Trinity College . . .

Breakfast in Dublin.

August 19, 2014 -- We were up late this morning after the long day we spent yesterday in transit from Dublin to Birr and back. It was nice to sleep late, but it also meant that we'd spend the day in Dublin. There is a lot of the city we haven't seen, so we weren't too disappointed. We made our way out of the guesthouse and down to the local "wash and fold" laundry about 5 minutes down the road.

Science Gallery, Dublin

Soon, we were in our favorite joint for breakfast. I've had the "Irish Vegie Breakfast" for the last couple of days. It's delicious. After breakfast, our plan was to take a double-deck tour-bus for a look in and around Dublin. As we walked toward the bus a "tourist information booth" caught our eye -- so we stopped for some ideas about the day. As usual, I asked the question about "science centers, planetariums or observatories". As it happens, there was a Science Gallery just a short walk across the River Liffey. We set out enjoying the sun and relatively warm weather.

Joe McCauley Trinity College
Dublin.

I noticed, on the map, that the Science Gallery  is on the property of Trinity College. Having heard of that institution more than once,  I thought it'd be fun to walk the grounds of the College. We entered the Science Center and found that it is not only free, but the theme was an interesting "weather, climate change and science and their effect on the economy." One of the "docents" was a student in the Physics Department at Trinity College, so I asked him about telescopes. "Yes, Indeed" was his reply. "Just head over the Fitzgerald Building and ask around. There's one on the roof". After our visit to the Science Gallery, we took his advice.

Yours Truly and the 14" SCT
at Trinity College, Dublin.

The Fitzgerald Building is just around the corner from the Science Gallery, so we found it in short order. As we entered the building it looked deserted, but poking around a bit we found Ken Concannon in his office. After an explanation of our goal to "see the telescope", we were taken to Joe McCauley's office and introduced. Joe is an "experimental officer" at the college and was more than willing to spend the necessary time taking us through the William H.S. Monck Observatory. The observatory consists of a Meade 14" SCT on a pier and housed in a 10-foot dome.

Joe, Linda and I spent the better part of an hour discussing a variety of subjects related to the "present day" study of the universe. Coincidently, the College has an installation of radio telescopes on the grounds of Birr Castle. Since we had just been there the day before, it was interesting to hear about their work in the radio spectrum. We had a chance to tour a couple of the college's "labs" and learned about some of the scientific breakthroughs members of the faculty have made in years past.

Upon leaving, the Physics Department, Joe recommended we stop by the "Book of Kells" just across campus. The "book", created in about 800 C.E., is an illuminated manuscript in Latin containing the first 4 books of the New Testament. We arrived at the library to find a long LONG line of people waiting to see the book, so we decided to forego an actual look at the bible. After-all, we were "there" -- right?!!

As we left the campus and walked back into the center of town, we felt privileged to have had such an enjoyable and interesting afternoon with Joe McCauley at Trinity College.  Every now and then, the chain of events works out just perfectly.

Today was one of those days!!

Birr Caslte, Birr, Ireland.

August 18, 2014-- We boarded the intercity bus at 10:30 a.m. for Birr and the Birr Castle. After trying a few times to get to Birr, we found we could simply take the bus from Dublin to Athlone and then on to Birr itself. Birr is a little town in the center of the country and west of Dublin by about 2 1/2 hours by bus. It's a small village of about 4,500 people, and the main attraction is Birr Castle itself. On the castle grounds, and the attraction for me, is the big 72" telescope built by the Third Lord Rosse in 1845.

The great 72" reflector at Birr, Castle.

The remains of the telescope are impressive to all of those who visit the telescope. It's 7-foot dimeter wood tube sites between two 50-foot high stone walls that were used to support the telescope. The telescope moves in altitude as well as a limited amount of azimuth. The poor weather in that part of the country is said to render the telescope of little use. Still, it was used by Rosse to make some important discoveries in the field of astronomy. The telescope was built is 1845, so our understanding of the universe was just unfolding. Interestingly, too, is the fact the 72" speculum (metal) mirror was then the largest telescope in the world and remained so until the 100" telescope was built on Mt. Wilson in 1917.

The Eyepiece.

We explored the grounds of the castle for a couple of hours. The "castle" site has been in existence since 1170 and became the property of the Parson's family in 1620. Parson's, was also known as the Earl of Rosse. We noticed the castle said "private residents only". Upon asking, we found that, to this day, the Parson's family still inhabit the Castle and still own the grounds. The current Earl of Rosse isn't an astronomer or interested in telescopes, per se', but maintains the instrument because of its historic value.

The visitors' center has a nice "science center" with an astronomy theme. It tells the story of astronomy in Europe from the earliest days to the present. Additionally, there are artifacts of the old telescope itself -- including a 24" speculum mirror built by Rosse as an experiment.

An earlier 24" speculum telescope mirror.

Our return bus wasn't until 6:40 p.m., so once we left the castle we found a comfortable "pub" for a snack and "pint". It was delightful. I noticed that, in Ireland, the pub seems to be the meeting place for just about everyone. Families with children come for dinner and socializing. Friends and families populate the booths, tables and bar stools to enjoy the food, drink and conversation. The perfect "social experiment"!!

Our ride back to Dublin was easy. As it became darker, the driver dimmed the lights in the bus that made for an enjoyable ride and a chance to catch a nap. Tomorrow our plan is continue our exploration of Dublin and take a double-decker tour bus to see some of the city, We plan to leave by "sail/rail" for London on Thursday morning.

Stay tuned, as always!!

August 17, 2014 --  9 a.m. --As always, we were out and about early this morning. We found a cute family-owned "joint" for an Irish breakfast and headed to the bus depot. An "Irish breakfast" consists of an egg, a square of hash brown's and a piece of toast. One can choose to have sausage if they wish. It's pretty good and can be found everywhere in the cities.

Our plan was to hang around Dublin or see if we could get to Kilkenny and back on a later bus. We found we could get a noon bus for the 1 hour trip to Kilkenny. We're told it's a beautiful city, so we're looking forward to the visit. Since we had a hour-and-a-half to kill, we walked a couple of blocks to an Internet cafe for an on-line "fix". Internet cafe's are plentiful in Dublin and one can enjoy the entertainment of the Internet for 1-Euro per hour.

Linda, River Nore and Killkenny Castle.

9:05 p.m. -- We've just returned from Kilkenny, a bit south of Dublin. The bus journey took us 2 hours (I originally thought it was one hour!), but as we walked into town, we were greeted by a most beautiful little city.  The population of Kilkenny is 9,000 residents and is in the southeast part of Ireland.

A prominent landmark is the Kilkenny Castle. The castle, built in 1195, is a beautiful building on the River Nore.  As is usually the case, the castle was originally built to guard the small city. The river was used for trade and was defended by the castle as well.  In 1967, the Kilkenny Castle was transferred to the people of the city for £50 and has been used as a conference venue, awards and conferring ceremonies for the graduates of the "Kilkenny Campus" of National University. We enjoyed our visit there very much.

Kilkenny Beer Anyone!!

We happened into town on the last day of an arts and cultural festival. It was fun seeing the artists showing their works along a long wall adjacent to the castle. As we explored the narrow streets along the river and into the city center, we happened onto a "sign" espousing the virtues of Kilkenny Beer. We took a break and enjoyed the brew. It was especially delicious. We were a bit disappointed to learn that Kilkenny no longer brews its own beer -- but the company is now owned by a larger "out-of-town" conglomerate!! Too bad, I thought.

The River Nore.

After spending another couple of hours of exploration and made our way back to the bus depot for a 6:30 p.m. return to Dublin. We were lucky as we were able to transfer to an "express bus" and the 2-hour journey was cut to 1 1/2-hours.

(As an aside, I was interested as to why so many Irish cities begin with the prefix "Kil" or "Kill".  There's Killarney, Kilkenny, Killabben -- and about 85 others throughout the country. It seems that during the Gaelic Period there were very few large towns or settlements.  Most of the small settlements were referred to by a notable feature of the landscape. The term "Kil or Kill" refers to a church-yard, graveyard or woodland! Interesting huh??.)

Tomorrow we're off on another adventure -- to Birr and the Birr Castle. Notable here is that it is home of Lord Rosse's 72" telescope. Built in the middle of the 19th Century, it was the largest telescope in the world.  In 1910 the 100" Hooker Telescope on Mt. Wilson took away that distinction.

So, check back. You never know what'll take place!!

DON'T FORGET TO CLICK ON AN IMAGE TO SEE A LARGER PHOTO

August 16, 2014 -- Today we were up early and made our way to the Connolly Train Station. It's about a 10 minute walk from the Guesthouse. We bought our tickets for Belfast and boarded the train for a 9:30 departure. It's a 2 1/2 hour trip to Belfast Central Station -- but it's comfortable, smooth and warm. As mentioned, one can buy snacks, coffee or juices on the train.

St. George's Market

We didn't know what to expect in Belfast. I recalled the years of the "troubles" between the Protestants and Catholics and the IRA/British Government unrest. But, of course, that's all in the past. The "Joint Declaration of Peace" was signed in 1993. Still, I'm old enough to remember the events clearly -- so it was something to consider. Or, at least I thought so!!  Of-course, it turned out to be "a non issue"!!

Inside St. George's

As we left the station and walked into the City Center, it became clear that Belfast is a modern, prosperous and vibrant city. The streets are wide and orderly, the buildings are modern and very beautiful. Certainly, there is the mix of the "old and new" that we found throughout Ireland. In just a few minute we happened upon "St. George's Market". This has been the site of a "market" since 1604 with the current building having been built in the 1890's. It was teaming with all manner of foods and crafts.

We continued exploring the city by walking a few more blocks into the center of downtown. Some of the stores were closed, but the streets were crowded with shoppers and tourists.  We happened onto a "sight-seeing kiosk" and had a nice chat with the proprietor. We found, also, there is a double-decker sight-seeing bus or a "black taxi" tour. We chose the longer time-frame of the two and bought our tickets for the 1 1/2 hour tour of Belfast. Our tour-guide was a young woman who was very well versed about her city. It was thoroughly enjoyable.

Northern Ireland Parliament.

We had a chance to see many sights otherwise not available to us. The "Titanic" Museum, the Harland and Wolff Shipyard (which had built the Titanic) and the Northern Ireland Parliament -- a simply majestic building on magnificent grounds surrounded by lawns and trees.

Peace Wall, Belfast.

Finally, a most interesting sight was the Peace Wall. The wall is a barrier that once separated the Irish Nationalists from the Unionists. Now, of course, the presence of the wall is no longer a barrier but a reminder of an earlier time of political and social unrest. It is covered with "graffiti" of a political and/or social content. We were told that there is an active movement, in Belfast, to take down the wall.

We left Belfast on the 4:00 train back to Dublin happy that we had taken the time to see this most interesting and beautiful city. Any of you who may come to Ireland are urged to give Belfast a try!!

In and Around Dublin, Ireland . . .

Light-Rail, Dublin, Ireland.

August 15, 2014 -- Today we were in and around Dublin. We started our day with the smell of food coming from below (we're on the 2nd floor). It smelled delicious and one couldn't resist going downstairs to investigate.  Our host, Nicholas, and his "mum" own Harvey's, and it was Nicholas' "mum" doing the cooking. We enjoyed traditional home-cooked Irish breakfast"  before setting out for the day.

Our first stop was a cute little coffee house for our caffeine fix. We then moved onto the O'Connell Railway Station for some information. Our plan is to take the train to Belfast tomorrow morning for our first Dublin day-trip. I was wondering if "northern Ireland" is a safe place to visit.  "oh yes no worries" is the consistent reply. We'll let you know how it goes!

Our second stop was the Heuston Railway Station across town. We took the LUAS light rail for the 15 minute ride and enquired about a day-trip to Galway on Sunday. Both day-trips, Belfast and Galway are around 2 hours each way, and we'll have 4 or 5 hours in each city. We've found that, even though it takes a bit of time to get around Ireland by train, it's better staying in one place and taking day-trips here and there. The trains are pleasant ways to get around -- with the internet accessible and refreshments available from your seat! It's a neat way to travel.

Drink Up!!

As one leaves the Euston Station and looks across the street, s/he cannot miss the "Guinness Brewery". It is a 55-acre site with an inviting "aroma". We took the 20 minute hike to the Guinness Store and bought two tours (which include a "pint" at the end of the tour). We decided to get the "audio tour" and made our own way around. It's four floors of history, artifacts and active exhibits each telling the story of Arthur Guinness and his "brew".  The brewery was founded in 1755 so there's a lot of history to tell. Guinness took a 9,000 year lease from the city -- so in another 7.248 years, the brewery will have to "renew its lease"!! At the end of the tour we enjoyed our "pints" and, by chance met Gary and John from the U.K. They were in Ireland for the weekend. We enjoyed a 45-minute discussion about travel and "beer" and said our farewells. It was John's 60th birthday, so we drank to his health.

National Museum of Ireland. Dublin.

On our return to the City Center, we happened onto the Irish National Museum. We spent an hour looking around the first floor at many of the historic artifacts and descriptions about Ireland and its many struggles. The building itself is "huge", made up of three inter-connected stone structures. Each of the three are massive by themselves, but when put together the museum is an imposing institution.

So, we've completed our first full day in Dublin. It's a wonderful city full of friendly people and interesting things to do and see. The weather is cool with a bit of rain and a bit of wind, but we're lovin' it!!

So, as they say in Gaelic:

seiceáil isteach arís amárach. fheiceann tú ansin.

Dublin, Ireland it is . . .

By non-stop bus to Dublin.

August 14, 2014 -- We were up early this morning getting our luggage ready for the transit to Dublin from Cork. As we readied ourselves for the 3 hour bus trip, we talked about our time here in Cork. It's a beautiful city with lots of things to do. We enjoyed our lodgings, the food and especially the people. Our day-trips to Blarney, Cobh, Killarney and Limerick made for a perfect few days. We could only think that Ireland is one of the friendliest and most inviting countries we've visited over the past few years.

Harvey's Guesthouse.

Our bus left at 10:30 a.m. We had "front seats" so it was a great sight-seeing journey along the modern highways and "freeways" of Ireland. Of course, we logged into the Internet for our "Facebook" and email fix! As we entered the outskirts of Dublin and made our way toward the City Center, one could tell we're entering a larger city. Traffic was thick and the roads were a bit congested. Every now and then, we'd come to a stop -- much like the roads at home!!

It turns out Dublin is a larger city from those we've visited so far. It's population is around 530,000 people and the city covers about 45 square miles. Dublin was founded as a "Viking" settlement and became Ireland's principal city after the Norman Invasion which began in 1169. Despite its age, or maybe because of it, we found Dublin to be a mix of the "old and new". There are old buildings and modern buildings, small crooked little lanes and wide modern sidewalks and streets. It isn't unusual to see a 17th Century building next to a modern all-glass 6 story office building. O'Connell Street, one of the main streets is as busy as Broadway in New York City, with large crowds of people going here and there.

O'Connell Street, City Center, Dublin.

We've been lucky this trip with our choice of lodgings. We're staying in "Harvey's Guesthouse" on Gardenier Street Upper -- just a 10 minute walk from the bus depot and the City Center. The guest-house itself is an 18th Century building with high ceilings and creaky floors! Our room is on the second floor and is large and roomy. As one "climbs the stairs" s/he can feel the earlier generations of residents occupying the space! It's fun and interesting. There are 2 living rooms with comfortable sofas and chairs -- and, of course, reading lamps.

Any excuse for a "Starbuck's"!!

Once we were settled, we set out to explore our surroundings. Before long we were in the City Center and recognized some of the landmarks we had seen upon our arrival. We choose to take a taxi to the Irish Ferry Terminal and get our "sail/rail" tickets for the transit to London on August 21st. Our taxi driver was kind enough to wait for us as we bought our tickets and then took us back into the city. We spent the next couple of hours wandering the streets that interested us -- and of course, found a "Starbucks" for a cuppa!!

Tomorrow we plan to continue our exploration of the city. We'll be taking day-trips, using Dublin as a home-base, so it'll be an interesting week in and around this beautiful and busy city.

As always, stay tuned . . . As they say in Ireland -- "a fheiceann tú níos déanaí"

Black Rock Castle . . .

Black Rock Castle

August 13, 2014 -- A couple of days ago we went to Market Lane for dinner. We initially sat at the bar and ordered a "pint". As it is, the bar only serves "Murphy's", so we ordered it and liked it! We like Guinness better,  but Murphy's is darn good. The manager, Mark, offered us a table even though it looked like were going to have drinks only. We did order a full dinner and the food, as stated earlier in this blog, was "outa sight!".

We went back again last night and were welcomed by Mark and his "girl at reception" Tracey. A "getting to know you" chat ensued, and in answer to the questions "what do you do", I mentioned I build telescopes and gave Mark my card. Tracey then explained that one of her best friends works at Black Castle Observatory. She picked up her phone, called and got us an appointment for a private tour today at 11 a.m.

Alan Giltinan and self in the "lab".

This morning, we found our way to the bus station and by bus to Black Rock Castle. It was about a 20 minute ride. Along the way, we met Violette who was getting off at the same stop. She walked along with us a short while to be sure we got to the castle OK and we said our goodbyes. It also happens that the Market Lane restaurant has a eatery on the grounds of the castle called -- oddly -- The Castle. We were early enough to enjoy breakfast and a cup of coffee and then made our way into the castle/science center lobby.

The castle dates back to the 16th Century and was originally built to defend Cork Harbor and the "upper river". We had a chance to join a history tour to see those parts of the castle originally used as its defensive encampments. As has been the case with the other castles we've seen in Ireland -- the castle is fairly small, but solidly built and has a commanding view of the river. The walls, we learned, are 2.2 meters thick and will deflect a "cannon-ball" shot at close range!

Black Rock Observatory.

In the early 2000's, the castle was redeveloped by the Cork City Council, the Cork Institute of Technology and a private funding source into the Science Center it is today.  The goal was to create "a Center for Scientific Research, Outreach and Communication." The science center opened "for business" in 2004. I learned that the Science Center is one of the few of its type in Ireland and has been busy with visitors since its opening.

Linda at the 17th Century Fireplace.

Later in the morning we met Alan Giltinan, a System Manager (and in charge of everything!!) who was kind enough to spend an hour, or so, taking us on a private tour of the facility. Alan's tour included the "labs" and telescopes. He explained how the "outreach program" helps the staff conduct some serious astronomical research at the Center. Blackrock Castle Observatory (BCO) has remote telescopes in Palo Alto California, on the roof of the castle itself and a venue in Spain. We visited both of their telescopes, a 6" SCT and 16" Meade SCT on the top roof of the castle.  The climb of 100 steps to the top was daunting, but we survived and had a great visit with Alan.

The Lab.

We left a couple of hours later, happy to  have been given the unique opportunity of seeing the inside workings of the Observatory and Science Center.  We wandered down and around the castle into a small village at the base of the hill. After enjoying a cup of coffee and well deserved rest, we made our way back to central Cork by bus. Since this is our last day in Cork, we continued to wander the streets of this beautiful city. Needless to say, we'd love to come back for a longer visit. We've thoroughly enjoyed the people, the food and the many places we've visited.

We're off to Dublin tomorrow. We'll use the city as "base" from which to visit many of the surrounding villages, cities and attractions. I just know there'll be a "castle" or two to be seen!! One especially is the 72" "Lord Rose" telescope in Birr.

We want to thank Mark and Tracey at the Market Lane Restaurant in Cork, Clair at BCO -- and especially Alan Giltinan at BCO -- for their help in setting up this extraordinary visit. Linda and I appreciated every minute of it. . .

To Limerick we shall go.....

King John's Caslte, Limerick, Ireland

Linda and I were up early and made our way to the train station. The train was a 9:20 a.m. and we arrived in Limerick about 2 hours later. I know I've said it before, but it is nice to travel by train (or bus) in Ireland and have access to the Internet!! Once in Limerick we asked some directions and found we could just walk out the front door and keep going. The city was ahead of us.

Linda in the McCourt classroom.

Unlike Cobh and Killarney, Limerick seems more "city-fied" and less touristy!! As with the other cities we've seen, the buildings are only 2 or 3 stories high. Even though it was around 11:30, the streets were quiet. The traffic wasn't very dense and there didn't seem to be many people around. As it turns out, we were on the "outskirts" of the city center and as we walked deeper into the town it become busier. Downtown Limerick is much like many larger cities we've visited. There were many businesses, restaurants, pubs and small shops -- all catering to the local residents (Limerick has a population of about 184,000 people).

We located the tourist bureau and got the usual "go here, go there" map from a nice young woman behind the desk. We set off to visit St. Mary's Cathedral and King John's castle -- yes a castle in the middle of town. The cathedral dates back to the 12th Century while King John's castle dates from the 13th Century! Both buildings were beautiful stone structures and had a commanding view of the River Shannon.

In The Rock pub belonging to EI4GJB.
Declan, Limerick, Ireland.

As we made our way back into the center of town, I noticed some "ham antennas" on the top of a 2-story corner building. I followed the wires into a window and located the door. After knocking we were invited in. Neither of us realized it at the time, but the door was to a pub called "The Rock Bar". It was darkly lit, warm, cozy with the pleasant smell of "Guinness". The bar-keep asked if he could help us and I explained I was a ham radio operator. I had seen the antennas and wondered if he knew who the "radio operator" was. "Oh, that would be Declan," he said. "But he isn't here just now."  Everyone in the bar -- there were only 4 customers or so -- joined in the conversation, and we enjoyed a 10- or 15-minute chat about Declan, his radio station and Guinness. Before leaving, Linda and I enjoyed a "pint" and I bought a round for the guys. It was great fun.

Facetime with Jim, Norm and Michael
on the train from Limerick to Cork
and to Palm Desert, California.

After leaving The Rock Bar, we made our way across town to the Frank McCourt Museum. It was only a 15 minute walk through the shopping district and into an area called "The Gregorian Quarter". The McCourt museum is housed in the actual "school" building and residence McCourt lived in during the late 30's and early 40'. We visited a "bedroom" as well as a classroom. The docent, Patrick Brian, was friendly and informative. We spent about an hour there, talking about McCourt and his early life. If you recall, I'm sure, he wrote "Angelas Ashes" and "Tis" in the 1990's (and was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for his work).

I managed to put my ham radio
callsign on the blackboard in the
Frank McCourt classroom!!

By now it was getting late in the day, so we made our way back to the train station for the trip to Cork. One enjoyable event occured when I tried to call my good friend Jim on Facetime. He was in his car and answered. Facetime is similar to "Skype" with audio and video. Once I was on-line, and on the train I might add -- I called Jim's cell and we enjoyed a 10-minute conversation. As it happens, he had arrived at his destination where our good buddies Norm and Michael joined in the conversation. One can only marvel at the technology we have at our disposal these days!

When we thought of having dinner, we chose to revisit Market Lane. Their food is so good and their helpings are so ample, we couldn't help ourselves! Once again it was a wonderful meal. We enjoyed a few minutes talking to Mark, the manager, and he bought us a "pint" for being such good customers.

With the end of another wonderful day in Ireland, we're ready for a good nights sleep. Tomorrow we have a special treat awaiting us -- so, stay tuned and I'll report about that later.

Killarney, Ireland. . .

Linda with our tour guide Pat, Killarney.

August 11, 2014 -- With the help of the alarm clock on the iPhone, we were up early this morning and made our way to the rail station by 8:30 a.m. We bought our tickets for Killarney and boarded the train at 8:55 for the 1 hour trip. So far, and this is true with all the European cities I've had the privilege to visit, the train stations are near the city center. Killarney was no exception. Once there, we left the station, turned left and within 5 minutes we were in the center of the city. Our first stop was a cute little food market where we picked up some fresh fruit. It made for a good, but not filling, breakfast.

Ross Castle, Killarney, Ireland.

As was the case with Cobh yesterday, Killarney is a city full of stores. Shops, eateries, pubs and more pubs doted the landscape as far as one could see. Killarney is larger than Cobh with 12,500 residents and thousands of visitors from all over -- including Ireland. We were told that Killarney had 1.2 million visitors last year.

Killarney Waterfall in t
he National Park.

We walked the streets, enjoying the many shopping opportunities and meeting people here and there. After about an hour or so we spotted a "tourist information center" and went in to see what else the city had to offer. We learned that a locally owned tour bus was leaving in 20 minutes. The bus route included a variety of sites we would not otherwise see. We boarded at around 1 p.m. and took the 2 hour tour of the city and countryside. Along the way we saw some of the many lakes in and around Killarney.  One attraction the "Muckross House" is a beautiful "home" built by the architect William Burn in 1843. Its 11,000 acre estate has now become a tourist attraction within the National Park.

Killarney, Ireland.

Later on our tour, we stopped at Ross Castle. Built in the 15th Century as a Tower House and Keep -- it stands as a reminder to the "what was" the magnificent structures of centuries past. It is also part of the greater Killarney National Park in County Kerry. I'm not sure if the entire structure was still in place -- but if it was, the castle is an example of the smaller but imposing structures that seem to dot the Irish countryside. It's beauty is offset by the surrounding river and lake to the side.

We made our way "home" at around 7:30 and enjoyed another outstanding meal at Market Lane in Cork. Tomorrow, the plan is to go to Limerick -- we're not sure whether we'll take the train or bus -- so, as always.......

Stay tuned.

And off to Cobh, Ireland.

By train from Cork to Cobh, Ireland.

Sunday -- August 10. Our plan was to take the train to Killarney this morning. But, often, the best laid plans go awry!! We awoke at 11:45 a.m., much to late for a train to that city. As we spoke to the station agent at the train station it was suggested we go to Cobh, a seacoast town just 35 minutes away by train. We took her advice and bought round-trip tickets. At the same time we learned that we could go to Killarney tomorrow 8:55 a.m. -- so I've set the alarm clock.

In Cobh, Ireland.

We boarded the train for the short trip to Cobh. As it turns out, it was a good choice. Cobh is a seacoast town with the only "cruise" terminal in Ireland. One of its "claims to fame" is that it was the last port-of-call for the Titanic before heading across the Atlantic on its ill-fated voyage. The town is full of Titanic memorabilia, including a museum.

Additionally, Cobh is as beautiful as one can imagine. Leaving the train station, and walking along the water-front, the town reveals itself as a line of one-, two- and three-story storefronts, shops and restaurants. The weather was warm and sunny, although (as is always the case in Ireland, we've discovered) rain clouds were here and there threatening a bit of a shower. Later, during our stay, it did shower for a few minutes, and the rain came down hard and dense. Fortunately, Linda and I had decided to take our rain-gear, so we were completely protected.

Over-looking Cobh.

We decided to walk out of town and up a long hill road leading to more residential neighborhoods. There were a number of small shops catering to the local population. Many of the storefronts were closed or for rent, lease or sale. We continued walking up and up some more until we saw a beautiful and imposing view of Cobh from on-high. It was delightful. We continued "up and over" the hill a bit, and found we could walk back into the center of town without back-tracking ourselves. It was a great little excursion usually not seen, I would guess, by tourists.

We had a chance to ask a passerby if he was familiar with Cobh. "I've been here all me life," he said. "So yes, I'd say I'm familiar with this part of the world".  We asked that, if he were go get a meal, where would "he" go?? He didn't hesitate when he suggested three pubs for a meal -- "oh, and they're not too expensive -- let me say", he pointed out finally. We thanked him and went on our way. We chose a crowded place on a busy corner called "The Tradewinds" for a late lunch. Again, as was our experience yesterday, the food was "outa sight". One of the most delicious meals I've enjoyed anywhere.

Lunch at the Tradewinds, Cobh.

We made our way back to Cork on the 4:30 train and continued wandering around Cork itself. After a couple of hours we decided a cup of coffee or tea would finish off the day -- so we found a place called "Market Lane". We were seated and enjoyed a Murphy's, a Bailey's and some bar food before heading back to our lodgings for the evening.

I'll say it again. Ireland is one of the friendliest parts of the world I've visited. Everyone is helpful and pleasant. We found people will "take us there" if directions are confusing. Everywhere -- on trains and busses, in the restaurants, on the street and in the shops,

Rain, sure -- bring it on!!

one cannot have a more pleasant "interpersonal experience".

So, tomorrow we're off to Killarney. Tuesday we thought we go to Limerick and Wednesday, possibly Waterford.

Stay tuned.....

Blarney Castle in the background.

Today, August 9th, we set out to visit the Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone. We're not far from the bus station, so after a 10 minute walk we had our tickets and were on our way. We arrived in the township of Blarney about 30 minutes later to find an absolutely charming town with all manner of eateries, B&B's, a small hotel or two and souvenir ships. One attraction we took in are the "Blarney Woolen Mills" and shops. Its claim-to-fame is that it's the largest Irish store in the world!! I must admit, it was big.

A short walk out of town brings one to Blarney Castle property. The history of the castle is interesting and, as it turns out, there were three iterations of the structure over the centuries.  An original wooden dwelling was built in the 10th Century replaced by a stone building in 1210. Finally, the current castle was built 1446 by the then-owner Dermont McCarthy. By kissing the Blarney Stone, it is purported that one will attain the "gift of gab". The stone was set into the castle tower in 1446. The story goes on an on -- but you get the idea. Right??

Kissing the Blarney Stone.

We paid our 10 Euros to gain entry to the grounds and hiked to the castle itself. It is a beautiful and imposing structure. Not too big, but it does command the environment. It turns out that the Blarney Stone is on the very top and set into one of the walls -- so it's quite a climb to the top. We got in line and followed the crowd to the top. The narrow stone stairs wind around and around and are fairly steep. Along the way there are various "rooms" -- the kitchen and the "young girls bedroom". Now they sit empty and exposed to the elements.

As we continued our climb it started raining, so we broke out our rain gear and umbrellas. It wasn't very cold, so it was fun to brave the elements on the top of the castle and find the Blarney Stone itself. The stone is on the "base" of one of the walls and difficult to get to. One must lay on their back and arch over -- head down and bent backwards to kiss the stone. No easy task for me and my "bad posture". Linda had no trouble at all. Me??!! Not so easy, so I'm not sure whether my effort counts or not.  I did kiss "the wall". Still -- I hope my "gift of gab" has been enhanced a bit -- by proximity if nothing else..

In the "8 young ladies"
bedroom in Blarney Castle.

We made our way down and out of the castle and back into the township. After looking around a bit, we found an absolutely delightful pub/bar where we enjoyed one of the most delicious meals I've experienced anywhere. For those of you who know me, I eat fish but no meat. The "seafood pie" was a dish of different fish in a tasty sauce with potatoes. Of course, we enjoyed a Guinness during our meal.

Gimme a "Murphy's" will ya??

We found ourselves back at the bus-stop at about 4:30 and enjoyed the quick and easy ride back into Cork. We met a young couple from London and enjoyed a delightful conversation on the way into Cork. Oh -- did I mention that all of the busses we've ridden in Ireland have "wifi"?? Everywhere we go, we've found wireless networking for our convenience. During our trip out to Blarney, for example, I was able to make our lodging reservations in Dublin in the comfort of the bus itself. Not bad. I remember thinking we need more of that in the U.S.

A delicious meal in Blarney and Internet
all at the same time! Can't gt better than this..

We exited the bus in the Cork city center and continued exploring the city. We wandered in and out of the small and winding streets with the goal of getting back to our lodgings before it was dark. Since Cork is 51-degrees North longitude, it doesn't get dark until after 9 p.m., so we had plenty of time. Along the way, Linda wanted to treat me to a "Murphy's" -- as opposed to Guinness -- so we found a neat pub and enjoyed a "pint". It was delicious.

As we continued our exploration of Cork, we found a "vegan" restaurant and shared a snack. We continued our way back to the hotel with good memories, full bellies and with great anticipation for what tomorrow will bring.

So, tune in then.....

In the Bodega restaurant/pub

We ventured out at about 6:30 p.m. in search of a restaurant. After a 10 minute walk into the center of town -- we found the main shopping district and downtown area of Cork. It is alive with shops, people and traffic. Cork is a vibrant and interesting place. We'd stop along the way, asking some local folks about eateries. In each instance, they were helpful and friendly.

Downtown Cork

It wasn't long until we heard about the "Bodega" -- a restaurant/pub worth our consideration. After checking the menu of a couple of places we chose the Bodega as a place to have our dinner. I had  "fish and chips" while Linda had a delicious salad with a variety of cheeses. Of course, we enjoyed the obligatory "Guinness". The beer tastes a bit different here. Much more elegant and delicious.

Today we're off on some more exploration, including the "Blarney" castle. We'll see if it's true about kissing the Blarney Stone!!

Linda along the north channell of the River Lee