Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Inconceivable

It is nearing the end of our time in Emerald Isle. As we begin to reminisce on what all we have done, we are also, strategically planning to find time to do what we still want to do.

It was our last full weekend in Ireland and a three-day trip to the Southern Ireland would cross off Galway, Killarney, Cork, Kylemore Abbey, Blarney Castle, Cliffs of Mohr and much more. The 7 a.m. morning came with clouds of rain and we ran through the city to catch our Paddywagon bus. Making it with enough time to grab a bit of complementary toast, it would not be long before we explored the antique castles and natural attractions that are housed in Southern Ireland.

The most anticipated site to visit for me and my fellow travelers was the Cliffs of Mohr. Aside from being featured as the Cliffs of Insanity in the 1987 film the Princess Bride, the cliffs hold their own fame attracting nearly one million visitors in 2006. Not only had tour guides and films boosted about the scenic site but word of mouth from fellow students and Irish locals, confirmed the appeal of the cliffs.
Cliffs of Mohr in County Clare

The wind blew fierce and pedestrians hats flew in the air and clutched onto hand rails when nearing the edges of the cliffs.  The cliffs in the south region is a popular risky trail that bears a sign before entering stating its legal boundaries. Of course this does not play a factor to us young and fearless and off to the south region we went.

Me at the Cliffs of Mohr South Region 
As I dangled my feet precariously off the edge of the cliffs, I then understand the majestic appeal of the cliffs. I explored the grounds, took pictures and enjoyed the cool ocean breeze. The Cliffs of Mohr definitely toped my favorites list.


Interview with a Virginia Bailey, a fellow traveler, she mentions the underdog nature of Ireland. “Its kind of an out of the way countries that no one really talks about in Europe” Virginia Bailey said. “But I always wanted to go.” 

The beauty of the cliffs is not done justice by photos or postcards, and I find this true of Ireland as a country. There is an indescribable appeal to this country that can only be experienced.
Me on the edge of the cliffs

As I near the end of my journey in Ireland I leave taking away mental snapshots and memories that match all the cliché tag lines of travel brochure. I leave a country that successfully heightened all my senses.


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