Halloween in Ireland, traditionally known as Samhain (SOW-in), marks the end of the harvest season and the beginning of the ‘darker half’ of the year. Rituals and traditions that we still carry out today were begun in Ireland as far back as 10th century- including pumpkin carving, the wearing of costumes, and trick or treating. Ireland, an already magical…
Article update: We were saddened to hear about Micheal’s passing on August 4, 2018. I credit Michael with gifting my girls and I a deep love of the Lough Gur area and all its treasures. In tribute I am re-publishing this article about our tour of Lough Gur with Michael in 2012. A Guided Tour…
The end of October may not seem like the ideal time to visit Ireland. The days are getting shorter, the air a bit cooler, the pubs a wee bit quieter. But if Halloween is your favorite holiday, I would encourage you to visit Ireland as Samhain (SOW-een) draws near. As the final harvest approaches and…
If you couldn’t make it to Ireland this year but really want to enjoy Irish culture, music, and craic, head to an Irish festival! Today Jody is speaking with Jeff Ksiazek, director of the Irish Fest School of Music and Archivist for the Ward Music Archives, about Milwaukee Irish Fest, the largest Irish festival in…
Trying new foods is one of the best (and tastiest!) ways to learn about a culture when traveling. But when traveling with food sensitivities and allergies those tasty bites can turn dangerous. Thankfully it is easy to eat in Ireland with food allergies! In today’s podcast Jody shares her tips on eating in Ireland when…
Eoin O’Conchúir joins me on the podcast to talk about the Irish language in Ireland and how his course, Bitesize Irish Gaelic, helps people learn Irish. The Year of the Irish Language This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Eoin O’Conchúir, the founder of Bitesize Irish Gaelic. If you prefer to listen to…
Read more about Glenveagh National park and other highlights of County Donegal
A Dublin Pass can be an incredible deal- if you plan to spend a few days in Dublin. But it could be a waste of money for some families. Is it the best deal for your family vacation in Ireland? Should You buy a Dublin Pass? Dublin Pass offers free admission into more than 30 of…
The majority of visitors to Ireland pass through Dublin airport. And even if you don’t spend your entire vacation in the city Dublin is well worth a couple days. But Dublin can be an expensive city- how can you save money in Dublin but still experience all the fabulous sites the city has to offer?…
The last time I stayed at Doolin Hostel was in 2016. I found it much the same as I had during our stay in 2014: clean, comfortable, welcoming. The only noticeable change was that we didn’t have to wash our own dishes after enjoying the light continental breakfast. It’s obviously time for me to return because…
Steph Chastain on Couple vs. Family Travel | Traveling in Ireland Podcast Episode 44 Jody is talking with fellow travel blogger, Steph Chastain from InfiniteIreland.com about the differences between traveling as a couple and traveling as family with kids. . CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen. If you like what you hear, please give…
Jody is talking about Ireland’s sunny Southeast in this episode. Join her and guest speaker John Purcell, owner of Waterford Greenway Cycle Tours and Bike Hire as they discuss the Waterford Greenway. . CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen. If you like what you hear, please give my podcast a 5-Star review at iTunes,…
The Munster Vales are nestled in the heart of Ireland’s “Ancient East” and offer a glimpse into Ireland’s wild beauty and rich history. Spanning counties Limerick, Cork, Tipperary, and Waterford, the region is famous for its mountainous landscapes, rolling hills, and quaint towns. Unlike Ireland’s more famous spots—like Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher, or the…
Planning Your Ireland Vacation You’ve planned everything. You know where you’re staying, how you’re getting around and even have a rough idea – if not a complete itinerary – of what you want to see. Now it’s time to work on what to pack for Ireland! Use this 3 week Ireland packing tips checklist to…
Find out what’s coming to IFV in 2018. Jody is talking about upcoming podcast topics and gives tips on how to use this website to its fullest to help you plan your Ireland Family Vacation. CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen. If you like what you hear, please give my podcast a 5-Star review…
Jody is talking with Irish author, Felicity Hayes-McCoy. Learn about her new book, “Library at the Edge of the World” as well as her other books that haven’t yet made it across the Atlantic. . CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen. If you like what you hear, please give my podcast a 5-Star review…
Trying your hand at falconry in Ireland ranks high on the list of activities in many Ireland vacation itineraries. And there are quite a few amazing places to try falconry in Ireland. But one of the most unique experiences we had took place at Adare Manor in County Limerick with Willie Forde, owner of Adare…
Jody is at the Milwaukee Irish Fest speaking with Padraic Og Gallagher, owner of Gallaghers Boxty House in Dublin’s Temple Bar. Today’s podcast is all about Irish food. CLICK THE PLAY BUTTON below to listen. If you like what you hear, please give my podcast a 5-Star review at iTunes, Stitcher, or your favorite podcast…
Welcome to Jody’s first video podcast! You can view this podcast on YouTube. Jody is speaking with Ciarán Cannon, Minister of State for the Diaspora and International Development. They are discussing traditional music in Ireland and Temple Bar TradFest in Dublin. After the short chat enjoy live performances from 4 Irish trad bands. CLICK THE…