Why I can’t wait to go back to Ireland

This week I make my glorious return to Ireland. I first visited the country of my dreams over New Year’s 2010, where I spent two weeks crossing the country, visiting Dublin, Cork, Galway, and several little towns in between.

While those two weeks were an incredible experience, everything was new and I was constantly on the go, so I was in a perpetual state of excitement and awe. It was slightly overwhelming at times. Returning to Ireland a second time, especially when it’s for a wedding (and not just a holiday) means I can skip the touristy highlights, relax, and focus more on having fun and a truly “local” time with friends.

Here’s what I’m looking forward to most about this trip:

An Irish Wedding

I love weddings. I love the Irish. Combine the two and my heart nearly explodes from excitement. I’m not quite looking forward to the two-hour Catholic mass, but the bride is Irish and I’ll try to see the mass as an educational cultural experience.

Also, this is the first time I’ve been to a wedding (as an adult). The last two weddings I attended, I was seven and throwing flowers down the aisle. This time, I’ll be able to drink more than just soda!

A Pint of the Black Stuff

If you haven’t heard already, Guinness really does taste better in Ireland. I look forward to many pints in many cozy pubs across the country. And I definitely plan on a return visit to the Guinness Storehouse – I don’t care if it’s a “cheesy” attraction; I personally think it’s quite well done, and there’s few places in Dublin where you’ll find such a beautiful 360° view over the city.

Tiny Town

During my last trip I took excursions to smaller towns like Cobh, Kinsale, and Killarney, but I’ve yet to experience a truly small town. I’d never even heard of Ballinasloe, where I’ll be spending the weekend for the wedding, which is located in the middle of Ireland and has a population of only 6,200. I’m interested to leave the main attractions of Dublin and Galway and see what life is really like in the heart of Ireland.

Irish Fare

I love Irish food — in fact, I enjoy soda bread just as much as a fresh baguette. And to be honest, after two months of fresh, high-quality French cuisine, I’m craving some grease. I can’t wait to get my hands on a full Irish breakfast, a greasy plate of fish and chips, and a late-night snack of mushy peas.

Reunion

I’m of course excited to see my boyfriend again — we haven’t seen each other since New Year’s in Sydney. He’s never been to Ireland, so I’m also excited to show him all the reasons why I love this country.

Is there anything I’ve missed? What’s your favorite part about visiting Ireland?