Ireland! What can I say about this magical island that is a part of every traveler’s bucket list? And if not, it certainly should be! When I think of Ireland, what comes to mind is endless bucolic green scenery and the wildness of the Atlantic coast, toe-tapping music, smiling Irish eyes, energetic dancers, pubs filled with lively folks ready to burst into song or engage you in one of their stories, crazy limericks, castles, rich history, and so much more. I’ve been to Ireland and loved every minute listening to the sad and happy tales that make up the culture and very fabric of the people. I sampled Irish whiskey in a distillery and drank fresh Guinness on tap in pubs and at the actual brewery in Dublin. I was enchanted by the library at Trinity College where the famous Book of Kells is preserved. And, I marveled at the Cliffs of Moher enjoying every minute of the countryside as we traveled north from Dublin. While all trips are memorable for me, Ireland holds a special place in my heart. It delights me the Chamber Travel Club has planned a most exciting tour to Ireland for the spring of 2023 that will take in a good part of Ireland that I was not able to experience and stay in castles the entire 10 days whereas I only overnighted in a castle at the end of my tour. On April 26, the Chamber will transfer travelers to Reno airport to begin a true luxury tour of Ireland that would be fit for royalty – at not-so royal prices. Though there are many highlights on this guided 10-day itinerary, the best is the ability to stay two nights each in five luxurious and famous castles known throughout Great Britain. There are 20 meals included including breakfast and most evening dinners within the castle restaurants. On some days that will mean eating breakfast in one castle and dinner in another. There is something for everyone on this special Warther Tour. This won’t be a rushed, must-see-it within-an hour-stop itinerary. There will be time for golf on some of Ireland’s famous links, tours of ancient monasteries, a Gothic abbey, and castles (including Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone), walled ancient gardens to delight the senses, national parks, and even a stop at the gravesite of the famous Irish poet William Butler Yeats. And, yes, you, too, will be able to see the storied “Book of Kells” at Trinity College when in Dublin. You’ll meet the locals when sampling and learning how whiskey and Guinness is crafted as well as learn how famous crystal, woolen, and pottery is made. There’s a country visit to a sheep farm to learn how dogs are trained, and yes, there will be a more than a wee bit of time on your own to just relax or enjoy a walk about “your” castle or venture into an authentic Irish pub where you can raise a glass and shout out Slainte! Though billed as a 12-day tour, remember, day 1 and day 12 are travel days. A Warther Tour is not your typical cookie cutter tour, and much thought goes into each tour. Owner Mark Warther chooses every hotel and site and believes every traveler should have an unforgettable life experience. You won’t see this tour replicated by most large tour operators. I could write so much more about magnificent Ireland but invite you instead to peruse the entire itinerary by viewing the electronic brochure: http://www.carsoncitychamber.com/images/uploads/2023_Ireland_Brochure.pdf. My friends at the Chamber can answer any questions. Just call 775-882-1565. I expect this will be fully booked before we know it. As I end this, I am thinking of my own wonderful Irish adventure and hope you will enjoy Ireland as much as I did — although your adventure will be far more royal than mine! Marilyn Foster is the consummate traveler and enjoyed her 93rd birthday the end of January.
