A common question asked is, "If you could go anywhere, where would it be?" I have thought about this question a lot during my time in college. Do I want to go somewhere relaxing or somewhere educational? Would I want to go somewhere warmer or somewhere cooler? There are so many factors to this question. I think I finally know what my perfect answer is. If I could travel anywhere I would travel to Ireland.
Why Ireland you might ask? Well here are a few of the reasons.
Landscape
I think Ireland is absolutely beautiful. I want to walk the among the green banks and hills. I want to walk along the shorelines and swim in the beautiful waters. I want to see The Ring of Kerry and The Cliffs of Moher. My main goal would be to see the Aran Islands.
History
I love history. I want to learn the history of Ireland. I really am interested in the history of St. Patrick's Day and leprechauns. I want to learn the history because it is engraved in my family roots. Also, being a criminal justice major, I want to visit Kilmainham Gaol, which has one of the scariest histories in Ireland.
Family
My family heritage has always interested me, I want to know more about my family. My last name, McClure, derives from Ireland and Scotland. I want to know about my ancestors and what inspired them to travel to the United States. Plus, my family has the worst luck and I tend to always blame it on my Irish ancestors. I always say that they cursed us by stealing gold from leprechauns.
Tourist Locations
I want to visit Grafton Street in Dublin. Grafton Street is full of shops, performers, and authentic Irish food. I also want to visit the English Market in Cork. As any other tourist would, I want to visit the castles that hold so many secrets and beautiful pieces. The castle that I really want to visit is Rock of Cashel. Growing up I wanted to live in a castle, but old habits die hard.
Pubs
I have always wanted to visit an Irish pub. I want to visit their most popular and best-hidden pubs. I want to embark on authentic Irish beer and food while getting to know the history of the pub and the locals surrounding it. The pub I wish to visit the most is The Brazen Head, the oldest pub in Ireland. It is located in Dublin. I would love to be celebrating St. Patrick's Day in Ireland!
While at the pubs I want to try some famous Irish drinks. I have three drinks that I really want to try: Black n' Black, Fat Frog, and Smithwicks.
Although, I may never have the chance to go to Ireland at least I have an answer to the question.
Where is your dream travel destination?