The Emerald Isle, a Fan Favorite

In 2023 The Joy of Travel agents are taking 120+ customers on private, personally escorted tours of Ireland. 88 just returned, and rave reviews are pouring in.

“What’s so special about Ireland?” you ask. It’s like a perfectly prepared meal, it’s a combination of things.

First of all, the scenery in Ireland is stunning. Every bend in the road introduces you to yet another gorgeous vista. I am from Green Country; hence I am well acquainted with green rolling hills. But nothing, and nowhere, compares to the green hills of Ireland.

Then there is the fascinating, tantalizing, sometimes heart-wrenching history. From the Celts to Catholics, from local Kings to Viking invaders, the history of Ireland is full of intrigue and drama, massacre and mayhem. Even into modern times with the formation of the Republic of Ireland to the South (predominantly Catholic) and Northern Ireland, a country within Great Britain (predominantly protestant), the evolution of this island continues.

The people of Ireland are more welcoming of Americans than in any other nation I have ever visited. They are quite truly fascinated by us.

I’ve been to Ireland several times now, and without fail a local will ask “hey Yank, what do you think about …..?” and go on to ask about our elected officials, or border policies, the war in the Ukraine, I can go on and on.

The sights. I know people who get bored with Castles and Cathedrals. I am not one of those. Ireland is covered with both, as well as countless cemeteries covered with Celtic Crosses. From tiny beehive chapels to mind-boggling gothic Cathedrals, from barely standing castle walls to gorgeous hotel/castles like Cabra and Ashford, you can return to Ireland year after year after year and still never see them all.

Here’s the shocker, the food is excellent. Everyone thinks they entire Irish cuisine is based on boiled potatoes. It’s not. In fact, Irish cuisine is delicious. You’d be well advised to take your pants with the elastic waste if you’re going to go on tour in Ireland.

We prefer to send guests to Ireland on escorted tours. The itinerary, sightseeing, local experts, hotels, etc. are all pre-arranged. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the experience.

In fact, many of the 88 that just returned from our May groups to Ireland were new to touring with a group, and the most constant refrain was “I loved traveling with a group. I have a found a new, wonderful way to see the world”.

Go to Ireland. You won’t be disappointed.