Day 1: April 4, 2012
The other 16 students and I arrived to school with our luggage ready to head to JFK, but not before reluctantly attending the first two classes of the day while the pricipal inspected our bags. Our advisors- both french teachers and our irish literature teacher- were just as excited as us. Finally when we loaded the bus for NYC, we were waved goodbye by all of the parents and some of the school faculty members. The 2 hour bus ride wasn't so bad, we kept ourselves amused. We thought things would become more interesting when we arrived at the airport- they didn't. Our flight was delayed 3 hours! But we all became quite aquainted with that wing of JFK. Finally- on the plane- prepared for a 6 hour flight which was surprisingly luxerious- not like the rest of the school trips we have ever taken- and absolutley anxious for Europe. The fact that the airline attendants of Aer Lingus have Irish accents didn't lessen the anxiety.
Six hours and a not so good night's rest later we arrived in Shannon.
Day 2: April 5
Despite jumping ahead in time by 5 hours, we were still running late. We planned on dropping our luggage off at the West Coast Lodge, perhaps grabbing something to eat, and then attending surf lessons. Yeah- it didn't work that way. We left the airport, got on a bus, got off the bus, and got into wet suits- that were already wet. The very first thing we did was freeze our toes off in the Northern Atlantic. All but 3 or 4 of us went surfing that day. Surprisingly, we all got the hang of it pretty well. We were given lessons by Ben's Surf Co., a group of instructors full of enthusiasm and themselves encompass the Irish hospitality we had all heard about.
We finally were humbly welcomed by our lodge- and surprise! all the girls had to share one bathroom. Not the ideal situation. But, it didn't matter at that point because we literally threw our bags on the beds and got back on the bus- Cliffs of Moher here we come!! This was the part we were really waiting for- only because we heard beautiful as well as horror stories of the Cliffs. A six mile stretch- no- hike- literally on the coast of the Green Isle. And boy was it green. The picture I included does not do it justice. There was a certain crisp scent, cool refreshing feel, and a sight that conveyed vertigo. We were so high above the ocean- which wasn't the deep blue I have known, but a glazed, multi-hued blue-green- it seemed we must've reached heaven. The hike lasted three hours but none of us would've minded if it had lasted three more.
Day 3: April 6
The Aran Islands- just off the coast of the Cliffs. There are three- Inishmore, Inishmaan, and Inisheer. We vistited Inisheer, the smallest and closest to the mainland. Again- we were overwhelmed by the hospitality of the people. They welcome visitors, but not outsiders who wish to stay. We circumnavigated the entire island in only a few hours while making stops at various interesting sights along the way, such as O'Brien's castle.
Day 4: April 7
This was the day I was the tour guide for. We, the students, we divided into groups and assigned a day in each country to choose what we wanted to do. This day was the day for Galway- a city that looks like it's still in the 12th century but has the bustle of a modern city. There were various street bands, plenty of pubs, a sufficient amount of stores, and a massive food festival which I was eager to take full advantage of- I shared a bucket of various meats with some friends; to say it was delicious would be an understatement. At this point, the teachers allowed us to split into small groups because it was impossible to keep track of 17 kids in that mass of people. Each of us had something we loved about Galway, including the teachers who found a cup of good coffee for a euro.
Day 5: April 8
We visited Bunratty castle on our way to the other side of the country. It is comparable to Plymouth Plantation in Massachusettes. My friends and I were lucky enough to have visited the Tea House right as they were making fresh biscuts- sorry Pillsbury, you ain't got nothin on those gals.
As much as I loved the open countryside of Shannon, I fell madly in love with Dublin- the Irish capitol. We knew we would be staying in a youth hostel but severly misjudged it. the building seemed tucked away amongst the other grey buildings, but I swear it was an optical issusion because it was huge on the inside. The lobby was a typical uninteresting lobby, but once we entered the stairwell- a backpacker's world. The walls were covered in grafitti murals of famous icons such as Marilyn Monroe and colorful rainbows and random quotes that generated a refueling vibe, which we all needed at this point. Especially after walking the whole city in search of one factory that one would think wouldn't be a big challenge- the Guniess factory. Part factory, part museum, part restaruant, part skybar. Of course none of us but the teachers were allowed to drink, but one does not need alcohol to have a good time there. It was a great way to spend our final day in Ireland.
Day 6: April 9
France!! This what my territory, only because I was the best french speaking student, hence I traveled with the non-french-speaking teacher. I was even communicating with the taxi driver from the airport to the house boat. Yeah- not a hotel or a freezing hostel like we were used to- but a very quaint and sizable houe boat on the Seine river right below La Tour Eiffel. After my friend Colleen and I made paninis for everyone we hit up the Champs Elysee at night when it was all lit up- a good start to the city. We even had enough inspiration to climb L'Arc de Triomphe and stand on the top of it for about half an hour… in the freezing rain… in suspense of the La Tour Eiffel at 10:00pm. Each hour on the hour after 9pm the tour not only lights up its usual heavenly gold, but it actually sparkles a radiant blue. I have seen amazing, impressive, victorian, and modern, but never have I considered a structure to be elegant. I felt beautiful just in it's presence.
Day 7: April10
This day we actaully went up La Tour. The climb itself took less time than the wait… mostly because we were waiting in the wrong line. Again, it was windy and raining and cold. But no one cared. We were determined to get the fullest European experience if killed us. The view from the sommet of the tower is fantastic by the way. Once we regathered as a group we headed for Notre Dame. Again with the long waiting lines- but again, worth it. I was in absolute awe at the detail that went into creating this cathedral. Each sculpture is different, and there are hundreds just around the door way!! Just as I was about to say, "You don't see that kind of talent in art this century" I encountered some french art students inside who were just sitting there drawing what they saw, and so easily I might add. As a future architect major, I was overwhelmed by the talented that was surrounding me
Dear Reader: This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. Our independent journalism is not influenced by any advertiser or commercial initiative unless it is clearly marked as sponsored content. As travel products change, please be sure to reconfirm all details and stay up to date with current events to ensure a safe and successful trip.
0 Replies to “Paris&Ireland”
Comment on this article
This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.
Your thoughtful tips—like timing your visit for fewer crowds and savoring the local seafood—add so much value for planning a perfect summer getaway. Thanks for sharing such a beautifully curated list—I’m definitely adding these towns to my travel list!
This enthusiastic blog provides a huge list of 51 varied and exciting summer vacation ideas for families, offering options from theme parks to national parks both near and far.
Absolutely love the insights you’ve shared in this blog!
Hi there, just became aware of your blog through Google, and found that it’s truly informative.
I am gonna watch out for brussels. I’ll be grateful if you continue this in future.
A lot of people will be benefited from your writing.
Cheers!
Lovely just what I was looking for.Thanks to the author for taking his clock time on this one.
wow
Great read! I really appreciated the insights you shared—especially the way you broke things down in a clear and relatable way. Looking forward to more content like this. Keep up the great work!
Traveling to Aruba promises an unforgettable escape. From white-sand beaches to clear turquoise waters, this Caribbean gem invites you to create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t forget your sunscreen and sense of adventure!
Thanks very nice blog!
Way cool! Some extremely valid points! I appreciate you penning this write-up plus the rest of the site is very good.
This article was very informative thank you!
For the people that are planning to go to Aruba, I would also suggest this website: https://canitravel.net/countries/aruba . I used it last month when I went to Aruba and it always had up-to-date travel restrictions. I hope this helps 🙂
Nice post!
Hey There. I found your blog using msn. This is a really well written article.
I’ll make sure to bookmark it and return to read more of your useful information. Thanks
for the post. I will definitely comeback.
This is such helpful information! Traveling with minors can get complicated, and having all the required documents ready makes the process so much smoother. Thanks for breaking it down so clearly!
Great blog! I really enjoyed reading it. The way you explained everything in such simple and clear words made it easy to follow. Sometimes blogs can get too technical or confusing, but this one was straight to the point and very helpful.
I got good info from your blog
Keep working ,great job!
I haven’t checked in here for a while as I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are great quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my daily bloglist. You deserve it my friend 🙂
I had the chance to experience Denmark during the Christmas season, and it’s something I’ll always hold close to my heart. Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen felt like stepping into a storybook. The way the entire park was dressed in soft, glowing lights, handmade decorations, and the comforting scent of mulled wine in the air made every moment feel special.
There’s a unique warmth about this place that isn’t just from the cocoa or winter drinks, but from the people, the laughter, and the little traditions scattered around every corner. Watching families gather, children’s faces light up at the sight of the reindeer, and the simple joy of wandering through beautifully decorated stalls reminded me how lovely the holiday season can be.
It’s not just about the decorations or the rides — it’s the feeling of togetherness, the calm, and the way time seems to slow down so you can really take in the small, meaningful moments. I left with a heart full of good memories and a deep appreciation for the charm and kindness of Danish traditions.
If you ever get the chance to visit, I promise it’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left.
The article is full of information , thanks for such a good knowledge.
This article is incredibly informative and well-structured. It offers clear, practical guidance on a topic many travelers often overlook—traveling with minors. The detailed breakdown of required documents and the emphasis on consent letters provide much-needed clarity for parents and guardians planning a trip. A must-read for anyone traveling with children!
Great article! I completely agree with your points.
Keep up the good work
Excellent post however I was wanting to know if you could write a litte more on this topic?
I’d be very thankful if you could elaborate a little bit further.
Thanks!
Hi, yes this post is genuinely nice and I have learned lot of things from it concerning blogging. thanks.
Excellent post! I found your analysis both engaging and informative. Well done.
I have been absent for some time, but now I remember why I used to love this web site. Thanks, I will try and check back more often. How frequently you update your web site?
Very interesting information!Perfect just what I was searching for!
Youre so cool! I dont suppose Ive read anything like this before. So good to search out anyone with some unique thoughts on this subject. realy thanks for starting this up. this website is one thing that’s needed on the internet, someone with a bit originality. helpful job for bringing one thing new to the internet!
Thank you for such praise, I am glad I could present the material in a way that made you want to see and experience St. Augustine’s Black history for yourself.
Of course, this beach town has lots more to offer but if you are willing to walk the lanes and dig a little bit, the history of the first Blacks and how much they contributed to protecting the colony is fascinating.
Hope you get there and enjoy your trip.
Your trip sounds absolutely incredible! Lisbon is truly a magical city, and your experience during the EuroCup must have made it even more special. If anyone reading this is planning a trip to Lisbon, I highly recommend taking a free walking tour to explore the city’s rich history, charming streets, and hidden gems with a local guide. You can check out this great option: https://www.guruwalk.com/lisbon. It’s a fantastic way to get an insider’s perspective on the city!
It’s iin reality a great and helpful piece oof info.
I’m satisfied that you shared this helpful information with us.
Please keep us informed like this. Thank you for sharing
Great content for cruise lovers !! One of the most advantage of cruising is you do not have to pick your luggages every day , and every day you discover a new country. Although one day is not enough to see everything it gives an idea about a country ! With my experience since 2007, 99,9% of my guest said that Kusadasi/Turkey is their favorite port among all the other ports. Because we have a lot of options for every traveler. The most popular places , if your ship is docking at Kusadasi, is Ephesus ancient city which is only 25 min. drive away. Ephesus was the 4th largest ancient city of the world in 2 c AD.Most of the ruins are reconstructed and gives an idea about Roman’ glorious times. If you ever visit Ephesus, I suggest you to see Terrace Houses , where the rich were living and houses are decorated with beautiful mosaics and frescoes from 3rd c AD.If you want to add a spiritual break , thats House of Virgin Mary is there. It is believed that she was taken by St. John the apostle to there.Another place you must see Ephesus Museum.. Forget all that boring museums you have seen . While guiding , I explain the most interesting artifacts , including original staue of Artemis. BTW. did you know that one of seven wonders of ancient world was located there? Well… not so much left , but it is still worth to be seen. If you ever visit Kusadasi,and want to have private tour, please feel free to contact with me ! I am very happy to answer your questions and customize your trip to Ephesus. Please visit my website,not only for Ephesus trip but also to get an idea about my beloved country Turkey/Turkiye. You can see different types of tours that I organize. Archaeological , culinary or lets customize your tour to Turkey together!! luxurytoursofturkey.com/