Kilmainham Gaol and Rock of Cashel
"Now, I know it's hard for you, my love, to ever understand,
The love I bear for these brave men, my love for this dear land."- The song Grace
On the Tour
On the way out of Dublin, we stopped to tour Kilmainham Gaol. After hearing about the Easter Rising on our walking tour of Dublin the day before, visiting the place where several of the rebellion's leaders lost their lives was a sobering next step in learning about Irish history. One of the saddest stories was about Grace Gifford and Joseph Plunkett, who married at the gaol shortly before his execution and inspired the song Grace. Stories like this drove home how relatively new a country Ireland is and how valuable freedoms and liberties truly are.
We also stopped at the Rock of Cashel, a structure much, much older than the Easter Rising. Since religion has played its own significant role in Ireland's history, it was interesting to hear about how Christianity affected the area. I also learned a piece of the Rock of Cashel was gifted to a church in my home state.
Tip for Shy Introverts
Buddies on the Bus
The day we left Dublin was also the first day officially on the bus. Thanks to Rick Steves' philosophy of having smaller groups, many of us were able to have our own row of seats. As a shy introvert, this was ideal because I could still talk to the people near me when I chose to do so or quietly enjoy the scenery outside the window. The time on the bus was actually some of the best, thanks to the information, stories, and music shared by our guide. Depending on when you are traveling, you may even get to watch a hurling championship on the TV like we did. Take advantage of time on the bus to bond or to recharge, whatever you need to do at that time!
Everyone also has a "buddy" for the tour to make sure the bus doesn't drive off without someone. My buddy was awesome. Your buddy will be one of your first and possibly most consistent connections on the trip. Having that one person to look out for you, especially if you're an introvert traveling solo, can also help you feel safe knowing you won't be forgotten!
