Being Irish means many things. As you travel throughout the country you will hear many a tall tale and references to something either an ancestor did or a saint had to be called upon. Either way, the Irish have a gift for the sensational conversation and the more you laugh the more they go on. Politics, weather, news and what happened in town last night will usually be topics of discussion. Personally, I fell in love with the simple curiosities and questions they asked to get the conversation started and always with a grin. You should know a few phrases but simply slowing down and listening is the easiest way to learn. You may not know "where's the craic?" but if you hear it's at Murphy's pub, you'll understand it's where the fun can be found. Like many other UK countries, Ireland enjoys a good drink whether it be at a pub or tea in a local cafe. It's not all drink though, Ireland has some of the world's most delicious meats, dairy and grain products. With so much lush green land to graze, there's no shortage of locally grown and organic fruits and veggies. Don't forget the Irish know their fish and the fresh seafood selection here is fantastic!

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Ireland also has some of the biggest names in literature and the love of the creative arts is in every shop. Step dancing is competitive and playing an instrument and /or singing is essential. Thoroughbred racing and rearing are alive and well. Protestant and Catholic abbeys and churches can be found almost in every village and city. In fact, the Irish flag was given to the Irish by a small group of French sympathizers, the green represents Catholics and the orange, Protestants. The white in between means peace. In Northern Ireland, the Union Jack flag flies high as loyalists are still proudly showing their allegiance however, it is safe to ponder the area's murals reflecting the times of "the troubles". I encourage you to research Ireland's history especially politically. Understanding the hardships and the triumphs as a nation they have had truly helps you understand their unwavering nationalism. 

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