; we would both look at each other more baffled
than we were to begin with! It was hilarious!
I was kinda pleased with my sense of direction in Ireland. In most
cases, when I made a decision based on instinct I was right! I
don't know how many times we came upon a "Y" in the road with no
clue as to which one to take: it wasn't on the map, it wasn't in
the directions we received locally- and - both roads looked identical
as to "how major" they looked!! I enjoyed it--so what if we weren't
on the right track-we're bound to run into another lovely Irishman,
beautiful scenery, a statue of Mary, a Pub, etc.
It was truly the most relaxing vacation ever.
That's the majority of what I wanted to comment on, but I know there's
more in the recesses (swamps?) of my mind that will come up later.
I'll add them as they do.
Regards,
JO'R
|
| 313.9 | Another comment | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Sun Jan 10 1988 21:49 | 28 |
| Another difference we saw what the very large number of Irish who
smoke.
I guess we've been spoiled in the U.S. by a fairly large decrease in
smoking over the last 10-20 years.
I guess we got used to it, but it was very inconvenient. With my
allergies and contact lens it made the environment a little unpleasant.
My wife wanted to constantly wash our clothes to get the smoke smell
out, as well as her hair. They're starting to say in the US that
you can get cancer from secondary smoke--if true, living in Ireland
could give you cancer if you don't smoke!
I think it would be a good idea for those Irish who do a lot of
business with US tourists to take this difference into account and
provide non-smoking areas in Pubs, restaurants and accomodations.
I think that the smoking problem could be a limiting factor for
many people. We're just so in love with Ireland that we put up
with it--others might not.
Is it true that the US leads most of the world in reducing smoking?
Or does Ireland have just as many smokers as most other countries?
The above is simply my opinion. I hope I haven't offended any smokers
out there.
Regards,
JO'R
|
| 313.10 | C�ad M�le F�ilte is as true today | FNYFS::AUNGIER | Viva San Roco | Mon Jan 11 1988 06:49 | 29 |
| John,
Great to read your accounts of the ould country and it always amazes
me to hear an outsider (this is meant as anybody visiting Ireland
for the 1st time and not as in the real meaning of the word) talk
about Ireland in such a way. Being born and reared there we take
things for granted, we might even find people not so friendly but
then our measuring stick is different. I have always loved the country
people as I remember I went with my parents and wife down to Wexford.
We stopped along the way for a drink and there was some men who
had caught some fish in the bar and as usual a conversation followed.
They would not believe that my wife was Spanish but when they did
they asked the owner of the pub to grill on of the fishes.
It is like that all over. My wife has some great memories of Ireland
too like you John. It is nice to see that despite all the unemployment
and hardships of the 80's Ireland has not lost it beauty, friendlyness
and hospitality.
Your stories make me a bit homesick even though I don't normally
feel so. It brings me back to some of the places I know and I can
occassionally hear the crack both in the streets and pubs.
Good reading and hope you have many more good holidays in Ireland.
The saying in Irish is truly true "C�ad M�le F�ilte"
Ren�
|
| 313.11 | Driving and Photography in Ireland | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Tue Jan 12 1988 15:31 | 44 |
| Driving in Ireland was: pick one of the following- a)crazy, b)fun,
c)dangerous, d)safe, e)tiring
My choice is "all of the above".
Yes, they're crazy. I'm a fast driver here in the states so the
speed didn't bother me. But, when they pass in an obvious non-passing
situation--that's crazy!!
It was fun. I like driving in a 4 speed around curves etc.
Downshifting, etc.
Safe?! Yes, because the drivers are not "falling asleep" like they
can do in the USA. Here we are very spoiled--many of us drive
automatics that are so comfortable and smooth.....
The roads in the US are very wide and in general very smooth and
in general not very curvy. Unless you're driving in the country
you're unlikely to run into a tractor, as in Ireland.
You have to be alert and aware of what is going on around you in
Ireland. You have to know the limitations of your vehicle in Ireland,
etc.
We loved how people walking along the road would wave as you passed.
Since we had a back seat full of luggage , we couldn't offer any
hitchhikers a ride. We would have enjoyed doing that if we could've.
You're usually taking a quite a risk in the USA to pick up someone.
Of course, stopping and asking for directions was always interesting
as I mentioned earlier in this note.
Taking photos was difficult. I don't know how many times we stopped
for a photo, only to find out that minutes later was another slightly
more incredible view!!
We have some incredible photos that will be framed--and several
of the best ones didn't come out right!
The Irish are certainly not shy about getting their photo taken.
An Irishman in Dublin joked that if you were in rush hour traffic
in Dublin and wanted to cross the street you would just yell out,
"Please stop so I can take your photo!- and - The traffic would come
to a standstill!!"
|
| 313.12 | Irish Wolfhounds in Ireland | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Tue Jan 12 1988 15:38 | 18 |
| Irish Wolfhounds are certainly misunderstood in Ireland!
The Irish thought: (please pardon me for another generalization,
I'm sure there are many Irish who know more than my wife and I do
about I.W.s)
0 They required raw meat for their meals
0 They could possibly turn mean and harm children.
0 You need an acreage to run them in.
0 You need a very large house for them.
0 They eat very, very large amounts of food.
0 They are very, very expensive to have.
My wife and I joked that we should quit our jobs, move to Ireland
and make our lifelong goal to: repopulate Ireland with Wolfhounds
and educate the people about how wonderful they are.
JO'R
|
| 313.13 | Road Signs in Ireland | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Mon Jan 18 1988 21:06 | 34 |
| We had some interesting experiences with Irish Road Signs. First
of all, we would be going to a major town that was several hours
away so we would see the signs pointing to it providing us with
the remaining distance in kilometers. However, ocasionally we would
see a sign that seemed was off, i.e. it was like we went 20 km in
30 seconds. At first we just figured that some creative individual
had their own idea of the remaining distance.
But for ignorant Americans...... The majority of the signs are
in kilometers, with a few in miles--but there's no designation.
We had been warned of some signs in only Irish--we didn't experience
that--there was always the English translation.
The signs warning of a sharp curve or several curves ahead always
gave us a laugh, because it seemed like the worse curves weren't
marked! After one of these signs we would slow slightly anticipating
a hairpin curve, then, nothing!
However, the "Black Spot" signs were to be taken seriously. I guess
they mark spots were severe accidents had happened frequently before.
The signpost at an intersection where more than two or three roads
met was a little difficult to read. Sometimes it would be difficult
to distinguish which sign was pointing where.
On the way to the last accomodation we had there was a sign at a Wye
intersection to let you know which leg to take. Well, it exactly
bisected the angle formed by the wye! Later it was explained to
us that it normally would point more towards the correct choice,
but the wind was blowing hard that night!
Regards,
JO'R
|
| 313.14 | Irish Gnerosity | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Mon Jan 18 1988 21:42 | 47 |
| There are so many causes in Ireland. In every Pub you see several
boxes with slots (sorry there's got to be a better way to describe
this) for money with the cause described on the side of the box.
In the streets you'll find people collecting for their church or
some other worthy cause.
And, almost every Irish person manages to give to each one no matter
how little they may have. It is so touching to witness how generous
the Irish are.
The same is true in terms of buying a drink in a Pub. In Dublin
while my wife shopped I hung out in a local Pub (as was quite often
the case--I'd rather be tortured than shop!). I talked to a lovely
gentleman who turned out to be a priest from Derry. It turned out
he taught mathematics at a college prep school there. I offered
him a drink and he said something to the affect, "There've been so
many Americans in the past that have treated me so generously--you
must allow me to return the favor".
We were constantly having drinks and cigarettes offered to us.
Another experience was at a Chemist in Dublin in Ballsbridge. I
went there to get some medicine for my wife. I particularly wanted
Chloroseptic cough drops. The lady said all they had was Chloroseptic
Spray. Meanwhile, the gentleman who worked there disappeared to
the back. After I purchased some other cold remedies, he came back
with an opened box of Chloroseptic cough drops and
said, "please take these, you can have them." It would be a rather
rare experience in the USA, something like that.
The trip to Ireland helped to restore our faith in mankind. It
was very refreshing.
Another experience: On the way to an establishment we were walkingand
got caught in a cold driving rain for 30 minutes. The lady attendent
in the women's restroom volunteered to dry our soaking wet jackets
using the "low power" hand dryer on the wall. It was a very long
and laborious task. She was so concerned about us having to go back
out in our wet jackets. What's more precious than our own time
and work? Time's probably more precious than money in the USA as
we're all so concerned with getting ahead that we have so little
time left over to give away. (again simply my opinion, a nasty
generalization) Try to find someone in the USA to volunteer 1/2 day
or more--it's very difficult!
Regards,
JO'R
|
| 313.15 | The North is not to be missed | GAOV08::DMCCONVILLE | | Wed Jan 20 1988 15:03 | 34 |
| An observation if I dare.
I was sorry to read that on your visit to Ireland that you did not
see any of the North. I understand your reluctance to cross the
border with the media coverage that concerns the North, but usually
only 'bad' news is newsworthy. If you had travelled 10 miles from
Butlersbridge to Clones (Co. Monaghan) you would have crossed the
border at least twice (into Co. Fermanagh) and probably never have
known the difference.
The scenery and friendliness of Ireland shows clear in your notes
but let me assure you there is no finer scenery and more friendly
people than in the North. Crossing the border there are the
checkpoints,etc., but once through them you will find the same
hospitality, friendliness and fine scenery that you encountered
on you visit. Some of what you missed and perhaps next time cross
the border and see the other province.
For scenery/photographs
The North Antrim coast and Gaints Causeway
The Glens of Antrim
The East coast of Down and the Mountians of Mourne
The Fermanagh lakelands
The Drumlin belt that stretches from Donegal/Tyrone through Armagh and
into Down.
The wild rugged beauty of North West Donegal.
and perhaps the centre of Belfast , which friends have seen recently
for the first time and could not believe that they were in the same
city as is shown on the news. (All major cities have areas which
visitors are advised to avoid).
Sorry if I rattled on, but all of Ireland is worth seeing.
Perhaps next time give the North a call ?
Dee
|
| 313.16 | YES! Can you get me more vacation?! | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Wed Jan 20 1988 15:39 | 18 |
| I'm ready to visit the north right now!
Isn't it a shame how the press puts things out of proportion! Same
thing is true of travel on airlines! They don't tell you about
the very, very large number of flights that have travelled safely
since the last mishap. You're much more likely to die from an
automobile accident, etc. I'm sure the same is true in Northern
Ireland--you're much more likely to die from an automobile accident,
old age, etc. than from the conflicts going on there.
Thanks for your comments, and I do look forward to seeing Northern
Ireland next time. Between the crazy driving and the fact that we're
in N.I.,; I may have to drug my wife the entire time we're there!!
Also, I know that there are a lot of O'Reillys in Armagh and can
remember my father saying that our forefathers came from Armagh.
JO'R
|
| 313.19 | Accomodations in Killarney | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Wed Jan 20 1988 17:56 | 17 |
| This is a little out of sequence, but I wanted tomention that while
we were in Killarney, we stayed at Kathleen's Country Cottage.
It's located on the Limerick-Killarney Road just before you go around
the curve and see the incredible view of Killarney unfolding in
front of you. The rates are reasonable, the rooms are very comfortable
and well kept - it seemed brand new. There's a sitting room with
glass all around with about a 270 degree view. The breakfast is
very good, especially the porridge. She had some technique that
made the porridge very creamy/tasty. Kathleen's husband, children
and father are all very nice folks (I guess almost everyone in Ireland
is, so I tend to repeat myself).
So, we give a strong recommendation to Kathleen's. We won't stay
anywhere else when we're in Kerry in the future I can guarantee
you!
JO'R
|
| 313.20 | N.I. the place is great | FNYFS::AUNGIER | Britannia Waves the Rules | Thu Jan 21 1988 07:00 | 21 |
| John,
Great reading your report, it makes me want to jump on a plane and
go back. It is indeed a beautiful country. I have never yet heard
a person say anything but the best about their visit(s) to Ireland.
The North Of Ireland as Dee says is the best part of Ireland for
me. I spent many months working there and studying there and boy
did I have a great time. One old noter here who knows me personally
can probably vouch for that. Everytime Belfast is mentioned or other
places up the Antrim coast, it brings me back to many years ago
and I miss them badly. The people, the friends, the crack and the
general happiness I felt way back then, it does not mean to say
that I am unhappy now, but nothing could be as good as the time
I spent in N.I.
I hope to go back there and look up some old friends.
Rene
|
| 313.21 | | CSSE::HIGGINS | Party Girl | Mon Jan 25 1988 13:05 | 4 |
| Sorry about .17 and .18.
I was trying to write about my trip to Galway but TALLIS kept having
problems.
|
| 313.22 | The next best thing to being there | 2HOT::KROBINSON | Icon do windows. | Fri Jan 29 1988 15:58 | 10 |
| John,
A million thanks for your wonderful, detailed despcriptions of Ireland.
Funny how the Irish seem to have more than their fair share of talent
for writing.
I'm dying to see it now. Oh well, someday I will have the time/ the
money/ someone to travel with.
kathy
|
| 313.23 | more impressions... | BUSY::OROURKE | | Tue Feb 02 1988 14:03 | 81 |
|
John,
I enjoyed reading about your trip. I brings back some not-so-distant
memories. I visited Ireland for the first time in November. I
wasn't fortunate to have spent as much time or covered as much ground
as you did. However, I definately wet my appetite for more...
Some of my impressions:
MUSIC - There was music EVERYWHERE, in restaurants, in stores, people
whistling and humming a tune. One night, or should I say
early in the a.m., I opened my window for some air only
to hear three girls singing in excellent harmony while
walking down the street.
FOOD - The food was very good, nicely seasoned, and the servings
were always generous. In general it was pretty expensive
regardless of where you decided to eat. (I guess the poor
exchange rate is to blame.) Fish was a favorite as expected.
THe only problem was avoiding the bones. I guess I've been
pampered by having things "de-boned" all my life!
An extra treat was the variety of breads that came with
every meal.
SERVICE - The people were always very polite and knowledgeable about
their products. Service was very "complete" but not what
you would call "quick." I didn't mind at all; I wasn't
in a rush. I used the time to talk to people, which brings
me to...
CONVERSATION - There was never a shortage of conversation. I was
most impressed by the fact that people "really talked."
In my day-to-day experiences most people engage in disjointed
fact-exchanges...the morning traffic jam, the check the
bank lost, etc. In Ireland I found plenty of people ready
to discuss ideas and dreams. Life, love, and laughter were
all open topics.
Getting Around - While in Dublin, I walked most places. Getting
lost was fun, and getting directions was even more so.
It seems nobody wants to send you away without helping,
so they give you their best guess as to the right direction.
You use successive approximations to "work your way" toward
your target.
In the countryside, the roads vary a great deal. It seems
like people drive quite fast, but they also seem to pay
attention to what they are doing. With all the twists and
turns, it is a neccessity. Luckily, I did not see any
accidents.
SCENERY - I spent most of my time in Dublin and south of Dublin.
The countryside around Roundwood & Wicklow was breathtaking.
We had unseasonable nice weather--around 60 degrees F. and
sunny one day while walking around the Monastic Ruins.
I love the country but Dublin, with Trinity College and
Pheonix Park had a lot to offer, too.
SAFETY - As for Kathy's remark (313.22) about needing some one to
travel with, don't let that stop you. I felt very safe
traveling alone. You do have to watch your valuables,
especially in the city. However, I found your normal "street
smarts" from growing up around the Boston area make you an
unlikely target. There is some petty theft and areas to
avoid, but nothing like around here. I actually accepted
ride from a couple when I got caught in a downpour in Dublin---
definitely not something I would do in Boston.
PEOPLE - Yes, I will vote the Irish among the greatest in the World.
Of course, being of Irish decendent does make me slighly
biased....
Can't wait to visit again.
Jennifer
|
| 313.24 | Excellent input | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Wed Feb 03 1988 16:19 | 15 |
| Thanks Jennifer.
You covered some points that are exactly in agreement with our
experience but that I missed. For example--fish with bones. That
wasn't always the case, but a good percentage of the time.
Your term "successive approximations" for how to use Irish directions
is the perfect description.
Also, about people "really talking"-that's what we found too.
And, my wife and I can't wait for the next time, either!! Probably
June, '90 or '91 or sooner and we'll just have to sell the house!
JO'R
|
| 313.25 | talking | CSSE::LEONHARDT | Dick Leonhardt | Wed Feb 03 1988 19:12 | 12 |
| When I was in Cork last summer, I went with my cousin to Midleton
where her grandmother and my great-grandmother came from, looking
for gravestones. We found one cemetery with some relatives, but
not the particular one we were looking for. We went into the town
proper and looked for someplace official, but it was a bank holiday
so prospects were dim of finding anything. We came upon what we
took for a library or town hall or something and went up to the
door. A lady was in the garden and came over. Well, half an hour
later my cousin and this lady finally disengaged themselves. The
place was the lady's home, and she had no help relative to another
cemetery, but neither one of them was going to be the one to end
the conversation. It was rather amusing to watch this.
|
| 313.26 | | TALLIS::DARCY | Amach leat | Thu Feb 04 1988 09:55 | 5 |
| Dick, what was your great-grandmother's name? I've many relatives
in the Midleton-Castlematyr area. And which cemetery were you
searching?
-george
|
| 313.27 | Holy Rosary | CSSE::LEONHARDT | Dick Leonhardt | Fri Feb 05 1988 08:59 | 6 |
| Great grand-mother was Mary Ann Coughlin. She is buried in St.
Joseph's in Cork. Her brother Henry is, or at least the stone
is, in Holy Rosary in Midleton. We were looking for her father
but couldn't find him.
Dick
|
| 313.28 | We live in the Information Age?!....... | DPDMAI::OREILLY | My wife and dog are more Irish! | Mon Feb 08 1988 21:20 | 17 |
| Recently a few of you have contacted me for some more info.
Here's some more information for those of who that may want some
more specific info on the places we stayed.
In Killarney we stayed at Kathleen's Country House. 064-32810.
Kathleen O'Regan-Sheppard is the proprietor.
In Galway we stayed for one night (on recommendation of Mike Hughes)
aMr. & Mrs. Fleming's home, she calls it "Garryedmond". It's on the
GalwaClaregalway Road. 091-98405.
If there's any other info you want just "DECmail me".
JO'R
|
| 313.29 | Paging Dallas... | EGAV01::MHUGHES | | Tue Feb 09 1988 04:56 | 8 |
| Leaprechauns went to town.
Msg. for J O'R, I got two envelopes in the mail yesterday John,
I drank the first one, I'll have to be more careful with the second.
:-) :-)
Snake says thanks for the memory.
|