Ireland Insider Tips

Ireland | Millions have flocked to Blarney Castle, home of the famous Blarney Stone. Some say it was brought to Ireland by the Crusades and others claim it was the stone that gushed water when struck by Moses.

Ireland | Tourism Ireland released an ad campaign to coincide with the release of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, when it premiered on December 15, 2017. The campaign focused on the filming locations along the Wild Atlantic Way including Skellig Michael, an island off Ireland's southwest coast, where audiences caught their first glimpse at the end of the last film, The Force Awakens, as Luke Skywalker's hide out. Cast and crew filmed in many locations including Cork, Kerry, Clare and Donegal and a promotional film starring Mark Hamill was released touting Earth's Wild Atlantic Way - the perfect place to get away from it all.

Ireland | A three-leaf clover or shamrock is an Irish symbol of the holy trinity. The fourth leaf means God's grace and is a universal symbol of good luck.

Ireland | Though Star Wars takes place in a galaxy far, far away, some locations are much closer to home. One of the locations featured in The Force Awakens is Skellig Michael, a rocky island off the western coast of Ireland. From May 3 - 5, celebrate in Ireland with the May the 4th Be With You Festival. The festival takes place along the Wild Atlantic Way, in both Kerry and Donegal. There is even a Festival Dome in Kerry which will house various events and exhibitions across the weekend; alongside multiple outdoors events.

Ireland, County Kerry | Located high upon the cliffs of Count Kerry, the Maritime Museum, Mizen Head offers a spectacular 270 degree view of the Atlantic Ocean. But we will let the beauty speak for itself. Easily accessible by car and a brief walk, this is a hidden gem for those who want to see fantastic Cliffside Wild Atlantic views without having the crowds of Cliffs of Moher.

Ireland, Dublin | You'll be pleasantly surprised to know that the Dublin Airport in Ireland has United States Customs there so you don't have to clear customs upon arrival back in the Unites States. Shannon Airport also has pre-clearance facilities. This speeds up the process tremendously, especially if you have a flight connection in the United States, and makes for a much more pleasant coming home process.

Ireland, Dublin | One of Dublin's most exciting fine dining venues is Forest Avenue. Located on Sussex Terrace behind the Grand Canal, Forest Avenue boasts modern Irish cuisine with an intimate and relaxed atmosphere. With a menu that constantly changes and evolves, we must recommend the five-course surprise tasting menu. Expect a new experience on every visit as the staff constantly works to enhance your culinary experience.

Ireland, Dublin | Dublin overflows with friendly, accessible charm and offers a number of not to be missed attractions. Marvel at the works of Rembrandt, Goya and Monet at the National Gallery of Ireland, discover the basics of whiskey distilling at the Old Jameson Distillery or visit miles of books including the Book of Kells at Trinity College Library. From St. Patrick's Cathedral and the Jeanie Johnston ship to St. Stephen's Green, the Dublin Castle and the H'penny Bridge - there is something exciting to explore at every corner. Click here for an article with highlights that can't be missed on your trip to Dublin.

Ireland, Dublin | Delight in a lively 16-day festival in Ireland. The Dublin Fringe Festival typically takes in September with live entertainment including performances in dance, theatre, live art, visual art and music. Fringe is a curated, multi-disciplinary festival and year-round organization focusing on fresh and innovative approaches to the arts from Irish and international makers.

Ireland, Dublin | Dublin hosted its 100th anniversary of the 1916 Easter Uprising with cultural events, exhibitions and parades including a GPO: Witness History exhibit at the General Post Office (the rebels' headquarters). For a little background prior to your trip, watch the documentary: 1916 The Irish Rebellion - narrated by Liam Neeson and expected to air in March on the BBC and public stations across the US. Click here to view the video.