When I got home from Ireland back in February, I had hoped I could go back in October. That isn’t working out. And while I plan for my next trip, which now seems like January, there are several parts of my trip that I realize have stayed with me, meaning I think of them all the time.

The entire twelve-day journey awakened something in me. I’m not sure if it was walking down a road my grandfather walked when he was a child, feeling the wind hit my body on the far-western part of Achill Island, or being among people who were always genuinely friendly, kind, and hospitable. These and probably several other things hit something inside of me and made me want to keep returning.

Achill Island

I think about Achill almost every day. I want to spend more time there, and I even joke with my husband that I want to live there.

Achill offers so much to the visitor, in a way that separates one from the mass crowds of tourists. They just aren’t there, especially in the winter, when I was there.

Achill Island is an easy drive from Westport (you’ll read about this later), and next time I will stay on the island for a few days.

Kilmainham Jail

Although I am a nerd when it comes to Irish history, I think anyone will be affected by a tour of Kilmainham Jail. Make a reservation. And when you’re done, check out the gift shop, then walk over to Phoenix Park.

Hot Box Sauna, Sligo

There was nothing like spending my 59th birthday going here, enjoying plenty of time in the saunas, and being able to hop into the ocean in between seats. The staff was so friendly and welcoming, and I couldn’t have been more relaxed. And grateful. Suanas are popping up all over Ireland, and I recommend always traveling with a bathing suit and towel if you, like me, never want to miss a chance to get into one!

Westport

I love Westport. A town of 8,000, it is the third largest in County Mayo. I stayed a ten-minute walk from downtown and from what became my favorite pub, Matt Molloy’s. Westport doesn’t seem to get talked about when people share Ireland experiences, and it’s my favorite. I love the small-town feel, the variety of pubs, shops, and places to eat, and the convenience of being close to so many places I wanted to visit.

Doolough Valley

Groundstate Coffee, Dublin

My favorite coffee house in Dublin. Not far from Guinness. Delicious vegan treats and very kind staff. And it’s out of the way of heavy tourist areas.

National Gallery of Ireland

I had some extra time before lunch with a friend and decided to stop in here. I enjoyed it so much that I came back after lunch. My favorite part of the museum is the Irish art area, where I learned a great deal and fell in love with some of the art.

St. Stephen’s Green, Dublin

I was able to walk around here each day I was in Dublin. It’s an easy walk from the main tourist area, and there is so much to see, even aside from people watching. Keep an eye out for all of the statues honoring people and events. Each time I walked here, I noticed something new (to me).

If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, definitely consider any of these places!