| A couple years ago I took a solo tour of Ireland. | | | | two blocks down, and would give me a room for |
| A scary idea at first, it ended up being one of the | | | | 20 euro if I would buy the next round. Needless |
| best possible travel experiences. Basically, I landed | | | | to say I did, and drifted off in a cozy bed around |
| in Dublin, picked up my rental car, practiced driving | | | | eleven. The rest of the trip was just as fun, as I |
| it around the airport for an hour (right side drive) | | | | met many more friendly people, all of whom had |
| and hit the road. I soon found a safe place to | | | | excellent advice on where to go, places to see, |
| park my car overnight, locked my belongings in | | | | and what to drink. |
| the trunk and took off on foot. | | | | To me this was the perfect balance of seeing the |
| After visiting the Guinness brewery and taking a | | | | main attractions, and experiencing the local culture. |
| city bus tour, I stepped into the nearest pub for | | | | If you speak the language and feel comfortable, |
| a two Euro ale and some local Irish craic (light | | | | talk to as many people as you can, you will be |
| hearted conversation). I enjoyed the company of | | | | glad you did. Locals can provide insightful |
| locals all afternoon. I asked many people what | | | | information that no guide book will ever have. Use |
| they recommended I do, and was mostly told to | | | | your better judgment when approaching people |
| visit Cork, Kerry and Galway. | | | | and you will be sure to see some things you |
| It was soon eight in the evening and I mentioned | | | | otherwise never would have heard about. Next |
| I needed a place to stay. Within minutes I had | | | | time you travel to Ireland stay friendly to locals |
| several people offer me their couch. Then one | | | | and you will love the results! |
| gentleman came over and said he owned a motel | | | | |