Ireland 2022 Part Last: Odds and Ends

One of the things I love about traveling abroad is learning about different cultures. Sometimes you may learn something profound or have an epiphany about your own culture. Other times you learn something amusing or mildly entertaining. Such is the case with some final thoughts about our latest trip to Ireland.

Naming conventions: The names Irish ascribe to many things are different from our names.

You need trash bags? No, what you need are rubbish sacks or refuse sacks.
Dish detergent? No such thing. Perhaps you’re looking for washing-up liquid.
Illegally parked? Your car won’t get booted, but it may get clamped.

Signage: I’ve written before about signage – it’s occasionally not very explicit or helpful, and sometimes quirky. But there’s often a discernable politeness to it that reflects the underlying kindness of the people.

Rainbows: We took it as a good omen when we saw a rainbow soon after we landed on Irish soil. We kept seeing them. Near our house in Dingle, on our last day in Ireland, we were admiring yet another rainbow as a family came walking down the gravel lane by us, not even remotely interested in what we finally came to realize is such a common occurrence that they are about as noteworthy as seeing a sheep. But they are still beautiful and wondrous to me.

Colorful towns: Brightly painted shops adorn the streets of Cobh, Kinsale, Dingle, and villages across Ireland.

Churches: There are probably nearly as many ancient churches in Ireland as there are pubs. We visited many of both. Often the churches, their grandeur on prominent display from hilltops, have an imposing, almost intimidating presence. Were they built to serve as powerful reminders of God’s glory and majesty, or of God’s eternal watchfulness, so do not stray or face God’s wrath? Maybe a little of both.

St. Colman’s Cathedral in Cobh, one of the tallest buildings in Ireland, sits on a hilltop dominating the town below, which hugs the sea.

St. Multose Church in Kinsale, which dates back to the 12^th century, is the oldest continuously in-use church in Ireland.

Killeagh Parish Church

Final thought: We were in Ireland for two perfect weeks. It was a long time to be away from home, but we’re already anxious to get back. Below are some closing shots of Ireland's seacoast.

*** NOTE: What's in Dave's Head has been selected as one of the top 30 retirement travel blogs by Feedspot! Check it out at https://blog.feedspot.com/retirement_travel_blogs/ ***

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