My husband and I decided to take a Europe trip to visit my sister while she was studying abroad in Ireland. It was especially exciting because it would be my husband’s first time in Europe. It was great timing because I was in a rough patch emotionally and physically – feeling stuck and overwhelmed with work and life. Without completely intending this, I was able to experience a lot in Euope that refreshed my mind and soul.
Ireland holds a special place in my heart as I have always felt connected to Ireland. Maybe that it was because I was born on Saint Patricks day, or that I love Irish music/accent/people. In any case, after visiting in 2020, I couldn’t wait to return.
š Ireland trip highlights
ā visiting the lovely sister in Cork. My sister and I travelled together to Ireland in 2020 and it was only right for me to visit while she’s studying abroad again.
š road trip- driving on the left side on the right side of the car Pt2. green, green everywhere. Ireland has the most beautiful shades of green in nature. Looking at the greens is my favorite thing to do while driving across the country.
š eating curry chips at Jackie Lennox
āØ Gap of Dunloe in Killarney is my absolute favorite place in Ireland. We are driving through a deep valley with high green mountains on both sides. There are sheep walking around everywhere. It felt like we drove through a scene from the Shire!
š§±cool old looking rock walls and buildings. I love anything old and medieval looking. Ireland is just the place.
šµ Irish trad music in pubs is a great place to experience Irish energy. Irish people are not afraid to throw down some old tunes and party to it! Also, there are a lot of classic American pop being played in Irish pubs!
Lowlights: We need to learn manual to rent a cheaper car. Lots of cold, cold wind and rain.
Have you been to Ireland? What is a special place in your heart to visit?
Good old backpack from Central America daysWorked at this lovely Cafe in CorkCute streets in Cork IrelandCute streets of Cork IrelandOur car rental for the road trip Gap of DunloeBreathtaking view of Gap of DunloeBeautiful waters of Gap of Dunloe, IrelandProof we were hereOpen roads of DunloeBeautiful views of Gap of Dunloe, IrelandGap of Dunloe, IrelandWalking through the streets of CorkWalking through the streets of CorkPub experienceMy travel bag for most of Europe šBackpack BackpackCool looking rock wallSlept through our whole trip, but glad she was there.This is me on 90% of our shopping trips. #shoppedoutWorking while traveling
Ah, my never-ending list of things I want to do and places I want to go. Today, Iām going public with my to-travel list.Ā
Destinations
Visit castles and go to pubs in IrelandĀ
To be absolutely honest, my very first impression of Irish culture is the time I ate potato skins at an Irish pub. There weren’t many vegetarian options. I thought that was such a bizzare dish, but ended up crunchy delicious! I was hooked.
Aside from that, I simply adore Irish music. I always find myself putting on an Irish/Celtic playlist while going on long drives or hikes. Not to mention I love everything about the animated film,Ā Brave.Ā
And seeing myself walking down a medieval castle’s winding staircase. /dreamy sigh/
To cruise through, literally, anywhere in Africa to dance, listen to music, and explore wildlife.
In 6th grade, I memorized all the countries in Africa to impress a teacher, and won an award for it. I know it sounds kind of crazy to brag about it now, almost a decade later, but it was my first exposure to the continent.
I love beat and rhythm of Kenyan music, the culture and history of Egypt, the friendliness of Ghana citizens. I also adore the colorful African clothing!
Not to mention I love everything about the animated film,Ā Lion King.
New Zealand
One of my biggest inspiration of visiting New Zealand is from listening toĀ Flight of the Conchords.Ā
The country itself is gorgeous, and I’ve heard so many great things about it. Not to mention theĀ Lord of the Rings trilogyĀ was filmed there.Ā
Stroll around Paris, France (with my SO)
City of love, eh? I loved Paris the first time I visited. The architecture, the people, the food, the music, the energy. Can’t beat that. However, I want to go again with my SO- because I’m a romantic like that. I want to experience the city right.
Alaska- To See the Glaciers
Need more be said? I’m a greedy girl. I want to see the great glaciers before they all melt away (at the rate we’re going). I’ve never been, but I imagine it’s similar to Colorado, but bigger and colder. Confirmation?
Activities
Cruise
We’re budget travelers. Cruises are too luxurious for us. That might change in the next year or two, as I’m about ready to go on one finally! I should mention I’m a pessimist on open water, and am deathly afraid of sharks/whales/icebergs/storms/pirates running over my poor cruise ship.
… I blameĀ Titanic.Ā
See Northern Lights
I just really, really want to see pretty lights.
Pack Bags and go to random destinations
Shame on me for taking pride of being spontaneous, but never actually set off on a blind. I’ve always had some sort of planning, even though a day ahead. The most I’ve ever done true spontaneous travel was while wandering around New York City.
Rock climbing
I’m always looking for something new to try. I want to do it in nature versus at a gym or something.
Fly First Class
Here’s to hoping some airline is going to have price mistake soon.
Thanks for reading! This is a response to the 21 Weeks of Travel Blogging Challenge!
What’s on your bucket list?? As always, I would love to connect and exchange stories!
green, green everywhere. Ireland has the most beautiful shades of green in nature. Looking at the greens is my favorite thing to do while driving across the country. 
