For all those going to Ireland before coming to Gaming, you are in for a splendid time. My family and I visited Ireland during the fall 2006 break. We visited Dublin, the Aryan Islands, the Dingle Peninsula, and County Cavin, as well as the Cliffs of More. We have some great memories: lush green land, Guinness on Tap, more sheep than the mind can possibly imagine, English speaking!, gorgeous water, wonderful pubs, catholic culture, and history galore. A highlight of the trip was going to visit the hope where my wife's grandparents used to live in Cavin. Now, it is nothing but a shack, but it brought back thoughts about how material things are passing (symbolized by their home) but the human spirit is enduring (their children and grandchildren still alive from their sacrifice). This upcoming semester, students will be challenged to meet and encounter the challenges, failures, longings, and victories of the human spirit throughout Europe. They will reexamine their lives and hopefully their priorities as well.
As far as places to visit, the Aryan Islands where fantastic, although the B& B said a 5 minute walk, it was more like 15. Be careful of the Irish exaggeration! Moreover, the Dingle Peninsula was spectacular. We were able to rent bikes and peddle all over next to the spectacular coast stopping now and then to pick wild raspberries.
For those traveling to Ireland, have fun, and we will see you in Gaming!
