My First Trip to Ireland

I remember the first day I suggested to my friend Amanda about wanting to study abroad and we made a trip to the International Study Abroad Office at the University of Michigan-Flint in order to see the possibilities. Our education abroad office was going through a change over of employees so we were passed through many different advisers. After doing our research and selecting the Summer Abroad in Ireland we could start preparing.

I can honestly say that I have never experienced anything more beautiful than Ireland. We were lucky enough to have amazing weather while we were there, and everything was the best shade of green. I enjoyed Ireland the most because everything was so authentic. You really got to experience the country entirely. As shown in one of my photos, during our tour of the Ring of Kerry I actually got to climb into the Torc Waterfall. Feeling the fresh water splash on my arms as it bounced of the rocks I was standing on was an experience I will never forget. It amazed me that every tour we took you could climb right out on the scenery and get to touch the landmarks. This is highly different than many other countries, especially the United States as we have gates and fences preventing us from getting to actually get close to any of the scenery and causing the photos to look like they were taken behind a prison fence.

A tip of advice for future participants would be “there is more to do than the bars.” Even though you may be excited to experience the local pubs and it may be the first time you can legally drink, Ireland offers more than whiskey and beer. Plan extra excursions on top of what is offered. There is so much more of Ireland to see and there are many travel agencies that offer great deals on tours. What is even better than a great deal is that the tour guides often make stops on the campus or a few miles down the road. Amanda and I were able to travel all across Ireland in the short time we were there compared to our roommates who went into town to drink almost every night. Because I spent my money and time traveling around Ireland I got the best out of my trip. Don’t get me wrong, I do suggest going out to a bar with your friends at least once to get the experience. Another thing worth noting is that the apartments you stay in are co-ed. Not that it is a problem because you each have your own separate room but it was a shock to go in not knowing this.
You will be wishing that you had more than a month to explore and experience this amazingly beautiful country!