Peg Schwabel

Traveling to Ireland has always been a lifetime dream and a Rural Experience has made that dream a reality. Two weeks ago, I completed a second trip to Ireland, and, as in the first trip, Tom was the guide. In fact, before starting out on this second trip, I made certain to check the dates when Tom was available in order to co-ordinate travel plans around his availability. Tom’s knowledge of Ireland and its roadways is superb, and he is able to show those traveling with him places of exceptional beauty and charm. Best of all, with Tom driving, you know you will get to your destination safely without getting lost on unfamiliar roads. This year, over a period of nearly a week, the focus was on returning to places of special interest and exploring new sights that had not been seen on the previous trip. Of special interest was Killarney where the national forest and Muckross House were at their best in the beautiful June sunshine. Shopping was superb in the village of Adare, the beauty of Dingle was spectacular. From ancient Celtic sights to stops along the road at Molly Gallivan’s Irish cottage and shops in the Kerry mountains, the days flew by. By staying in guest houses with gathering rooms, the opportunity to meet other travelers was another plus. Sitting in a beautiful courtyard on a summer evening with a couple traveling from Scotland was a wonderful way to learn first-hand about Scotland and its beauty and traditions. Next year, maybe it is time to explore the Wicklow Mountains and return again to Killarney. Whatever, the plan, checking for Tom’s availability is a must!