A Journey of Warmth, Friendship, and Unforgettable Moments
Best of Ireland
By Joilyn Doucette, Journey Leader
I just returned from a wonderful group journey to Ireland, and I can't get over how incredibly friendly the people were! From the moment we arrived, the locals welcomed us like family. Whether we were chatting with folks at the pubs and shops or simply strolling through the charming towns and cities, their warmth and kindness really stood out. The landscapes were stunning, no doubt, but it was the genuine hospitality of the locals that made the trip truly unforgettable.
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Some of the highlights? We had an unforgettable night at the Merry Ploughboy Pub - an experience I'll never forget. The live music was electric, the dancing lively, and the laughter seemed endless. It was the kind of experience where strangers felt like friends, and the pub's energy made it feel like we were part of something special.
At Bunratty Castle, the staff makes the medieval banquet an immersive experience, blending history, warmth, and plenty of fun. We were greeted by staff dressed in medieval garb – ladies in flowing gowns and men in tunics, one steps forward, her voice cheerful and welcoming: “Welcome, noble lords and ladies, to Bunratty Castle! Tonight, you dine in the grand hall, as a lord and lady once did. Please, follow me inside, where a feast fit for royalty awaits.”
Towering stone halls were lit by flickering candlelight. The air was filled with the sound of traditional Irish music played on harps and fiddles as we were guided to a long wooden table in the banquet hall. A voice is heard, capturing the room’s attention.
"Before we feast, we must crown our rulers for the evening! Who among you has the heart of a lord or lady?"
This prompted ripples of laughter as we joyfully proceeded the stage where we selected two of our group members, they were adorned with garlands, and seated in places of honor as the lord and lady, receiving light-hearted applause as the fun began. As the feast was served, the staff remained in character, interacting with guests and bringing lighthearted humor to the meal.
In jest, the steward proclaims, “Your lord and lady require the merriest of toasts and laughter! If not—off with your heads!” The playful threat is met with cheerful applause, making the banquet even more fun and inviting for all.
The night is filled with laughter, storytelling, and camaraderie and ends in high spirits, as we all left the memorable event with full bellies and a shared sense of joy. You share the moment with fiends, family, and even strangers, all drawn together by the shared experience of stepping back into medieval times, and the warmth and hospitality of Bunratty Castle.
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Ireland truly knows how to celebrate, and we found ourselves caught up in the spirit of it all. From pub songs to grand feasts, the country's joy for life was contagious, and our group was swept right into the heart of it. It made the trip even more memorable. The memories we create become lasting impressions, woven into the fabric of our experience, reminding us that the magic of Ireland is more than just its landscapes - it’s the spirit of its people.
Cheers to embracing Irish hospitality!
Join an upcoming journey in 2025, immersing yourself in the rich culture and adventurous spirit of the Irish people...
SEP 3 led by Heather Patenaude
APR 30 led by Phil Newman
MAY 22 led by Johan Olivier
(Photo: Bunratty images copyright Bunratty Castle and Folk Park)
