Ireland is one of the most diverse and beautiful places in the world. With rolling hills and unique architecture, the landscape of the country is truly distinctive and memorable. The Irish people are renowned for their hospitality and traditions and you will totally enjoy immersing yourself in their culture.

Ireland has no shortage of beautiful scenery such as the Cliffs of Moher that rise nearly 600 feet from the Atlantic Ocean affording expansive views. People don't think about Ireland having pretty beaches but it does. All of the nicer ones are in the Southwest of the country. If you like beaches, try Barleycove in West Cork, it's a big beach with dunes and pretty water.

Of course the Emerald Isle is famous for the pubs that are all over the place as well and after hanging out at a few of them you will have a hard time finding any that can match them. Do your research before you go and have a list that you want to visit, it doesn't matter what part of the country you stay in there will be plenty to choose from.

The music of the country is another reason people love to visit, you will hear plenty of traditional Irish music at the pubs with many of them having live music nightly. The town of Cork hosts the Cork Jazz Festival which is always a fun time filled with food and music.

Of course the things that many people think about when thinking of Ireland are the castles, of which there are many. If you like, you can even arrange to stay at some of the castles as they have been renovated for such use. The Blarney Castle is the home of the world famous Blarney Stone and is always a favorite with tourists as is the Dublin Castle, which you will definitely want to see while you are there. One of the favorite castles to stay at is the Ashford Castle in Mayo on the west coast of the country. It has been renovated to include a resort with many dining rooms, unique activities and even a health spa. By the way, if you are into spas, try out the Samas Spa at the Park Hotel in Kenmare.

Don't be a stick in the mud while you are visiting the beautiful country, get out and enjoy the area and take advantage of activities like horseback riding or golf. The golf courses in Ireland are some of the most beautiful in the entire world. If you are a golfer you must golf while in Ireland, your friends would never let you live it down if you didn't.

Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about Ireland and Irish Gifts at http://www.uniqueirishgifts.com

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