The Irish word “craic” means good conversation and good times in the company of friends. When it came to the inaugural trip of Michigan Radio listeners, there was “great craic” as they travelled around the Republic of Ireland.
Led by Stateside host Cynthia Canty and her Irish-born husband Sean, forty-two Michigan Radio listeners landed June 5th at Dublin Airport.
They explored the history-drenched Irish capital and then headed through Kilkenny to the medieval town of Waterford. Then it was off to Cork to visit famed Blarney Castle before heading to Cork County Hall.
That’s where they were welcomed by County Mayor Declan Hurley and County Councillor Derry Canty. After a reception, the group went into the council chambers where the two political leaders answered Cynthia’s questions about Cork politics and history. It was like Stateside, Cork-style. (“Countyside”?)
From Cork, they headed west to County Kerry and beautiful Killarney. Their trip around the Ring of Kerry featured stunning coastal views, plus an outing to a family-owned farm for a fascinating demonstration of border collies herding sheep. A Sunday-morning outing on the Lakes of Killarney allowed the group to explore the stunning ruins of an ancient abbey on the tiny isle of Innisfallen.
The travelers then headed to Limerick to stay in the shadow of King John’s Castle, completed in 1200. It was the perfect base for a glorious outing to the Cliffs of Moher on the west coast of County Clare, and a visit to bustling Galway.
They spent the final night on the grounds of Cabra Castle in Kingscourt, County Cavan. There were some final pints and then a delicious farewell dinner before the early-morning trip to Dublin Airport for flights back to Michigan.
The sometimes-fickle Irish weather was on its very best behavior for the Michigan visitors: lots of sunshine, mild temperatures and only a few fleeting drops of rain.
The group discovered historic sites and stunning scenery, enjoyed Irish musicians and dancers, and savored the magic of a pint of Guinness, Irish coffee or a bit of smooth Irish whiskey.
Best of all, many new friendships were made. All agreed: touring Ireland with other Michigan Radio listeners was, indeed, “great craic”!
You can view photos from Michigan Radio’s Ireland trip here.
You can also learn more about upcoming travel opportunities with Michigan Radio here.
