Kinsale
"Ireland was a place for the renewal of hope, and I still see it like that." - Daniel Day-Lewis
On the Tour
A walking tour of Kinsale with our local guide introduced us to the charming, multi-colored buildings of the area. We learned about the Battle of Kinsale that dramatically shaped the country's history, as well as the more recent connection to the Lusitania. Following that with a tour of Charles Fort reinforced how important the harbor was to defense throughout the years.
We had the option to return to the main area of Kinsale by following the scenic Scilly Walk, allowing us to see both the harbor and the village from a different angle.
In the evening, many of us attended a traditional Irish music session at Dalton's Bar. This was an amazing opportunity to enjoy a cultural experience with local residents and to see how important pub culture is.
On My Own
I visited the Kinsale Mead Co., which turned out to be the first meadery in Ireland in 200 years. The tour included a tasting of several meads, of course, but also of the different types of honey used to make the beverages. In addition to showing how mead is made, the tour guide explained the history and importance of mead in Ireland and other areas, as well as some of the myths and stories that go with it. While Ireland may be known for its Guinness and whiskey, the meadery tour was a tasty and unique experience.
Tip for Shy Introverts
Plan Ahead for Free Time
Prior to leaving on the tour, research ideas of things to do at each of your stops, so you know what you personally want to do during free time. For shy introverts like me, this takes away the pressure of being a "burden" on others by asking to tag along with them. I was ready and willing to go off by myself, if necessary. However, you can also let others know what you had already planned and invite them along with you. Doing this led to a couple on my tour joining me at the Kinsale Mead Co. and another couple going for a tasting at the same time without doing the whole tour.
By knowing what you want to do during your free time, you will have more control and confidence. It will also make it less daunting to invite others, if you want to do so. Others may invite you along on their plans instead. Be open to that invitation, even if you are shy about it; they might have a better idea than you do!
