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Bosnia & Croatia
Treasures of Ireland: Prologue
(Dispatch #1)

Story and photos by Tom Weber

sea gull at an Irish coast

reland, that peaceful, postcard-perfect, emerald-green dot out in the Atlantic, is known for many things the world over, but none finer than her warm and friendly Gaelic greeting to every tourist that arrives: Céad míle fáilte! (A hundred thousand welcomes).

I'm about to begin keeping a running tally on all those six-digit welcomes as I come ashore with the latest "band of merry media," 18 intrepid travel writers and photographers invited by Insight Vacations to sample a portion of its premium-escorted Treasures of Ireland journey.

The seven-day itinerary – via a deluxe motor coach with business-class legroom seating and WiFi – is overflowing with Eire's camera-ready jewels: St. Patrick's Rock of Cashel, Killarney National Park, the Ring of Kerry, the Dingle Peninsula and the Cliffs of Moher, to name but a few.

We'll also be given fast-track entry to see the 9th century Book of Kells and the Long Room at Trinity College's Old Library, be schooled in the sports of hurling and falconry, and learn about the beauty of Guinness as we attempt the perfect pour of our very own pint of Ireland's favorite tipple at the Storehouse.

In between scheduled stops surrounded by majestic scenery, we'll be wined and dined at superlative restaurants – including the George V Dining Room inside landmark Ashford Castle, voted Hotel of the Year 2015 by Virtuoso – and spend restful nights under fine, crisp bed linen.

Join me and the rest of the intrepid "band of merry media" as we board the Insight motor coach and go in search of some of the Treasures of Ireland and, no doubt, find loads of craic (fun) along the way.

Céad míle fáilte!

Related Articles:
Ashford Castle: Regal Elegance Wrapped in Irish Charm; Our Irish Dream Vacation; The Long Good Bye to Ireland; Ireland: Magical, Mystical, Delightful, Enchanting; The Faces of Ireland




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Let Tom know what you think about his traveling adventure.

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Feedback for Destination Bosnia: Inside Sarajevo's Tunnel of Hope

Spent time in Sarajevo in the fall of 1973…beer was excellent!

--- David

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Hi Tom,

I must say, you're photographs are always amazing. They are top notch. You bring so much class to Traveling Boy. It's photographs like yours that make me want to go out and do my own traveling. Please don't get tired of sending us your amazing adventures. It's such a delight for the soul.

--- Raoul, Whittier, CA

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Hi Tom:

I'm also an American living in Italy. I've read with interest your blog and articles. I'd like to speak with you regarding residency and citizenship for Americans in Italy as you do seem to have a great deal of knowledge on all of these subjects. Would it be possible to give you a call on the phone? If so, please let me know how to reach you. If not, I can ask my questions via email.

Thank you!

--- David

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Hey Tom – Wow! Love those photos – they are so super that they make me A) Want to start eating NOW. B) Go there myself. C) See all that pristine beauty that looks so restful and peaceful. Great story, superb pix!!! Bravo!!

--- John, Los Angeles, CA

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Feedback for Destination Southwestern France: Saint-Émilion

Good job, Tom, and timely info. St. Émilion is in the list of places Jim Hayes and I will visit in September 2014. If we get the chance, we will exploit your experience to enhance the trip!

--- Bobby Harper, Dameron, MD

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Feedback for Vicenza Walks – Monte Berico

I lived in Vicenza for 4 years in the U.S. ARMY from 1963 to 1967. A wonderful place to explore. Palladio’s works are amazing. Have been back twice since and find new places to visit. My favorite is MONTE BERICO where I have some wonderful photos of my family.

--- Dr. Albert Pizzi, Hanover, MA

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I liked the new TB particularly the Vicenza article that took me back as a youth when we lived in Naples and travelled up there for a baseball tourney (U.S. Military Bases dependent schools played each other.)

Took me back to the plaza.

--- Bill

Feedback for A Canterbury Trail (Sutri)

Very interesting note. I have wedroned which route the early pre-Christian and Christian pilgrims travelled to Rome from England. Is it still possible to travel the Francigena trail?

--- Pawel

You can find out more info on walking tours of Via Francigena at this site: http://www.compagniadeicammini.it/en/. Thanks for stopping by and commenting..

Tom

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Good article, enjoyed reading it. Saved your recommended sights for future use.

--- Dardenne Prairie, MO

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You're going to be great at this Tom. Congrats.

--- Donna Vissa -Montreal



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