ireland tourist stealing

• Entertainment

Gang who viciously attacked US tourist have been ‘terrorising area for a year’

Gardai have made over 14,000 arrests across Dublin in the last six months – roughly 79 a day – but Justice Minister Helen McEntee has insisted the capital is a safe place.

This comes as an American tourist remains in hospital after being viciously assaulted in the city centre, with the chief suspects in the unprovoked attack – part of a gang of youths who have been terrorising the inner city for over a year – still at large.

Today's top videos

Story continues below.

One of the main suspects, a 14-year-old boy, has already been identified by gardaí, who are now attempting to question the child.

The other two suspects are believed to be friends of the teen and are part of a larger gang who have been causing serious trouble in the area.

The 14-year-old is well known to gardaí and has previously come to their attention over assaults, thefts and other public order offences.

It is understood some of the suspects have already received the benefit of the juvenile diversion scheme which was set up to give young offenders a chance to avoid the courts system.

In a press conference yesterday, Minister McEntee insisted Dublin ‘is a safe city’, but admitted ‘you cannot be safe all the time’.

She told reporters: ‘If I could say at the outset I just wish nothing but the best for that gentleman [who was attacked]. This was a vicious, unprovoked attack that should not have happened and obviously the first response by the gardaí is to make sure that those who are responsible are brought to justice, and that is happening.

‘We have a plan to make sure that people are safe and feel safe in their towns, in their cities, be they urban or rural.’

She continued: ‘In saying that, you’re not going to be safe all the time, everywhere in a city centre or anywhere, and I acknowledge that there can be challenges and difficulties, but it is about making sure that where possible, you prevent incidents from happening, but you can’t always prevent everything from happening.

‘It’s how you respond to it and how you make sure that there are enough resources and the ability to deal with crimes when they happen.

‘But I do think our city is safe, I have to stress that whether you’re living here, working here or whether you’re a tourist here. I do think our city is safe, but we do, like any other city, have problems that we need to try and address – not least the horrific incident that happened this week.’

However, business owners in the Talbot Street area where the assault took place have reacted in disbelief to the minister’s remarks, and told the Irish Daily Mail the area is blighted by drugs and feral gangs of youths.

‘I’ve been working here for 20 years and I’ve never seen things as bad,’ said the manager of a popular café. ‘The only reason why this street is under the spotlight now is because an American tourist was violently attacked around the corner. But incidents like this happen all the time, we just never hear about them.’

In a statement to the Mail, gardaí said they have made 14,272 arrests as part of Operation Citizen, a Garda initiative set up in 2021 to combat street crime.

The figures equate to around 2,400 arrests per month or just under 80 detentions every single day. Gardaí said that for the six months of the year, 27,804 charges have been brought, 28,708 summonses issued and €34million worth of drugs seized.

In this same time period, a total of 2,855 juvenile liaison officer referrals were issued.

The 57-year-old victim, who is from New York, remains in intensive care in Beaumont Hospital.

He suffered serious facial injuries in the unprovoked attack, including a fractured eye socket. Doctors are now attempting to save him from losing his eye. They are also checking for signs of brain damage.

It is understood Mr Termini was kicked several times in the head while he was already knocked out.

Man found to have over 300 images of child pornography on several phones, court hears

Search for missing mum in donegal stood down after body found, gardaí issue missing person appeal for dublin teenager missing for over a week, must read news.

More: Trending News

• Séanadh
• Deasc chabhrach
• Gaeilge English

Produced by the Office of the Attorney General

Táirgthe ag Oifig an Ard-Aighne

• Acts of the Oireachtas
• Statutory Instruments
• Pre-1922 Legislation
• Constitution
• Bills (Houses of the Oireachtas)
• Iris Oifigiúil / Official Gazette
• Revised Acts (LRC)
• Classified List of Legislation (LRC)
• Translations (acts.ie)
• Translations (Houses of the Oireachtas)
• Government Publications for Sale
• EU Law (EUR-Lex)
• Achtanna an Oireachtais
• Ionstraimí Reachtúla
• Reachtaíocht Réamh-1922
• Billí (Tithe an Oireachtais)
• Iris Oifigiúil
• Achtanna Athbhreithnithe (CAD) (An Coimisiún um Athchóiriú an Dlí)
• Liosta Rangaithe Reachtaíochta
• Aistriúcháin (achtanna.ie)
• Aistriúcháin (Tithe an Oireachtais)
• Foilseacháin Rialtais ar Díol
• Dlí AE (EUR-Lex)
• CCanna (Ceisteanna Coitianta)
• Acts Achtanna
• Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act, 2001

Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act, 2001 Permanent Page URL

• View by Section Amharc de réir Ailt
• View Full Act Amharc ar an Acht Iomlán
• Bill History Stair Bille
• Commencement, Amendments, SIs made under the Act Tosach Feidhme, Leasuithe, IRí arna ndéanamh faoin Acht
• Revised Act Acht Athbh
• Open Pdf Oscail PDF
• Print Full Act Priontáil an tAcht Iomlán
• Previous Section Alt Roimhe
• Next Section An Chéad Alt Eile
• Print Section Priontáil an tAlt

• Limerick Live

https://www.limerickleader.ie/section/1195/advertise-with-us

• Advertise With Us
• Sponsored Content
• Camera Club
• National News
• Pictures & Videos
• Send Us Your News
• St Patrick's Day
• GAA Preview

31 May 2024

Bringing you live local breaking news, sport, politics, weather & more in Limerick and County Limerick

All the latest breaking local news from Limerick and County Limerick

Keep up to date with the latest sports news

Up to the minute national and local election coverage

Read all the latest Irish news and updates from around Ireland

Find whats happening in and around Limerick and County Limerick

Enjoy our award winning photos and picture galleries taken in Limerick and County Limerick

Catch up on all the latest business news in Limerick and County Limerick

Read about the latest properties available in Limerick and County Limerick

Enjoy our latest and up to date motoring review and news in Limerick and County Limerick

Limerick and County Limerick Met Eireann Weather Forecast

Recent death notices and obituaries from Limerick and County Limerick

We need your support!

Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content.

Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist.

If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter .

Support our mission and join our community now.

Subscribe Today!

To continue reading this article, you can subscribe for as little as €0.50 per week which will also give you access to all of our premium content and archived articles!

Alternatively, you can pay €0.50 per article, capped at €1 per day.

Thank you for supporting Ireland's best local journalism!

• You are in:
• Limerickleader
• Crime and Courts

Woman accused of stealing wallet from tourist in Limerick city centre

The suspect was arrested shortly after the incident

David Hurley

05 Aug 2021 6:00 PM

[email protected]

A WOMAN has been charged in connection with an incident in Limerick city centre during which a wallet was stolen from a tourist.

According to the gardai, the incident happened in recent days near Colbert Station at Parnell Street.

"A female was begging in the area and she approached the tourist. When he opened his wallet to give her change she grabbed his cash and ran off," said divisional crime prevention officer Sergeant Ber Leeth.

This victim was able to identify a female suspect who was still in the area when gardai arrived. She was arrested and charged and is now before the courts.

"Never engage with somebody who is begging, do not make eye contact and walk on swiftly. If you do want to donate some money, donate it to a registered charity," advised Sgt Leetch.

Witnesses sought following weekend assault in Limerick

To continue reading this article, please subscribe and support local journalism!

Subscribing will allow you access to all of our premium content and archived articles.

To continue reading this article for FREE, please kindly register and/or log in.

Registration is absolutely 100% FREE and will help us personalise your experience on our sites. You can also sign up to our carefully curated newsletter(s) to keep up to date with your latest local news!

Most Popular

Throwback Thursday: Pictures from the Limerick Leader archives

Limerick fans pictured at event honouring 1984 Munster and All-Ireland winning Limerick minor hurling team | PICTURE: Brendan Gleeson

PICTURES: Limerick's 1984 Munster and All-Ireland winning minor hurling team honoured

Met Éireann in late June Bank Holiday weather twist and it's not good news

Met Éireann in late June Bank Holiday weather twist and it's not good news

Breaking: cash, drugs and cars seized in searches across five counties including limerick, pictures: former limerick classmates reunite at 60 year reunion, shine family are behind the award winning company samco agri sales based in adare, co limerick.

Tickets are on sale now!

Hermitage Green are back on home soil this summer at Live at the Docklands presented by Dolan's

Paint like a pro: how to add colour to your garden with a painted fence, limerick icmsa say concrete inflation and mica levy pushing tams costings into 'fantasy land', harness the potential of solar energy and cut down on your farm costs.

Pictures & Videos

Minister McEntee says Limerick will get 'its fair share' of gardaí to increase presence in city

Arts & Entertainment

WATCH: Saoirse Ronan 'magnificent' in new film about addiction struggles

Pat Sheehan presents Tom Kidd, Aisling Annacotty with Premier League Player of the Year in McGettigans | PICTURE: Brendan Gleeson

Junior Soccer

PICTURES: Limerick District League Junior Soccer award winners announced

We've got Donegal Covered...

Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie

Buy a paper

Buy the e-paper of the Donegal Democrat, Donegal People's Press, Donegal Post and Inish Times here for instant access to Donegal's premier news titles.

Get the news

Keep up with the latest news from Donegal with our daily newsletter featuring the most important stories of the day delivered to your inbox every evening at 5pm.

• Cookie Policy
• Privacy Policy

Iconic Digital Titles

• Carlow Live
• Donegal Live
• Éire Bheo
• Ireland Live
• Kildare Live
• Kildare Now
• Kilkenny Live
• Leitrim Live
• Letterkenny Live
• Longford Live
• Nenagh Live
• Offaly Live
• Tipperary Live
• Waterford Live

Iconic Print Titles

• Clonmel Nationalist
• County Derry Post
• Donegal Democrat
• Donegal Post
• Dundalk Democrat
• Homes in Donegal
• Inish Times
• Kilkenny People
• Leinster Express
• Leinster Leader
• Leitrim Observer
• Limerick Leader
• Longford Leader
• Midland Tribune
• Tipperary Star
• Tullamore Tribune

This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Code of Practice of the Press Council. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: [email protected].

Ireland Travel Deals

Tourist faces arrest for stealing 41kg of pebbles from sardinian beach.

• 05.09.2023 19:55
• Bruno Arcos

A French tourist visiting the picturesque island of Sardinia was arrested for attempting to smuggle a staggering 41 kilograms of pebbles from the protected Lampianu beach. While collecting souvenirs from vacations is a common practice, this tourist’s choice of loot could lead to a hefty fine of up to 3000€ and even potential jail time.

Do you want to receive notifications about new offers?

Sign up and decide which deals you will receive. We won't send spam!

According to Euronews , the incident unfolded as the Frenchman was intercepted by local police while attempting to board a ferry from Porto Torres to the French Port of Nice. While conducting regular traffic searches, the officers discovered the stash in the trunk of his car, consisting of pebbles and stones plucked from the pristine shores of Lampianu beach .

Famous for its world-class white sand beaches, Sardinia has strict regulations in place to protect its coastal environment, which is why stealing or selling sand, pebbles, stones or shells from the island’s coastline is absolutely forbidden, and subject to fines of up to 3000€ . In more severe cases, tourists can even face prison time if convicted on charges of theft with the aggravating circumstance of having stolen an asset of public utility . This incident isn’t the first of its kind. In 2019, another French couple was apprehended with 40 kilograms of sand stored in 14 plastic bottles.

Pierluigi Cocco, an environmental scientist from Sardinia, explained the potential impact of these thefts in 2019, highlighting that such activities, although seemingly innocuous, can have significant ecological consequences . “Only a fraction of the tourists visiting Sardinia spend their time digging up to 40kg of sand each. But if you multiply half that amount times 5 per cent of the one million tourists per year, in a few years that would contribute significantly to the reduction of beaches”.

As more environmental groups and campaigners, such as “Sardegna rubata e depredate” (“Sardinia robbed and plundered”), raise awareness on this urgent issue, authorities are cracking down on such thefts to protect the island’s pristine coastal environment. As for now, local authorities hope these actions are enough to persuade tourists from attempting to take pieces of the island’s natural beauty home as a souvenir.

Traveling soon? Get your Holafly eSIM for seamless internet access in any destination. No more worrying about roaming charges or finding local SIM cards. Enjoy unlimited data and stay connected with ease. Order your Holafly eSIM now »

Heymondo offers a wide range of travel assistance insurance policies. They combine the best quality, service and price with various levels of coverage, so you’re covered on your weekend getaways and long trips. Buy insurance »

SUMMER☀️ Aer Lingus flights from Dublin to Apulia, Italy for €153

• 31.05.2024 12:23

British Airways flights from Dublin to Singapore for €498

• 31.05.2024 10:18

CHEAP💥 Flights from Cork to Rome from €26

• 31.05.2024 09:08

Blog Subscription via Follow.it

Get new blog posts by email:, december 6, 2018.

From the Rogues' Gallery: The interesting life of Andrew Shannon, convicted (again) in Dublin for possessing a stolen painting

0 comments:

Post a Comment

13 most overrated tourist traps in Ireland

That rush of excitement you get as you know your trip to Ireland is getting closer. The intensity of planning your Irish itinerary. Do you go west to the Wild Atlantic Way , how long should you stay in Dublin ?

Don’t get me wrong I adore Ireland but I know as in any country in the world there are places that are simply overrated tourist traps and places to avoid and Ireland is no exception.

A tourist trap is called a “trap” for a good reason often it is overhyped, exaggerated and an awful disappointment once you get there. It’s also a very personal thing what I consider an Irish tourist trap is something you might head for because you heard someone else loved it.

Xyuandbeyond is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission . You can read my privacy policy here.

If you planning your visit to Ireland and you want to find some alternatives to the overhyped and over-exaggerated Irish tourist traps this list will give you some brilliant alternatives to plan for.

It’s also good to keep in mind that you don’t want to get ripped off at Irish tourism sites and you need to know what the locals know to find valuable tips when touring Ireland . Some sites are simply over-touristed and becoming dangerously close to environmental damage.

#1 The OPW (Office of Public Works) offers free entry to many Irish heritage sites on the first Wednesday of each month. 

#2 Buy a British Heritage card they now have a partnership with Irish heritage and you can see sites in both Northern Ireland and in the ROI

Tourists simply have to head to the Cliffs of Moher, check out Temple Bar in Dublin and kiss the Blarney Stone. Really though do you want to kiss a thing that countless others have kissed before you? Do you want to pay over the top for a beer even if it is a Guinness?

These are 13 of the most overrated tourist traps in Ireland and I’m sure there are countless more, but like any country that is finding its feet with tourism, you will discover the weird and wonderful.

Teeling Distillery Tour

Crumlin road gaol, loop head cliffs, slieve league – donegal, bunratty castle and folk park.

• O'Donoghues Pub

Powerscourt House & Gardens

Replica book of kells in kells, game of thrones or vikings filming sites, creative corner dublin, carlingford, molly malone dublin, the spire dublin, beacon of hope, the salmon of knowledge, kindred spirits in cork, coffin ship in murrisk, 13 tourist traps in ireland & their alternative.

Exploring the non touristy things to do in Ireland unveils unique authentic experiences beyond the tourist trail. Venture into the rugged landscapes of Connemara and lose yourself in the tranquility of its lakes and mountains. Wander through quaint villages like Adare, where thatched cottages exude charm, or delve into history at the Rock of Cashel’s ancient ruins and Hore Abbey across the road.

For a taste of local flavors, explore farmers’ markets like Cork’s English Market, or Limerick’s Milk Market which offer a glimpse into Ireland’s culinary heritage .

Guinness Storehouse Dublin

For the past several years, the Guinness showcase has been the country’s top visitor attraction and it has become synonymous with Ireland with tourists pouring into the place to learn to pour.

The Guinness Storehouse tour costs FROM €18.50 if booked online or €25.00 if buying a walk-up ticket. Okay, so it does include a ridiculously expensive pint of the black stuff.

However, the Guinness storehouse is not about seeing how the stuff is brewed it’s about walking through a sort of museum with video displays, photographs and ephemera all about Guinness. Then you head up to the Sky bar (which I will admit has some stonking views of Dublin) to learn how to pour a pint and drink one.

The wait in line can run over an hour in the summer months and then your visit is an overcrowded nightmare of people pushing and you can’t hear the bartender when you attempt to get the cheap paper certificate that you officially learned how to pour a Guinness.

Go here instead

The Teeling tours are all fully guided and you get to see the complete whiskey-making process including some gorgeous copper stills that have returned to Dublin. At the end of the tour, there is a whiskey tasting with a selection of options. Oh, and the cost of admission is from  €15.00. You can also take part in “experiences” such as the Single Malt Experience which costs €50.00.

This is a small group guided tour that finished with a tasting of  Teeling Single Malt, Brabazon Series 1, Revival Vol. V & 23-Year-Old Single Cask whiskeys. They do get booked up very quickly in the summer months so don’t take a chance and book online .

Titanic Belfast

I tried, I really tried to love this attraction in Belfast , after all, shipbuilding is the very cornerstone of old Belfast’s prosperity. Not that it lasted of course and there is really nothing left to see at the docks where the Titanic exhibition now stands.

The  Titanic Experience has nine interactive galleries tour, and it is self-guided. In the summer months, it is an absolute crush and you are pretty much pushed from pillar to post with no time to really read or see any of the exhibits. The Exhibit does not include anything from the actual Titanic but is simply a museum relating the facts about shipbuilding in Belfast and the building of the great ship itself.

If you have seen some photos online of the Grand Titanic Staircase the tour does NOT include this but you can book a very expensive Sunday Afternoon tea at £28.50 each to indulge in a few overrated finger sandwiches and some tea and cakes to be able to take your selfie on the replica of the grand staircase.

For an entry fee of  £19.00, it rates a 5 out of 5 for overrated Irish tourist attractions.

Go see this instead

Crumlin Road Gaol has been an integral part of Belfast’s history for over 150 years. There are a variety of tours you can take from a Ghost Walk to Victorian Tour and a Paranormal Tour.

The guided tour costs  £12.00 if you are a walk-up or if you book online £9.00, fantastic value I assure you. The tour takes you through the footsteps of over 25,000 prisoners.

It’s a pretty extensive tour and gives you a view of the Gaol’s history including when women and children were imprisoned, the executions that were carried out, and its more recent history during the “Troubles” and why the decision was taken to close the prison.

They will cover all aspects of the Gaol from the Tunnel linking the courthouse on the other side of the Crumlin Road to the Hanging Cell, the Historic Holding Cells, Centre Circle, C-Wing and Graveyard.

Cliffs of Moher

This one I know will cause lots of controversy. Now I’m not saying the Cliffs of Moher aren’t magnificent. What I am saying is why are you paying to see a natural wonder? Cost to see the Cliffs of Moher is €8.00.  If you want to climb O’Brien’s Tower at the Cliffs there is an extra charge of €4.00. There is a large car park at the Cliffs and all-day parking here is included in the price of a visitor centre ticket. There are free ways to see the Cliffs of Moher unless of course, you love a Visitor’s Centre.

If you want to see puffins in Ireland check out some of the boat tours of the Cliffs of Moher.

See this instead

Two places I highly recommend that are free is the Loop Head Peninsula, County Clare and Slieve League in Donegal .

If you are seeking a less touristy route than the Cliffs of Moher you should give the drive around Loop Head Peninsula a try. Isolated, raw and beautiful the Loop Head cliffs are just as stunning, the views are free and the outlook can be photographed in all its stunning glory with nary a tourist in sight. 

Slieve League is believed to be the highest in Europe and offer absolutely spectacular views. There are several ways up the mountain. In season there is a shuttle bus to take you to the top viewing point, but during quieter seasons you pass the second parking lot and enter the trail by car through the gate, simply close the gate behind you and drive up to the viewing point. Oh, and it is absolutely free.

Galway City

Apologies to all who love Galway City but I just couldn’t love it. Other cities in Ireland hold much more appeal. I know everyone says to go to Galway for trad music but to be honest, Donegal Town and the whole County is much better. Galway City’s Shop street is dirty, crumbling and in dire need of repair. The area looks dingy and rundown not a city at its finest.

There are however a plethora of “Irish gifts” to be had, most of which are not made in Ireland although you can buy an “authentic” Claddagh ring here. The colourful shop fronts do make for great Instagram posts as well so if that’s all your looking for then, by all means, go to Galway but I can’t help but think it’s an overrated tourist trap in Ireland sadly.

The central area where all the “action” is was a terrible place to spend the night. Way overpriced for second rate accommodation. Noisy as all hell with drunken students barfing everywhere – not pleasant. These days ructions are happening as well over the buskers in Galway some of which are simply superb. Things like drum kits, amplification and backing tracks are banned and the buskers are up in arms.

Cork is fabulous a lively young town with a great vibe. The English Market is foodie heaven and the small independent shops sell some pretty cool stuff you won’t find anywhere else.

The streets are clean and there is a great choice of shops from big chains to small Irish independent stores.

The busking is great fun and there are some very talented people playing in the streets. The restaurant and cafe life is brilliant.

There are literally dozens of smaller beautiful towns and villages to visit that aren’t Irish tourist traps. Get in your car and just drive – you’ll find them.

Kissing the Blarney Stone

I cannot imagine kissing a stone that locals are said to have peed on. I know that’s probably an urban legend but still. Hiking up narrow, dangerous steps so dangerous in fact some people have been known to slip and break limbs. In fact, one American was so badly hurt when he slipped he sued the Castle.

The stone itself is an exercise in vertigo and although you have help to bend over backwards to kiss the damn thing it just doesn’t appeal. If you are mobility challenged trust me you won’t make it up there so don’t bother. Entry fee is €16 online or walk-ups  €18.

The Castle and the folk park are brilliant, don’t bother with the whole rather overpriced Medieval Feast. Any Medieval Feast is not truly medieval food and really cheesy with bad acting and even worse ambience.

Having said that the Castle is cool and the cost is The Castle and Village cost is €15.25 per adult and €10.50 per child. The Castle does hold Ireland’s most impressive and extensive collection of medieval furniture in the country which is on view in the Castle.

Visiting the Bunratty Folk Park is a real treat, set over 26 acres this amazing park includes over 30 buildings, a living village and a rural setting. There is a children’s play area, Gypsy caravans, and a Fairy Village. The interpreters are great and can answer virtually any question and they do love a chat.

Durty Nellies is just outside the castle and is a great place on a sunny day for a pint and a Ploughmans. I would also recommend other Castles like Birr Castle in Offaly or Carrickfergus in the North of Ireland . There are thousands of castles in Ireland (some of which are haunted) you can visit and some you can even stay in. 

Temple Bar Dublin

If any place deserves an overrated designation its Temple Bar. Smack dab in the centre of Dublin and the first place tourists head to for selfies and insta posts Temple Bar is dirty, crowded and so overpriced it could induce heart attacks. There is better food elsewhere, cheaper pints, they average around €8, and much better music to be had.

Try this instead

O’Donoghues Pub

O’Donoghues one of the most famous pubs in Dublin . A pub popular with both locals and tourists this one is famous for being the “home” pub of the Dubliners and the best place for authentic trad music . This is one of the absolute best pubs for music in Dublin.

Malahide Castle Dublin

Malahide Castle dates back to the 12th century. It sits in an estate of over 260 acres which has fairy gardens, play areas, forest walks and a walled garden.

Beautiful from the outside we heard nothing but tourists complaining how expensive the tour was (Adult online)    €12.60) and how little you got for your money. It was a guided tour but rather lacklustre was the word of the day.

Choose this instead

Not exactly a castle but a pretty damned impressive country house estate. The Powerscourt Estate and Gardens are located 20 minutes south of Dublin Located in County Wicklow and set within some of the most stunning views in the east of Ireland. Powerscourt was originally a 13th-century castle whose original owner was a de la Poer (anglicized as Power).

In 1974, a major refurbishment of the house was completed in preparation for it joining the gardens as a visitor attraction but unfortunately, a fire broke out and by the morning, the main part of the house was a roofless shell.

No one was injured, but all of the principal reception rooms and bedrooms were destroyed. In 1996, the house was re-roofed and was opened to the public.

The Gardens at Powerscourt are the great attraction of the place. With stunning views of Sugarloaf Mountain, they stretch over 47 acres and offer a breathtaking blend of formal gardens, statuary, fountains, lakes, Japanese gardens, a Pet Cemetery, the Pepperpot Tower, sweeping terraces, secret hollows and rambling walks.

Entry tickets to the gardens are Adult: €10.50 and to see the Waterfall that featured in the HBO series Vikings the cost is an extra Adult: €6.00.

Book of Kells

Everyone, even me wants to or wanted to see the Book of Kells at Trinity College. However, having done it once it just wasn’t worth the €13 euros per adult for a tour of the Old Library.

The Old Library was pretty interesting I have to say. With the Book of Kells, there are two volumes that are on display. One will be open at a page showing one of the major texts contained in the Book of Kells, and another will show you a typical page of lavishly ornamented text.

You wait in line for around an hour but book your tickets online or you just might not get in.

The actual Book of Kells was found in Kells, Quel surprise! There is a replica of the book that you can see in the church at Kells absolutely free and trust me you won’t be able to tell the difference.

The big advantage of heading to Kells itself is that not only can you see the replica and you will see 4 pages and there are some fine Celtic Crosses and the remains of a Norman Tower in the graveyard. Kell’s round tower is roofless and stands at over 25 metres and in 1076 Murchadh Mac Flainn, who was fighting for the High Kingship of Ireland, was murdered in the tower.

From Kells, you can head out to Monasterboice which is a simply stunning sight in the Irish countryside. Monasterboice is home to Ireland’s finest high crosses.

Butter Slip Kilkenny

Named as one of the oldest Medieval alleys in the world Butter Slip in Kilkenny was a dark cool alley where the butter merchants could sell their wares. The Shambles in York is far more atmospheric than Butter Slip.

I know I’m a massive history nerd but this alley just didn’t instil in me any sense of awe or history at all. It is now still a dark slippery alleyway with some shops and restaurants. The Kilkenny Medieval Mile is much more impressive than Butter Slip would have you believe.  

I loved discovering Fethard in  Tipperary it has the most complete medieval town wall in Ireland. It retains 90% of its original length of 1100 metres. With ruins dating to the 13th century, I advise you to go find the Sheela na gigs.

The ruins include several fortified tower houses to the 13th century Holy Trinity Church, the nearby 17th century Town Hall and the 14th century Augustinian Friary with its heraldic images.

The Town Wall dates from 1292 when King Edward I of England made provision to the burgesses of Fethard for ‘the inclosing of their village and the greater security of Ireland.’ 

Father Ted’s House

A Father Ted fanatic who must see the house? The house itself is located near the Burren in County Clare and the homeowners offer a chance to enter the house and have tea with them for €10.50. I found this a tad embarrassing as the interior of the house was never used in the filming and the homeowners were also not involved in any way really.

Better to simply take yourself from the outside as the exterior of the house is all that was used in the filming of the series.

Game of Thrones filming sites in Northern Ireland is one option and there are many of them as well as the Tour of Doors . The TOD are doors carved from the trees that fell in a brutal storm at the Dark Hedges. These gorgeous doors are now displayed in local pubs and restaurants across N. Ireland.

Or how about touring the Viking’s filming sites ? HBO’s epic Vikings drama with Ragnar and Lagatha was filmed mainly at the Guinness Estate in Wicklow and offers some unparalleled Irish scenery.

Grafton Street Dublin

Sadly Grafton street is now home to many a big box store it has lost a ton of charm since the Celtic tiger crashed. There are still buskers a plenty and if you are in Dublin at Christmas go catch Glen Hansard busking with other celebs on Christmas Eve to raise money for the homeless.

The Street has become rather run down and grubby over the years and is not a great place for shopping anymore and many of the original shop owners like Knobs and Knockers have had to move to cheaper locations.

Shop here instead

The Creative Corner is an area stretching from South William Street to George’s Street, and from Lower Stephen’s Street to Exchequer Street.

The area has a long-standing history dating back to the 18th century of specialist design and hosts exceptional artisan boutiques, studios, cafés and restaurants. It is home to an eclectic mix of shops, cafés, galleries, restaurants, creative businesses and plenty more.

Howth Village

Howth is located just south of Dublin and is an easy ride on the Dart. Called a “quaint seaside village” I found nothing particularly “quaint” about it.

We actually went to visit the Howth Market reputed to be the best around, well if that’s the best I can’t imagine the worst. The town is okay but the restaurants serving fish and chips are really overpriced. The harbour is sort of attractive in a fishy-smelling, bird-avoiding way. Nothing much to see here, to be honest.

You know it’s pretty bad when a place classes beauticians as tourist worthy. On the other hand, the Howth cliff walk which is free and takes around 2 hours will blow the cobwebs and city dust out of your head. This is pretty spectacular, with views of the crashing Irish sea, birds reeling overhead and a few great pubs to visit for refreshments.

Visit here instead

There are dozens of quaint Irish villages and beautiful towns to visit and Carlingford is but one of them. C arlingford is absolutely one of the prettiest places in Ireland . Right beside the fabulous Carlingford Fjord which makes a natural border between the Republic and N. Ireland.

Carlingford is a feast of pretty coloured houses side by side with medieval ruins.

Carlingford was a favourite with C.S. Lewis, of Narnia fame who grew up here. Lewis said, “That part of Rostrevor which overlooks Carlingford Lough is my idea of Narnia.”

Iconic Irish Statues to see

The Big Fish in Belfast, Molly Malone in Dublin, and the Spire here are just a few that aren’t worth going out of your way to see but you may see in passing. At the very least none of these types of tourist traps in Ireland require an entry fee.

Molly Malone in Dublin as you can see her breasts are rubbed into a different colour by tourists making a wish – I just don’t get that. What I do love is the Irish nicknames for Molly. The tart with the cart, The dish with the fish and The dolly with the trolley.

I have no clue what the Spire is meant to be but apparently, it was the winner of a contest to replace Nelson’s column which was blown up and left a gaping space. Dublin City council says this about the Spire.

“The base is gently lit and the tip illuminated from a light source within to provide a beacon in the night sky over Dublin.”

Dubliners call it one of these many nicknames

The stiletto in the ghetto The pole in the hole The rod to god

and the Stiffy by the Liffey

In Belfast, we have another range of apt nicknames for public statuary. Those iconic pieces of art that the Irish so love to give a nickname to.

A large sort of mesh ball supported by metal rods near Falls Road Belfast with the nickname – The Balls on the Falls or the Westicles.

The second-largest piece of public art in Belfast and her nicknames include;  Nuala with the Hula, the Belle on the Ball, the Thing with the Ring or the Angel of Thanksgiving.

And of course, the iconic Big Fish Belfast whose real name is the Salmon of Knowledge which at least relates to an old legend about a knowledgable fish who lived in the Boyne River.

During the dreadful famine era, the Choctaw first nations people of the US donated money to the feeding of the Irish people in Ireland. This extraordinary generosity was incredible given what they had suffered on the Trail of Tears.

A beautiful memorial sculpture was commissioned in 2014 to commemorate this great debt owed to the Choctaw Nation. This piece is in the shape of an empty bowl signifying the ‘soup pots’ that were the only food relief given to the Irish during the famine surrounded by Eagle Feathers as a symbol of the Choctaw Nation.  The Sculpture can be seen at Bailic Park, in Midleton, Co Cork.

Or how about the “Coffin Ship” that sits below Croagh Patrick in Murrisk, Mayo .

This is an incredibly evocative piece of work that haunts you for years after you see it.

If you are visiting Ireland stay away from the tourist traps or simply visit them quickly to say you’ve been there and move on to the incredible countryside. Take in some of the off-the-beaten-path sights to see and tell your friends about all the new things you found that virtually no one else has seen yet.

What’s your favourite Irish memory or non-tourist trap to visit?

You might also like

Planning a dream trip to Ireland? Everything you need to know

Travelling in Ireland without a car

Unique Gifts from Ireland – 32 of the best souvenirs of Ireland

Ultimate guide to Glendalough Ireland an ancient monastic heritage

Faith was born in Ireland raised in Canada and has lived in over 10 countries in Europe including England, Ireland, Scotland, France, Spain, Northern Ireland, Wales, along with Mexico, Antigua, the US and has slow travelled to over 40 countries around the world. Graduating with a degree in Anthropology and Women's Studies Faith is a student of history, culture, community and food and has written about these topics for over 40 years.

Ireland’s top ten ‘hidden beaches’ named

Ireland has plenty of under-the-radar beaches waiting to be discovered on your next getaway .

The top 10 hidden beaches to visit in Ireland this summer have been revealed, with Silver Strand Beach, located on Sherkin Island in County Cork , ranking as the top destination.

To help you plan your getaway, Betfair Casino has researched the ten best under-the-radar beaches in Ireland. The popularity of each beach location was measured by a unique index score based on the number of hashtags and views each coastal gem has racked up on Instagram, as well as TripAdvisor rankings, with the lower the overall index score the higher the ranking. 

Sign up to IrishCentral's newsletter to stay up-to-date with everything Irish!

Silver Strand Beach in County Cork scored the top spot and is an absolute must-see on Sherkin Island, accessible by ferry from Baltimore. The sandy beach is one of Sherkin Island’s most beautiful spots, with magnificent views of Cape Clear Island and the Atlantic Sea. 

In second place was Dog’s Bay, located in County Galway - a white-sand beach with gorgeous calm water for perfect for a dip in the warmer months as you observe the coastal views during your visit. 

Dog's Bay Beach, County Galway. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Curracloe Beach followed in second place. Situated in the southeast of Ireland in County Wexford , it’s no surprise that the sandy beach scored so highly. Fun fact - this Irish beach was used for filming "Saving Private Ryan."

Curracloe Beach, County Wexford. (Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Brittas Bay is another to tick off the list as the beach in County Wicklow has much to offer, with the dunes being very popular with locals. 

Brittas Bay, County Wicklow. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Keem Bay, County Mayo. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Killiney and Malahide Beach, both in Dublin, made the top five, while Cork's Inchydoney Beach also proved popular on the list with it being well known for its stunning natural beauty as you stroll along the expansive golden sands. 

Inchydoney Beach and Coastline, County Cork. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Another popular beach to discover this summer if you’re after a blissful and secluded cove is Fanore Beach. Located in the little village of Fanore and on the southern shore of Galway Bay, this beach has everything you could possibly want - with breathtaking views for you to take in as well as guaranteeing several moments of relaxation. 

Fanore Beach, County Clare. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Sheltered and tucked away Derrynane Beach - situated in County Kerry - is the natural harbor of Derrynane Bay. You will be promised a day of tranquil bliss as it is said to take your breath away as soon as you step onto its picturesque sands. 

Derrynane Beach, County Kerry. (Ireland's Content Pool)

Top 10 hidden beaches in Ireland:

• Silver Strand Beach, Cork
• Dog’s Bay, Galway; Curracloe Beach, Wexford; Dollymount Beach, Dublin; Tramore Beach, Waterford; Brittas Bay, Wicklow
• Keem Bay, Mayo
• Killiney Beach, Dublin
• Malahide Beach, Dublin
• Inchydoney Beach, Cork
• Fanore Beach, Shannon
• Burrow Beach, Dublin
• Derrynane Beach, Kerry
• Donabate Beach, Dublin; Seapoint Beach, Dublin

Are you planning a vacation in Ireland? Looking for advice or want to share some great memories? Join our Irish travel Facebook group.

Related: Dublin , County Galway Travel , County Cork Travel , County Mayo Travel

LAST CHANCE: Win a VIP trip to the largest Irish music festival, Milwaukee Irish Fest!

Travel Ireland's timeless landscapes of history and nature - exclusive discount on car rental

This Irish cottage on an island off the coast of Connemara is on sale for $737k

The best places in Ireland to go for a fishing vacation

Faces of the Titanic: John Horgan, lost at sea, remains a mystery man

There’s good reason why Wexford is known as the "Sunny Southeast"

Ireland's top modern golf clubs, ranked by the experts

The untold story of donations made during Ireland's Great Hunger

WATCH: Thin Lizzy (finally) releases "Whiskey in the Jar" official music video

Ireland's largest sporting body supports call for ceasefire in Gaza

Ireland’s travel secrets: The Slieve League Cliffs, Donegal

Are you sure you want to sure you want to leave the feed?

Oops... something went wrong!

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

• #Landscapes
• #CultureandHeritage
• #OutdoorActivities

Oops, no internet connection

While offline, you can still add items to ‘My Board’. New travel reccomendations will only show up once you’re back online.

See what Ireland has in store for you

Items without a physical location are not shown in map view.

Looks like your board is empty

Look out for the little heart icon around Ireland.com, simply tap the icon to start adding items to your board!

Board settings

Collection cover image.

Visible to people you share your board with

Share Board

Share a link to your ‘My Ireland’ board and inspire friends, co-travellers and family. Only you can add or remove items from your board.

Forgot your password?

Create an account.

Access My Ireland across all of your devices by logging in.

Sign up Not got an account?

Terms of use | Privacy policy

Login Got an account?

Location access

• View offers and deals nearby you
• Get travel inspiration based on your location
• Local weather warnings and useful travel information

Enable location access

Location access on ios.

• 1 Open the website settings for this website in your browser
• 2 Select Location settings
• 3 Choose “Allow
• 1 Open the My Ireland website

• 2 Select the Icon below

• 3 Select “Website Settings

• 4 Change “Location” to “Allow”

Notifications

Travel times.

Tell us when you are going to be travelling Ireland, and we will show you tailored recommendations for the duration of your trip.

• Tips for events happening during your stay
• Helpful travel reminders and updates

You have unsaved changes. Save before leaving?

We take your privacy very serious and only ever process your data with your persmission. If possible this is handled anonymously and we will never store your data for longer than is required. For more information on how we handle your personal data please read our Privacy Policy.

Remove Data

To securely remove all data associated with your profile please contact our Data Protection Officer.

Reset your Board

This will remove all the items you have previously liked from your board. Please note, you can’t undo this action.

Are you sure you want to reset your board?

This will completely reset your board and all associated data permanently. This cannot be undone.

• Created date 19 July 2023

Delete account

Sorry you’re leaving. But you gotta do what you gotta do. Just a reminder, if you delete your account, you won’t be able to post in Community. And it’s permanent so you can’t “undo” it in the future.

Destination

Ring of Kerry

Grand homes, star-strewn skies and inspiring landscapes: welcome to the Ring of Kerry.

• #WildAtlanticWay

Skellig Ring, County Kerry

Ireland in your inbox

Sign up to receive free email newsletters from Tourism Ireland, including vacation ideas, insider tips, news, and events.

We will use your email address to send you personalised content straight to your inbox based on how you interact with this website and our advertisements on other websites.

Something went wrong...

Success! Thank you for subscribing to our Newsletter!

I understand that by signing up, I will receive personalised email content based on my use of Tourism Ireland’s website, emails and Tourism Ireland’s advertising on other websites, cookies and tracking pixels. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking 'unsubscribe' in our emails. Find out more information on "How we handle your personal data" in our privacy policy .

I would like to receive information and special offers by email from carefully selected travel partners. For more information please see our privacy policy .

The spirit of Kerry

Rolling green hills and sparkling lakes. Sheep bleating and cows grazing in patchwork fields. Pristine golden strands giving way to jaw-dropping cliffs. This treasure trove in the southwest coast of Ireland really has it all, which is why people come from far and wide to see the Ring of Kerry.

This scene-stealing route around the Iveragh Peninsula, beginning and ending in Killarney, takes in all the big hitters – Moll’s Gap, Torc Waterfall and the Gap of Dunloe are winners – but really, the route itself is so much more than the sum of its parts. Within this 179km of road, you’ll find that each turn brings a new treat to the eye, from lakes, rivers and waterfalls, to grand houses and castles. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Ring of Kerry cycling route is one of Ireland’s most famous, and there is really nothing like breathing in the fresh Kerry air as you drink up the incredible views around you.

L-R: Ross Castle, Killarney; a jaunting car in the Killarney National Park; Torc Waterfall; a horse stands by a traditional stone wall

Brilliant beaches

This part of County Kerry is known for its pristine stretches of white, sandy beaches. Derrynane, Rossbeigh and St Finian's Bay are some of the most stunning, each strand a beautiful border between the glinting ocean and mountains of the Iveragh Peninsula.

St Finian's Bay, County Kerry

Top 10 things to do

Seafood fresh off the boat, a 6th century monastery and a town where a goat is crowned king – these are 10 things not to miss when traveling the Ring of Kerry...

Top things to do

Views fit for a queen

There’s a story behind the stunning "Ladies View" at the Lakes of Killarney – when Queen Victoria visited the Ring of Kerry in 1861, this spot was a favorite of her ladies-in-waiting. And the grandeur doesn’t stop at the scenery: sleeping on the edges of the world-famous lakes sits Muckross House & Gardens . This 19th century mansion, along with its lush gardens, became Ireland’s first National Park in 1932. Inside is luxury on another level, and upstairs you can even enter the perfectly preserved room that housed Queen Victoria during her famous stay!

Ladies View, Killarney, County Kerry

3 colorful towns to visit

Neat colorful houses line the streets of this pretty village that is bursting with rural charm.

Smart galleries and old-world pubs, traditional charm mixes with contemporary cool in this atmospheric town.

Backed by deep green mountains and facing the Atlantic Ocean, this coastal village is the ideal place to relax.

The mystical beauty of this part of the island has enchanted some unexpected visitors in its time. The Skellig Ring, just off the main route of the Ring of Kerry, was given a starring role in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. In the pretty village of Portmagee, the cast and crew were received by the locals as they welcome all their visitors: with a warm reception, a hot meal and some rousing traditional music!

I can’t believe they let us shoot there – it was so beautiful! J.J. Abrams, Star Wars director

Star Wars in Kerry

You don’t have to travel to a galaxy far, far away to discover a landscape that is truly out of this world. Just ask the makers of Star Wars.

On the Ring of Kerry, you really are far away from the hustle and bustle of life. So remote and tranquil is this area, that it is home to one of just three Gold Tier International Dark Sky Reserves on the planet – and the only one in the northern hemisphere. Under a canopy of twinkling lights, you can make as many wishes as you like...

Ballinskelligs, County Kerry

Your portable Ireland guide

Take your plans with you and get local offers while you're in Ireland. Discover new things nearby and access your saved places, even when you're offline.

Installing on iOS

Press the Share button

Select Add to Home Screen

Press the Add to Home Screen button

Want to see more?

Here are some great reads to get you started

Inspiration

Wild Atlantic Way

Dingle Peninsula

Ireland's pubs

Star Wars in Ireland

Ireland’s unusual pubs

Ireland: a links paradise

Ireland’s incredible natural phenomena

Starry, starry night.

• #NatureandWildlife

Quiz: the island of Ireland

Single in the city: surviving Valentine's day in Dublin

Dublin City

Ring of Kerry highlights

Don't miss these things to see and do

The Ring of Kerry Tour - Railtours Ireland First Class!

Derrynane House, National Historic Park

Caherdaniel

Murphy's of Killarney

Accommodation

Dromquinna Manor

Killarney Brewing Taproom

Avoca Handweavers Molls Gap

Tom Crean Fish and Wine

Tina Reed Artist

Killarney Rent a Bike

The Skellig Experience

Killarney National Park

Quinlan's Seafood Bar

Derrynane House is the ancestral home of Daniel O'Connell, lawyer, politician and statesman (6 Augu...

One of Killarney’s most famous bars, established in 1955, Murphy’s Bar is a traditional Irish pub of world renown, conveniently located on College Street. The pub serves an extensive menu and the finest pint of Guinness in Kerry.

Dromquinna Manor is a hotel located on a country estate overlooking Kenmare Bay in Co Kerry. A stunning waterfront wedding venue for up to 170 guests, The Manor, dating from 1885, is simply charming.

Killarney Brewing Taproom, located in the heart of Killarney town, County Kerry, is housed in the original Killarney mineral water drinks facility. Their brewers, Killarney Brewing and Distilling Company, are given creative freedom to experiment with limited edition and small batch brews.

Seafood restaurant with Craft Ale & Wine Bar situated in Kenmare, Co. Kerry.

Visit Tina Reed Artist in her studio on Sherkin Island, County Cork, or come to her summer exhibition at the Community Hall on Sherkin, the island of the arts.

Killarney Rent a Bike have a small number of rental outlets in Killarney, County Kerry.

This heritage centre tells the story of the Skellig Rocks. Learn about the monks who lived on these desolate rocks, the seabirds, the nearby lighthouses and the marine life of the Skelligs.

Make your way to the internationally renowned Killarney National Park, in County Kerry. Come here for the scenic beauty with 10,000 hectares of stunning lakes, mountains and woods.

Quinlan's Seafood Bar, located in the centre of Killarney town, will tempt diners with fresh seasonal fish and seafood in a casual elegant setting, as well as offering takeaway options.

Getting to the Ring of Kerry

Fly to Cork, Shannon or Kerry and you’re almost there. Or head to Dublin or Belfast and take the scenic cross-country route. Coming by ferry? Cork and Rosslare are your closest ports. But Dublin is a pretty easy distance.

Bias of KTUL 8

• Balanced News
• Story of the Week
• News Curation Principles
• Newsletters
• Balanced Search

Miami travel agency owner arrested amid claims of stealing thousands from vacationers

Miami Oklahoma Police said there have been hundreds of reports that Wiford Tour and Travel allegedly took thousands of dollars from vacationers, causing some to miss out on trips they had been planning for months. Diahann Wiford was taken into custody at the Ottawa County Jail and faces a charge for passing bad checks. However, police said she is also being investigated for allegedly stealing money through the travel agency Wiford Tour and Travel, a company that police believe she co-owns. “We started taking reports Friday and we put a...

Related Coverage

AllSides Picks

May 30th, 2024

AllSides Staff

May 29th, 2024

More News about General News from the Left , Center and Right

From the left, from the center, from the right.

A gastronomic guide to Georgia — the country's best wineries and restaurants

Georgia is fast earning its adventure travel stripes, with world-class hiking and off-piste skiing in the Greater Caucasus mountains. However, it's the country's vineyards and kitchens that are really stealing the show with their local wines and field-to-fork cuisine.

Vibrant and varied, Georgia’s cuisine reflects its location at the intersection of Europe and Asia on the eastern shore of the Black Sea. The country has a dozen climatic zones, ranging from subtropical to high alpine and semi-desert, which provide a bounty of produce, including 500 indigenous grape varieties. Food is lovingly made using centuries-old cooking techniques, including fragrant stews, bright salads and earthy soups, as well as a wealth of regional dishes. A sense of generosity underpins every meal — whether it’s at a family-run vineyard where free-pouring and zealous toasting are the norm, or at a restaurant where the table often ends up three-plates deep. Sample the flavours of the country with these wining-and-dining experiences.

From grape to glass

In Manavi, near Georgia’s capital city Tbilisi, family-owned Giuaani is an independent winery that traces its origins back to 1894, when its first qvevri (clay winemaking vessels) were placed in the ground. Head winemaker Giorgi Jmukhadze uses them in tandem with oak barrels and steel tanks, so you can compare traditional Georgian and more familiar European-style wines. Wine flights feature khikhvi, a classic dry amber wine (also known as orange wine), and an upbeat rosé that blends cabernet sauvignon and tavkveri grapes.

For a more immersive wine experience, take a tour of the Kvareli Wine Cave in the Kakheti region of eastern Georgia. Operated by Khareba , one of the country’s largest commercial wineries, it’s made up of a four-and-a-half-mile-long network of tunnels, hewn from the foothills of the Greater Caucasus on the eastern side of the Alazani Valley. The complex was originally constructed for military purposes during the Cold War, but now the stable 12-16C temperatures provide ideal conditions for ageing and storing wine. A guided tour of the space and its 25,000-strong collection of bottles culminates with a tasting.

In the small city of Ambrolauri, around 150 miles north west of Tbilisi in the mountainous Racha region, a giant wine bottle statue towering over the main intersection is your first hint of the drink’s importance to this part of the country. Its label reads ‘Khvanchkara’, the region’s syrupy-sweet, darkly-coloured red wine made from aleksandrouli and mujuretuli grapes. Stalin confiscated the wine from its original creators, the noble Kipiani family, in order to manufacture it en masse. Today, winery Royal Khvanchkara has recovered a Stalin-era factory to take the Kipiani’s winemaking legacy back to its roots. Headed by 11th-generation vintner Lado Uzunashvili, it offers grape-to-glass tours and tastings.

From field to fork

Located in the courtyard of the Writers’ House in old Tbilisi, a turn-of-the-century mansion built for brandy baron and philanthropist David Sarajishvili, chef Tekuna Gachechiladze’s Cafe Littera is perfect for al fresco dining. Gachechiladze is known as a renegade of Georgian cuisine thanks to her open-minded approach to traditional recipes. Local produce is front and centre on the menu, which marries classic Georgian flavours with European techniques in dishes such as chilled sorrel and mint soup, fig carpaccio with Tushetian guda cheese and veal tartare with local truffles. Sit on the tiled terrace or plant yourself under a tree in the sculpture garden between the stone busts.

Meanwhile, keeping with the literary theme, the west Georgian city of Kutaisi was recently named as a UNESCO Creative City of Literature and was once the stomping ground for some of the country’s most influential composers, playwrights and poets. There, you’ll find the restaurant Doli , which evokes the intimacy of a 20th-century writers’ salon. Order the gobi, a large wooden bowl piled high with a selection of different dishes including vibrant pkhali — a vegan-friendly dish, sometimes called ‘Georgian pâté’, made by combining beetroot leaves, spinach, wild cabbage and other vegetables with finely ground walnuts and spices. Then peek into the kitchen to see chef Giorgi Andghuladze cook mchadi (Georgian cornbread) the old-school way in stacked clay pans called ketsi.

Further west, the historic Samegrelo region stands out for its flavoursome cuisine. In the region’s capital Zugdidi, Diaroni (meaning ‘a place for a feast’ in the Megrelian language) restaurant rings out with live folk music most nights of the week. In the past, fiery pepper blend ajika was used in Georgia to ward off diseases. Nowadays, at Diaroni, ajika lends its heat to kharcho, a stew of beef or chicken with a velvety walnut sauce. The restaurant’s showpiece is elarji — cornmeal blended with stringy cheese, which the servers take great pleasure in twirling and pulling over their heads before heaping onto your plate.

On the Black Sea Coast in the city of Batumi, Oval restaurant gives the catch of the day the fine-dining treatment, serving fresh seafood with both Georgian and Asian flavours. Try the likes of tasty tom yam shrimp or fresh mussels in a tarragon-heavy broth called chakapuli. Oval’s chef Guram Bagdhoshvili also offers a special snail dish and a decadent version of adjaruli khachapuri — Georgia’s iconic boat-shaped cheese pie with a glistening egg yolk at its centre — featuring tenili, a rare cheese made by pulling softened curds. Both dishes are specialties of the Meskheti region, where Bagdhoshvili traces his ancestry to.

Related Topics

• FOOD TOURISM
• FOOD CULTURE
• FOOD HISTORY

You May Also Like

9 of the best restaurants in Istanbul

Where to find the best Nashville hot chicken

For hungry minds.

A food guide to Barcelona, from historic markets to atmospheric vermouth bars

10 of the best restaurants in Ireland and Northern Ireland

11 of Europe’s best restaurants for vegan fine dining

5 of Bangkok's top chefs share their favourite street food spots

From Flaounes to Magiritsa: Must-Try Greek Easter dishes

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

Bank holiday weekend: 240,000 to depart Dublin Airport as sun makes a flying visit

Passenger numbers at dublin airport are set to peak at 117,000 on sunday, with weather set to turn cloudy and cold next week.

Just under half a million people will come and go through Dublin Airport between Friday and next Monday. Photograph: Alan Betson/The Irish Times

Hundreds of thousands of people will be on the move in the days ahead with the sun set to smile on many of those in transit – at least for some of the time.

Just under half a million people will come and go through Dublin Airport between Friday and next Monday with 240,000 passengers departing and 210,000 arriving.

The busiest day of the bank holiday weekend at the airport will be Sunday when around 117,000 passengers are expected to travel through Dublin Airport.

The airport’s car parks – apart from the short-term car park – are booked out, and those without a reserved slot are advised to travel to the airport using other methods.

Trump verdict a stunning end to a quintessentially New York legal tale

The sad story of the actor with a drawer full of cheques he just can’t cash

Roy Keane gestured to fan to ‘meet him outside’ after ‘banter turned more aggressive’, court told

Andhra Bhavan review: I immediately added this Dublin 1 restaurant to my list of favourites

Irish roads are also set to be busy over the long weekend with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and Applegreen service stations providing free cups of coffee to motorists at the start and end of the bank holiday to help combat driver fatigue.

The free coffees will be available between 2pm and 8pm on both Friday and Monday, and all people need to do is mention the RSA at the Applegreen till when getting their coffee and the charge will be waived.

Weather-wise, Friday and Saturday are promising with significant amounts of sun set to shine across the country, but the start of both June and Leaving Cert season appears to have left the weather gods unmoved, with clouds and cold weather set to dominate for much of the week ahead.

The bank holiday weekend will start dry and sunny for most of the country with some patchy cloud in the north and northwest and temperatures of between 15 and 20 degrees, in light to moderate northerly winds.

Friday night will be dry with long clear spell and temperatures of between 4 and 8 degrees with the best of the weather in the days ahead likely to follow as dawn breaks.

According to Met Éireann Saturday will be dry with long spells of sunshine and temperatures of between 16 and 20 degrees although it will feel a little cooler in the northwest, in light to moderate northwesterly winds.

Saturday night will be dry with clear spells at first but cloud will increase from the northwest overnight and Sunday will be mostly cloudy with some light patchy rain or drizzle feeding in from the northwest.

The best of any bright or sunny intervals will be in the south and southeast with highest temperatures ranging from between 16 and 20 degrees

Monday will continue mostly cloudy with rain or drizzle at times while Tuesday will start off mostly cloudy with some light rain or drizzle although it will brighten up from the northwest later with a few showers.

Highest temperatures will range from 14 to 18 degrees with moderate to fresh northwest winds. Wednesday marks the start of the Leaving Cert, but the traditional sunshine of exam time is set to stay away with both Wednesday and Thursday promising to be cool and breezy. Those days will have sunny spells, scattered showers and temperatures struggling to reach 15 degrees at their warmest.

• Sign up for push alerts and have the best news, analysis and comment delivered directly to your phone
• Join The Irish Times on WhatsApp and stay up to date
• Listen to our Inside Politics podcast for the best political chat and analysis

Conor Pope is Consumer Affairs Correspondent, Pricewatch Editor and cohost of the In the News podcast

IN THIS SECTION

Migrants set up new camp in ballsbridge following grand canal clearance, how to make the most of the leaving cert run-in: study tips, social media and taking breaks, forbidden fruit 2024: daily line-ups, stage times, ticket information, weather forecast and more, ‘show you’re not here for social welfare, you’re here because you can make a difference’, your top stories on friday: trump guilty on all counts; five takeaways from european election debate and bloom opens, ‘old mr brennan’, founder of family-run irish bread maker, dies, donald trump found guilty on all counts in criminal hush money trial, former circuit court judge gerard o’brien jailed for four years, 100 great restaurants and places to eat around ireland this summer, latest stories, gardaí start use of body-worn cameras in dublin in historic policing move, with the french only getting stronger, irish clubs will struggle to win a champions cup again, israel-gaza war: israeli military says it has completed operations in jabaliya area.

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Information
• Cookie Settings
• Community Standards

Morning Rundown: How Trump allies are spinning guilty verdict, 3rd person infected with bird flu in U.S., neighbors shocked by 81-year-old's arrest in slingshot vandalism

Norway, Ireland and Spain formally recognize a Palestinian state

Three European nations announced Wednesday they will formally recognize a Palestinian state , a landmark move that drew a swift rebuke from Israel and praise from Palestinians.

The announcements from Ireland, Norway and Spain dealt the latest diplomatic blow to Israel, as the United States' close ally faces mounting international isolation and backlash over its deadly military offensive in the Gaza Strip.

Foreign Minister Israel Katz said he had immediately recalled Israel's ambassadors to Oslo, Dublin and Madrid and ordered a formal reprimand, or severe démarche, to the three countries' envoys in Israel. The White House said that President Joe Biden “believes a Palestinian state should be realized through direct negotiations between the parties, not through unilateral recognition.”

The formal recognition will take place May 28, and may be followed by other European countries as outrage over Israel's actions in Gaza bolsters the Palestinian cause on the global stage and adds to pressure on Israel to engage in talks for a path toward a two-state solution to the decadeslong conflict.

It comes amid a spiraling humanitarian crisis in Gaza. UNRWA, the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, warned Monday that it had to suspend food distribution in the southern city of Rafah, where more than 1 million people have sought refuge during the war, citing a lack of supplies and safety issues given the Israeli military's expanding operation in the area.

"In the midst of a war, with tens of thousands killed and injured, we must keep alive the only alternative that offers a political solution for Israelis and Palestinians alike," Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said as his country led the triple announcement.

"Two states, living side by side, in peace and security."

Speaking at a news conference in Dublin shortly after, Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris said he hoped the decision would "offer hope and encouragement to the people of Palestine at one of their darkest hours."

“This recognition is not against anyone, it is not against the Israeli people,” Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez said in an address to Parliament. “It is an act in favor of peace, justice and moral consistency.”

But Israel saw it differently.

“Ireland and Norway intend to send a message today to the Palestinians and the whole world: terrorism pays,” Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz said. He said that the recognition could impede efforts to return Israeli hostages being held in Gaza and makes a cease-fire less likely by “rewarding the jihadists of Hamas and Iran.”

In a later statement, he said the ambassadors of Spain, Ireland and Norway would be expected to "watch a video of the brutal and cruel kidnapping of our daughters by Hamas terrorists, to emphasize the distorted decision their governments have made."

It comes as the Israeli military continues to expand its operations in both southern and northern Gaza, where more than 35,000 people have been killed in seven months of war, according to local health officials.

It also comes after the International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor announced he would be seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, along with Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and others for alleged war crimes in the Israel-Hamas war.

‘The right side of history’

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the development and urged other countries to follow suit.

In a statement carried by the official Wafa news agency, he said the decision will enshrine “the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination” and support efforts to bring about a two-state solution with Israel.

Hamas welcomed the announcements as "an important step on the path to establishing our right to our land" and urged others to follow. The head of the Arab League called it “a courageous step” that puts the three European countries "on the right side of history in this conflict.”

Ireland and Spain had in recent weeks signaled they would recognize Palestinian statehood, with Sánchez touring the continent and the Middle East to garner support for the move.

Harris said during the news conference in Ireland that he believes Israel "loses nothing" in the recognition of Palestinian statehood. "We must be on the right side of history," he added.

Ireland has long expressed empathy for the Palestinian cause, with many seeing their republic's own history fighting for independence under British rule reflected in the Palestinian cause.

Israel publicly cautioned against recognition, as well as any fresh push for a two-state solution following the Hamas-led Oct. 7 attacks.

Prior to Wednesday, more than 140 of the 193 member states of the U.N. recognized Palestinian statehood, with no Group of Seven nations among them.

The Biden administration was drawing up options to enact the policy after Israel’s current war in Gaza , a senior administration official told NBC News earlier this year, but there has been no public indication of such a step from Washington since then.

In a statement Wednesday, National Security Council spokesperson Adrienne Watson said “the President is a strong supporter of a two state solution and has been throughout his career. He believes a Palestinian state should be realized through direct negotiations between the parties, not through unilateral recognition.”

The two-state solution has its roots in the historic Camp David Accords in 1978 between Israel and Egypt, which were enshrined in U.N. resolutions and later accepted by both Israel and the Palestinians in the Oslo Accords that mapped out a route to peace but ultimately failed.

Under Netanyahu, a two-state solution has appeared increasingly unlikely — and in the wake of Hamas' Oct. 7 attacks, in which some 1,200 people were killed and around 250 others taken hostage, the Israeli leader has unequivocally rejected any future state for Palestinians.

The move, he has said, would effectively be rewarding Hamas for its actions Oct. 7.

In an interview with MSNBC’s Stephanie Ruhle on Tuesday, Netanyahu appeared to strike a slightly more conciliatory tone, saying he believed that "the expansion of peace is possible" but only if Hamas' presence can be eliminated in the enclave and with the rise of alternative governance.

Israel has maintained that it must carry out a military assault in Rafah in order to succeed in eliminating Hamas.

But the U.S. has warned that even a full-scale ground assault on the city, which Israel once declared a safe zone, would not achieve that goal, with recent fighting in parts of northern Gaza highlighting Hamas' resurgence in parts of the enclave the Israeli military previously said it had cleared of the militant group's presence.

Despite mounting frustrations over Israel's handling of its offensive in Gaza, Biden swiftly denounced the ICC's chief prosecutor's bid to seek arrest warrants for Netanyahu and other Israeli officials as "outrageous" as he suggested the announcement suggested a false "equivalence" between Israel and Hamas.

A number of U.S. allies, including France and Germany as well as Norway, Ireland and Spain, broke with Washington to defend the independence of the world's top criminal court.

Chantal Da Silva reports on world news for NBC News Digital and is based in London.