The jovial Irish spirit is contagious, so prepare yourselves to be charmed by green spaces, friendly faces and an ethos of welcome. In Dublin, be sure to visit Trinity College to view the Book of Kells, believed to be from the eighth century. A stop at the Guinness Storehouse, in the heart of the St James's Gate Brewery, is always a fine idea. Western Ireland, with its pre-Christian ruins and famed attractions like the Ring of Kerry, astounds. And although kissing the Blarney Stone, in the city of Cork, may bestow the gift of eloquence, it isn't as easy as it sounds: After you lie down on your back, someone eases you headfirst through a hole in the stone floor! |
ONE LUCKY CHARM
Village Walks: Ireland
Journey through the verdant landscapes of the Emerald Isle with this convenient set of 50 cards, from Viking Dublin to Falls Road in Belfast, hotspot of "The Troubles." |
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SINGLE AND LOOKING
Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival
If there isn’t any lovin’ left in your hometown, the famous Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival may be for you. Dance, drink and mingle with other singles in this spa town and see if you find a spark. |
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RELAX
YOUR MIND AND BODY
The Best Spas in Ireland
Ireland
may not come to mind when you think of a place for spa
getaways, but think again. This welcoming country has
a fair share of top-notch places that could be just right for a soothing
respite from your day. |
DUBLIN
BUSINESS
TRAVEL GUIDE
Dublin
The Celtic Tiger economic boom of the 1990s transformed Dublin from a "dirty old town" to a cosmopolitan business destination, but its laid-back, fun-loving Irish attitude hasn't disappeared. Rest up before arriving, because joining in the craic (fun) is not only accepted, but encouraged. |
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COUNTY
LIMERICK
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TOP 10 BOUTIQUE HOTELS
Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort
Set on more than 800 estate acres and boasting a championship golf course of designer distinction, this impressive property has earned a berth on our list of the world's Top 10 Boutique Hotels.
 Search for select hotels in other cities |
COUNTY
MAYO
TOP CASTLE HOTELS
Ashford Castle
This 350-acre lakeside destination, built in the 13th century, has also served as the former home of the Guinness family and a fishing and hunting lodge in the 19th century. While you're in Ireland, check out Glin Castle before visiting our other top castles in the world. |
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COUNTY
WICKLOW
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TOP 10 ROMANTIC HOTELS
The Ritz-Carlton, Powerscourt
Discover the charms of the Emerald Isle at this seven-story, Georgian-influenced hotel. Located close to the hustle and bustle of nearby Dublin, yet situated in the heart of the scenic Wicklow countryside, the Powerscourt is the perfect romantic escape for those who love both city living and country chic. |
GALWAY
STYLISH R&R
Delphi Mountain Resort & Spa
This clever hideaway earned a berth on our 2006 list of top health retreats. Here you can get your adrenaline flowing with a dolphin watch at the resort's Adventure Center and then please your palate with all-natural cuisine featuring fresh produce from the resort's own greenhouse. To see our list of top health retreats for 2010, click here. |
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TOP
ROMANTIC GETAWAY
Glenlo
Abbey
The dramatic views of Connemara lie in view of this
Irish great house, where you can hide away in an antiques-laden
guest room, share an intimate dinner in a remodeled
railway carriage, meander its tranquil grounds on horseback
and more. |
NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS
GOLFER'S PARADISE
Dromoland Castle
Golf
enthusiasts will delight in this scenic, luxurious
resort whose newly designed course boasts views of
both a 16th-century castle and Dromoland Lough. Those
not inclined to hit the links can enjoy a spa treatment
or sample the fine cuisine at The Earl of Thomond.
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NORTHERN IRELAND
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72-HOUR VACATION
Belfast
Belfast has thrown off its troubled past and emerged as one of Ireland's most vibrant cities. Many of the public buildings have been restored to their former glory, and the city's revitalization has produced a string of up-market hotels, restaurants and clubs.
More 72-Hour Vacations |
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