The WEST

This weekend, we went to "THE WEST" as they call it here, off to Galway and the region of Connemara. Galway is what I would call the Asheville of Ireland, and if you know Asheville, NC, you know what I mean. It's a small-ish university town, with lots of farmers markets, drum circles, etc. Wonderful little place with a few great restaurants serving up wicked vegetarian grub. And of course, the quay streets with lively music and pubs. We spent the day on Saturday wandering around town in the rain and shopping for Claddagh rings and Aran Island sweaters. The Claddagh ring originated here, from a tribe that made its home just south of the river in Galway. Word has it they still had a "king" of the Claddagh tribe until the mid 1950s.

On Sunday, we headed even further west to Connemara for a day of hiking. Connemara is one of the remaining native Irish speaking areas in the country. Sitting quietly outside a convenient store, I was able to listen to the locals conducting their daily gossip/business in Gaelic (Irish). We'll get to the Irish language later, it's extremely difficult to identify by (my) untrained ear. The hiking at Connemara National Park was not extensive, but it was wonderful and wild. Outstanding views of Kylemore Abbey from the peaks, and sea views to the North and West.
Click here for more photos

Reuben and Allison staying dry in Galway