In September 2023, the Hickey family celebrated a milestone as we embarked on our first international adventure: a long-awaited trip to Ireland! For years, Alex’s proud Irish dad dreamed of taking the entire family to the Emerald Isle. Finally, that dream became a reality, and it was everything we hoped for—and more.
A Colorful Start: Our Journey Begins
As we loaded our bags in late September, excitement filled the air. We boarded a vibrant bus, ready to travel in style with our crew of 15—friends and family eager to explore Ireland. Navigating airport security at O’Hare with such a large group was chaotic, to say the least! After surviving that hurdle, we faced a two-hour tarmac delay that made us question if we would ever leave Chicago. Unfortunately, we missed our connecting flight in London. It was a rocky start, but it set the tone for an unforgettable adventure.
Upon landing in Ireland, we thought we were prepared to drive on the left side of the road. Spoiler alert: we weren’t! Picture 15 exhausted people crammed into rental vans, armed only with printed directions and facing heavy traffic. Despite the wrong turns and near-misses, we couldn’t help but admire Ireland’s stunning landscapes. If you’re going to get lost, let it be in the beauty of Ireland!
After a long day, we finally reached our cozy cottage in Glenbeigh. Exhausted, we crashed as soon as our heads hit the pillows. But sleep didn’t last long! The next morning, Pat (Alex’s dad) woke everyone with a shot of Jameson, proclaiming, “Get up, we’re in Ireland!” It was the perfect wake-up call for an incredible adventure.
Exploring Glenbeigh: Nature’s Beauty
Our days in Glenbeigh were magical. Nestled in the heart of West Ireland, we had easy access to the iconic Ring of Kerry, the charming town of Dingle, and the breathtaking national parks around Killorglin. Everywhere we looked, lush green hills, dramatic cliffs, and friendly cows greeted us. Ireland’s countryside is a sight to behold—if you have the chance to visit, don’t hesitate!
Where We Stayed:
We made our home base in Glenbeigh for the first few days of the venture. It was a picturesque village nestled in County Kerry. Our cozy cottage was the perfect place to recover from jet lag and ease into the Irish pace of life. We chose this area because it’s quiet, local, and surrounded by nature. As it was a hike of a drive from Dublin, it was ideally located for scenic day trips, especially if you’re planning to drive the Ring of Kerry. For first-time visitors, this is a great place to soak in Ireland’s beauty without the hustle of the bigger cities.
Pub Life, Rugby Nights, and the Ring of Kerry
When you think of Ireland, cozy pubs and Guinness come to mind, and we enjoyed plenty of both! Every pub felt welcoming, filled with friendly locals. We savored traditional Irish coffee and learned the “proper” way to pour a Guinness (it’s all in the angle!).
One night, we found ourselves in a quiet pub that erupted with excitement as local rugby fans poured in. The atmosphere transformed into a pure joy with passionate chants and clinking glasses. Even if you’re not a rugby fan, the infectious energy made it a night to remember.
Driving the Ring of Kerry is a must! Although the narrow, winding roads can be daunting, the views are spectacular. We stopped at every lookout point to take in the cliffs, beaches, and endless greenery. It felt like stepping into a painting—truly a breathtaking experience.
Tip: Don’t rush it. Pack snacks or plan to stop at local restaurants, charge your camera for the scenery, and give yourself a full day to enjoy it all. The views are amazing, and the roads are challenging!
After a day trip to the Ring of Kerry, another cute town was Dingle. This was accessible directly from the Ring of Kerry or a quick trip from Glenbeigh. Dingle might just have been the cutest town in Ireland. With its colorful buildings, traditional pubs, and waterfront charm, it’s a must-stop if you’re in County Kerry. We loved window shopping, getting ice cream at Murphy’s Ice Cream, and jewelry shopping for claddagh rings from local shops.
Dublin: Where Tradition Meets Vibrant City Life
After four days in the countryside, we packed up and headed to Dublin. The four-hour drive allowed us to reflect on the incredible experiences we had, but we were excited to explore the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
We kicked off our Dublin adventure with the classic tourist spots—the Guinness Storehouse and the Jameson Distillery. If you enjoy Irish drinks, these are must-visit attractions. The Guinness Storehouse combines history and beer, and the rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city. The Jameson Distillery was also a highlight, especially for Alex’s dad, who was eager to bring some bottles home. We found the overall experience at the Jameson tour more enjoyable than the Guinness tour.
A hidden gem in Dublin is Bewley’s Coffee and Pastries. We loved their delicious pastries and lattes so much that we visited multiple times a day! While the tours were fantastic, Bewley’s was a game-changer for us.
No trip to Dublin would be complete without a visit to the famous Temple Bar. This iconic location is filled with Guinness memorabilia and live traditional music. While it can be a bit of a tourist trap with higher prices, the experience is worth it. Plus, many nearby pubs offer cheaper drinks for those looking to save.
Final Thoughts & Tips
- Driving on the left takes some adjusting, especially on narrow rural roads. Make sure at least two people in your group are confident in driving!
- Rental vans are great for large groups, but pack your patience and a good navigator. If possible, smaller cars are easier to navigate on the roads to get to the best places.
- Accommodations: Booking a cozy cottage or an Airbnb with kitchen access gives you flexibility with cooking meals at home and indulging in the culture. If you want a budget-friendly option, save up those points and book a comfy hotel in the perfect spots.
Ireland exceeded all our expectations. From the stunning landscapes to the warm-hearted locals, every moment felt like a dream. This trip was not just about ticking off a bucket-list destination; it was about family, memories, and reconnecting with our roots. If you’re considering a visit to Ireland, go for it! Get lost in the countryside, share a pint with a local, and savor every moment. And remember—always keep traveling! Be sure to check out our other travel blogs here!
—A + K