Dingle
"I feel more and more the time wasted that is not spent in Ireland." - Lady Gregory
On the Tour
On the way to Dingle, we drove through Killarney National Park, which was some of the most beautiful countryside I have ever seen, and we stopped for a sheep herding and shearing demonstration. Not only was this a great way to see how traditional farms and industries operate, but we also learned how modern advancements have made that way of life unsustainable, since the wool from the sheep is no longer profitable. New uses for the wool, such as turning it into fertilizer pellets, may change that. It was nice to know that Rick Steves tour groups and other visitors for the demonstration can help with profits in the meantime.
The several days in Dingle were well-loved by me and the other tour members, especially the delicious food at our Bed and Breakfast locations. As part of our time on the peninsula, we traveled the Slea Head drive, including a stop at the Great Blasket Centre to learn about the residents who kept their islands' culture alive with their writings and a stop at the Gallarus Oratory to see an early church.
We also enjoyed a crystal cutting demonstration at Dingle Crystal, a performance by local musicians, a walking tour, and a whiskey tasting. The wide variety of cultural experiences in just a few short days was a whirlwind of fun set against a breathtaking back drop!
On My Own
In Dingle, we had the benefit of a full day of free time. Unlike the stereotype of Irish weather, we had a very pleasant and warm day for it! The first thing I did was book an hour-long Harbor and Bay Cruise with Dingle Boat Tours. It was awesome to see the area from a different angle and to hear the stories of Fungie, the dolphin who called Dingle home for many years.
While on the boat, I saw people walking out to the lighthouse. Our guide had also mentioned that was a good walk. So that afternoon, I hit the trail, making my way toward Hussey's Folly. The trail I walked on was mostly flat and easy, but once in a while, stone steps or other barriers presented an interesting challenge. At first, I was tempted to turn back but decided I had made the commitment to walk the whole way, and I was super glad I did by the end of it!
Tip for Shy Introverts
Talk with Locals
While I did run into several tour members as we all explored Dingle, I intentionally made sure that free day was just for me. This helped me recharge for the next half of the bus tour. It is important for us introverts to listen to our needs and know when to take that social break.
By being alone that day, I also had the opportunity to talk to locals more than I would have when spending time with the other tour members. The benefit of talking to locals is that you will literally never see them again, so there's no need to be shy. Heading back from Hussey's Folly, I chatted for several minutes with a local woman who was swimming with her son. I asked her how cold the water was, and she said she could only handle a few minutes of it, "but there are some things, if you don't do them, they don't get done." That's certainly good advice for all of life's adventures!
