My trip to Ireland (Dublin, Killarney, and Galway)

Photos 1-5: Dublin. We were lucky to get in to see the Book of Kells and the Old Library at Trinity College on the day we wanted because it was super booked. Lesson learned to book things ahead of time.

Photos 6-12: Killarney. Our time was mostly spent at Muckross House walking through the grounds and the forest. We made the journey to Torc waterfall. Gorgeous. Got majorly scammed by the Jaunting Car lad who saw two Canadians and knew what he had on his hands. Always ask for the price BEFORE participating (especially when it isn’t posted). And brings tons of cash because even tourist attractions act like it’s not 2026 and have no ATM and staff staring at you like you are in insane for asking.

Photos 13 and 14: Bunratty Castle. What an awesome experience. I cannot believe how claustrophobic the winding staircases were. Drafty and beautiful.

Photos 15 and 16: Cliffs of Moher. Minimal rain! Took my breath away. Because it was the Easter weekend, traffic was lighter and crowds were too.

Photos 17-20: Galway. I really enjoyed that town. Very youthful and energizing.

I booked this trip through the Canadian company Royal Irish Tours who partner with Railtours Ireland. The 7 days, 8 nights were very flexible with most of the time being our own to explore. This was the “City Stays” tour that covered Dublin, Killarney, Limerick, Cliffs of Moher and Galway. All hotels were booked for us as well as the bus tour and train to get out of and into Dublin. We didn’t run in any logistical issues which was a relief. The one day we joined an existing tour to see the cliffs just solidified my decision to avoid gruelling bus tours. That was the most difficult and tiring day but we got very lucky with the weather and the amazing tour guide.

I don’t think I am a very good traveller (some factors include being an introvert, a polite Canadian, a fat person, zero sense of direction and someone who gets immediate motion sickness) but I did it anyway!

There were definitely challenging moments that I think are normal when travelling. At the Quay’s pub I banged my knee on the wood bar and cried; it felt like I was releasing all the frustration and impatience I had experienced on the trip and after that I felt so much better. Anyone else experience moments like that?