So it is fair question to ask why Rising Road Journeys would focus on Ireland. There are several countries across the world that offer complex histories, rich culture, and beautiful scenery. Italy has amazing pasta and Roman ruins. India offers incredible cuisine and one of the oldest cultures in the world. The United States has breathtaking scenery and vibrant cities. What is it that makes Ireland stand out among destinations to us and inspires us to want to share it with other travelers?
It is the people. People from Ireland are on most occasions both interesting and interested. They are intelligent and curious. They are open to other people without losing who they are. They are trusting and kind. As an American, this is almost shocking. We tend to be more reserved and unwilling to open up. Ireland is where I have felt the most comfortable when I am traveling. It helps that people in Ireland speak English so it feels both foreign and familiar at the same time.
It is the history. Rome didn’t make it to Ireland. This makes it very unique in Western European history. Christianity and Druidism mixed to create a colorful, poetic, and exciting place. Monasteries became centers of culture, medicine, and scholarship. After Ireland’s conversion, the story then becomes one of occupation and liberation as waves of people from the continent came over to conquer and colonize like the Vikings, the Normans, and the English. The people of the Republic Of Ireland evolved, but ultimately refused to bend and now look forward with optimism and determination, while still aware of a tumultuous past.
It is the culture. Ireland is a place rich in story and song where the songwriters and storytellers are highly regarded. The Irish respect and appreciate poetry and performance, dance and art. From the music and the theatre to the cuisine and the design, Irish culture is at once reaching in new attractions and never forgetting its roots. It is its greatest export.
It is the land and sea. On the island of Ireland, you can overlook the vast Atlantic from towering cliffs or climb a hallowed peak to look for inspiring vistas. You can wander caves and dark forests. The very rocks and hills are part of the fabric of the Island. Famous for horses and cattle that graze its rich earth and the fresh fish that inhabit its cold waters, the ecology of Ireland feeds both body and soul.
It is the pubs. It is an institution as sacred as the Church. Although there are great bars, cafes, and pubs across the world, no one does it quite as well as the Irish. Pubs in Ireland aspire to be welcoming and public. Song and story are almost always encouraged. If privacy is required, it is respected, but quite regularly a complete stranger will start a conversation with you and offer you a pint as an enticement. Community can only happen with conversation.
Whether you want to learn more about its past or present, Ireland has something to offer everyone. Contact us today to start your Irish journey.
