Michele’s Leprechaun Mashed Potatoes

Disclaimer
No leprechauns were harmed during the making of this recipe. But they would love to eat the potatoes on St. Patrick’s Day – if you can catch them!

Ingredients

• 6 large potatoes, peeled & cut in chunks
• 8 oz frozen peas
• Salt & pepper to taste
• A tablespoon or two of milk or cream (optional)
• A knob of butter (optional)

Click here for the remainder of the recipe.
© 2010 Michele Erdvig
IrelandYes.com Ireland Dream Trips
Michele’s Irish Shop
Michele’s Ireland Guidebook

Episode Guide – Podcast #101 The Legacy of St Patrick with Dr. Tim Campbell

We chat with Dr. Tim Campbell about the St Patrick’s Centre and Counties Down and Armagh.

CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen.

Our Podcasts are availble on iTunes – here’s our link for Techies

Show Notes

00:00
Intro: The Devil’s Bit by Theresa Larkin & Noel McQuaid

00:58
Episode 3 – Following in the Footsteps of St Patrick

Engaging Ireland – St. Patrick: Separating the Life from the Legend

01:22
Highlights from Our E-Newsletter

02:24
101 Irish Travel Tips

02:40
Dr. Tim Campbell – The St Patrick’s Centre

Closing Song – Miss Jane MacInnes Dandleleith by Theresa Larkin & Noel McQuaid

To make things even better,  we want to compile a list of 101 IRISH TRAVEL TIPS for our readers to read and share… a whole list of pointers covering various aspects of travel to the Emerald Isle

Add your tip in the comments section below, and let’s see our list grow! >>

(We’ll add the numbers later)

Iarnród Eireann Irish Rail CIE, originally uploaded by robokubo.

It’s official, any visitor over age 66 can travel Ireland by train for FREE starting March 16. Pat Preston has posted all the details in her “All aboard! New rail perk launched for seniors visiting Ireland” article.

Here are the highlights:

• Travelers need to fill out the application at least 48 hours in advance
• Passes are issued in four day increments (multiple passes can be issued)
• Travelers will present their Golden Trekker confirmation with a passport or national identity card at the train station
• The pass is not valid in Northern Ireland

Thanks for the info, Pat!

Episode Guide – Podcast #99 A Chat About Irish Travel with Michele Erdvig

In this audio podcast episode, we talk with author, blogger and travel forum moderator, Michele Erdvig to discuss Irish Travel, accommodations and plans for the Fireside.

CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen.

Our Podcasts are availble on iTunes – here’s our link for Techies

Show Notes

00:00
A message from Anne Roos from www.celticharpmusic.com

00:35
Intro: The Devil’s Bit by Theresa Larkin & Noel McQuaid

01:54
Jessie, Ed and Lily from www.wanderingeducators.com

02:12
Kim from San Diego, California

02:34
Jim from Worcester, Massachusettes – onion rings at Bershoff’s on O’Connell St. in Dublin

03:30
Travel Tips

04:03
Bill from www.irishjaunt.com – don’t get a cab from airport, use the Air Coach

04:29
Pat from Red Hook, New York/ www.irelandexpert.com – Free train travel for seniors visiting Ireland starting next week

05:30
Gene from Morristown, New Jersey/www.hometowntales.com – St Patrick’s in Morristown, NJ

06:20
Kerry from Music Road – Listen… to the music and everything else that happens around you.

06:42
Johnny from Evening of Folklore and Storytelling in the Brazen Head Pub… Dublin’s oldest www.irishfolktours.com

07:39
Michele Erdvig www.irelandyes.com – half price with www.doolin2aranferries.com

08:40
Amazing 10 Travel Tips from Engaging Ireland – you’ll have to listen to hear this list… it’s a gem!

10:02
Leave us a 414-292-9269

10:20
Imen from www.marriedanirishfarmer.com

10:54
Bill from Connecticut/www.bill.sweeney.net

11:37
Marc from www.celticmusicpodcast.com

12:01
Barbara, Midland, TX – Winner of a signed copy of Frank Delaney’s new book

13:00
Earl form London, Ontario

13:40
Netta from Posen, Michigan

14:00
Jim from Martha’s Vineyard

14:18
Scott from Washington D.C.

15:12
We’ve advanced in the Irish Blog Awards. Remember to send us your Irish-themed recipes for the Irish Fireside Cookbook.

15:25
Wissahickan Drive by Theresa Larkin & Noel McQuaid

First, our suggestion that hotels would lead the charge for lower priced accommodations came with a nasty side effect – Zombie Hotels that will likely hurt the industry in the long run.

Then yesterday, Michele Erdvig from www.IrelandYes.com alerted us to news that a car rental shortage — especially automatic transmission vehicles that North Americans desire — might cause prices to skyrocket this season. That confirmed rental prices won’t be going down… in fact, after the Irish Times ran the article, some rental prices went up $4 a day.

And this morning, our concerns for an even quieter Shannon Airport were fueled. Aer Lingus is seriously considering plans to drop all long-haul flights from the west coast airport. The airline will likely announce their new “strategy” next month… we’ll keep our fingers crossed that they figure something out to keep Europe’s most tourist-friendly airport open for visitors from across the sea.

So What’s the Good News for Travelers?

All of these items are bad news for tourists, so what do we have to look forward to this year? Well, tourism is under the microscope at the moment, and it’s the one industry the Irish government seems to believe it can impact and profit from (even if their plans to put all their eggs in the UK basket could blow up in their face). So there are some positives for those traveling to the Emerald Isle this year…

Sweet Deals on Accommodations and Restaurants – While airfare and car rental prices are causing sticker shock for would-be visitors, hotels and B&Bs and restaurants are amping up their game… offering more for less and rewarding guests who stay a little longer.

Seniors Can Ride Irish Rail for Free – The government has moved forward on the plan we mentioned in our predictions to provide free rail transportation to seniors. That’s a double win for mature travelers… no car rental costs AND free train tickets.

Better Attitude Toward Tourism – The pendulum has swung yet again. As Irish emmigration is making a comeback, the Irish people have again become more sensitive to visitors. That includes a handful of astute government officials who are standing up for tourists by addressing fees, travel taxes, visa standards and several other issues that serve as barriers to growing tourism in Ireland. Psst, Irish officials, would you keep an eye on the car companies for us… they are among the LEAST tourist-friendly industries in Ireland — so much so, we had to tell our readers the 5 Things You Should Know When Renting a Car in Ireland.

The glut of hotels built as the Celtic Tiger roared, has created a dangerous combination for Ireland’s tourism secter — too many hotels… many of which would have closed but were bailed out by the Irish banking system. The result… the Zombie Hotel – a hotel equivalent of the living dead… and they are being labeled the cannibals of an already hurting industry.

As the economists duke out their theories on how to handle the situation and while they try to convince the powers that be, tourists are finding some of the lowest accommodation prices in years.

If you’re planning a trip this year, you really must read Michele Erdvig’s blog post about the zombies and the deals that are out there right now! If you want to read more about the Zombie Hotel phenomenon visit the Irish Times article and for more about the economic changes in Ireland this piece by The Guardian.

More Irish-interest headlines are available on our Twitter Feed… the most recent are featured on the sidebar on this page –>

Submitted by Kim

Book Review: Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show by Frank Delaney

I was delighted when the Irish Fireside offered me an advance copy of Frank Delaney’s new novel “Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show.” The book was truly hot off the press! I’ve read nearly all of Delaney’s other books “Tipperary,” “Shannon” and I had started to read “Ireland” — never quite settling into it the first time around.

I have been reading, listening or watching anything I could possibly find related to Ireland for over three years now. And I do declare Delaney’s books are delightful! I particularly enjoy listening to audiobooks with Irish narrators whose strong accents bring to life all those charming Irish sayings! I had a hard time leaving my car when I arrived at work or home because the stories were so good.

“Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show” was no exception. While I did read every word in this book, it is available in an audio format narrated by Delaney. Like so many Irish authors, Delaney is a gifted storyteller. He has the ability to truly animate the pages of his books for his readers. Not only does he manage to tell a grand story, but his style conveys the tradition and spirit of the Irish way of life to his audience.

His characters make the reader feel as though they are already close acquaintances, or longing to befriend the lead characters. His style of conversation, if truth be told, transports me into the homes of my Irish family and their lives. The book is full of Irish aphorisms spoken by regular folk in Irish villages. Delaney’s tales are epic and his method of entwining the myths and legends of Ireland with actual history provides a rich picture of the period and lifestyle of his characters.

“Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show” is one of the most original and interesting stories that I have read of late. It includes the political struggles of the period which is present in so many Irish novels, almost to the point of being overdone. That is not the situation in this story. Frank Delaney’s newest book is the story of a young man’s loss of innocence. It takes into account the political climate without those events dominating the narrative. Again in his signature style, Delaney has included a seanachai in “Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show”

Seanachai is the Irish word for storyteller. Historically the senachai went from village to village passing on the myths, legends and at times pure gossip. In more recent times, during the evening, the storyteller told stories in pubs or homes of the villagers and earned a meal and lodgings in return. By day, when the Gaelic language was illegal, the seanachai gathered the village children and took them into a field to secretly teach the Irish language.

The seanachai in “Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show” is James Clare who mentors the hero, young Ben McCarthy, with lessons from Ireland’s myths and legend. In this method, Mr. Clare supports young Ben as he literally saves the family farm and his parents from ruin!

So who is Venetia Kelly? She is an actor who arrives in town and mesmerizes both Ben and his father. Venetia in fact is the star of a traveling vaudeville show. And the show sits right in the center of the story. Surrounding the show is treachery, murder, revolution, high drama and politics all rolled into one wonderful yarn. And, as I’ve already mentioned, Irish culture, history, myth and legends as the backdrop for the story. There are plenty of twists, turns and surprises in the plot! I had trouble putting it down! Delaney’s humor expressed in the sayings and descriptions of his characters is grand and adds depth to the story.

But, I don’t want to spoil it, because anyone interested in Irish culture will enjoy this story. And, if you haven’t read any of Delaney’s books, then you should! Regardless of the format Delaney is a master of Irish culture. After I started this book, I went back to the novel Ireland, one of his first books. (It’s downloaded on my iPod). And this time, I really got it! Quite a Journey!

So, picture this, I’m driving down the San Diego Freeway listening to Mr. Delaney tell a story. Then gradually, I’m one of the characters in his book; Transported to the little blue country cottage of my ancestors in Ballinamore Bridge, Co. Galway. I even smell the peat fire burning in the fireplace! Then the room falls quiet and the seanachai begins his tale…

BUY THE BOOK FROM OUR AMAZON STORE

We are giving away one signed copy of “Venetia Kelley’s Traveling Show.” Enter to win by leaving a comment on this post and leaving a voicemal message for our 100th Episode (more info) at 414-292-9269 (many callers are leaving great Ireland travel tips, so feel free to do the same – calls must be received by Sunday, March 7, 2010).

UPDATE: Congratulations to Barbara Crane from Midland, TX. She won the signed copy of Frank Delaney’s new book.

Have a peek… and feel free to leave them a comment too.

Eileen Ivers and band members Buddy Connolly, Leo Traversa, Tommy McDonnell, and Greg Anderson by Luke Ratray

“With Irish music, you’re cryin’ one minute and then you’re whoopin’ it up and bein’ joyful the next minute. We’ll be playing some really heart wrenching immigration songs, songs of leaving family and loved ones behind, and we’ll be playing a lot of the dance tunes from the tradition that are just upbeat and full of life and festive energy,” says fiddler Eileen Ivers. She’s talking about her current concert tour, which she’s named Beyond the Bog Road.

One day when she was back in her father’s town in County Mayo, a place where she’s often played her fiddle, Ivers heard an older man say he found it hard to think about the people who had left Ireland during the Great Hunger of the 1840s, and what lives they must have led. That sparked an idea in Ivers to start researching music, and later, composing tunes that traced parts of that journey, and often through unexpected moments.

She’s created an evening that moves emotionally and musically — and visually, there are scenes of Ireland historic images which weave in and out with the music projected behind the band — from that bog road to the uncertainties of crossing the oceans and the hard conditions on arrival in North America, to contact with other cultures, to an ending which celebrates the vibrancy of the Irish American community today.

That’s a fairly tall order for an evening’s worth of music: make a program that’s musical and entertaining and at the same time present a lot of context about music and history to people who may bring all sorts of ideas and backgrounds to hearing it. It’s an idea Ivers is well qualified to carry out: To her research, she brought a background including winning nine All Ireland fiddle championships, working with jazz and classical fiddlers, being a founding member of Cherish the Ladies and part of the original company of Riverdance, performances with artists ranging from the Boston Pops to the Afro Celts, Grammy awards, and worldwide touring.

Ivers and her band bring their varied talents together to focus on moments which connect to tell the story, and while Ivers’ fiddling and her vibrant personality are the center of things, she does not hesitate to collaborate and at times step aside for others to take over the telling of the stories.

She shares some of her own story as a first generation Irish American to connect things, and there’s recorded narrative spoken by Dermot Henry [himself a fine songwriter whom you’ve met before over at Music Road] which also sets things in context between songs. The result is a journey at times fast paced and at times in thoughtful reflection, that moves from exploring the heartfelt sorrow of famine times to the hope and hardships and persistence of next stages of the immigrant’s journey.

At the start. “We have some slow airs, songs, about love lost to famine, about heartbreak, kinda — there’s a classic immigration song called The Greenfields of America. Niamh Parsons sings it, and she’s incredible, one of Ireland’s truly great singers, I think,” Ivers says. A somber view of the vast and rolling ocean, such as Irish people might have seen on their voyages, unfolds behind Parsons as she sings.

The band and the narration follow the story of Irish people arriving in Grosse Ile, in Quebec, still a hard time, but lightened by encounters with kind people and with the music of French Canada. Traditional tunes, original tunes Ivers has written, and the skills of the dancers who join in on stage combine to show the connections between Acadian and Cajun music and the music of Ireland.

The band then traces the music’s journey southward. Ivers tells of trading tunes with Appalachian fiddler Ralph Blizzard and in a few bars illustrates the way a tune sounds in Irish tradition and how it moves over to bluegrass. The band extends that idea, playing the Irish tunes Kitty’s Wedding, and its Appalachian cousin, Smith’s Reel, and invites the audience to sing along as they head in to The Rocky Road Blues, a song by Bill Monroe, the father of bluegrass.

Through the second half of the concert Ivers, the band, and the dancers trace the meeting up of Irish people and African Americans, through working on building railroads to the west, and it later years through tap dancing competitions in New York city, There’s even a bit of Louis Armstrong brought in, as well as the remembrance and looking back toward Ireland, and the new waves of Irish immigration to America.

The evening comes to a close with an extended set of reels incorporating world beat and other influences, with video backdrop reflecting the energy of the city and twenty first century life, and with Ivers playing her fiddle all across the stage, up on to the drum kit platform, exchanging jams with Buddy Connolly on accordion, and bringing her fiddle out for a quick trip around the room before jumping back onstage to join the band, audience and dancers in singing Will the Circle Be Unbroken — a gospel song which crosses American traditions American traditions and whose title neatly sums up the emotions and music Eileen Ivers and friends share Beyond the Bog Road.

The Beyond the Bog Road tour continues through late March. Information about that and other tour dates may be found at Eileen Ivers’ web site. Ivers is also working on a recording of the music from Beyond the Bog Road.

Kerry Dexter writes about the arts and creative practice at Music Road, and is music editor at Wandering Educators, long time contributor to world music magazine Dirty Linen, and former folk music editor at Barnes & Noble Online. Her work has appeared in Symphony, Ireland and the Americas, and The Encyclopedia of Counterculture, among other publications.

The Cliffs of Moher featured on a Cadbury wrapper.

Earlier this year, Irish chocolate-maker Cadbury kicked off a social media campaign that pitted would-be candy wrapper designers against each other for a chance at €10,000 and the title of the Cadbury Apprentice.

While three Leprechaun & shamrock themed wrappers duked it out for minor votes, the real contest was between two Irish landmark heavyweights… the Giants Causeway and the Cliffs of Moher. The top vote-getters both came in with over 25,000 online votes

In the end, the Giants Causeway won… no wait… the Cliffs of Moher won.

Ends up the Giants Causeway design was a knockoff of another work (kind of like Cadbury ripped off the title of Donald Trump’s show – Cadbury’s social network lit up with the controversy… which you can read about here), sooooo the grand prize went to Paul Ruane from County Kerry who turned the iconic Cliffs into blocks of chocolate and made the rippling waves of the Atlantic from creamy Cadbury milk.

It’s good to see two of my favorite things collide… Irish travel and chocolate!

I gotta say, I’m craving a Cadbury Flake right about now.

>> Remember, you can still vote for the Cliffs of Moher in the New Wonders of the World competition!

A special thanks to Katherine Webster, Director of the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, for giving us a heads-up on this tasty story.

Learner's Driving Sign

This one is just for fun. Corey mentioned on Twitter that someone had found his site by searching for “Ten Things You Should Never Say to an Irishwoman”. He suggested that someone should write the article. I’m up for the challenge.

Keep in mind that these are politically incorrect and only for entertainment. Do you have one to add?

1. You drive like you should have a red “L” on the back of your car.

2. Can’t you control your kids?

3. I hope that is mud on your Wellies.

4. You and your husband are a match made in Lisdoonvarna.

5. When was the last time you went to confession?

6. I thought talking on the phone and driving was illegal in Ireland.

7. I got the same designer jeans for $20 in Orlando.

8. New perfume? I thought it was a whiff of Dettol.

9. Is your husband just back from the pub – or does he always act like that?

10. There is no smoking in the ladies toilet!

© 2010 Michele Erdvig

www.IrelandYes.com

Michele’s Irish Shop

A Music Festival Every Month

For those in search of an authentic Irish music experience, County Clare hits the high note. In addition to impromptu session in pubs across the county, Clare hosts well over a dozen music festivals each year… no matter what month you visit, there is a festival on the calendar.

Ireland’s Banner County kicks off it’s traditional music season with the 16th annual Russell Memorial Weekend in Doolin on the 26th of February. And that’s just the first note in a melody of festivals that continues throughout the year and criss-crosses the county from Feakle to Doonbeg, from Kilfenora to Kilkishen.

Generations of Vibrant Music

There is really only one place to come for traditional Irish music is the message coming from County Clare and some of her most talented native sons. Clare is often referenced as the heart and soul of Irish music, and Feakle fiddler extraordinaire Martin Hayes is no exception. Hayes says, “In the late 1940’s when the revival of Irish music was in its infancy, we were fortunate in Clare to already have a very rich culture of music. Our music is vibrant and strong now because the people of the county over many years have cherished our musicians like no other county. This pride and self-assurance has led to the incredible abundance and quality of music that is so vividly on display each year at the myriad festivals throughout Clare, as well as on stages throughout the world where many Clare musicians perform.”

This rich musical heritage can be encountered in almost any pub at any crossroads where fine musicians break into a seisiún at the drop of a hat. However, for a visitor to the county seeking a guaranteed Irish musical treasure trove, they just need to head for any of the many festivals held in Clare.

The most well-known is probably the renowned Willie Clancy Summer School that has taken place every July in Miltown Malbay for the last 38 years. The event is attended by young and old from the four corners of the globe who come to learn to play traditional instruments and join in the demonstration of their newly honed skills in daily sessions. There are many lesser known, but no less enjoyable to attend, festivals from January to the depths of winter.

Ennis born Kieran Hanrahan of Stockton’s Wing sings the praises of his native county’s musical heritage and has huge enthusiasm for the future, “The very best of traditional music can be heard in Clare and the standard of young musicians here is so high that the future of this incredible legacy is assured. The wealth of talent that can be seen in the festivals in Clare is extraordinary, not to mention that found at performance venues like Cois na hAbhana and Glór and teach ceol and parish halls all over the county .”

The tune is a simple one to follow – when it’s traditional music you seek head west for the best to the Banner County.

More information on events or activities in County Clare is available on the Clare Tourism Forum website www.clare.ie

Traditional Music Festivals in County Clare in 2010

• Winter Music Weekend – Sixmilebridge – 15th-17th January
• Russell Memorial Weekend – Doolin – 26th- 28th February
• Corofin Trad Festival 1st -7th March
• Kilfenora Music Weekend – 16th-18th April
• PJ Hayes Memorial Weekend – Feakle – 1st-3rd May
• Fleadh Nua Festival – Ennis 23rd- 31st May
• County Fleadh Ennis – Ennis 23rd – 31st May
• Fleadh – Kilfenora – 17th-19th June
• Willie Clancy Summer School – Miltown Malbay – 3rd-11th July
• Feakle International Traditional Music Festival – 4th- 10th August
• Dan Furey Weekend – Labasheeda – 3rd-5th September
• Ellen Galvin Traditional Music Weekend – Kilrush – 3rd – 5th September
• Tulla Traditional Music Festival – 10th-12th September
• Clare Shout Fleadh – Kilkishen – 17th-19th September
• Seisiun na hEireann – Quinn – 25th-27th September
• Willie Keane Memorial – Doonbey – 22nd – 25th October
• Ennis Trad Festival – 11th – 15th November

Clare Tourism Forum contributed to this post.

Pat has stopped by the Irish Fireside several times. You can listen to our interview with her in Episodes 33 & 34, read the 10 Irish Words You Should Know When Traveling Around the Emerald Isle she wrote for us and visit her website and blog at www.IrelandExpert.com.

As for the NATJA Awards, they recognize excellence in travel writing, photojournalism, multimedia platforms, advertising, marketing and public relations for the travel and tourism industry. For more information about the NATJA or a complete list of 2009 award-winners, visit www.natja.org.

You are invited to submit your favorite recipes. We’re looking for a range of traditional to modern cuisine including starters (that’s what the Irish call appetizers), main meals, desserts, drinks and snacks.

Your recipe may have strong ties to Ireland or connect to your Irish-American heritage… we’re not trying to create a “traditional” Irish cookbook. Be sure to include a brief description of your recipe, so we can better understand it’s history, your memories or it’s ties to Ireland.

The cookbooks will be sold at www.IrishFireside.com and on www.Amazon.com, and the proceeds from the sales will help keep the Irish Fireside going strong.

We look forward to your submissions. We’re getting hungry just thinking about it. E-mail them to Corey@IrishFireside.com. Deadline is March 31, 2010, but submitting sooner is better.

We’ll be publishing our 100th podcast episode next month, and you’re invited to celebrate with us.

Leave a message on our comment line at 414-292-9269, and we’ll try including it on our show (short MP3 files via email are also welcome).

So far, a quick congrats followed by a travel tip has been the most popular, so feel free to give a call and leave your message.

Here are a few other suggestions for your message:

• Share an Irish Travel Story
• Talk About Your Connection to Ireland
• Tell Us What You Love About the Irish Fireside

Remember to include your first name, hometown and to keep your messages short and sweet. Messages must be received by Sunday, March 7, 2010 (we haven’t recorded yet, so messages left on Monday, should make it in).

If you leave a message, you’ll be entered in to win a signed copy of Frank Delaney’s new book.

Episode Guide – Podcast #99 A Chat About Irish Travel with Michele Erdvig

In this audio podcast episode, we talk with author, blogger and travel forum moderator, Michele Erdvig to discuss Irish Travel, accommodations and plans for the Fireside.

CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen.

Our Podcasts are availble on iTunes – here’s our link for Techies

Show Notes

00:00
Intro: The Devil’s Bit by Theresa Larkin & Noel McQuaid

00:24
Michele Erdvig – read her posts on the Irish Fireside – visit her website at www.IrelandYes.com

01:05
We are accepting entries for the Irish Fireside Cookbook – email corey@irishfireside.com

01:28
Irish Fireside iPhone App

01:42
Be a part of our 100th episode by calling 414-292-9269 and leaving us a message, travel tip, memory from Ireland or information about your connection to the Emerald Isle.

02:34
Interview – Winter Storms in Ireland… and the rest of the world

03:27
What do you look for in a good B&B? B&Bs then and now.

04:13
What do you miss from the “old days” of B&Bs?

06:40
Where can we find places that still have the old “flavour” of B&Bs?

07:14
Any advice for those debating between hotels and B&Bs?

09:05
What are your favorite B&B stories?

12:30
The one travel item that Michele doesn’t travel without.

14:25
Tell us about self-catering accommodations.

16:44
Rural vs. urban accommodations.

18:00
How do research B&Bs?

18:42
How do B&Bs get in your book?

23:00
Do B&Bs prefer cash or credit cards?

24:54
What’s the future for B&Bs?

26:00
B&B guests from hell.

28:00
Differences North American guests will find in Ireland.

28:57
Any special spots you’d like to share with us?

30:25
When is the best time to book a trip? When will airfare go down? Shannon Airport vs Dublin Airport.

33:00
Bunratty is becoming a ghost town

33:37
What are the things to look for on a B&B website?

34:40
The history of Michele’s book.

37:16
Michele’s Blog

38:00
Recipe & the Irish Fireside Cookbook – coming soon

38:57
The Banoffee Pie Story

42:38
Ashokan Farewell by Theresa Larkin & Noel McQuaid

There are a lot of other nominees, so be sure to check out at the entire register of nominees.

Kudos to Imen McDonnell from I Married an Irish Farmer — we featured her in Episode 97. She’s been nominated in the Best Specialist Blog, Best Newcomer and Best Personal Blog – who knew someone could “specialize” in marrying an Irish farmer

And a special thanks to Poetry Ireland for sponsoring our category… Best Arts and Culture Blog.

Now, I just wish we could be in Galway March 27th for the awards ceremony… we wouldn’t have to win for that to be a fantastic trip.

Taking a hike in “Ireland”, originally uploaded by RachelCorinne123.

Taking in a walking tour while in Ireland delivers an entirely different way to experience the Emerald Isle. I thought you might appreciate this post from the Ireland Yes blog that covers need-to-know details.

http://irelandyes.wordpress.com/2010/02/19/ireland-walking-tours/

They’ve already got some big names lined up… including Stacy Keach, Sir Roger Moore, Aidan Quinn and Geraldine Chaplin. We’ve got our fingers crossed for a Maureen O’Hara cameo!

Visit these links to learn more:

http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2010/0217/1224264628353.html?digest=1

http://commanderbond.net/9598/sir-roger-moore-to-star-in-romantic-comedy-connemara-days.html

Get your pans and batter out. It’s Shrove Tuesday and the Irish are cooking up pancakes. A bit strange considering pancakes are a rarity on Irish menus any other time of year.

Learn more about the pre-Lenten ritual at:

http://irishcultureandcustoms.com/ACalend/ShroveTues.html

http://marriedanirishfarmer.com/2010/02/16/paddy-cake-paddy-cake/ – includes a recipe!

Kim on her way to Dingle.

We received an email this week from Kim C. in San Diego. She told a wonderful story about her August visit to the Dingle Peninsula.

We couldn’t resist sharing this story with everyone at the Irish Fireside.

A special thanks to Kim for sending us her Ireland travel experience.

Author Thomas O'Crohan from the Blasket Islands

Slieve League – the highest seas cliffs in Europe – Clouds on Slieve League, originally uploaded by Fergus_B.

Submitted by Phil

Cyclist that are keen to see Ireland from one of the country’s highest vantage points should take a trip to Donegal. Lying in the North West of the emerald Isle, the county is a great attraction for bicycle fans who like to tackle hills in order to get beautiful views of the republic. As well as the expansive cliff-top observation points, Donegal also offers holidaymakers the opportunity to set foot on some of the best beaches in Ireland. There is much to see via bike in the region with many Irish car hire customers choosing to start their trips in Donegal, the town that the county was named after.

Blue Stack Mountains waterfall, originally uploaded by Old camera guy.

Resting near the impressive Bluestack Mountains, the enclave boasts a number of windswept beaches that are popular with surfers and other watersports fans. There is much history to soak up in the town and a visit to Donegal Castle is recommended. Constructed on the banks of the flowing River Eske, the site was first built in 1474.

In recent times, the attraction has undergone renovation and has been extensively restored. Now visitors can get an impression of how the castle looked when it was occupied by some of Ireland’s most influential families in the 15th and 16th Centuries. In addition, the ruin of a Franciscan Abbey located near the site is another historical attraction that hails from the same time period as the castle.

Once cyclists have toured the town, they may like to travel on the coastal road, which winds around soaring cliffs. From Donegal, visitors can travel towards the impressive Slieve League cliffs. These rocky outcroppings loom over the crashing sea, giving fantastic views of the ocean. This region is home to Ireland’s second highest cliffs as they rise 601 metres into the air, which makes them the sixth tallest in Europe.

After taking in the spectacular site, cyclists may like to make their way towards Glenveagh National Park to see more of the mountainous countryside. Open throughout the year, the attraction measures a staggering 16,000 hectares and can be divided into three main areas. Within the Glenveagh Estate region lie the majority of the peaks making up the Derryveagh Mountains, while the Western edge is mostly formed from striking quartzite hills and the south is home to peatlands.

This mixture of environments forms a striking contrast that is home to artic-like peaks, heather studded bogs and miles of green woodland. Many animals have chosen to make their home in the national park, including hares and golden eagles, who were recently re-introduced to the region.

There’s a new way for iPhone users to experience the Irish Fireside… the new Irish Fireside iPhone App.

Users can listen to the latest episodes on their phone (it even works over AT&T’s 3G and Edge networks, so you don’t have to wait until you are connected to wifi. There are also some bonus features… like beautiful wallpaper images and special PDF downloads.

You’re invited to check it out in the iTunes Store. A portion of the $1.99 cost goes to the Irish Fireside.

FYI – There may be an iTunes glitch at them moment that tells you the app is not available in the US store. That is not the case and if you get that message, just go to the iTunes Store, type “Irish Fireside” in the search field and the app will appear for you. Sorry about that.

You can learn more about Brigid at:

• http://irishfireside.com/2009/08/21/the-legend-of-the-tale/
• http://irishcultureandcustoms.com/ASaints/Brigit.html
• http://ballylara.wordpress.com/2010/01/31/turas-bride-%E2%80%94-bridgets-journey-through-ireland-2010/
• http://patriarts.com/Brigid%20of%20Ireland.htm

For centuries, the Irish have committed words to song, verse, and prose, offering the world a taste of ancient Celtic traditions. The greatest art treasure of the Irish people, the seminal Book of Kells, depicts the four books of the Gospel in stunning detail. Intricate knot work borders crafted in vibrant colors surround words that reinforce themes of faith and spirituality. For the Irish, words and language are so very important…

Irish folk tales were perhaps some of the earliest examples of the storytelling tradition. In these stories, Celtic symbolism and historical allegories were braided together, creating a fairy-tale style of storytelling that is always linked with the Emerald Isle. Stories were passed down through the generations as beloved fables, and Saints and heroes were often the protagonists of such tales. While many believe in the magical elements of Irish folk tales, others simply enjoy the creativity and metaphorical elements of these ancient stories…

One famous example of an Irish folk tale that is still told today is the legend of Finn McCool, an Irishman who went up against a Scottish giant named Benandonner. In this legend, Finn was challenged by the mammoth Scotsman and became so angry at his taunts that he proceed to tears rocks off a cliff and arrange them in the sea, thereby building a pathway to Scotland. By creating this “bridge”, he made it possible for the giant to come to him so that they could finally do battle with one another.

In this fable, the crafty Irishman devises an ingenious plan to foil his enemy: he hides in a house and finds a large bed, which he crawls into, disguising himself as a baby. When the giant finds him, Finn bites off part of his finger. The giant is so dismayed that a mere baby should be so powerful that he begins to fear what the tot’s father might be capable of. Benandonner then retreats to Scotland, scattering and wrecking the stone pathway as he does so.

This story is about the power of the Irish to prevail by their wits: this recurrent theme is also found in tales of foxy leprechauns who trick and taunt those who wish to take their treasure.

Today’s masterpieces of Irish fiction, such as the late Frank McCourt’s Angela’s Ashes, also celebrate the Irish storytelling tradition. In this novel, the Irish legend of Cuchelain is referenced throughout the book, and it is used to represent a powerful link between the main character and his father. Through the myths and legends of the Irish people, one generation bonds with the next.

The Irish authors and poets of modern literature have continued the old traditions, creating enduring works of unparalleled beauty. From Yeat’s famous poem, The Wild Swans At Coole, to James Joyce’s Dubliners (which really captures the Ireland of Joyce’s era), to the artistry of Wilde’s The Picture Of Dorian Gray…the Irish gift of self-expression continues. It is certain that many more works of genius will always come from the storytellers of the Emerald Isle…

Leigh Maher is the owner of the online Celtic jewelry store: Irish Celtic Jewels. On his blog, he shares tips and information about all things Irish, including jewelry, weddings and competitions.

• US – www.nxtbook.com/ireland-us
• Canada – www.nxtbook.com/ireland-can
• UK - www.nxtbook.com/ireland/GB

In other news, Waterford Crystal is getting new life since it closed its doors a year ago. Plans are underway for a brand new, much smaller, crystal factory to open in Waterford city this June. Crystal will again be produced in the city that made Irish crystal famous! With a significantly smaller-scale production and crystal actually produced in Ireland (for years much of Waterford’s crystal was made in other countries), the product will again be a true luxury brand.

Thanks to Engaging Ireland for sending us the link to this article www.insideireland.ie/index.cfm/section/news/ext/waterford001/category/1084.

A rendering of the new Waterford Crystal facility.

According to RTE News, a new crystal operation is set to open in Waterford this June. Here’s the article http://www.rte.ie/news/2010/0122/wedgwood.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

It’s road trip time for Corey and Liam… and even Liam’s mom. This time it’s not the Irish-American Road Trip, but you’re still invited to follow along… and there’s sure to be some Irish-American gems in the mix.

Follow the blog at www.onthewhiteline.com or join the Facebook Fan Page.

Waterford Castle by M. Erdvig

Elegant ambiance fit for a king, attentive but discrete service, gourmet food served with flair…all evoke images of being pampered in a castle hotel in Ireland. Some castles have spas while at others you can indulge in falconry, riding, shooting, golf, fishing or whatever your heart desires.

But are all castle hotels equal? Is it possible to book a castle hotel only to find out it is not a castle at all? Yes! As with any other product let the buyer beware.

How do you find out if your dream castle in Ireland is the real thing? Read on…

© 2010 Michele Erdvig

www.IrelandYes.com

Would you look at that… we’re the 62nd most popular travel blog www.travelblogsites.com.

See the full list at http://travelblogsites.com/2010/01/13/travel-blog-top-100-january-13-2010/

• Slide Show 1
• Slide Show 2
• Slide Show 3

War battered dogs are we
Fighters in every clime;
Fillers of trench and of grave,
Mockers bemocked by time,
War dogs hungry and grey,
Gnawing a naked bone,
Fighters in every clime-
Every cause but our own

-Emily Lawless 1902 “With the Wild Geese”

The term “Wild Geese” refers to people of Irish descent scattered across the world. It has been frequently associated with Irish mercenaries who went to Europe in organized units because Ireland had nothing to offer. The origin of the term is more accurately associated with Patrick Sarsfield who commanded the Stuart King James II army in the Jacobite Wars against William of Orange. After James’s II defeat by William of Orange, Sarsfield led 11,000 Irish troops to France in 1791. These soldiers later became the famous “Irish Brigade of France”.

French ships which arrived Ireland’s west coast smuggling in brandy and wine would smuggle out recruits for the Irish Brigade. The paper work of the ships would list the troops as “Wild Geese,” thus the origin of the name. But the true Flight of the Wild Geese took place in 1607, when the Earls of Tyrone and Tyrconnell set sail from Loch Swilly in Co. Donegal. They never returned to their native land.

Finding a Connection with the Wild Geese
This fall, I had the great fortune of taking my Grandmother, Margaret Fallon-Sharpe, now 92 years young, to an event at Sacred Heart University in Bridgeport, CT. The event was sponsored by an organization called the Wild Geese. The organization’s purpose is “… to enjoy and transmit the Irish experience…” by sponsoring events that reflect Irish culture. The organization began with a group of friends, originally from Ireland, who got together in their homes to talk about Irish history and culture. It has grown over the years into a larger and more active organization.

The event my Gram and I attended was “Irish College Day” featuring several speakers including former US Ambassador to Ireland, Thomas Foley; Dr. William Abbott, Professor of Irish History at Fairfield University; and Larry Kirwan, playwright, musician, and founder of rock group Black 47.

Enchanted by “Galway Bay” Author Mary Pat Kelly
But for me the pièce de résistance was author Mary Pat Kelly! Mary Pat delivered a witty talk on the events which lead to writing “Galway Bay.” Her book focuses on Irish life and legends surrounding the Great Famine which killed 2 million Irish men, women, and children and resulted in the flight of another million from Ireland.

The main figure in Mary Pat Kelly’s story shares the same unusual name as my Great Grandmother, Honora — who, as it turns out, could have been a Wild Goose! In the past several years my grandmother’s eyesight has failed her and she could not read the book herself. Fortunately Irish College Day allowed my Gram to still share in the spirit of the book by hearing Mary Pat’s stories. I thought they would be similar to those that her mother and aunts shared with her as a child. And I was able to deliver and share this experience with her!

The Pieces Falling Into Place for a Perfect Memory
The day was also a pleasure for me on many levels! I have been fanatical with all things Irish for some time now. I had read “Galway Bay” in October, and couldn’t put it down. Not since the summer I read Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone with the Wind” had any book kept me as absorbed as “Galway Bay.” Plus, I hadn’t seen my Gram in two years since I live in San Diego.

While reading “Galway Bay” I frequently went to the world wide web for more information and to follow Mary Pat’s speaking schedule, but they were always too far away. Then, finally there on her website, I saw she would be speaking at Sacred Heart University in my hometown! But there were no details, no date, time, or exact location. It was just a few short weeks away, and I was desperate to make it happen. I launched a full blown crusade to get into this event with my Gram, but I was afraid it was open only to the school or the members of the Wild Geese organization!

After several searches that surely took the better part of a weekend, I finally found the information I needed. In one of my searches the Wild Geese Organization in Stamford, CT, popped up and lo and behold… I uncovered who would be hosting the event! Yep, the Wild Geese, and sure enough, there were the details I needed. To my delight, it was open to the public! Ms. Eileen Heaphy, the contact at Wild Geese for the event was so gracious when I called to inquire. I wasn’t sure my Gram would last all day, so I asked her if we could do half a day. She agreed and gave us a two for one deal!

My Gram’s loss of vision to macular degeneration and some difficulties hearing makes it bit unsettling for her to journey out of her home. She needs absolutely no assistance ambulating around her two story Dutch colonial house, but take her out of her environment and she is timid and afraid of falling. The dependency this creates is a great frustration for a very independent woman. Yet, she remains as bright and informed on current events and is nearly as active she was during the prime of her life. So she really misses the intellectual stimulation that she had enjoyed when she was independent and could drive and get around.

Our outing proved to be an uncommon treat for Gram. I knew she would be excited, but I didn’t know she one of the original graduates from Sacred Heart University School of Social Work and served as faculty there. I had intended to treat her, but I had no idea what an impact I had made until we were walking out to the car. She stopped and said “Kimmie, do you know you are making a memory for me”. Then she quipped, “And I don’t have many more of them left to have, so Thank You”! That just made the trip for me!

What It Means to Be Irish
To say we were not disappointed is an understatement. Ms. Kelly, much like me, thought she fully understood her “Irishness.” The Kelly family happily lived in Chicago where along with scores of other 2nd and 3rd generation Irish Americans, were essentially celebrated simply for the fact that they said they were Irish and drank green beer on Saint Patrick’s Day. They were descendants of Irish immigrants to “Amerkay,” and had risen to some degree of success and status in the community. It wasn’t until a young Mary Pat visited England and then Ireland in the 1960’s that she began to appreciate she knew nothing of Ireland.

Mary Pat immersed herself in the Irish culture, explored all things Irish, and wanted to know more about her family origins. This journey in search of her people led her to tell the story of her great grandmother, Honora Keely-Kelly (another Wild Goose) which is, “Galway Bay.”

Mary Pat Kelly’s journey to discover how she came to be Mary Pat Kelly, great granddaughter of Honora Keely-Kelly, is an event worth taking in if you get the opportunity. And if you have the opportunity to surprise someone special by taking them to hear Mary Pat, I would give it 2 thumbs up rating. The rest of the day at Sacred Heart University was a quality Irish event as well — though we did not stay for Larry Kirwin! I will look for additional events hosted by the Wild Geese and hope that I have more memories to make for my Irish Gram!

Click to preview this book in our Amazon storefront

Here is link to Mary Pat’s website. Look for events coming to a town near you!
www.marypatkelly.com

You can follow this link to learn more about the Wild Geese Organization and events around Fairfield County CT. www.thewildgeese.org

The Wild Geese Heritage Museum and Library in Portumna, Co Galway provides more history about the Wild Geese, Irish Genealogy, and Portumna Castle. http://indigo.ie/~wildgees/index.htm

I hope you enjoyed my contribution to the Irish Fireside!

Sláinte,

Kim from San Diego!

Leave us an Irish travel tip or tell us about an Irish site you’re dreaming about, and you’ll have a chance to win something to help keep you warm.

We’ll draw three winners from those who comment and one winner from the main giveaway pool. Remember, if you haven’t already signed up, you’ll need to do that to win… Sign Up Here. Winners will be drawn later this week.

Leave your comments here or on our Facebook Page.

Matt and Shannon Heaton – Lovers’ Well – songs and tunes which invite you to reflect on love as both fleeting and eternal

Tommy Sands with Fionan and Moya Sands – Let the Circle Be Wide – justice, history, landscape, and family ties from top poet and singer from County Down, with his son and daughter

Liz Carroll and John Doyle – Double Play - fiddle and guitar in good conversation

Stephanie Makem and Tiarnan O Duinchinn - Ceol Is Píob – elegant uillean pipes from O Duinchinn, fine singing from Makem, who is, yes, part of that well known musical family from Armagh

The Unwanted – Music from the Atlantic Fringe - Ireland and America meet in music in well chosen set of tunes and songs

Bua – An Spealadoir – high energy and spot on playing from Irish American quintet from the US midwest

The Green Fields of America – The Green Fields of America – Athena Tergis, Mick Moloney, John Doyle — those are just three of the fine and unique talents who trade tunes and songs. melody lines and harmony, on this recording

Bonus Albums
You may have seen Hanneke Cassel or Sara Milonovich backing up top Irish musicians out on the road, or heard them on studio recordings by artists ranging from Cathie Ryan to Pete Seeger. Each has a new solo album out now, well worth your consideration. Milonovich’s recording, Daisycutter, tends toward Americana and showcases her strengths as a singer. Cassel’s latest disc features her always adventurous and fiery take on fiddle tunes, be they her own, ones from Scottish tradition, and on this album one she learned on her travels to China. The recording is called For Reasons Unseen.

Kerry Dexter writes about the arts at Music Road. and is an independent writer, editor, and photographer in the US and Ireland. She’s music editor at WanderingEducators.com, long time contributing writer to world music magazine Dirty Linen, and former folk music editor at VH1. Her work has appeared in Strings, Ireland and the Americas, Symphony, Songwriters Market, and The Dictionary of American History, among other publications.

Submitted by Phil

The historic town of Midleton lies to the east of County Cork, Ireland and has its origins dating back to the 12th century. The name Midleton originates from ‘Mainstir na Corann’, which means ‘The Abbey of the Coir’ and comes from the monastery that was founded by Cistercian Monks in the early 12th century. Unfortunately, the monastery was destroyed in the 19th century and is no longer present.

The rich agricultural surroundings of Midleton help to make the town the central market point of East Cork, famous for its fine food and drink. All tastes can be catered for in the town thanks to its array of award-winning restaurants, intimate cafes, modern lounge bars and cosy old pubs.

One of the most popular attractions in Cork is situated in Midleton, with many visitors flocking to the 18th century Old Midleton Distillery, which has been carefully restored and Jameson Heritage Centre. Irish whiskey is famous the world over and its history is traced back over the years through a guided tour.

The tour starts with an educational audio-visual presentation, before guests are led through the Old Distillery Trail, taking in various historic and architecturally unique buildings. Visitors will be guided through mills, malting houses, corn stores, still-houses, offices and warehouses that have been used to produce Irish whiskey for hundreds of years. Recreations of the processes used in whiskey production through the years can also be witnessed.

Each visit to the Old Midleton Distillery and Jameson Heritage Centre ends in the Jameson Bar with an Irish whiskey tasting session, allowing guests the opportunity to become a qualified Irish whiskey taster.

The centre also has a stylish restaurant where guests can relax and enjoy the country farmhouse fare that is served, or browse through the gift and craft shop.

For people wanting to visit this significant distillery, they can take advantage of the great car rental offers in many of Ireland’s towns and cities and head for County Cork. The Old Midleton Distillery and Jameson Heritage Centre are located just 12 miles east of Cork City, on the main Cork to Waterford road.

• Bad Economy Is Good News?
• Waterford Crystal Closes
• Irish-American Roadtrip Crosses the US – all our road trip videos

Roadtrip Highlights:
Name Name Our Roadtrip Vehicle
Keegan Clan
Stops in the Twin Cities
Gunder Burger
Irish Oatmeal Soap
John Wayne Birthplace
Shamrock Texas
Rex Allen Museum
Hugo O’Conor
Ajo, AZ
The Sanford’s Hoolie
Liam Sings with the McMurrows
Tea in San Diego
The Harrington Clan with Katie
Hike with Michael
Shabu Shabu with Frido and Wakako
Leprechaun Hunting in Palm Canyon
Visit with Uncle Dave and Tom
Uncork and Unwind in Temeculah Valley
Celtic Harp with Anne Roos
Dracula/Buffalo Bill Connection
Smooches in Denver
Visit to America’s Oldest Irish Store

• BizTimes.com Article
• Irish Emigrant Article
• Knockahopple on Wandering Educators
• Twitter List
• Liam Taste-Tests Tullamore Dew
• Bridge Between Ireland and Scotland
• Best Guide Books for Ireland
• Extra Large Leprechaun Interview
• Five Mistakes Visitors to Ireland Make
• We Switch to a Facebook Fan Page
• Cliffs of Moher vie for 7 New Wonders List
• Our Packing List Goes Viral
• Liam Releases His First CD
• Pat Preston Publishes Ireland Travel 101
• Banoffee Pie Tops Our List of Recipes
• Liam Goes to Ireland

Liam in Ireland Highlights:
Unseasonable Sunshine Burns His Face
Liam Faces Unexpected Construction… and the Situation Only Gets Worse
Liam Tries a Different Form of Transportation

• Joyce’s Ulysses Goes Graphic
• We Partner with Guinness for Arthur’s Day
• Irish Immigration Turns Away Three US Backpackers… But They Get Invited Back to Dublin
• 10 Tips for Getting Through Irish Immigration
• Simon Shares His Move to Ireland
• Airlines Tack on Luggage Fees
• We Attend the Travel Blog Exchange Conference
• U2 Rocks Dublin
• Shannon Open Pre-Clearance
• The Best Irish and Celtic Albums
• Meet Up with Engaging Ireland
• A Fireside Review of Rosetta Stone Irish
• Five Things to Know When Renting a Car in Ireland
• Lonely Planet Lists the Fireside as a Favorite
• Muhammad Ali Visits Irish Ancestral Home
• Corey and Liam Launch www.onthewhiteline.com
• Titanic Memorial Cruise Announced
• We’re Named 10 Podcasts to Travel With
• 10 Things You Must Do in Ireland
• Our Giveaway Returns
• 10 Irish Words You Should Know
• 2009 Holiday Gift Guide Published
• 10 Things You Should NOT DO in Dublin
• Lonely Planet Praises Cork City
• Featured on the Celtic Christmas Podcast
• Titanic Dock iPhone App Unveiled
• Married an Irish Farmer Interview
• Nominated for Best Travel Podcast
• Secret Santa a Success

I’m afraid, there’s still a bit of doom and gloom in the forecast for 2010, but there are some great opportunities for travelers as well.

Have a look at our predictions for 2010 and let us know what you see for the future.

High Profile Visitors
There’s talk that both the Pope and President Obama are considering trips to the Emerald Isle (separately, of course). The Pope’s visit would celebrate the Peace efforts in Northern Ireland, but comes on the heels of long-delayed reports on Church abuse scandals. Word of an Obama stop comes from new information about his ancestral home in County Offaly; the site has only recently been identified, and a presidential visit would be a tourism windfall. Our vote… yes, to both special guests… but that might be wishful thinking.

More Americans in Ireland
Tourism Ireland predicts a 2% growth in visitors from the US for 2010. Considering Ireland hasn’t recovered from the 10% drop in 2008 and global travel among Americans on the rise compared to last year, they will likely meet that target.

Travelers will Mistake Bargains for Value
Tourist hotspots like Killarney, Dublin and Galway will offer amazing deals on accommodation and tour packages. However, only travelers in the know will recognize that the real value will come from the small, regional travel destinations that are likely to offer more amenities and personal service. Passionate hosts and guides in Donegal, the Burren, the Shannon Region and anywhere in the Midlands will step up their game, but will lack the advertising dollars to attract the masses.

Most Americans Won’t See the Ireland TV Ad “Blitz”
Ireland will be spending $500,000 on TV ads in the US this year, but unless you’re in a specific demographic (over 50 with expendable income and a decent cable TV package), you probably won’t see the ads. The rest of us will have to rely on the Today Show’s annual St Patrick’s Day visit to Ireland for our TV fix.

The Return of Dynamic Currency Exchange
We thought we saw the last of this credit card conversion “service” back in 2006, but it has returned. This system lets various businesses, namely those with high tourist volume, present customers with bills in their home currency. What they fail to mention is that the conversion, say from euros to US dollars, might be 5% or more than if the customers’ credit card company was left to make the conversion itself. The only good news is that the price on the slip IS the price you will pay… which includes the extra charges for that piece of mind.

Hotels Will Lead the Charge for Bargains
The Celtic Tiger years brought a frenzy of hotel building to the Emerald Isle, and the economic downturn has left a lot of beds empty. As a result, the hotel industry has been the first to woo visitors with deeply discounted rates. This trend is beginning to dethrone B&Bs as Ireland’s cost-effective accommodation choice.

Bus and Fly/Drive Tours Will Pass Discounts to Their Customers
Tour companies rely on bookings for survival, so in 2010 they will use all their leverage to get the best prices from airlines, car rentals and hotels. They will advertise packages that the average traveler will not be able to touch by booking à la carte (and I’ve long been an à la carte travel planner). The trick is finding a package that suits you… a super cheap golfing holiday is of no use to someone looking for a castles and folklore itinerary.

Airfare Deals will be Spotty
Prices have dropped on plane tickets, but it’s a shame that $600 roundtrip in low season is still considered a deal, and $700 in high season is a steal. Expect fare sales to spring up as low as $199 one-way — the only problem is that the dates will be limited, and the other half of the ticket will likely cost more than $299. Sign up for your airline’s email list and book when the sales are announced. This year, it’ll probably be too late if you wait to book until a month before departure.

Quiet Times in Shannon Airport
Flights between the US and Shannon evaporated in the last quarter of 2009, leaving Delta and Continental as the only carriers offering direct flights to and from Ireland’s West Coast airport. Aer Lingus has promised the return of their flights in 2010, but huge staffing cuts makes a return to a full Aer Lingus schedule nearly impossible. That’s bad news for the West Coast, but good news for those who can take advantage of a much-more-relaxing-than-Dublin arrival in Shannon.

Discount Airlines?
A few years back Aer Lingus touted itself as the first transatlantic discount airline. You won’t hear those words coming from them in 2010. This year, expect carriers such as Continental, Delta, United and US Airways to have slightly better prices… and we do mean slightly.

More Irish Accents
The downturn in the Irish economy has sent the influx of immigrants back to Eastern Europe, and the Irish are returning to jobs as hotel clerks, cleaners and waiters (some of them quite reluctantly). Although we enjoyed the smiling Polish faces, it’ll be nice to be greeted with an Irish accent again.

Expect Bumpy Roads
Ireland’s road system got a complete overhaul in the last decade, but the European Union gravy train has ended and the Irish economy is struggling. That means funds for maintaining all those new roundabouts are tight, and minor repairs will be delayed. Secondary roads will be the hardest hit, and extreme weather conditions in the last two months won’t help things either.

Few Deals on Car Rentals
In 2009, most of the car rental companies tightened their budgets and did minimal updates to their fleets. That means 2010 requires a new batch of cars for companies that choose to update their fleets, but also means few deals for renters. Those who score a good price will have to fight for one of the better cars in their rental class (in the economy category… a Focus or Opel trumps a Corsa any day).

Travelers will Get Hit with Taxes
New taxes on petrol (gasoline) will mean almost a six-cent increase per gallon (US$). Those renting cars will be the first to notice the increase, and it won’t be long before tour operators and other transport companies pass the expense to consumers. Small reductions for VAT (Value Added Tax) and alcohol taxes might bring a hint of relief… if retailers don’t decide to increase prices.

2010 WISH LIST

Dreaming of Super Cheap Flights
Please! Lure us with irresistible flight prices. If we get a great deal on travel, we WILL spend those saved pennies (and more) on car rentals, accommodations, sightseeing, restaurants, souvenirs and all those other things that bolster the tourism economy. I promise!

A Vote for Transparency in Car Rental Agreements and Policies
Stop the “hidden” fees in Irish car rentals. I’ve grown tired of the unending stream of stories from visitors lamenting that what they thought they were going to pay for their rental car was quite different from what they actually paid.

Much of this stems from travelers assuming Ireland’s rental policies are similar to other countries, but that is not always the case. The fact that most credit cards won’t cover insurance in Ireland, means unaware travelers feel strong-armed into purchasing extra insurance at the desk… Refuse the rental companies insurance and expect a hold of $2,000 to $15,000 placed on your credit card. Ouch!

Many of these problems could be cleared up if rental agencies simplified the information, made it consistent across the industry and clarified details during bookings… instead of burying it in the fine print.

A Rail Tours Campaign
The Irish budget has added discounts for senior travelers using the rail system. For this to catch on, a well-produced rail tours brochure that is available in both print and as a download will go a long, long way (and, please, don’t just give us links to commercial rail tour operators, that doesn’t count). Visitors will savor a collection of very specific 7 and 10 day itineraries that include sites, accommodations, meal options and details like handicap accessibility. If Ireland really wanted to crank up their game, they’d offer the rail discounts to all travelers, and promote a change in how people experience Ireland.

Give Us More Mobil Content
Travelers are hungry for up-to-date Irish travel content for their phones and portable devices. A steady stream of digital guidebooks, maps and phone apps centered on improving a visit to Ireland will be a welcome addition to the travel sector. Bring…It…On!

I could probably come up with 100 more items for my wish list, but I’ll stop at four.

Do tell, what are your predictions? What’s on your wish list?

Bill Sweeney's batch golden brown Minnie Collins' scones. Mmmmm.

4 cups of flour
2 teaspoons of baking powder
½ teaspoon of salt
¼ cup of sugar
½ cup of cold butter (that is one stick or a quarter pound)
1 ½ cup of golden raisins
1 egg
1 cup of buttermilk and
1 teaspoon of vanilla
sugar for sprinkling

Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

In a large bowl, mix flour, baking powder, salt, sugar. Add butter and mix until crumbly. Mix in raisins.

In a separate bowl, use a fork to beat egg. Then beat in buttermilk and vanilla.

Mix about a third of the egg and buttermilk liquid into the butter/flour mixture and check consistency. Add additional liquid until dough reaches a consistency where it can be rolled out.

Roll dough on a lightly floured surface to about 3⁄4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter or glass with a 3 inch diameter to cut scones.

Sprinkle sugar on the top of the scones and place it on an ungreased cookie sheet.

Bake for 15 minutes. The scones will be a creamy color. If you wait until they are golden brown, they will be too dry and the bottoms will be very dark.

Remove from oven/cookie sheet and cool on a wire rack. Serve with jam whipped cream and a cuppa tea.

Listen to our podcast for THREE SCONE SECRETS Liam’s family uses.

I must admit, this post goes well beyond my tech capabilities, but Jeff Coyle sent us this bit of programming for Twitter users that allows you to automatically “retweet” our posts… I know, just the word Twitter lost a bunch of you.

If you’re a techie, you’ll like this post. If you’re not… How about this slideshow of Beautiful Places in Ireland!

Submitted by Jeff Coyle

One of the greatest ways to add a little turf to the IrishFireside, is by sharing stories, podcasts, and other posts from IrishFireside.com with your friends. I have been following @IrishFireside on Twitter since the beginning. It occurred to me that I always seem to be “ReTweeting” their tweets, even when there wasn’t a contest going on that awarded points for ReTweets.

I decided to write a simple application to automatically ReTweet everything that @IrishFireside posts or “tweets”.

The IrishFireside AutoRetweeter works on Mac and Linux computers straight away. For Windows users, you will need to use Cygwin or possibly a virtual linux machine. For more information on Cygwin, please visit http://www.cygwin.com

First, we need to be able to tweet from the terminal or command line. The first script, called “twitter” accomplishes that task perfectly.

1. Edit the script with your favorite text editor to replace “username” and “password” with your twitter account credentials.
2. Copy the “twitter” script to /usr/bin or /usr/local/bin.
3. Enter the command chmod +x /usr/bin/twitter to ensure we can execute the command.
4. At this point, you can tweet from the command line.

example = twitter “I voted for IrishFireside at podcastawards.com”

Next, use this script called “irishfiresideRetweeter”

1. Save the script to /usr/bin or /usr/local/bin.
2. Enter the command chmod +x /usr/bin/irishfiresideRetweeter to ensure we can execute the command.
3. Next enter the next command – touch /tmp/latestIF
4. Now we can test the application.
5. From a Terminal (command line) window, enter the following command.

irishfiresideRetweeter

Now check out your Twitter account. Voila! You will see a ReTweet of the latest @IrishFireside tweet.

Next we need to setup automation.

1. Enter the command sudo crontab -e
2. Next add the following.

*/2 * * * * /usr/bin/irishfiresideRetweeter
:wq!

(note spaces between the asterisks)

This utilizes the cron application to automatically check @IrishFireside every two minutes for new tweets.

**You may need to use the “sudo” command in conjunction any of the commands provided above

That’s it! Try it out and add your turf to the IrishFireside.

My oh my, there was a great conversation going on over at Facebook for this one. Thanks to everyone for commenting.

We’re sending a cap from the Raglin Road Irish Pub in Kansas City, MO to Christi Koenig.

Don’t be surprised to find more giveaways over on our Facebook Fan Page in the future.

We’re sending a deck to Shantie Lithopoulos from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

We’ve got a few more gifts to go, so stay tuned.

Submitted by Kat Behling

Ask anyone young or old to list their top five Christmas carols and you’ll likely get a multitude of responses ranging from traditional to folk to country to pop. But did you know that the Irish may be able to stake claim to one of the most known and much-loved holiday carols? Some believe the “Twelve Days of Christmas” is a centuries-old remnant from a time when being a Catholic in Ireland or England meant fear of imprisonment – or worse yet, punishment by death.

Hidden Meanings or Children’s Rhyme?

Although controversy surrounds the exact origins – and even the interpretation – of the silly lyrics, one popular theory has its roots planted in Irish Catholic dogma. It is thought that the song itself contains hidden metaphors linked to specific teachings of the church. Written during a time in Irish history when it was a crime to practice Catholicism in public or in private, The “Twelve Days of Christmas” served as a “catechism song,” helping young Catholics learn the fundamentals of their faith without fear of retaliation. Each so-called “gift” mentioned represents a significant teaching of the bible. The “true love” alluded to in the song is not necessarily referring to an “earthly” suitor, but to God himself. And the “me” who receives the “gifts” represents every baptized follower of the church.

Here, in order, are the child-like verses and their religious interpretations that supposedly kept alive the teachings of the Catholic faith:
“On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me…”

1st Day: “A partridge in a pear tree” – The “partridge” is symbolically Jesus Christ; the “tree” is the cross; however, the tree is also interpreted as the fall of grace through Adam and Eve.

2nd Day: “Two turtle doves” – refers to the Old and New Testaments

3rd Day: “Three French hens” – the three gifts of the Holy Spirit (faith, hope and love)

4th Day: “Four calling birds” – the four gospels or Evangelists

5th Day: “Five golden rings” – the first five books of the Old Testament

6th Day: “Six geese a-laying” – the six days of creation

7th Day: “Seven swans a-swimming” – refers to the seven Sacraments

8th Day: “Eight maids a-milking” – the eight Beatitudes

9th Day: “Nine ladies dancing” – the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control)

10th Day: “Ten lords a-leaping” – represents the Ten Commandments

11th Day: “Eleven pipers piping” – the eleven faithful apostles

12th Day: “Twelve drummers drumming” – the twelve points of belief expressed in the Apostles’ Creed

For the reader, this is one of those books that brings Irish history and travel together, so of course we love it. Learn more at http://www.rtoddfelton.com/felton_books.html or find it at A Journey into Ireland’s Literary Revival (ArtPlace series).

A copy of this book is headed to Meghan Sweeney in Plymouth, MN.

This secret technique keeps the cream from clumping and separating from the whiskey, and allows the liqueur to go for two years unrefrigerated without spoiling. But we won’t need to tap into any secret preparation techniques for our clone here since we’ll be storing the liqueur in the refrigerator. We will, however, replace cream with canned Sweetened Condensed milk. This gives us a properly sweetened finished product with the taste and texture of the deliciously famous Irish cream.

Here now is an improved version of the Bailey’s clone recipe that appears in More Top Secret Recipes. This version has fewer ingredients, is easier to make, and tastes amazing.

Irish Cream Recipe

1 – 14 oz can Sweetened Condensed Milk (not evaporated milk)

1 cup Irish whiskey

2/3 cup granulated sugar

1 Tablespoon Hershey’s chocolate syrup

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ tsp instant coffee

1. Combine all ingredients in a pitcher and mix well or shake until sugar is dissolved.
2. Store in the refrigerator in a sealed container.
3. Shake before serving.
4. Recipe makes 3 cups.

Photo Credit: Bailey’s, originally uploaded by c.chong.

It’s Christmas, and we’re sharing our friend Bit’s amazing Irish Kiss recipe! The only thing better would be drinking this up with one of her homemade scones.

You can view some of Bit’s great Ireland-related items at www.zazzle.com/cowboycraic. She included her Images of Ireland Office Set as part of our Holiday Giveaway

2 Butler’s Hot chocolate drops or 3 TBSP of Hot Cocoa mix
1/2 cup half & half
1/2 cup whole milk
1TBSP powdered creamer
Pinch of Nutmeg
Pinch of Cinnamon
Splash of pure Vanilla
Jigger ‘n a splash of Irish Mist (a “running” shot/1.5+ fluid oz.)

In a saucepan, mix together and heat until just at a boil the half & half, milk, nutmeg, cinnamon and Vanilla…when just at a boil, add to it the cocoa and whisk until smooth..pour the jigger and a splash of Irish Mist into a heated ceramic mug (zap in micro with a cup of water)…add the cocoa.. garnish with whipped cream and chocolate chips

I'm wearing some warm, cozy Bridgedale socks at this very moment!

It’s cold outside… both in Ireland and a lot of other parts of the world. So for this Christmas Eve, we’re picking the winner of three pairs of socks from Bridgedale. They’ve been making socks in Northern Ireland for 99 years! And have become experts in outdoor socks for Walking, Hiking, Mountaineering, Running, Skiing and Everyday.

I just happen to be wearing a pair at this very moment, and they are super comfy and this pair is a year old (and I wear them a lot) and they’ve held up great. I love them!

We’re sending three pairs of socks to Bill Sweeney from Norwalk, CT, courtesy of www.Bridgedale.com!

Her illustrations combine a whimsical Irish spirit with formal knotwork designs. Michelle also has a full line of notecards to send a cheerful message and her linens and pillows provide charming accents for every room in the home.

Her work is available at www.michellemasters.com.

Before we pick a winner, we’ll give extra giveaway entries to everyone who looks around Michelle’s website and comes back here and writes a comment regarding her work. Just leave your comments below (and make sure you are officially signed up for the giveaway here.

This prize is heading to Raydra Hall from Shreveport, LA.

If you or someone you know has a special interest in quilt-making. Please leave a comment below about interest in quilting… especially quilting Celtic patterns, or about Ricky Tims’ quilting books. The winner will be chosen from the comments.

Learn more about the book at http://www.ctpub.com/productdetails.cfm?PC=1255. Then leave a comment below.

I assigned each commenter below a number and ran them through www.random.org.

The book is going to Dianna Smith. Congratulations!

We got our first peek at Pat and John Preston’s tours of Ireland when we met up with them and their group when they stopped in Adare. We had loads of fun, and it was clear that the tour members were enjoying the time of their life as well.

The Preston’s lead a couple of tours a year, but there’s good news for their Springtime in Ireland tour. Booking now means a couple can save $200 on airfare. It’s a special offer through Aer Lingus, so just drop Pat a note for more information. Visit the Springtime in Ireland page for details about the tour.

Irish & Celtic Notecards www.CustomSilhouettes.com ©Sharman Armstrong

Sharman Armstrong has a wonderful collection of Irish and Celtic note cards that capture the spirit of Irish dance and make fantastic gifts for anyone who finds their toes tapping at the very mention of Riverdance. Sharman also produces custom silhouette art that might be just the thing to finish off your gift list.

Learn more at www.customsilhouettes.com.

A set of notecards will be going to J. McEnery from Norfolk, VA.

We’ve got more giveaways coming up this week, so when you need a break from the holidays, be sure to check back in.

Irish Coffee by aymlis

I have put my own spin on traditional Irish coffee. If you like it sweet and creamy you will love this. Make it with decaf and it becomes a perfect nightcap for your sweet dreams.

Ingredients

Strong hot coffee

1 (1.5 oz.) jigger of Irish Mist Liqueur per glass

1 teaspoon of sugar per glass

Half & half

Whipping cream

Chocolate shavings (if desired)

Whip cream with a little sugar and vanilla to taste. Consistency should not be stiff but still slightly runny.

Mix together coffee, half and half to taste, sugar and a jigger of Irish Mist. Stir well. Fill glasses about ¾ full with the coffee mixture. Pour softly whipped cream over the back of a spoon and into the glass to float on top of the coffee. Top with chocolate shavings, if desired. Sip the coffee through the cream.

Tip: I like to mix the coffee, sugar, half & half and Irish Mist in a measuring cup and then pour into the glasses because I use Waterford Crystal wine goblets for serving the coffee in. However, if your glasses are not so pricey you can make the coffee directly in the glasses.

Sláinte!

“Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four essential food groups: alcohol, caffeine, sugar and fat.” – Alex Levin

By Michele Erdvig

www.IrelandYes.com

© 2009 Michele Erdvig

Find more Irish-inspired giftwrap at www.global giftwrap.com.

A pack of Global Giftwrap goes to Kelly Ryan from Los Angeles, CA.

Just start your shopping at This Link, and a portion of your Amazon order will benefit the Irish Fireside. We’ll be adding this link to our Add Some Turf to the Fire link as well, so you can use it every time you shop at Amazon.

You can even use it on Gift Cards you can print at home!

For today’s giveaway, she has put together an Office Set from her online store featuring images from Ireland. It includes one of her calendars, a coffee mug and a mousepad.

She’s got several other images from Ireland, so be sure to take a peek.

The Irish Office Set goes to Brianna Collins from Granger, IN.

Remember, you must be signed up to win.

I know with our holiday giveaway, you’ve all gotten used to great freebies, so I wanted to let you know about another giveaway that is helping build a school in Cambodia.

Passports With Purpose was put together by a group of travel bloggers who wanted do something special. They collected up a whole bunch of exceptional prizes (if you think our prize list is snazzy, you’ll love what they came up with), and for every $10 you donate, you can bid for a chance at one of the prizes.

The program has exceeded it’s original goal of $13,000 and is well on its way to earning double that. So they are not only going to be able to build a school, but also fund a score of other services for the students. It’s a wonderful cause, and there’s a very special group of bloggers behind this… Delicious Baby, Nerd’s Eye View, Wanderlust and Lipstick and WanderMom (just a side note: WanderMom, Michelle Duffy, is an Irish woman raising her family in the U.S., so there’s even an Irish connection for you… and she’s a super sweetheart too

There are still five more days to donate, so I encourage everyone to jump on board and show their support.

www.passportswithpurpose.com

Peter is giving away TEN calendars for our giveaway. If you would like one, we’re going to make you work for it.

Here’s what you have to do… Visit the Gallery at www.thewidereye.com and look through the photos. Then come back here and comment on the beautiful images… a favorite picture, a photo that brings back a memory, the image that you have on your Christmas list.

From the comments, ten people will be selected to receive a copy of the calendar!

Here are the commenters who won calendars:
• Jessica Smith – Decatur, AL
• Michael Connolly (Milo) – Ventura, CA
• Barbara Crane – Midland, TX
• Erin Strickland – Kitty Hawk, NC
• Michele Erdvig – Marrietta, GA
• Diana Goings – Dallas, OR
• Thom Kennedy – Dundas, Ontario, Canada
• Heidi Young – Leonard, TX
• Tim Magnuson – Rockford, Il
• Karen Newhouse – Baltimore, Maryland

Congrats to our winners and THANK YOU to Peter for making this giveaway available. And remember, even if you didn’t win, Peter’s prints and calendars are still available for purchase from his website.

Marc Gunn has offered up his Best of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast compilation CD and  Happy Songs of Death CD. Marc is a musician, podcaster and all-round nice guy.

If you haven’t check out his websites, you really must do that. www.celticmusicpodcast.com, www.marcgunn.com, www.celticchristmaspodcast.com

These two CDs are on their way to Jeff Rowland from Brunswick,  GA.

Anne Roos has a copy of her Haste to the Wedding for a lucky Irish Firesider. Anne literally wrote the book on music for weddings, so her collection of Celtic Harp music combined with a beautiful book tell the story of everlasting love through the music. Trust me, this book and CD are gorgeous.

Visit Anne at www.celticharpmusic.com.

This CD is going to John Ongena from Orlando, FL.

Bridget and Russ Haggerty

Their website is basically an encyclopedia of great articles about all-things-Irish. No matter where you start on their site, you are sure to find a gem with every click. In Podcast #97, we highlighted our favorite Christmas-related articles.

These two items are going to Judy Arnold from Kingsville, TX.

More Special Irish and Celtic Music for Christmas

Kerry Dexter gives her list of Celtic Christmas favorites at www.wanderingeducators.com/books-film/music/celtic-christmas-music.html. We also included a few CDs in our Holiday Gift Guide. Here’s a peek at the highlights:

………………
..

And you’ll also find some wonderful Celtic Christmas music in the episodes featured in the brand new Celtic Christmas Podcast.

Michele has been a regular contributor at the Irish Fireside and she also moderates her one Q&A Forum on Irish travel on her website at www.irelandyes.com.

Michele will be sending these goodies to Diana Lupe from King George, VA

Photo Credit: "Santa Goes Green" Cover illustration, originally uploaded by Elisa Chavarri.

This winter, the Irish Fireside tried something new. We held our first Secret Santa gift exchange.

42 Irish Firesiders signed up. Corey and I randomly distributed names, and gifts have been zipping around the country ever since.

Now, we’re checking in with everyone who signed up to find out what goodies arrived in their mailbox. If you were part of the exchange, feel free to leave a comment below or email a photo of your gift to corey (at) irishfireside.com.

We look forward to hearing about how you got in the holiday spirit via your Irish Fireside friends.

So we arrived at Corey’s parents today, and his mom sent me down their looooong driveway to get the mail. You should have seen her excitement that her Secret Santa gift arrived.

Here’s a picture of the book that the Owen Family sent her… Celtic Vampire Stories… cool. I’ve already snatched it from her and started reading it. I looked on Amazon, and it looks like there is another version with a different cover.

Send us pics of your gift, and we’ll post them here as well!

–Liam – 21-Dec-09

Milo (Michael Connolly) sent us this photo of his Secret Santa Gift from John S. of Virginia.

Click the photo to see it at full size.

Remember to send us your Secret Santa photos and reports. It’s great fun to see and read what everyone got!

– 23-Dec-09

Diana Goings sent us this photo of the ornament she got from her Secret Santa Kim H. from La Jolla, CA.

Notice the Celtic design around the Partridge in a Pear Tree.

BTW – did you know the Twelve Days of Christmas is rumored to have Irish roots. Irish Firesider Kat Behling did a little digging around and we posted what she found at www.irishfireside.com/2009/12/26/twelve-days-of-christmas.

– 26-Dec-09

This prize goes to:

Rebecca Furnish from Indianapolis, Indiana.

Just in time for the Holidays, Marc Gunn has pulled together the Celtic Christmas Podcast. It’s a collection of the best Christmas episodes from various Irish-interest podcasts… including the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast, Cleveland Celtic Podcast, the Irish Fireside, the Renaissance Festival Podcast and more.

There’s a new podcast episode posted each day… and the fun has already begun, so get over there and start getting in the spirit.

Hat’s off to Marc for giving us a little more Irish-love this holiday season!

www.celticchristmaspodcast.com

Congratulations to Wendy LeVine from Santee, CA who won one of Cindy’s Irish Claddagh Soap Gift Boxes.

As for yesterdays trivia question about the Claddagh symbol… The heart represents love, the hands friendship and the crown loyalty. The symbol originated in the village of Claddagh in County Galway and is now a popular wedding ring… especially among Irish-Americans.

How the ring is worn, also has significance. Those who wear it on their right hand with the heart pointing away from their wrist/heart tells that the wearer is looking for love. When turned inwards with the heart pointing to their own heart tells that their heart is taken. And worn on the left hand with the heart pointing toward their own heart tells that they are engaged. Of course, different sources offer different explanations.

Here are some more of Cindy’s soaps:

Episode Guide – Podcast #98 More Christmas in Ireland and a Chat with Stone Carver Sam Bates

In this audio podcast episode, we cover more Irish holiday traditions and chat with Sam Bates, an artist featured in our Holiday Gift Guide for his Celtic knotwork stone carvings.

CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen.

Our Podcasts are availble on iTunes – here’s our link for Techies

Show Notes

00:00
“Once in Royal David’s City” a Christmas hymn sung a capella by Liam and written by Ireland’s Cecil Frances Humphreys Alexander in the late 1800s (background version performed by Leonard Bernstein, Mormon Tabernacle Choir & New York Philharmonic)

01:50
Bridget Haggerty’s www.irishcultureandcustoms.com article An Irish Christmas – Ding Dong Merrily On High featuring “The Wexford Carol,”  “Curoo Curoo” (the Carol of the Birds) and “Once in Royal David’s City.”

Sam Bates

02:10
Christmas Superstitions

03:50
Reader/Listener-Submitted Stories

• Light on the Darkest Day – The Winter Solstice at the Passage Tomb at Newgrange
• A Frosty Visit to Glendalough

04:25
Holiday Gift Guide

04:45
Holiday Giveaway

05:05
Stonecarver Sam Bates www.carvedstonebysambates.com

Tomorrow, we’ll be giving away a beautiful Irish Claddagh Soap Gift Set from www.Soapourri.com. It’s a great prize, and we’re giving you a way to increase your chances of winning it.

You’ll get TEN extra entries into the giveaway if you can answer these questions correctly… this question isn’t too hard for those in-the-know.

What do the heart, hands and crown represent on the Irish Claddagh ring, AND in what Irish county did the ring originate?

Send your answers to corey (at) irishfireside.com for your ten extra entries.

Bonus entries for those who leave a comment about Cindy’s soaps too… like this one that Diana Goings left on our post about the Holiday Gift Guide:

While visiting the Soapourri link, I discovered A soft green soap with a fossil-like fern on top. This one really said “Ireland” to me.

It reminded me of the Famous Killarney Fern that I was hoping to see in Killarney National Park. I watched along the trails while walking there but never caught a glimpse of the now rare and elusive Fern.

It would seem likely to find the Killarney Fern imbedded as a fossil in stone.

- Diana Goings

DON’T answer the trivia question in the comments.

The colors of the Irish flag nicely displayed by Jimi Wallets

Earlier today, we asked “What Do the Three Colors of the Irish Flag Represent?” I’m pleased to say we had a several readers send their versions of the correct answer.

The flag has been around since 1847, and officially, the three colors do not have any meaning. However, the orange is commonly associated with Ireland’s Protestant and British Loyalist citizens. The green is linked to the Catholic and Irish Nationalist citizens. The white represents peace and unity between the two.

Among the correct answers, two people added some extra bits I think are worth repeating here:

According to Terry Mort’s Irish stepfather:

“The green is for them, the orange is for us and the white is for what you kids never gave your mom and me.”

And Anne Stibor writes:

If you’d asked the 4-year-old me, it was for peas, carrots and potatoes. But that may just have been a guess based on my favorite veggies at the time.

Now, for our prize winners who we chose using www.random.org’s Random Number Generator:

Tri-Color Jimi Wallet Set – remember, you can get 20% at www.thejimi.com by entering the code “FIRESIDE”

• Anne Stibor – Milwaukee, WI

Crocheted Angels contributed by Irish Firesider Judy Arnold

• Amanda Tabor – Lakewood, OH
• Thom Kennedy – Dundas, Ontario
• Gene Green – Murphysboro, IL
• Terry Mort – Billings, MT
• Chris Beck – Ormond Beach, FL
• Tim Magnuson – Rockford, IL
• Michael Connolly – Ventura, CA
• Mathew Phillippi – Harrisonburg, VA
• Carla Moser – Yadkinville, NC
• Jessica Smith – Decatur, AL

Remember, we reward you for participation, so each time you comment on a recent blog post, Facebook update or include us in your Twitter conversations, you score another entry into the giveaway. You can also get more chances to win by sending us an article, photo or video to post on our blog.

we’re making you work a little. You’ll need to put on your trivia hats and answer the question:

What Do the Three Colors of the Irish Flag Represent?

And you will be entered in a chance to win a set of JIMI wallets. I’ve used the JIMI wallet, so I can stafely say it’s a great product… durable and waterproof which are both perfect for traveling to Ireland or elsewhere.

www.thejimi.com

Email your answers to corey (at) irishfireside.com by 9pm EST today… the winner will be chosen tonight!

As the sun barely breaks into the night sky, we pull into the empty parking lot. The scene is eerie and surreal. The grounds are covered in a white frost. The thick mist is barely beginning to fade. It dances around like little fairies playing games in the light breeze.

The Glendalough visitor centre does not open for a few hours. We start walking along the path that takes us along the green way following the east side of the lower lakes. The round tower and church rise out of the mists like in ancient times.

We visit all the old ruins of St. Kieran’s Church, St. Kevin’s Church, the Priest House, Our Lady’s Church, Reefert Church and St. Kevin’s cell and bed. We carefully step across the stones made slippery due to the frost. The deer on the hillside are watching us lazily. The sound of running water is all around, from the stream to water falls coming down the hillside. A blue heron takes flight off the lower lake.

We continue our walk, and we finally find our way to the upper lake. The tranquility and the trance we were in are finally broken by the sound of running footsteps and tree removal construction that starts. Or could it be the echoes of the past, with horses galloping along the path to enter Cahir castle as is shown at the beginning of the movie Excalibur. I would like to think so.

Submitted by Michael Connolly. More from Michael’s visit to Ireland last month at www.irelandexpertpatpreston.activeboard.com/forum.spark?aBID=104667&p=3&topicID=32551357 – posted by “Milo.”

Here’s our post from our Irish-American Roadtrip visit with Michael www.irishfireside.com/2009/02/11/sandstone-peak/ and the video from the visit is at www.irishfireside.com/2009/03/08/19th-video-from-the-road-la-ventura/.

Sunrise in the Boyne Valley by John McKeown

Submitted by John McKeown

It is the first bleak days of December 2009 in Ireland. The country has endured dreadful hardship from flooding in recent weeks; the economic indicators are depressing as the country awaits the most horrific Budget ever to be delivered by any Finance Minister and the days are getting shorter and shorter. Darkness dominates the Irish landscape as we approach the shortest day of the year. It is easy to be solemn and negative in our thinking.

But I am happy! For December brings to Ireland the Winter Solstice at Newgrange in County Meath – one of the great combined natural/man-made events of the world brought to us by the genius and the ghosts of the Neolithic Age, some 5,000 years ago. It is an awesome sight to behold.

This wonderful event takes place for a few days around the winter solstice each year, when the passage and chamber of the 5,000 year old monument are illuminated by the winter solstice sunrise. A shaft of sunlight shines through the roof box over the entrance and penetrates the passage to light up the chamber. The dramatic event lasts for 17 minutes at dawn from the 19th to the 23rd of December. It comes about as a result of a miraculous and enduringly complex mathematical equation produced by a people who lacked the computers we have to today. To experience it sends a shiver down my back as I think of how advanced our forefathers of five millennia ago were.

A Frosty Morning at Newgrange by John McKeown

I haven’t missed one for years, dignitaries, politicians and academics always have priority to be inside the chamber for the event, but every September a lottery is held for those interested in being inside on the actual day. I would advise anybody has given up hopes winning this lottery to consider coming to Newgrange and watch from the outside either on the day or the days immediately before or after the 21st December. If you are prepared to be there early, you will have every opportunity of seeing it in all its splendour. The atmosphere is eerie as the sun rises slowly and lights up the Boyne Valley, it is a glorious event. You can imagine how this must have felt in Neolithic times!

After the dignitaries are gone you get the chance to go inside the chamber and they re-create the event. I wonder how this must have felt in Neolithic times!
And then, minute by minute, the days get longer and our spirits soar above the darkness. Our hopes are high once again for a great New Year.

Brought to you by John McKeown of Look Around Ireland – The Ireland Travel Guide – www.lookaroundireland.com

Judy Gordon from St. Maries, Idaho, is the lucky winner of this ornament.

Next giveaway will be Tuesday, Dec 8.

Josie's Scones © M. Erdvig

Tea at Josie’s is a guilty pleasure. The scones are homemade – light, flaky and fluffy. They arrive warm from the oven and dusted with powdered sugar. Add a layer of butter, strawberry jam and a dollop of whipped cream. Pour a steaming cup of Irish tea. Sit back and absorb the spectacular scenery of the hidden lake and mountains.

Is it worth driving fifty Irish miles round trip for tea and scones? You have to be kidding. Of course it is. It’s Josie’s!  Read More…

Anne’s collection of songs are inspired by woodlands and the fascinating creatures that dwell within them– fairies, trolls, nymphs, leprechauns, witches, bears, and more. This beautiful CD is packaged inside a 31-page hardcover book describing the folk history and legends of these creatures and the tunes, filled with vintage artwork and whimsical illustrations.

This recording also features Char Berta on flute, tenor recorder, alto recorder, and whistle, Chris Caswell on percussion and harmonium, Michael Frost on viola, Alan Fuller on guitars and cittern, and Dorothy A. Hawkinson on fiddle and hardingfele.

It’s available at www.celticharpmusic.com.

This prize goes to:

• Melissa Lassiter from Springville, UT

Next Giveaway is on Saturday, Dec 5.

The rich history of rural Ireland is brought back to life for all to see at the Nenagh Heritage Centre. Located in a town of the same name, the museum has been constructed to reveal how residents in the 1800s and 1900s went about their daily lives.

Nenagh is within easy driving distance of Tipperary for those who choose to use Irish car rentals on their trips. The centre has gone through many incarnations since it was constructed in the 1800s, and the various uses for the building are reflected in several of its exhibitions.

Initially the museum served as the County Gaol (Jail) Governor’s House, where law and order was imposed on those breaking the law. Parts of the attraction have been renovated to resemble how the site would have looked when it took in prisoners. Visitors can get an idea how criminals lived while behind bars, and information is displayed to flesh out the experience of 1800s law breakers who went through the justice system.

The building’s original kitchen has been carefully preserved and is on-view for those who wish to see where the tenants’ basic meals were produced. Day trippers may also take a look at the gaol’s execution area in the Gatehouse, where condemned prisoners met a grisly end. As well as giving visitors the opportunity to look at the 19th Century justice system, the attraction also provides the chance to see what school-life was like in the past.

Children and adults alike are sure to find the 1913 classroom an interesting exhibition with its accurate portrayal of schooling from a different era. The snapshot of views into the past continues throughout the site, allowing visitors to see how the town’s residents lived. Also included in the museum is a shop constructed in the style of an early 20th Century outlet, which is likely to prove an interesting contrast to the supermarkets of today. In addition, a bar built to resemble a pub hailing from the same period is housed in the site for those who are keen to see how drinking outlets appeared in the past.

The important techniques and equipment used to prepare food for the town’s residents are on show at the Irish Dairy and Museum of Rural Life, which are both permanent exhibitions at the site. Here visitors can see the hard work and toil that went into producing goods by hand that kept the area’s population thriving. A range of temporary exhibitions also take place at the attraction and feature an array of items from artwork to atmospheric photos.

Pat Preston's Ireland's Towns and Villages Calendar

We’ve got ten winners in our Holiday Giveaway today!

Pat Preston from www.IrelandExpert.com is giving away a copy of her Ireland’s Towns and Villages Calendar today. It’s filled with gorgeous photos from her travels around the Emerald Isle.

Pat was featured in our recent Holiday Gift Guide for her Ireland Travel 101 guide book, and last year we featured her Ireland Memories book.

We’ve also got some very special, handcrafted items from Irish Firesider, Judy Arnold. Judy sent us a flock of crocheted angels to include in our giveaway. Judy has been a long-time friend of the Fireside, and her generosity is always appreciated.

The prizes go to:

Ireland’s Towns and Villages Calendar

• Heather Stanfill – Boise, ID

Crocheted Angels

• Susan Brown – Maryland Heights, MO
• Patricia Suiste – Luxemburg, WI
• Laurel Brown – Indian Land, SC
• Laura Perry – Woodstock, GA
• Sean Maloney – Dublin, OH
• Michelle Wentling – Wichita, KS
• Beth Hogan – Springfield, MA
• Nancy Cook – Bloomington, IL

Remember, we reward you for participation, so each time you comment on a recent blog post, Facebook update or include us in your Twitter conversations, you score another entry into the giveaway. You can also get more chances to win by sending us an article, photo or video to post on our blog.

Next drawing will be Wednesday, Dec 2.

The app is connected with an online community at www.TitanicDock.com (you don’t need the app to participate – but iPhone users do get access to exclusive content). The site focuses on Belfast’s Titanic history.

Here’s a peek at the app in action from one of it’s creators… you might recognize the voice… it’s John Bustard who we interviewed waaaay back in Episode 13.

And the shirts go to:

• Samantha Harrison – Cathedral City, CA
• Rose Venanzi – Monongahela, PA
• Jason Griggs – Greenville, SC
• Eugene Green – Murphysboro, IL
• Jeannine Cain – New Freedom, PA

Remember, we reward you for participation. So, your recent comments on our blog, Facebook Fan Page and Twitter score you additional entries.

Next Drawing is on MONDAY, Nov 30.

And don’t forget to VOTE at www.POCASTAWARDS.com.

If you like any items you see, send a note to the artisan or business. Many of the items are handcrafted, and the makers would love to hear from you.

And, remember you can still sign up for our Holiday Giveaway.

Happy Holidays,

Carved Stone by Sam Bates

www.carvedstonebysambates.com

We were stopped in our tracks when we first spotted Sam’s intricate Celtic knotwork designs carved into beautiful stone. His motifs are original, and the results are exquisite. He sticks to one-of-a-kinds, so contact him directly to find out what he has available or visit his website for a slide show of his favorite work.

Irish Coin Cufflinks

www.irishcoincufflinks.com

In the days before the Euro, the Irish Punt was the country’s currency. Adorned with Irish symbols… the harp, stag, salmon, hare and bull, the coins were works of art in their own right. Now, they are available as gorgeous cufflinks, and better yet, proceeds benefit the Irish-American Story Project.

A Journey into Ireland’s Literary Revival

www.rtoddfelton.com and www.roaringfortiespress.com

Ireland has a rich literary history, and R. Todd Felton brings it all together as he explores the relationship between Ireland’s beloved writers and the country that fueled their imaginations. We’ve revisited the pages of this book many times since discovering it a year ago, and have found there is no end to interesting tidbits inside.

Critters for Keepsies

www.crittersforkeepsies.com

Dublin-based artist Beth O’Halloran uses recycled materials, such as gloves and baby socks, to craft her adorable critters. Her eco-friendly creations are made with organic, plant-dyed textiles and stuffed with organic cotton to be gentle on the planet and the lucky person caring for the critter.

Traditional Irish Wedding

www.irishcultureandcustoms.com

Bridget Haggerty literally wrote the book on traditional Irish Weddings. This gift is perfect for anyone planning a wedding or simply interested in the history, myths and traditions associated with Irish nuptuals. Bridget is offering signed, inscribed copies of her book to Irish Fireside readers. Click the Contact Bridget link on the site to get your personalized copy.

Samson’s Titanic Journey

www.odonnellpress.com

It’s been a hundred years since the Titanic left the shipyards of Belfast and disembarked from Cobh, Ireland. Follow the journey of one of history’s most famous ships through the eyes of Samson, a mouse who hopped on board with plans to reach America.

Gifted by Nature

www.giftedbynature.ie

Imagine the excitement when a package of gorgeous, eco-friendly bath items arrive from Ireland. Gifted by Nature’s line of luxurious body oils, creams, washes, scrubs, candles and more allow you to give the gift of an Irish spa. We’re especially keen on the Bamboo Silk Velvet Robe and any gift boxes that include their “Life’s Little Pleasures Hand Wash.”

Shard Jewelry from Ireland

www.lamplighterstudio.com

The Irish Fireside’s very own, Liam Hughes spends a good bit of his time in Ireland hunting for shards of broken dishes. Be it remnants of Belleek, Donegal Parian, Irish spongeware or 150-year-old transferware, each piece of his handcrafted pins and pendants hold a bit of Irish history.

Tommy Moloney’s Irish Breakfast

www.tommymoloneys.com

There’s nothing like an Irish Breakfast, and Tommy Moloney’s delivers everything you need to make it at home… right down to the black and white puddings! Their website includes several recipes, in case you’re unsure of how to create the perfect Irish-themed menu.

Elena Brennan Designs

www.elenabrennan.com

Inspired by Celtic myth, Elena Brennan has created an astounding collection of fine, wearable art. Her Children of Lir pieces tell the ancient Irish story of the royal children who were turned to swans, while her other collections celebrate angels, seashores and delicate gossamer patterns.

Official Irish Dirt

www.officialirishdirt.com

There are few gifts more Irish than Irish Dirt… and yes, the Auld Sod Company really is exporting authentic soil from County Tipperary. Their Shamrock Gift Set even includes a Belleek bowl that can be reused when the Irish greens outgrow their fine porcelain container.

Cleo Irish Clothing

www.irishclothing.ie

Fine Irish woolens and linens are the hallmark of Dublin-based Cleo Irish Clothing. Their unique hats and wraps are likely to garner compliments to anyone who wears them, and their traditional sweaters harken to the company’s roots making Aran sweaters.

Meadow Miniatures Floral Jewelry

www.meadowminiatures.com

Carefully picked flowers from Yeats’ Country in County Sligo are expertly pressed and dried before they are turned into charming jewelry. With designs ranging from Celtic to contemporary, Meadow Miniatures allows one to wear a wee bit of the Emerald Isle.

Hobby Horse Toys

www.hobbyhorsetoys.com

On the shores of Lough Erril in County Leitrim, you’ll find Dan Hillman working away on his unique hobby horse toys. The hand-cut and hand-painted works of art resemble creatures from Ireland’s ancient illuminated manuscripts. They’re not only beautiful, they’re fun.

Global Giftwrap

www.globalgiftwrap.com

In the Irish language, “Nollaig Shona” translates to “Happy Christmas,” and Global Giftwrap’s line of Irish-inspired wrapping paper celebrates beautiful Celtic and contemporary designs. As a bonus, the back of each sheet includes a bit of background about the design.

Celtic Harp Music From Anne Roos

www.celticharpmusic.com

The Celtic harp is a wonderful instrument, and in the hands of Anne Roos, it is absolutely mesmerizing. Anne’s collection of CDs all come with a full-color book of stories and information that add to the listening experience. You’ll have trouble deciding which of her CDs to give this holiday season… I suggest you get ALL THREE.

Irish Beer Gift Basket

www.gourmetgiftbaskets.com

The Irish are famous for their beers, and this bucket from Gourmet Gift Baskets features some of Ireland’s favorite brews. Although we must admit, the distinctly non-Irish beef jerky seems a bit out of place, but, heck, it’ll go great with Guinness.

Lenox Trees Around the World Ornament – Ireland

www.lenox.com

Give the tree a little Irish flair this year with a limited edition 2009 ornament from Lenox. The ivory fine china trimming features distinctly Irish scenes such as an Irish dancer, fiddle and even a shillelagh, and it is accented with 24 karat gold.

Tailten Games

www.tailtengames.com

Ireland’s Tailten Games has managed to take the game world by storm with their line of Celtic-inspired games and puzzles. We found ourselves desperately stacking game pieces in a full-on Project Kells tournament, so these games aren’t just for the kids! Beautifully designed and addictively enjoyable.

Island Turf Crafts

www.islandturfcrafts.com

5,000-year-old turf from the bogs of Ireland has been crafted into beautifully-finished artwork that include ornaments, clocks, crosses, frames, paperweights and jewelery in the shape of high crosses, harps, Saint Brigid’s cross and several other forms.

Panoramic Landscape Photos of Ireland

www.thewidereye.com

Peter O’Donnell’s breathtaking photo of the Rock of Cashel hangs over Corey’s desk and provides a welcome visual escape to Ireland. His panoramic photos capture the Irish landscape, and his 2010 calendar lets you enjoy the best of Ireland year-round.

Michelle Masters Topiary Cards & Art

www.michellemasters.com

Michelle Masters’ distinct topiary illustrations are well-suited for Irish Celtic designs. Her collection of notecards, soaps, linens, pillows and wall art offer charming accents for every room

Dingle Linens

www.dinglelinens.com

“Holy Ground” on Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula took on a different meaning, as actual holes were dug in the ground for flax to be soaked. Dingle Linen carries on the Irish linen tradition with a range of fine products.

Alan Ardiff Jewelry

www.alanardiff.com

We were enchanted by Alan Ardiff’s unique kinetic jewelry. The internationally-recognized, Irish artist creates whimisical, beautiful art, and his piece “Star Grazing,” with what must be an Irish sheep, especially caught our eye.

Rosetta Stone Irish/Gaeilge

www.rosettastone.com

There has been a revival in speaking the Irish language both in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora worldwide. We’ve given a copy of the Rosetta Stone language software and gave it a test run. We found it quite easy to use and shared our reactions in this review.

Irish Turf Incense

www.turfpeat.com

There’s something about the aroma of a turf fire that simply brings you home to Ireland. These incense “briquets” from the Gifted Hand are made with real Irish turf and come packaged in a quaint Irish cottage.

Earthen Craft Pottery Celtic Tiles

www.ecptile.com

Based on Celtic carvings and architectural details, these gorgeous knotwork art tiles are hand-crafted and hand-designed by Brian Davis and Katie Hobson. Each piece comes with a wood stand, making it easy to display the rich, natural colors of their glazes.

Soapourri Claddagh Soap

www.soapourri.com

Cindy Helgason’s handcrafted Claddagh Soap Gift Box comes with two beautiful and fragrant soaps in gold and bronze. And those with a passion for Ireland should also try her Irish Oatmeal soap made with real Irish oatmeal or her special loaf soap featuring the Irish tri-color flag.

Irish Dance Silhouette Greeting Cards

www.customsilhouettes.com

Sharman Armstrong specializes in creating beautiful custom silhouette images. Her collection of Irish and Celtic note cards capture the spirit of Irish dance and make fantastic gifts for anyone who finds their toes tapping to an Irish tune.

Killyliss Studio Crafts

www.killylissstudio.com

Colm McCann opened his studio in 1991 and has been making unique Irish gifts and crafts ever since. Each item is handcrafted and inspired by symbols and traditions of Irish culture. Just as Colm loves telling stories through music, he also tells them through his art.

Bridgedale Socks

www.bridgedale.com

Bridgedale has been knitting socks in Northern Ireland since 1910. That said, these aren’t your great-grandparents wool socks! Their lineup includes a sock for everything from sub-zero snowshoeing to desert hiking to rugged, rainy hill-climbs.

Irish Guide Books

Guide books make great gifts for those who will be making their way “across the pond.” There are four books we’d like to see in our stockings. Pat Preston’s “Ireland Travel 101” provides one of the most thorough overviews for planning a trip to Ireland. Michele Erdvig’s “Ireland Dream Trip” highlights her personal favorite places to stay and tips for organizing the perfect holiday. “Lonely Planet Ireland” covers the most locations in Ireland. And “Pauline Frommer’s Ireland” delivers on its promise to help travelers spend less and see more.

………

Irish and Celtic Holiday Music

For holiday music, Irish and Celtic artists do it best. Each year, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast broadcasts a wonderful collection of some of the best. The “The Chieftains: The Bells of Dublin” is a perennial favorite. PBS has put together a complete CD/DVD collection of their “Christmas Celtic Sojourn” show. Eileen Ivers’ “An Nollaig” is filled with a mix of holiday lullabies and lively fiddle tunes. And the “Irish Tenors Christmas from Dublin” is sure to please.

………

Other Music You Might Enjoy

When it comes to music, we’ve already recommended the Irish and Celtic Albums You Should Experience. However, Irish Fireside fans will likely enjoy Marc Gunn’s collection of “Irish Drinking Songs.”And breaking away from Irish music, we thought you might enjoy some easy listening music from Irish-Americans Liam Hughes and Anne Davis.

………

A Few Other Items You Might Enjoy

Bit Devine Calendars & Accessories - www.zazzle.com/cowboycraic – Bit has combined her love of words and her beautiful photos from Ireland into calendars, mugs, mouse pads and several other items.

Burren Smokehouse – www.burrensmokehouse.ie – Specializing in smoked salmon fresh from County Clare, Ireland.

Deep Creek Celtic – www.bonanzle.com/booths/deepcreekceltic – This family-owned business features fine jewelry crafted in Ireland and Scotland. You’re sure to find something special in their collection.

Ireland’s Towns and Villages Calendar – www.zazzle.com/irelandexpert – Pat Preston’s calendar of Ireland’s Towns and Villages is a sure hit with photos from many of her favorite places.

Jimi Wallet – www.thejimi.com Mike O’Neill created the Jimi Wallet to stand up to rough conditions… even the windswept Irish seaside. Enter the code “FIRESIDE” for 20% off.

Michele Erdvig Calendars & Accessories – www.zazzle.com/irelandyes – Michele has created a series of items featuring wonderful images from Ireland. We’re especially drawn to her Irish Tulip Festival Calendar.

O’Casey’s Irish Store – www.okcs.com – You may have fallen in love with the O’Casey’s fine Irish jewelry from their appearances at Irish Festivals around the country. Now, you can browse from your computer.

Puckane Crafts – www.puckanecrafts.com – Known for their fine wood art depicting Irish scenes, Puckane Crafts carries many other items that make fabulous gifts.

2010 Vintage Fighting Irish Calendar – www.asgardpress.com/10_Notre-Dame – Celebrate the spirit of the Fighting Irish with this colorful vintage calendar.

A Few Things to Remember

Many of the businesses in this guide are based in Ireland or create custom items. To avoid disappointment, contact the artist or business immediately and ask about time frame and shipping costs before you purchase (many overseas businesses will require you contact them by Dec 6th or earlier to assure Christmas delivery).

The links in this post were clickable and working at the time of publication… we’re terribly sorry if they don’t work when you click on them.

Due to the number of nominations, many fine gift items could not be included in this guide. If there is an item you’d like to see in next year’s guide, let us know.

If you spotted any items you thought were exceptional, be sure to contact the makers. A short email will mean a lot to an artisan when they break away from their studio to check emails.

If you’d like to make some for yourself, you can find it in the post “Banoffee Pie for Breakfast.”

Here’s Thomas’ email… including a few of his own additions to the recipe:

Thomas Byrne's Thanksgiving Banoffee Pie

Corey and Liam,

I used Michele’s recipe from the Irish Fireside, plus some twists of my own, and made a Banoffe pie for today!

I crushed a “Chips Ahoy!” chocolate chip cookie and drizzled it on top of the chocolate drizzle instead. I saw some cherries in my refrigerator crying to be used, too.

Hopefully it tastes as good as it looks, and I didn’t ruin it!

Happy Thanksgiving!

–Thomas

Episode Guide – Podcast #97 Christmas In Ireland

In this audio podcast episode, we look at Christmas memories from Bridget Haggerty and talk with Imen McDonnell about her life as an American married to an Irish Farmer.

CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen.

Our Podcasts are availble on iTunes – here’s our link for Techies

Show Notes

00:00
Intro: Shanghai Brown by Anne Roos www.celticharpmusic.com

00:06
Christmas memories from Bridget Haggerty of www.irishcultureandcustoms.com

02:17
Holiday Traditions

02:57
Holiday Giveaway returns

03:24
Vote in the Podcast Awards at www.podcastawards.com – Irish Fireside (travel), Irish and Celtic Music Podcast (podsafe music) – Vote daily until Nov 30, 2009.

03:43
Favorite Irish Holiday Stories

• Christmas in Ireland/Ashford Castle
• Hunting the Wren and Other Holiday Traditions
• Do the Irish Lay Claim to the 12 Days of Christmas?
• Preparing the Christmas Pudding
• An Advent Memory
• Christmas Superstitions
• Waiting for Saint Nicholas
• Irish Christmas – Then and Now
• Yes, Kelsey and Maddie, there is a Santa Claus
• An Irish Christmas – Ding Dong Merrily On High
• Seasons Greetings in Irish
• Christmas – Food for the Feast
• An Irish Christmas – The Day Before
• Memories of Christmas Eve Past
• Rowing to Christmas Mass
• President Mary Mcaleese’ Christmas Message
• Time at this Point in the Year
• Many Years Ago by John B. Keane
• Burying the Baby Jesus
• White Washed Walls
• An East Cork Christmas
• Mumming, a Yuletide Tradition
• St. Stephen’s Day to New Year’s Eve

04:11
Imen McDonnell interview www.marriedanirishfarmer.com

06:40
The differences for someone moving from North America to Ireland

08:00
Raising an Irish-American son

09:00
Food in Ireland – One Full Irish Please!

10:25
Black and White Irish Puddings

12:00
Holiday Traditions – Food

13:24
Holiday Traditions – Wren Boys – Imen’s YouTube Video

14:25
Other Holiday Traditions – St Stephen’s Day, Little Christmas

14:50
Holiday Traditions – More Food

15:57
Holiday Traditions – Trees and Decorations

17:15
The Peanut Butter Issue

18:30
Irish Reaction to Pumpkin Pie – ‘Tis Different

19:16
Delicious Soups

20:25
County Limerick

20:38
Foynes Flying Boat Museum

21:30
Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Limerick City, Knockpatrick Gardens

22:30
Dingle Peninsula, Wicklow – Sugarloaf Mountains, Powerscourt Gardens (the “Versailles of Ireland”), Sally Gap

23:40
The Burren, Tarbert-Killimer Ferry, Burren Perfumery

26:17
Closing Song – Mairi’s Wedding by Anne Roos www.celticharpmusic.com

Christmas Lighting, originally uploaded by derhur.

The city of Limerick is positioning itself as Ireland’s winter holiday destination. The place best known as the often grim setting of Frank McCourt’s “Angela’s Ashes” has come a long way since the late author’s boyhood days. In fact, I’ve found Limerick’s city centre constantly improving… significantly more pedestrian-friendly and more and more fine shops and cafe’s.

Among the highlights… Ireland’s largest Christmas Tree! The lights get switched on by Olympic boxer Andy Lee on Friday, November 20. Although it’s not a “real” tree, it certainly is “green.” The 100 foot tall display is made of recycled steel from two local building projects, and it’s 4,000 lights use 70% less energy than standard holiday lights.

The Winterfest celebrations run the entire weekend of November 20-22 with a special Georgian Quarter Christmas market running over the weekend.

More Info: www.limerickleader.ie/news/Limerick-gets-into-Christmas-spirit.5823540.jp

Heading to Limerick, but can’t make it that weekend?

The tree will, of course, be present for the entire holiday season, and the city’s regular markets on Saturday and Sunday will be on through Christmas.

Our Tips for Limerick

• Traffic can be heavy at peak times, so drivers should plan ahead and look for parking near Arthur’s Quay (pronounced “Key”) or off O’Connell Street to stay close to the action or consider Bus and Train travel.
• Those arriving specifically for Winterfest should consider a stay in City Centre (a few recommendations from Pat Preston’s www.irelandexpert.com include the Absolute Hotel, Clarion Hotel Limerick, The George Hotel, Jurys Inn and Savoy Hotel – visit her site to read her reviews).
• Those looking to stay out of town might enjoy the villages of Adare, Bunratty, Ennis, Foynes or Killaloe.
• Favorite Limerick sites: Hunt Museum, King John’s Castle and archaeological site, Limerick City Gallery of Art, Shopping O’Connell & Thomas Streets, the city’s various churches,
• Favorite nearby sites: Adare village, Askeaton Friary, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Cliffs of Moher, Ennis heritage town, Foynes Flying Boat Museum, Sunday Mass at Glenstal Abbey in Moroe, Lough Gur, Quin Abbey.

I should mention that ALL Irish towns will have something going on for the holiday season… I’ll be doing much of my Christmas shopping off the tourist trail in the village of Nenagh, County Tipperary. In addition to Limerick and Nenagh, visitors looking for “shopping towns” should consider Galway, Kilkenny, Cork, Killarney, Belfast and Dublin (not all on one trip, of course).

Normally, you do not need to know any Irish language words in the course of staying at hotels or B&Bs, eating in restaurants, going shopping, or taking part in the conviviality of pubs.

However, it is useful to know some Irish words when traveling around the countryside – because there are certain areas in Ireland where Irish is the everyday spoken language and signs on the roads are all in Irish. Here are the top 10 words you should be able to recognize, if not actually pronounce. (Most Irish words are not pronounced the way they look).

1. Gaeltacht – Region or district in Ireland where Irish (Gaelic) is the predominant language. There are Gaeltachts in Donegal, Meath, Mayo, Galway, Kerry, Waterford, and several other pockets around Ireland. Place names and road signs in Gaeltacht areas are usually in Irish, so it is wise to carry a map that lists places in both Irish and English. Otherwise, you can get lost pretty fast!
2. Fáilte – Word you’ll see and hear over and over again. It simply means: Welcome. You’ll also see Céad Míle Fáilte which means 100,000 Welcomes.
3. Sláinte – The toast you will hear in the pubs. It means “To Your Health!”
4. Céilí – A traditional social dance event or party. You will see signs in pubs and tourist offices announcing a local céilí – and everyone is invited to join in. (pronounced Kay-lee)
5. Craic – This word, pronounced “crack,” causes lots of consternation when you hear it first. No, it has nothing to do with drugs. It is an Irish word that simply means music, good times, entertainment and conversation – all in good fun. You’ll hear people say “Where’s the craic tonight?”
6. Garda síochána – The police. The words mean “guardian of the peace.” Usually people just use the first word, Garda.
7. Géill Slí – A road sign meaning “Yield right of way”
8. Stad – A road sign saying: “Stop”
9. Téigh – A road sign telling you it is safe to “Go.”
10. Go Mall – Anther important road sign if you are tempted to go speeding on twisty roads – it means “Slow.”

By Patricia Preston from www.IrelandExpert.com and author of several must-read books on Ireland and Irish Travel. Pat also hosts her own Q&A forum where you can ask your questions about Irish Travel

TWO MORE TO ADD TO YOUR LIST

There are two words we’d add to the list as well… they are often used to label the “toilets” (the Irish don’t usually use the word “bathroom”)

Mná - Women & Fir – Men

We wouldn’t want you walking into the wrong “restroom” (they don’t use that word either)!

Episode Guide – Podcast #96 It’s Not Such A Long Way to Tipperary

In this audio podcast episode, we chat with Piers Duggan from County Tipperary, and we thank our listeners for their votes in the Podcast Awards.

CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen.

Our Podcasts are availble on iTunes – here’s our link for Techies

Show Notes

00:00
Intro: The Devil’s Bit by Theresa Larkin & Noel McQuaid

00:35
Thanks to our listeners for getting us nominated to the Podcast Awards – Now, listeners choose the winners at www.podcastawards.com. Vote daily until Nov 30, 2009.
Travel – Irish Fireside
Podsafe Music – The Irish and Celtic Music Podcast

01:37
Blog Features

• 10 Things NOT TO DO in Dublin
• The Most Influential Irish Woman You Never Heard Of
• Holiday Giveaway
• 10 Things You MUST DO in Ireland

02:32
Talking about Tipperary with Piers Duggan
Location: Central Ireland – South Midlands – Golden Vale

• Slieve Felim
• Comeragh Mountains
• Slievenamon
• Rock of Cashel
• Devil’s Bit

04:22

• Keeper Hill Scenic Drive
• Curreeny Hedge School
• Upper Church
• www.discoverireland.ie/tipperary

06:00
Inland Counties: Tipperary, Offally, Laois, Kilkenny
Holy Cross

07:00
Castle Tour: Kilkenny Castle, tower houses scattered throughout Ireland, Nenagh Castle and Old Gaol (Jail) House, Roscrea Castle & Damer House, Birr Castle, Kinnitty Castle

09:30
Tourism in Ireland

10:50
Tipperary Artisans
The Gifted Hand Irish Turf by Joannes Berkery – www.turfpeat.com
Official Irish Dirt by Pat Burke – www.officialirishdirt.com
Irish Preserves by Crossogue Preserves – www.crossoguepreserves.com

11:55
Fly Shannon Airport, but Dublin is an option

12:50
Lough Derg

14:13
It’s a Long Way to Tipperary

Ross Castle, Killarney © M. Erdvig

1. Explore Ancient Castles: Ireland is chock-a-block with castles. You see them in farmer’s fields, atop rocky outcrops, guarding rivers and in towns. Some are romantic ruins entwined with vines and trees. Others have been restored to their former glory and furnished with paintings, antiques and expensive fittings. Many castles rent by the week. One has been turned into a bank.

I prefer the lonely, battle-scarred castles that wear their age like a badge of honor. Observe how part of a wall was blown up by Cromwell’s soldiers leaving a gaping hole open to the elements. Notice a rusty cannonball from the Elizabethan Wars still stuck in a tower. Wander up small, spiral stone stairs that are waiting to stumble the unwary tourist – just as they were meant to slow down invaders. Look through arrow-slit windows at glimpses of the countryside. Feel the damp air and smell musty stone rooms. Battlements that once hid soldiers now house nesting birds. In the old ruins you can let your imagination run wild – to battles won and lost, pirate queens, bards entertaining at banquets, lords and ladies, serfs and knights. Each one has its legends, history and ghosts…if only you take the time to observe.

2. Walk the Beach: Choose a beach. Any beach. With a coastline over 3,500 miles long, Ireland has a surfeit of beaches. Search for seashells and smooth, round rocks. Explore a shipwreck. Feel the sand crunch under your feet. Hear the waves lap at the shore and sniff the briny air. Watch the birds wheeling overhead or playing tag with the waves. Look out for the tide! It can come in quickly and trap you where you stand. Bring a picnic or your surfboard or – if you are brave – your bathing suit.

3. Stay at a Bed-and-Breakfast: Ireland has elegant castles, modern hotels with spas and historic manor houses. They all have their place. But if you want to enjoy the real Ireland stay at a B&B. It is someone’s home where they take paying guests and provide a bedroom with bathroom and breakfast in the morning. Your hosts know the local area, the best restaurants, what sightseeing you should not miss and where the nearest laundry is. Most hosts are truly interested in their guests and are happy to dispense their knowledge with a delightful brogue and a touch of Blarney. Where else can you get so close to a real Irish family? 

4. Discover the Night: Go outside, look up and marvel at the darkness. In most of rural Ireland you can behold the night sky in a way you might remember from childhood. Without light pollution the magnificence of the Milky Way is strewn like a silken veil across the black velvet sky. Every spot above you seems to twinkle with a star if you look long enough. The moon seems close enough to touch.

5. Visit a Garden: Ireland is a paradise for gardeners. With its damp, temperate climate blooms can be found almost year round. Each season produces its own flowers from early daffodils and lily-of-the-valley to spring cherry trees and tulips, to summer roses and rhododendrons and fall heather and furze. You can visit gardens at ancient castles, elegant manor houses, serene abbeys, planned parks, little villages and even in big-city Dublin.

6. Learn a Legend: It looks like an old pile of stones. But there are interesting rounded depressions filled with rainwater in the boulder. A tourist has paused for a snack and left behind an orange peel. But what does the legend tell? Over a thousand years ago a saint found an abandoned baby and the monastery adopted the infant. But with no women about they could not feed it. So they prayed and a white deer appeared every morning. The monks milked the doe, and its milk was caught in the bowl-like depressions in the stone.  The baby thrived and today it is called the Deer’s Stone. What was it five thousand years before St. Kevin passed this way? Only the ancients know.

And why is that old tree covered with strips of cloth and trinkets? Could the fate of the English crown have been decided on an Irish battlefield? Am I walking in the footsteps of a pirate queen? Is this the wood the poets trod? Every inch of Ireland has a legend just waiting to be discovered by you.

7. Meet the Friendly Irish People: The number one request of visitor’s to Ireland is to meet the Irish. Strike up a conversation with people anywhere. Just a comment on the weather, a question about where something is or a friendly greeting on the street or in a shop can elicit the Irish interest in you as a visitor. Where can you meet Irish people? At the pub, in a shop, at Bingo night, attending the races, at church services, at a dance, in a restaurant, at a B&B. The list is endless. Forget the rule that you should not speak to strangers. After all in Ireland there are no strangers, only friends you have yet to meet!

8. Get off the Beaten Path: Turn off the GPS. Put the map away. Get off the highway and take that little road with grass growing in the middle of it. Maybe it is only wide enough for one car, but how many cars do you expect you will meet on such a road? If you do meet a car the local driver will likely know the nearest wide spot in the road where you can pass each other safely. A smile, a quick nod of acknowledgment with the other driver and you have safely navigated a little country boreen.

Where will the road take you? Probably over a hill and around a bend. Maybe beside a lake or up a mountain. If you are lucky, through a grove of ancient trees and past a fairy mound. Where will it end? Where else but the ocean? Ireland is an island after all.

9. Sing Along in Pubs: It is not always easy to find traditional Irish music or Trad as the locals call it. More often than not you will find country-western music emanating from the pubs. But keep searching or ask in town for a trad session. Usually they start late – after nine or even ten. But seeking trad out can be worth the trouble. Grab a table, order a drink and be prepared for toe tapping, hand-clapping music and songs you can sing along with. If you don’t know the words, just hum.

10: Take Time to Daydream: Take a deep breath. Forget the schedule. Throw out the itinerary. Stop and look around you. Observe what you are seeing, feeling, smelling and hearing. Breathe in the salty tang of the sea along with a whiff of pungent smoke from the chimney of a distant cottage. Watch the clouds scud across the sky – sunshine and shadow – followed by a thin gray veil of rain. A sudden rainbow, a blast of damp breeze and a quick shower scatters the grass with sparkling raindrops. Birds twitter overhead and on the hills sheep are baaing as they graze. This is what you saved and planned for. This is what you dreamed of. Enjoy Ireland!

© 2009 Michele Erdvig

Click to see the nominees and vote for your favorites. VOTING STARTS FRIDAY

We got a bit of news today (thanks for the heads up www.engagingireland.com). The Irish Fireside and the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast (www.celticmusicpodcast.com) have been nominated for a Podcast Award.

This is quite an honor in the podcast world. This year, 321,000 listeners and podcasters nominated over 3,500 shows. It’s especially notable that two Irish-themed shows made it to the nominations, in the Travel category and the Podsafe Music category.

Good News for Irish Travel

Considering the hit Irish tourism has taken in 2009, every mention of Ireland helps, even if just a little bit. We’re hoping this nomination might introduce a few new listeners to the Fireside and, in turn, get them thinking about our favorite topic

We Sure Could Use Your Vote… Every Day

Now it’s up to the fans to cast their votes in 22 categories. Voting for the Podcast Awards opens Friday, November 13. You can cast one digital ballot per category per day until voting closes on Monday, November 30.

I must admit, this system of daily voting is a bit exhausting, so I’ll apologize in advance if you see a fe posts about it on Twitter and Facebook. We won’t go overboard.

We’d be honored to get your vote… every day.

She was born in 1718 to a wealthy Irish Catholic family in County Cork. Her family was well-connected and owned a significant amount of land in a time when property in Ireland was almost exclusively owned by Protestant families and penal laws restricted many aspects of Catholic and traditional Irish life.

Like most landed Catholics of the time, Nano Nagle was educated in France to avoid the oppressive conditions. Although she returned to her family in Ireland, the death of her parents motivated her to return to France to join the Convent.

At age 32, Nano Nagle returned to Ireland as a nun where she moved through the region teaching children by day and tending to sick by night. These efforts earned her the nickname The Lady with the Lantern.

She opened her first classroom in 1754 and soon opened six other schools in the region. Her schools are not only credited with educating the Irish academically and spiritually, but also noted for their part in preserving Irish culture.

In 1775, she was inspired to start the Congregation of the Presentation Sisters, a religious order based on “Love one another as you have hitherto done.”

Nano died from tuberculosis in 1784, but her order continues its work today.

Nano Nagle’s Legacy

Today, the Sisters of the Presentation continue their works on land once owned by the Nagle family. On our first visit four years ago, Sister Paula joyfully gave a tour of their organic farm and retreat center. We had tea and laughed when we knew the exact location of her family home in County Tipperary.

My second visit revealed how busy the sisters had been in just a few years. They were growing vegetables for the local farmers market and had built some beautiful additions to their retreat center… all with a focus on sustainable practices and alternative energy. There are few places where I find myself talking about spiritual retreats one minute and solar panels and windmills the next.

You can read our blog post from our visit at www.irishfireside.com/2008/06/10/four-teas-roadtrip and learn more about the Presentation Sisters and Nano Nagle at www.presentationsisters.org/about-us/nano-nagle.php.

In the meantime, EVERYONE is invited to contribute a prize. If you have something you’d like to add, just email corey@IrishFireside.com.

M A R K   Y O U R   C A L E N D A R S

Holiday Giveaway list of prizes posted – Monday, Nov 16

Secret Santa Names distributed – Wednesday, Nov 25 – here’s where you sign up

Irish & Celtic Gift Guide published – Thursday, Nov 26

Holiday Giveaway begins – Friday, Nov 27 - here’s where you sign up

The latest calendars to hit the market remind us that Ireland is a very photogenic country. A few of the people we go to when we need Ireland advice have produced calendars using thier pics through the Zazzle Marketplace. Take a peek, you’re sure to be transported across the sea to Ireland:

Bit Devine, aka Cowboy Craic, has published her images in calendars of Blooming Ireland and Horses of Ireland.

Michele Erdvig from www.IrelandYes.com has created several Ireland-focused items including an calendars featuring Irish Cottages, Castles in the Eire and the Irish Tulip Festival.

Pat Preston from www.IrelandExpert.com has created the Ireland Towns and Villages Calendar featuring some of her favorite places on the Emerald Isle.

Click for More Info

In the last few months, Kerry Dexter has told us about Three Irish & Celtic Albums You Should Experience and Three MORE Irish & Celtic Albums You Should Experience.

Clearly, she’s got an ear for great music because several of her picks have gotten some big attention recently.

Dual with Julie Fowlis and Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh’s is up for a Scots Trad Award. This is a notable honor, and you can help choose the winner. See all the nominees and vote at www.handsupfortrad.co.uk/tradmusicawards/nominations2009_info.htm.

Click for More Info

Word also has it that Tommy Sands‘ Let the Circle Be Wide is on the shortlist for a Grammy nomination! You can listen to an interview with Tommy over at www.EngagingIreland.com.

While we’re at it… I should mention that the 2010 Songwriter’s Market: Where & How to Market Your Songs includes interviews with Cathie Ryan and Matt and Shannon Heaton… they were on Kerry’s recommendations as well!

Keep up the good work, Kerry!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/_fabrizio_/ / CC BY-SA 2.0

Visitors to Dublin all seem to make the same mistakes. So we’re going to lay out those errors and offer some travel-wise alternatives.

Don’t Drive

The challenges of driving on the left side of the road are only made worse by Dublin traffic and aggressive urban drivers. Having a car in city centre also means you’ll be faced with parking in a city that was never intended for automobiles.

Instead, drop the rental car at the airport or stay outside of city centre and take the train or bus into town (towns along the DART – train line – are excellent options). Sites in Dublin are generally within walking distance of each other, so take advantage of your own two feet as well.

Don’t expect breathtaking views from Guinness’ Gravity Bar

If Ireland’s rainy weather isn’t clouding your view, the truth is, Dublin’s skyline isn’t particularly impressive. On a clear day, this bar atop the Guinness Storehouse gives an interesting perspective of the city and the Wicklow Mountains, but it’s really the Black Stuff that draws the crowd.

Instead, see the city from the top of the hop on/off bus. Dublin is much more appealing from street level, and riding atop a double-decker bus is my favorite quick-fix for experiencing the city. The trip is even more engaging when the drivers provide their live commentary… not all tour companies have talking drivers, so you’ll need to make sure you’re on the Dublin Bus tours (green buses) and confirm the narration is not pre-recorded before you buy your ticket.

Don’t choose a traditional music session from a flier

There are several places promoting live, traditonal music… many with Riverdance-style dancing. They’re easy to spot, colorfully printed brochures with a pretty girl dancing, a guy with a fiddle and a promise of diddle-dee-dee six nights a week. Most are quite entertaining, but they’re not as authentic as what you’ll find at a night not intended for tourist consumption.

Instead, look for traditional sessions in smaller towns or ask the locals for their recommendations. In Dublin, you might prefer spending your evening with Irish Folk Tours, the Literary Pub Crawl or the Traditional Irish Music Pub Crawl.

Don’t expect to see much of the Book of Kells

The illumninated manuscript is under glass and you only get to see two pages per day… keep your fingers crossed that the day you arrive will be a day when they have it open to one of the most elaborately decorated pages.

Instead, take in the information displayed on the walls before you reach the book, and when you’re done there, spend extra time in the phenomenal Long Library before you are released into the extensive gift shop.

Don’t take a cab from the airport

Unless you’re staying in an obscure location, you need door-to-door service or you’re traveling with several people who will split the bill, a cab from Dublin airport to city centre isn’t necessary.

Instead, take the Dublin Bus Airlink or one of the other bus companies with routes between the airport and city centre. The buses I’ve taken have been clean, roomy and peaceful, and the drivers were quick to remind me when I was nearing my stop. Then again, skipping the cab ride will eliminate your chance at getting a Dublin cabbie’s world view, so it might be worth the extra price just for the conversation.

Don’t eat or drink in Temple Bar

It’s been crowned Dublin’s Cultural Quarter, but it’s also charging tourists insane prices for a pint or some food. Add to that its nightly flow of young and often drunk tourists and you might lose your appetite, anyway.

Instead, visit Temple Bar during the day to check out the sites. Then, wander a few blocks down the street or visit another part of city centre for some grub and a pint.

Don’t cross the street like a local

Dubliners are notorious for jaywalking and disobeying traffic signs. This practice may work for an experienced resident, but for visitors, especially those who aren’t used to traffic coming from the right, it can be deadly.

Instead, be patient and obey traffic signals. It’ll feel like you’re waiting an eternity for the lights to change, but the alternative could actually last an ETERNITY, so stay safe.

Don’t fly into Dublin Airport

If you have the choice, opt for one of Ireland’s smaller airports. You’ll save yourself some stress and if you’re renting a car, you’ll be on the road much more swiftly. When it’s time to visit Dublin, it’s pretty easy to take public transportation into the capital from just about anywhere on the island.

Instead, see if you can get a flight into Shannon (the only North American alternative), Cork, Killarney, Knock, Waterford or even Belfast.

Don’t limit your shopping to Grafton Street

It’s Dublin’s premiere shopping street, but Grafton Street and St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre are not the end-all in Irish shopping.

Instead, wander north of the Liffey and explore some of the shops on that side of the city, and be sure to save some money to spend at the fine shops in other parts of the country. Much of the best shopping is available outside of the city. Pat Preston even has written a book on the topic called “The Smart Shopper’s Guide to Ireland.”

Let us know if you have any of your own Dublin Don’ts.

Photo credit http://www.flickr.com/photos/_fabrizio_/ / CC BY-SA 2.0

Every year Lonely Planet publishes their Best in Travel list. For 2010, the Republic of Ireland’s second largest city, Cork, has made the latest list and for good reason.

Cork isn’t a typical Irish town… yet it’s distinctly Irish. What do I mean? Well, Cork still has its traditional storefronts and a wonderful series of narrow side streets, but unlike other Irish cities, during its growth it has stayed low and compact. This makes it a wonderful pedestrian city, and the experience is made even better by all the great shops, restaurants and cafes in town.

My favorite sites in town were ringing the bells of Saint Ann’s in Shandon and the nearby Butter Museum. And I have to say, the ride on the opentop bus tour was quite an adventure… those streets WERE NOT made for buses! I think even thrill-seekers would get a small rush from the experience. During peek hours, driving in Cork can also be a bit of adventure as well, so get in, park and enjoy.

You can order your copy of the Lonely Planet Best in Travel 2010 through our affiliate link here (that means, they’d give the Irish Fireside a portion of the sales).

What other sites are saying about Cork’s spot on the Lonely Planet List:

• www.breakingnews.ie/ireland/eymhcwqlmhcw/rss2/
• www.independent.ie/national-news/rebels-swell-with-pride-as-travel-bible-hails-crackling-cork-1931574.html
• www.wicklowpeople.ie/breaking-news/national-news/cork-among-top-ten-tourist-cities-1931397.html
• www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2009/1103/1224257963102.html

I’ve got some photos from my visit there last year:

A view of Kilkenny Castle from Wind Gap

I must confess, I’m really missing Ireland right now… and for some reason I’m especially thinking about Kilkenny. It’s one of my favorite towns. The storefronts have kept their traditional fronts, the web of streets reflect their medieval roots and the sites in town rank among Ireland’s best… the castle, the cathedrals, Rothe House, pubs, restaurants and so many more.

So, to all of you who are thinking about Ireland right now… you’re not alone.

Is there any interest in a little Secret Santa game for the Irish Fireside?

You sign up, and we send you the name and address of another Irish Fireside Secret Santa. You send them a little gift and a note. In return, someone sends you a little something.

Normally, I don’t get into these types of things, but the idea of sending something REAL to someone from the Internet seems like fun.

This would be in addition to our Holiday Giveaway… yes, it looks like we’re going to manage a scaled-back version this year

Would you participate?

What should the gift price limit be… $5, $10, $15?

Leave a comment and tell us what you think…

Photo Credit: “Santa Goes Green” Cover illustration, originally uploaded by Elisa Chavarri.

Submitted by Phil

For beautiful coastal views cyclists may wish to tour Ireland’s craggy Beara Peninsula.

Located in the south-west, this stunning outcropping of land is ideal for visitors who want to follow a trail that is dotted with traditional Irish villages and many other sites. The route can be cycled and is also accessible for those using car rental services to travel around the spectacular peninsula.

A popular route with cyclists and motorists, it weaves its way around the perimeter of the region and allows visitors to immerse themselves in Irish culture. Historic Celtic monuments decorate the land, while villages serve up fish that has been freshly caught from the Atlantic. Holidaymakers also have the opportunity to indulge themselves in the serenity of several islands, which are located off the coast of the peninsula. Visitors tend to follow a circular National Cycling Route when touring the area as this features many of the sights that stud the land.

Which way from Castletownbere?

Starting near Oak Wood, bicyclists can travel towards the village of Glengarriff, County Cork, where they are able to enjoy the views across Bantry Bay. Surrounded by soaring mountains, the enclave offers connections to Garnish Island, which is a joy for green-fingered day-trippers, who are likely to appreciate its Italian-inspired garden. Back on the mainland, the scenic route continues East towards the village of Adrigole where visitors can stop off and enjoy the views of Hungry Hill located nearby. The impressive peak is home to one of the highest waterfalls in Ireland and draws many visitors who are keen to see it cascading down the landscape.

Anglers and water sports enthusiasts may like to spend some time in the next town along the route. Castletownbere is 10 miles (16km) from Adrigole and offers the chance to try some adrenalin-fuelled pursuits in the Atlantic. Windsurfing is popular here, while golf is also available for those preferring more sedate activities. The remains of the historical Dunboy Castle are situated near the town and offer a glimpse into Ireland’s distant past where the land was ruled by clan leaders.

Cyclists can choose to pop over to Bere Island via Castletownbere or continue around the rugged headland towards Dursey Island, which can be reached by a cable car that gives impressive views of the rolling sea. Ireland’s copper mining past is evident back on the peninsula at Allihies village, where many of the country’s well-known artists now like to spend their time.

Allihies Copper Mine

The route winds back towards the East from here adjacent to Kenmare and Coulagh Bay. Staying on the coastal road, cyclists can visit Eyeries Village, which is dotted with brightly painted homes. The enclave of Aardgroom follows, where keen anglers can catch some trout. Continuing to Lauragh, visitors are free to navigate the Healy Pass, where they can fully take in the views of the mountainous countryside or they can stay on the coast and feel the sea winds if they prefer. Cyclists may like to complete their circular journey by heading south towards Glengarriff or for more adventures they can cycle northwards towards the village of Kenmare, where additional touring routes are located.

Click photos for credits.

Cindy had a gorgeous bar of her Irish flag soap on hand for us… love its scent called “Inis” – which means “island” in Irish. This time she insisted we keep the bar for ourselves… so this one WON’T be a giveaway item, and I can’t say I’m disappointed about that

I must confess, I’m a huge fan of Cindy’s soaps… and she’s pretty swell herself.

You can purchase a few bars for yourself from www.soapourri.com. She has a great line of Irish-themed soaps on page 2 in her OFF-SEASON category… including some great soaps in the shape of the Claddagh and her Irish Oatmeal Soap that she crafted just for US!

Here’s the video clip from our visit:

Watching that first clip reminds me that we still need to show you how we made that Irish Oatmeal Soap! And here’s a peek at just how bad the roads were:

Our Feed
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RSS Link
http://irishfireside.com/podcasts/irishfireside.xml

I have to say, the setting is perfect, and wouldn’t it be fun to add a session at Ireland’s School of Falconry which happens to be on the castle grounds!

Two-day packages with several special activities start at $680 for two adults and two children. More info at www.oregontraveldaily.com/news/irishc102109_509.php, www.wheretogonext.com/story/207201 and www.ashford.ie

Photo credit Ashford Falconry, originally uploaded by irishdressage.

Episode Guide – Podcast #95 Ireland in the Off-Season and Prehistoric Irish Instruments

In this audio podcast episode, we talk about some of the unique aspects of traveling Ireland in the “shoulder season.” Then we chat with Simon and Maria O’Dywer about some of Ireland’s oldest musical instruments.

CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen.

Our Podcasts are availble on iTunes – here’s our link for Techies

Show Notes

00:00
Intro Song: St. John’s March by www.PrehistoricMusic.com from the CD “Old to New”

01:29
High Season, Shoulder Season and Low Season

02:00
Many sites and tourist offices may be operating on reduced hours or closed for the season starting in Oct

02:45
Fewer hours of daylight

03:12
Stick to the tourist routes or explore the lesser-visited areas

04:00
Get your information from the people around you

04:25
Avoid spending too much time on the road

04:45
Experince the pub culture or traditional music scene. Don’t drink and drive

5:24
Simon and Maria O’Dwyer from www.PrehistoricMusic.com

16:30
Closing song: Five Together by www.PrehistoricMusic.com from the CD “Old to New”

The Basics

For First Timers, a southern loop around the island is a good introduction to Ireland; it has an excellent mix of scenery, towns and options that cater to visitors. It’s best to take at least 10 days for such a tour, this number just happens to extend beyond the one-week vacation most US citizens allot and the more ideal length of two weeks of travel.

With only a week and flying into/out of Dublin, time is extremely limited and distance – how far you can go versus how far you want to travel each day – must be considered. Driving in Ireland is not like driving in the US. Short distances can take a long time because of small winding roads, traffic, etc.  Even the larger “motorways” can be slow due to traffic, accidents or just taking in the beautiful scenery and unfamiliar roads and signage. Visitors should expect to get lost at some point during their trip; it’s all part of the Irish Experience.

If you only have a week, it’s best to do one of two options: cover as much as of the island as possible with single night stays along the way OR plan on a series of bases along your route with multi-night stays that allow you to experience these areas with a bit more depth.

It is also important to be aware that Ireland has two major airports, Dublin on the east coast and Shannon on the west coast. Choosing the right airport or flying into one and out of the other can dramatically improve your experience and reduce unnecessary backtracking.

I’ve compiled two itineraries that offer a good “taste of Ireland.” The first option works best for those who like to see as much as possible or are okay with being on the go the entire trip… it’s an aggressive itinerary. Realize that you are sacrificing volume for quality – a lot of Ireland will be viewed through the car window. The second option means you’ll see fewer “big sites” in favor of more local experiences.

Itinerary 1: Southern Loop of Ireland – starting and ending in Dublin, moving each night

Click to Enlarge

Day 1 – Kilkenny
Pick up your rental car at Dublin airport and head to town of Kilkenny. It’s a relatively quick drive (about 2 hours) and the town has plenty to interest you for the rest of the day with Kilkenny Castle and other historical buildings. There are several places just outside Kilkenny to visit such as Dunmore Cave and Jerpoint Abbey. Don’t do too much though, you’ll want a nice early start then next day.

Day 2 – Kinsale
Head to the seaside village of Kinsale making a couple of stops along the way. Main places of interest are the Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle, Blarney Castle, Cobh and Cork to name a few. There is no way you will fit in all these, but you could visit one or two. Kinsale also has a couple of forts nearby as well to visit.

Day 3 – Kenmare
The “long way” means you drive along the coast of Western County Cork and into County Kerry. Several stops can be made on the trip or you could opt for a side trip to the scenic Mizen Head or Dursey Head peninsulas, for example. Or you can drive directly to the town of Killarney for the sights you find there. The “short” way is to stick mostly to the main road (N22) between Cork city and Killarney. Although Killarney offers easy access the areas destinations, I prefer to stay in nearby Kenmare, especially during the busy summer season. A stop at Blarney Castle is an option on this route.

Day 4 – Clare
The first half of this day will be taken up driving from County Kerry to County Clare. Three to four hours depending on your route.

If you travel the land route through Limerick City, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park offers much to see and is worth even a quick stop. From Bunratty, head out to the coast to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, and if time permits, try taking some time to explore The Burren. The villages of Doolin, Lisdoonvarna or Ballyvaughan all offer great places to spend a night.

Alternatively, you can head up the Clare coast via the car ferry that crosses the Shannon River from Tarbert in County Kerry to Killimer in County Clare. You could travel to the Cliffs first, then move onwards to Bunratty or just head to Bunratty and experience the medieval banquet or Irish Night there. There are many lovely B&Bs in the Bunratty.

Day 5 – Galway
If you missed the Cliffs of Moher on Day 4, today is the day to go. You can take a half-day to visit the Cliffs and the Burren or just hit the Cliffs en route to Galway town for some great shopping and night life. If shopping isn’t your thing and you have the time, tour the beautiful Connemara region west of Galway town. Still stay in or near Galway however, if only for the many good restaurants, pubs, music and craic in the evening.

Day 6 – Dublin
The drive from Galway to Dublin can take as little as three or as many as four hours. There are stops to make if you like; the monastic ruins of Clonmacnois is along the way while the castle at Trim requires a bit of a detour. You may choose to drive directly to Dublin. Once in Dublin city, you won’t need the car any longer, but if you stay outside downtown Dublin, you may want to hang on to it.

Day 7 – Dublin
For those who give themselves a full seven days in Ireland, they can enjoy a whole day to explore Dublin departing for home on Day 8. Dublin is well worth a full day of exploration. The Hop On, Hop Off bus tour is ideal for an overview of the city. The Books of Kells, the National Museum, Kilmainham Goal and shopping, even if just window shopping, on Grafton Street are all top picks.

Extending Your Stay
This route also also works for a longer stay – ten days to two weeks is best. In this case, you can include several multiple night stays along the way. You can also do the above route in reverse, starting with a drive to Galway and working your way counterclockwise back to Dublin (see the next itinerary below.)

Itinerary 2: Southern Loop of Ireland – multiple night stays in several bases, starting and ending in Dublin

Click to Enlarge

Day 1 – Galway
From Dublin airport, pick up your rental car and drive directly to Galway. Warning – this may be a tough drive for some international travelers, especially if they have difficultly sleeping on the flight. Stop as often as needed to stay safe, and once you make it into Galway, you can (hopefully) check into your B&B or hotel right away. You then have the rest of the day to explore Galway town.

Day 2 – Galway
Connemara is the area West of the town of Galway, and it’s a lovely scenic area that is well-worth a day to explore, either on your own or by bus tour (the Galway tourist office will help you with this). You can enjoy staying overnight in your same accommodations as the previous night.

Day 3 – Bunratty
This is a great day to travel south and explore County Clare. This will be your only single-night stay of your trip as you make your way from Galway into Clare. The Burren, the Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty Castle and Folk Park are all top places to be seen in Clare.

Day 4 – Kilkenny
Drive to Kilkenny but include several stops along the way. The Rock of Cashel, Cahir Castle and the Swiss Cottage (also in Cahir) are well worth a stop. You may also want to include several destinations around Kilkenny (Dunmore Cave or Jerpoint Abbey) before ending your day in Kilkenny town. There’s plenty to see in Kilkenny such as the Castle, shopping, pubs and other historic sights. Stay overnight in or near Kilkenny.

Day 5 – Kilkenny
A second day in this area means you can make a day trip as you like – for those who insist on a visit to Blarney or would like a long driving tour of the Wicklow Mountains. Another suggestion is the Crafts Trail around Kilkenny with a stop in Carlow or Kildare. You will not run out of interesting things to see and do in and around Kilkenny. Stay a second night in Kilkenny.

Day 6 – Dublin
Time for Dublin! If you stay in town, you won’t need the car; if you stay outside of Dublin, say in Malahide north of the city, and you may want to keep it so that you can do a half day trip to Trim or the Hill of Tara. Otherwise, just enjoy Dublin and don’t worry about driving.

Day 7 – Dublin
Some lucky folks have a whole day to explore Dublin departing for home on Day 8. Dublin is well worth a full day of exploration. The Hop On, Hop Off bus tour is ideal for an overview of the city. The Books of Kells, the National Museum, Kilmainham Goal and shopping, even if just window shopping, on Grafton Street are all top picks.

Making Your Own Plan
Either of these itineraries also work if you are flying into and out of Shannon airport. You can include Dublin if you like, but those who fly in and out from Shannon often tend to stick more towards the West. Making a large loop up to Galway and a second loop down into Kerry will easily fill two weeks; a single week means keeping your loops smaller.

Wendy lives with her Irish-born husband in Southern California. When she’s not enjoying her local Gaelic Football, she is planning her next trip to Ireland.

Photo Credit Ballyvaughan 6096.jpg, originally uploaded by Trevor S.