Ireland and the Irish - we all have a story to tell, right? In this episode I get the insider stories from Ireland - both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland - from three brilliant guests who all agreed to answer questions about why they love living there, their favourite traditions, what s…Ireland and the Irish - we all have a story to tell, right? In this episode I get the insider stories from Ireland - both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland - from three brilliant guests who all agreed to answer questions about why they love living there, their favourite traditions, what surprises visitors and what we as travellers need to know before we go. What I loved most about speaking with these Ireland locals is the variety of their answers - I thought I knew a lot about this part of the world but there's so much more to learn. A huge thanks to Laura, Tony and Colin for being part of this special Chats with Locals episode.
Links:
• Thanks to sponsor, Slowly - download Slowly to start building genuine friendships today -available for free on the App Store and Google Play - https://notaballerina.com/slowly
• Laura Pakenham on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/laurajpakenham/
• Laura’s book "Irish: History and culture through language" - https://amzn.to/3ST7Z6b
• Colin Johnston’s website https://racingdaydreams.com/
• And huge thanks to Tony O’Sullivan
• Join our Facebook group for Thoughtful Travellers - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thoughtfultravellers
• Join our LinkedIn group for Thoughtful Travellers - https://notaballerina.com/linkedin
• Sign up for the Thoughtful Travellers newsletter at Substack - https://thoughtfultravel.substack.com
• Show notes: https://notaballerina.com/402 Support the show: https://thoughtfultravel.substack.com/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.more
In this episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast, Jody chats with Caroilín Callery, founder of the National Famine Way, and Edel McWeeney Moran, Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Manager, about the Global Irish Famine Way and the Bronze Shoes connecting Ireland's Famine emigration story w…In this episode of the Traveling in Ireland podcast, Jody chats with Caroilín Callery, founder of the National Famine Way, and Edel McWeeney Moran, Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Manager, about the Global Irish Famine Way and the Bronze Shoes connecting Ireland's Famine emigration story with communities around the world.
Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/global-irish-famine-way/attractions/
Episode highlights:
• How the National Famine Way grew from the story of 1,490 people who left Strokestown in 1847
• Why the Bronze Shoes have become such a powerful symbol for the Irish diaspora
• How the Global Irish Famine Way expanded into Canada and is now growing in the United States
• How local communities and historians are uncovering overlooked Famine stories
• How travelers can experience the National Famine Way and take part in the 180th anniversary events in May 2027
Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
Ireland's history isn't only castles and green landscapes. Famine, conflict, ancient beliefs, emigration, ghost stories, and traditions surrounding death are woven through the places travelers visit today.
Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dark-tourism-in-ireland/ireland-trav…Ireland's history isn't only castles and green landscapes. Famine, conflict, ancient beliefs, emigration, ghost stories, and traditions surrounding death are woven through the places travelers visit today.
Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dark-tourism-in-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/
Luisa Golz, Director of Sales at Desmond Tours, completed her PhD research on festivals with dark themes. She joins Jody to explain what dark tourism actually means, why travelers are drawn to these places, and how Ireland's darker history can add depth to a trip without turning the entire vacation into doom and gloom.
Highlights:
• What "dark tourism" actually means — and why you may already be doing it
• Why famine ships, workhouses, and memorials can create such powerful travel experiences
• How Samhain, Halloween, folklore, and "thin places" fit into Ireland's darker traditions
• How to visit places associated with tragedy respectfully
Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
Credit card rental car coverage can be a useful way to reduce the cost of renting a car in Ireland, but not every card covers Ireland—and even cards that do can have very different limits, exclusions, and requirements.
Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/credit-card-car-rental-…Credit card rental car coverage can be a useful way to reduce the cost of renting a car in Ireland, but not every card covers Ireland—and even cards that do can have very different limits, exclusions, and requirements.
Full article & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/credit-card-car-rental-insurance-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/
I explain what you need to check before declining the rental company's CDW, including proof-of-coverage requirements, credit card holds, vehicle and rental-length restrictions, and what your coverage does—and doesn't—protect.
You'll also learn what can happen financially if the rental car is damaged, why it's worth reading the claims requirements before you leave home, and why detailed photos at pickup and return can be valuable when you're relying on credit card coverage.
Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
Send us Fan Mail Travel Expert Onanta Forbes is travelling again so we'll catch up with her cruising around Ireland where she managed to take in the solar eclipse that happened this week. Plus, last week I got the chance to visit the area of Diamond Valley, only about a 40 minute drive south of Calg…Send us Fan Mail Travel Expert Onanta Forbes is travelling again so we'll catch up with her cruising around Ireland where she managed to take in the solar eclipse that happened this week. Plus, last week I got the chance to visit the area of Diamond Valley, only about a 40 minute drive south of Calgary. It's also home to Eau Claire Distillery, known for it's fabulous whiskey, gin and vodka and is Canada's most awarded craft distillery. It was a fun night out so we'll talk to the CEO of Eau Cl...more
The Ring of Kerry gets most of the attention on Ireland's southwest coast. The Ring of Beara, right next to it, gets far less — despite having its own mountain pass, its own islands, and the only cable car in Ireland.
Show notes & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/beara-peninsula-cork-kerry…The Ring of Kerry gets most of the attention on Ireland's southwest coast. The Ring of Beara, right next to it, gets far less — despite having its own mountain pass, its own islands, and the only cable car in Ireland.
Show notes & links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/beara-peninsula-cork-kerry-coastal-drive-guide/ireland-travel-tips/
Jody talks with Tessa Dennison, publisher of Best of Beara magazine and book, about what makes the Beara Peninsula worth the detour: where to base your trip, the drive over the Healy Pass, the ferry to Bere Island, and a handful of villages most visitors never see.
Highlights:
- Why the Beara Peninsula gets overlooked despite sitting next to two famous coastal drives
- Where to base your trip: Kenmare, Glengarriff, and Bantry
- Driving the Healy Pass and riding Ireland's only cable car to Dursey Island
- Eyeries, the Ballycrovane Ogham Stone, and the ferry to Bere Island
- Tessa's top tips: water-based activities, slowing down, and building in extra time
Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
RVing in Ireland is different from other places - and getting the basics wrong can turn a dream trip into a stressful one.
Jody talks with Sandra Willis, chief explorer at Motorhome Roots Ireland, about what it actually takes to travel Ireland by motorhome or camper van: choosing the right vehicle …RVing in Ireland is different from other places - and getting the basics wrong can turn a dream trip into a stressful one.
Jody talks with Sandra Willis, chief explorer at Motorhome Roots Ireland, about what it actually takes to travel Ireland by motorhome or camper van: choosing the right vehicle size, where you're allowed to park overnight, the apps worth downloading, and the one mistake she sees travelers make again and again.
Visit the full article with helpful links: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/motorhome-travel-in-ireland/ireland-travel-tips/
Highlights:
- Why bigger isn't always better when it comes to motorhome size in Ireland
- The real rules around campsites, aires, and pub car park overnight stays
- The apps Sandra actually uses to find places to park
- The most common mistake travelers make — and how to avoid it
- Sandra's own story, from a canal boat in England to Motorhome Roots Ireland
- Three of Sandra's favorite motorhome spots: Enniskillen, Donegal, and Carrick-on-Shannon
Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
Abbeyleix, in the heart of County Laois, is an ideal base for exploring Ireland's Ancient East while enjoying the charm of a welcoming Georgian market town.
Full show notes and links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/abbeyleix-slow-travel-ireland/attractions/
In this conversation, Preston Hou…Abbeyleix, in the heart of County Laois, is an ideal base for exploring Ireland's Ancient East while enjoying the charm of a welcoming Georgian market town.
Full show notes and links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/abbeyleix-slow-travel-ireland/attractions/
In this conversation, Preston House owner Ross McDonald shares what makes Abbeyleix so special - from its fascinating history and thriving community to the nearby attractions that make it worth staying for a few days instead of simply passing through.
Highlights
- Why Abbeyleix is an ideal base for exploring Ireland's Ancient East
- The story behind Abbeyleix's Georgian streetscape
- Ross's favorite nearby places to visit
- What it's like to stay at Preston House
- How Abbeyleix has become a destination in its own right
Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
Landing at Dublin Airport doesn't mean you need to get behind the wheel immediately.
If your Ireland vacation begins in Galway, Cork, Killarney, Kilkenny, or another destination beyond Dublin, driving after an overnight flight may not be the safest choice.
Full show notes + video: https://irelandf…Landing at Dublin Airport doesn't mean you need to get behind the wheel immediately.
If your Ireland vacation begins in Galway, Cork, Killarney, Kilkenny, or another destination beyond Dublin, driving after an overnight flight may not be the safest choice.
Full show notes + video: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/dublin-airport-transportation/ireland-travel-tips/
In this episode I'll explain:
• Why I recommend limiting arrival-day driving to about 90 minutes
• When it makes sense to hire a private driver
• Why a direct airport coach is often the easiest option
• When taking the train is worth considering
I'll also share my recommendations for reaching popular destinations, including Galway, Cork, Killarney, and Kilkenny, so you can choose the transportation that best fits your budget, travel style, and energy level.more
The Ring of Kerry is famous for breathtaking scenery—but there's another side of this iconic route that's worth discovering.
This conversation with Kerry whiskey expert Neil Saad explores the region's growing craft whiskey scene, local distilleries, fascinating history, and the pubs where visitors …The Ring of Kerry is famous for breathtaking scenery—but there's another side of this iconic route that's worth discovering.
This conversation with Kerry whiskey expert Neil Saad explores the region's growing craft whiskey scene, local distilleries, fascinating history, and the pubs where visitors can experience authentic Irish hospitality.
Full show notes & links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/ring-of-kerry-whiskey-tours/attractions/
Highlights
- Explore Skellig Six18 Distillery near Cahersiveen
- Discover the Spirit of the Sea Experience in Portmagee
- Learn why Kerry has become a destination for whiskey lovers
- Find the best whiskey pubs in Killarney, Tralee, and Killorglin
- Get practical tips for adding whiskey experiences to your Ring of Kerry itinerary
Ireland Travel Resources:
- Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
Thinking about tracing your Irish ancestry but not sure where to begin?
Full show notes & links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/irish-genealogy-research-family-roots-ireland/random-bits/
Genealogist Chris Lucia shares practical advice for researching Irish family history, avoiding common mi…Thinking about tracing your Irish ancestry but not sure where to begin?
Full show notes & links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/irish-genealogy-research-family-roots-ireland/random-bits/
Genealogist Chris Lucia shares practical advice for researching Irish family history, avoiding common mistakes, and uncovering the stories behind the names on your family tree. From surviving Irish records to planning a heritage trip, this conversation offers realistic guidance for anyone hoping to connect with their Irish roots.
Highlights
• Why Irish genealogy can be challenging—and why it's still worth pursuing
• The best places to begin your family history research
• Irish records and resources that can help break through research barriers
• Tips for planning an ancestry-focused trip to Ireland
• When it makes sense to hire a professional genealogist
Ireland Travel Resources:
• Car Rental & Driving Guide: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/drive
Looking for a quieter side of Ireland? County Cavan offers peaceful lakes, ancient history, forest walks, and outdoor adventures that encourage travelers to slow down and truly experience the landscape.
Full show notes and links at:
Jody chats with Sean Thornton of Cavan Adventure Centre about why…Looking for a quieter side of Ireland? County Cavan offers peaceful lakes, ancient history, forest walks, and outdoor adventures that encourage travelers to slow down and truly experience the landscape.
Full show notes and links at:
Jody chats with Sean Thornton of Cavan Adventure Centre about why Ireland's Lakeland County deserves a place on your itinerary. From paddling to Clough Oughter Castle to disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature, this conversation highlights a side of Ireland many visitors miss.
Highlights
Why County Cavan is perfect for slow travel
The fascinating history of Clough Oughter Castle
Kayaking through the waterways of Lough Oughter
Forest walks, wellness experiences, and outdoor activities
Sean's top recommendations for visitors to Cavanmore
Exploring Ireland’s Boyne Valley and Westmeath reveals far more than famous castles and ancient monuments. From prehistoric cairns to quiet abbeys and welcoming farm stays, this region rewards travelers who slow down and venture beyond the busiest tourist stops.
View full show notes and links at: h…Exploring Ireland’s Boyne Valley and Westmeath reveals far more than famous castles and ancient monuments. From prehistoric cairns to quiet abbeys and welcoming farm stays, this region rewards travelers who slow down and venture beyond the busiest tourist stops.
View full show notes and links at: https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/boyne-valley-westmeath-travel-tips/attractions/
Richard Ball of Johnsfort - Ireland at Your Leisure, shares favorite places across Meath and Westmeath, including overlooked historic sites, scenic countryside, and memorable local experiences visitors often miss.
Highlights include:
- Loughcrew Cairns and panoramic countryside views
Kilkenny is often treated as a quick stop between Dublin and Cork, but travelers who spend even a day or two here quickly realize how much they would have missed by rushing through. From medieval streets and castle walks to live music and hurling experiences, Kilkenny combines history, culture, and …Kilkenny is often treated as a quick stop between Dublin and Cork, but travelers who spend even a day or two here quickly realize how much they would have missed by rushing through. From medieval streets and castle walks to live music and hurling experiences, Kilkenny combines history, culture, and fun in a way few...
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Five weeks on the road across Ireland brings plenty of unforgettable moments — and a few lessons learned the hard way. From airport advice and overlooked historic sites to island adventures and incredible local experiences, this trip delivered a little bit of everything. For travelers planning their…Five weeks on the road across Ireland brings plenty of unforgettable moments — and a few lessons learned the hard way. From airport advice and overlooked historic sites to island adventures and incredible local experiences, this trip delivered a little bit of everything. For travelers planning their own Ireland itinerary, these are the stops, stays,...
The post Ireland Travel Lessons From Five Weeks Around the Country appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.more
There are places in Ireland that ask travelers to slow down, look around, and settle into the rhythm of a place instead of rushing through a checklist. Clare Island and Clew Bay in County Mayo are exactly that kind of destination. Just off the coast near Westport, Clare Island offers dramatic landsc…There are places in Ireland that ask travelers to slow down, look around, and settle into the rhythm of a place instead of rushing through a checklist. Clare Island and Clew Bay in County Mayo are exactly that kind of destination. Just off the coast near Westport, Clare Island offers dramatic landscapes, deep history, welcoming...
The post Clare Island and Clew Bay: Slow Travel, Island Stories, and a Different Side of County Mayo appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.more
The Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry captures hearts quickly – but the real magic reveals itself when visitors slow down, look closer, and step just slightly off the main path. Dingle Peninsula travel tips: how to experience it beyond the highlights The Dingle Peninsula is often at the top of Irelan…The Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry captures hearts quickly – but the real magic reveals itself when visitors slow down, look closer, and step just slightly off the main path. Dingle Peninsula travel tips: how to experience it beyond the highlights The Dingle Peninsula is often at the top of Ireland itineraries – and for...
The post Dingle Peninsula Secrets: How to Experience Ireland’s Most Beloved Coast Like a Local appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.more
A chance meeting in Dublin led to a lively catch-up about how travel in Ireland is changing – and how visitors can experience so much more than the usual highlights. Custom Food and Whiskey Tours in Ireland What started as a Dublin food tour has grown into something much bigger. Gráinne, owner of Fl…A chance meeting in Dublin led to a lively catch-up about how travel in Ireland is changing – and how visitors can experience so much more than the usual highlights. Custom Food and Whiskey Tours in Ireland What started as a Dublin food tour has grown into something much bigger. Gráinne, owner of Flavour Trails,...
The post Explore Ireland Differently: Bespoke Food, Whiskey & Cultural Tours appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.more
Ireland’s world-famous golf courses may top the bucket list, but some of the most memorable experiences happen well beyond the marquee names – especially when you pair great golf with Irish whiskey and local connection. This article is based on podcast episode 336 featuring David Hayes, owner of Dun…Ireland’s world-famous golf courses may top the bucket list, but some of the most memorable experiences happen well beyond the marquee names – especially when you pair great golf with Irish whiskey and local connection. This article is based on podcast episode 336 featuring David Hayes, owner of Dunes & Drams, a bespoke tour company...
The post Ireland Golf Trips Beyond the Big Names: Where to Play, Sip, and Slow Down appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.more
Standing on Ireland’s wild Atlantic edge is always unforgettable, but if you’re planning to walk the Cliffs of Moher coastal trail, a few important updates will shape how you experience it. Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail Update: What’s Open and What’s Not The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre is fully o…Standing on Ireland’s wild Atlantic edge is always unforgettable, but if you’re planning to walk the Cliffs of Moher coastal trail, a few important updates will shape how you experience it. Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail Update: What’s Open and What’s Not The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre is fully open, and the Cliffs of...
The post Cliffs of Moher Coastal Trail Update: What Travelers Need to Know Right Now appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.more
