I must admit that I had a few preconceived notions about Ireland before visiting. I envisioned rolling, green hills, stone fences and fairies! I found two out of three of these, which isn't too bad!
As we flew into Dublin, I couldn't help but notice how green all of the fields appeared to be. I thought, "Perhaps they look so green just from a distance. Surely, at this time of year, they're not really that color." It's a good thing I didn't make any bets on this statement because the scenery was indeed as green as a summer in Wyoming!
My journey began in Dublin. I took a bus to my hostel, the Avalon House, and then headed out on the town. Dublin itself has some fantastic old buildings, many of which reminded me of buildings in London. There were several cobblestone streets, a castle or two and where there was grass, it was green. I was able to visit the Molly Malone statue, Trinity College, the Book of Kells, and many of the shopping streets. Dublin was a charming city, one which I would gladly visit again! My friend Lyndsey met me here, and we then continued on to Belfast.
Belfast, although smaller, had many similiarities to Dublin. Naturally shopping was an objective while there; however, we managed to fit in some touristy things as well. We took a "Hop on, Hop off" bus tour which gave a great history of the city. I am now educated on the "troubles" (as it was called) between the Nationalists and Loyalists there. It was here that I had my first official Fish and Chips! We went to what was considered "a very local shop" and were treated to a heavy Irish accent! Although I couldn't understand a great deal of what was said, I was referred to as "Love" probably ten times in two minutes! In addition we arrived just in time to visit a German Christmas market which was taking place. The best way to sum this up destination was that the food was fantastic there!
From Belfast we went to Lyndsey's hometown. It was here that I found my rolling green hills and stone structures (I'm sure if I had looked longer, I would have discovered fairies too!). The majority of houses in Omagh were made from brick or stones. Once again perfectly manicured lawns were plentiful, and the people were incredibly friendly!
I do believe Ireland will be a traveling destination in the future!
