May the road rise to meet you. May the wind be always at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and until we meet again, May the Lord hold you in the palm of his hand.

So many beautiful experiences in Ireland; the walking food tour was a great way to try authentic cuisine and learn the culture. It was also a beautiful lesson on why the potato is such a staple and the many delicious ways you can prepare it. Many of the dishes included Guinness in the recipes which added a very rich flavor. Not to mention only grass fed butter is used. I even learned how to make a REAL Irish Cream and it was the best I’ve ever had.

The transportation system was by far one of the greatest I have experienced; fast, frequent and easy to navigate. On random buses and trains Revenue Officers board and check to make sure every rider has a ticket. If you are not able to produce a ticket, you are fined and there is a police car following the bus if needed. Of course, being in transportation myself, I love the idea.

Loved my hotel; the room was huge and there was a special welcome on the tv screen that included my name. Comfy pillow top mattress with lots of pillows, I LOVE pillows. There was also a lavender balm on the bed for me to roll on my wrists and temples for a better night’s sleep. It smelled pretty so I tried it. I can’t say that it worked because I was jet lagged and was going to get the sleep I needed anyway. The view from my window and right across the street from my hotel was Europe’s largest shopping mall; Blanchardstown Center. I may have done a little damage. My experience shopping out of the country brings me so much joy because I am able to find unique pieces that are representative of my style and who I am.

Guinness Storehouse was a most interesting tour. NOT a beer drinker at all, but I tried it. One big sip to get my mustache; the instructor in the Guinness Academy explained that each one means something. He looked at his chart and before taking my picture explained that my mustache meant that I am a connoisseur of fine things. Really? Lol. What did it taste like? Well, first let me tell you that everyone in my group that was from the United States was fussed at for serving beers way too cold. The Guinness is not supposed to be warm or room temperature, BUT it’s never supposed to be ice cold either. There was a sweet smell of caramel with a taste of creamy coffee and chocolate. It was ok but I do not have to have it again. Remember, I am NOT a beer drinker.

Each day the weather was a comfortable 60-65 degrees and all I needed was a vest. I did a lot of walking, met some amazing people. Everyone was friendly. So much to see, so much to do. I will definitely go back.