Ireland

The Irish Family History Center, sells tee shirts with the expression “We are all from somewhere” printed on them. I have deep roots in Ireland from both sides of my family. It’s a heritage I grew up proud to embrace. With a name like Tim Finnegan, it’s really inescapable. The number of times someone has uttered the phrase “good Irish name” to me are almost countless; and being asked if I know the song “Tim Finnegan’s Wake” is happens more frequently than you’d think. And so, Ireland has been a place high on my list to visit for a long time. My Irish ancestors left Ireland during the second half of the 19th century - a time of massive population displacement from Ireland. Millions of Americans boast Irish heritage as a result, and Ireland’s tourism industry is driven by many making “pilgrimages” to the land of their ancestors. So this year, we made the trip to the old country. We explored Dublin, Cork, and Killarney. I learned more about my ancestors and set my eyes on the countryside near to where they would have farmed and raised their families. It was a wonderful introduction to this country and I feel a deeper sense of connection to the place, the people, and their history. “We are all from somewhere.” And a piece of me is from here.

Dublin

Our trip began in Dublin, which we fell in love with almost immediately. There’s a great energy about this city, maybe because it was sunny and warm (a rarity) and everyone was out and about. Or maybe because the city is rich in history, music, literature, and an enduring spirit. People are warm and friendly. Public parks are lush and great places to stroll, or take a breather in the shade. The food was great and the pubs are… plentiful!

Cork - Blarney Castle - Midleton

The second leg of our journey brought us by train to Cork. Our stay in Cork was short. We didn’t have much time to explore Cork proper, but we did learn a lot about Cork’s fame as hub for exporting Irish Butter at the aptly named Butter Museum. We used most of the time in Cork to get to neighboring Blarney and Midleton. Blarney is home to its well-known castle, which houses its famed “Blarney Stone.” Visitors can climb the narrow staircase to the top of the castle to kiss the Blarney Stone - which lore claims will impart on those who kiss it with the “gift of gab.” While a fun thing to do, the castle grounds also provide more to explore, including many gardens and the historic Blarney House.

Some views of Cork along the River Lee.

Killarney and the Ring of Kerry

We left Cork and headed west to picturesque Killarney. While the town itself is small, the atmosphere is energetic. And it is the perfect launching point to tour the stunning Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park. The Ring of Kerry is a 111-mile loop around the Iveragh Peninsula offering scenic views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the rolling emerald hills iconic of Irish countryside. The stop at the Kerry Cliffs is, by far, the gem of the tour.

Killarney House and Gardens

The Ring of Kerry and Killarney National Park

Whiskey and Beer

Ireland is famous for many things. Many notable writers and musicians hail from there. They manufacture fine wool products and make some of the best butter I’ve ever tasted. But, when it comes to consumables, Irish Whiskey and Stout may just claim the gold medal. Drinking a pint of Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse is a tasting experience of a lifetime. In Cork, the stout of choice is Murphy’s. Learning about the history of Irish Whiskey at the Irish Whiskey Museum and getting some great tasting tips there, as well as at the old Jameson Distillery and the Midleton Distillery, were all very memorable experiences. And the Irish Coffee served in Kennedy’s Pub, were next-level delicious!