Hoping I catch you before you leave, Ines – sorry I haven’t responded before this, but we’ve been having real problems with the Internet and I’ve only just got online. First of all, comhgairdeas!! I'm very glad you're coming to Ireland at last, and I hope you enjoy your stay here
As regards to your question, if you're going to Co. Clare, you definitely have to spend at least a day in the Burren. Try the Tourist Centre at Kilfenora, the sand dunes on the beach at Fanore, and the highlight of the whole trip; Aillwee Cave. It's a great day out, just remember not to pick the flowers - because of the unique landscaping, not only do Irish plants grow there, but also Mediterranean and Alpine ones, and the government here don't like people picking them. Around that region also are the beautiful cliffs of Moher and, if you like the beach, Lahinch has one of the nicest around. Liscannor is a lovely town, as well as Lisdoonvarna.
As for the rest of Munster; Killarney (in County Kerry) is always beautiful at this time of the year, especially the lakes. Mucrós or Muckross House and Gardens are always worth a visit; that's also in Killarney. Dingle, in Co. Kerry, reachable by the scenic Connor Pass, has its own claim to fame as well - Fungi, Ireland's favourite dolphin, is a resident at the sea there, and is reachable by boat
There's also a wonderful aquarium. Ballybunion is a gorgeous beach, if that's where you're headed, but three words of advice; Bring An Umbrella <g>.
Cork is the largest county in Ireland, and has a beautiful Opera House. Foto Island is a wonderful wildlife park. Quick check with the rest of the household, and my brother the 'party-animal' is of the opinion that St. Henry's Nightclub and Bodega Bar on Corn Market street would be worth a visit, as well...
Closer to home for me, Limerick is a wonderful city; King John's Castle is definitely worth a visit, and a bit further out, nearer Shannon Airport, Bunratty Castle and Folk Village, which you *have* to see <g>. For shopping and the like, I'd recommend the Crescent Shopping Centre, Dooradoyle, "for all your shopping needs"
Much as I cringe to say it, I wouldn't recommend Tipperary as a tourist hot-spot at all... nothing here except a lot of hills, trees and cows.
And okay, miscellaneous places that spring to mind, you may or may not get a chance to visit, as they're all pretty far away from Clare; Salt Hill, Co. Galway, the Aran Islands, off the shore of Co. Galway, the Ceide Fields, Co. Mayo, and, of course, Dublin - the Phoenix Park, Grafton Street, the Book of Kells at Trinity College, Dublin Zoo, the National Museum, other sites too various to mention. If you do get a chance at all, Ines, I would definitely include Dublin; it's a bit of a drive, admittedly, but it's soooooooooo worth it!!! It's a wonderful city; and no, I am *not* biased!!!
The weather here at the moment is absolutely amazing; the sun is splitting the rocks and it hasn't rained since the sixth of this month. Wow... but, a warning, Irish weather is notoriously changeable, so bring clothing that can be layered. Yes, it's warm enough for shorts (I actually got sunburnt the other day <g>) and yes, bring a long-sleeved sweatshirt with you. Also, an umbrella. The ultimate tourist accessory <g>. The way it is at the moment, though, I wouldn't advise too many jeans and sweaters - normal summer gear will do you if *fingers crossed* the weather stays the way it is. Shorts, tee-shirts, sunglasses... that should tide you over.
That's really all I can think of at the moment, Ines. I really hope you enjoy your stay here!! An early failté romhat to you <g>. And do please remember to post and tell me how it went!!
Beatha agus sláinte,
Sara.
