Ireland’s 5 Most Charming Villages Perfect For A Day Trip

Visiting Irish villages is a delightful experience for travelers wanting to explore the country’s rich history and culture. Quaint villages amidst rolling hills and picturesque landscapes offer an immersion into the traditional Irish way of life.

From the rugged beauty of Donegal to the charming streets of Athenry, each village has its unique character and attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient ruins, admiring stunning architecture, or simply enjoying a pint of Guinness in a local pub while tapping your feet to Trad, there’s something for everyone.

Pack your bags and head to Ireland to experience the warmth and hospitality of its charming villages. Perhaps one of these enchanting communities will bring you Irish magic.

1. Donegal Town

Donegal Town is a pleasant Irish village located in the northwest of County Donegal. It’s a popular tourist destination that offers an immersion into the traditional Irish way of life. The town is on the banks of the River Eske. The surrounding hills provide splendid views of the coastline and countryside.

You can explore the town’s rich history by visiting ancient Donegal Castle, which dates back to the 15th century. In addition to its historical attractions, Donegal Town is renowned for its traditional music scene, or “Trad” as locals call it. Donegal pubs are a treasure trove of lively Irish music and dancing. Donegal Town is a fantastic place to visit for those looking to experience the warmth and hospitality of an Irish village.

2. Westport

Westport is an amiable town located in County Mayo. It’s known for its old-world scenery, friendly locals, and vibrant arts scene. You can explore the town’s beautiful Georgian architecture. The famous Westport House, a stately home converted into a museum, was also the home of Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley.

The town has numerous restaurants, cafés, and pubs perfect for sampling traditional Irish cuisine and live music. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the surrounding countryside, which includes Croagh Patrick, a mountain known for its religious significance and challenging climb.

Westport Quay is the county’s vibrant fishing port with a museum, walking trail, and seafood eateries. Westport is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic Irish experience.

3. Athenry

Athenry is an Irish village in County Galway, a 20-minute train ride from Galway Town. It’s a popular tourist destination known for its historical landmarks and friendly locals. Remnants of the wall that enclosed the village were built in the 1200s.

The town’s medieval history is reflected in its impressive castle ruins, which date back to the 13th century. You can also explore the town’s narrow streets and colorful buildings, which make for a perfect photo-op.

Athenry is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing local talent. It’s an excellent destination for travelers looking to experience Ireland’s rich history and culture.

4. Killybegs

Killybegs is a small fishing village located in County Donegal. It’s one of the largest fishing ports in the country and is renowned for its thriving fishing industry. The town’s dynamic harbor is bustling with activity, including fishing boats coming and going throughout the day.

You can sample the freshest seafood in one of the town’s many restaurants while strolling along the harbor and enjoying stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Killybegs is also home to several historical landmarks, including the ruins of an old Franciscan friary and St. Catherine’s Well — dating back to the 17th century.

5. Inishmore

The largest of the Aran Islands is Inishmore. Just off Ireland’s west coast, the island is known for its rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and traditional way of life.

Take a ferry to the island and explore the rugged coastline, including the spectacular Cliffs of Moher and the Wormhole — a natural rock formation popular with swimmers and divers. Inishmore is also home to the ancient stone fort of Dún Aonghasa dating back to the Iron Age. The magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean are renowned.

Walk through the village and find local crafters making hand-knit sweaters with patterns that tell the history of local fishing families. Many are made from the wool of sheep raised on the island.

Inishmore’s fascinating history, culture, and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for travelers to Ireland.

Conclusion

Irish villages are enriching destinations for travelers who want to delve deeper into the country’s rich history and culture. Each village has its individual character and attractions, with a glimpse of the traditional Irish way of life.

The quaint villages amidst the rolling hills and inspiring landscapes are perfect for those seeking an authentic Irish experience. There’s something for everyone, from ancient castles and ruins to stunning architecture and vibrant music scenes. The warmth and hospitality of locals welcome you with open arms. Visiting Irish villages is a delightful and memorable experience that leaves a lasting impression.

5 West Coast Beach Towns Perfect For A Long Weekend Escape

Along the West Coast of the United States, from Seattle to San Diego, scenic beach towns beckon not only with sand and surf but also cute downtown areas for shopping and dining, as well as boutique hotels ideal for a weekend getaway.

While much of the U.S. is buried in snow and freezing temperatures, Southern California might be most appealing for a winter escape with its sunny skies and moderate weather. But even towns further up the coast allow for moody walks on uncrowded beaches in the off-season. And of course, Pacific sunsets can be stunning all year round.

Consider these West Coast beach towns perfect for a long weekend escape.

1. Pismo Beach, California

On California’s central coast, Pismo Beach offers visitors 17 miles of coastline to explore. To the north and south of Pismo Beach Pier are wide stretches of soft sand for beach picnics, frisbee, and volleyball. At low-tide, check out the nifty tidepools at Shell Beach.

From October through February, be sure to visit the Monarch Butterfly Grove, where more than 10,000 orange and black butterflies flock annually. Three historic wine-making regions are a short drive away for wine tastings and strolling through vineyards — Edna Valley, Arroyo Grande Valley, and Avila Valley.

Where To Stay In Pismo Beach

Inn at the Cove is set on an oceanfront bluff, while Vespera Resort on Pismo Beach, Autograph Collection is steps from the pier.

Fairy-tale architecture in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea
Photo credit: CarmelCalifornia.com

2. Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

A 2-hour drive south of San Francisco, charming Carmel-by-the-Sea is home to a 1-square-mile village where surprises delight around every corner. Whimsical fairy-tale cottages look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. Wine-tasting rooms make for a great place to rest while browsing local boutiques in narrow passageways and pretty courtyards.

Dogs can roam leash-free on expansive Carmel Beach. Walk the flat Scenic Pathway that skirts the sea, or do the loop trail in the nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, which takes you through cypress groves and to lookouts above rocky coves.

Where To Stay In Carmel-By-The-Sea

Doris Day once owned the pet-friendly Cypress Inn, which dates back to 1929. Also historic, L’Auberge Carmel might be downtown’s most luxurious boutique hotel, while Carriage House Inn is a romantic spot with just 13 rooms.

Balboa Peninsula in Newport Beach
Photo credit: Newport Beach & Company

3. Newport Beach, California

Orange County’s Newport Beach is a coastal city of more than 80,000 residents, but its distinct neighborhoods help make the upscale spot feel more intimate. Take the ferry to Balboa Island, check out the tidepools in Corona del Mar, and shop the chic stores at Fashion Island. Balboa Peninsula is the spot for surfing, boogie boarding, beach bars, and seaside dining.

Where To Stay In Newport Beach

Just opened in the fall of 2023, Pendry Newport Beach is the area’s newest lodging option. Newport Beach Hotel is steps from the beach and Balboa Bay Resort hugs yacht-clad Newport Harbor.

Quiet beach in Gearhart, Oregon
Photo credit: Zoe Ching / Practice Hospitality

4. Gearhart, Oregon

Three miles north of Seaside — a bustling, family-friendly vacation destination with adventure parks and arcades — is quiet Gearhart, Oregon. The uncrowded small town has no traffic lights and provides a peaceful backdrop for a coastal weekend escape, especially for visitors from Portland, a 90-minute drive away. Walk along the unspoiled beach, go kayaking in Neacoxie Creek, or tee off at Gearhart Golf Links.

Where To Stay In Gearhart

The Drifthaven at Gearhart is a 12-room boutique hotel with cozy fireplaces in every room and thoughtful amenities like complimentary use of beach bikes and a continental breakfast delivered to your room daily.

5. Seabrook, Washington

Seabrook, Washington, is a planned coastal community developed about 20 years ago. While it may not have the authentic history of a marina town like Port Townsend, laid-back Seabrook does offer visitors an idyllic town square, 18 green parks, and several miles of mountain biking trails.

Seabrook has plenty of beachfront within walking distance of town, or you can venture further afield to Pacific Beach State Park, Roosevelt Beach, and Copalis Beach. Seabrook also makes a great home base for adventuring in Olympic National Park.

Where To Stay In Seabrook

Unique vacation rentals abound in Seabrook, from cozy one-bedroom cottages close to the beach to larger multi-bedroom houses with spacious yards ideal for a family getaway.

The Bottom Line

Whether you want to surf, stroll, poke around tidepools, or watch the sunset, there’s a West Coast beach town ideal for your weekend getaway.

While it may be difficult to tear yourself away from the soothing sound of ocean waves, remember that beach towns can also make great launch pads for visiting nearby wineries, national parks, and golf courses to round out a short coastal vacation.

7 Art Museums Around The World For Renaissance Art

Of the most famous artists of all time, three are Renaissance artists, with Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael topping the list. Other Renaissance artists include Caravaggio, Botticelli, Titian, Donatello, and El Greco — all masters of their craft.

When traveling, we all search out historic sights, followed by museums. Personally, I tend to favor art museums over history museums, because art — especially when showcasing locally born or locally working artists — can tell so many stories about a location. So, where are the best art museums to see those famous Renaissance paintings?

1. Louvre, Paris, France

The Louvre in Paris is the largest and busiest art museum in the world, and the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci plays a huge part in its popularity. The little piece is the most recognizable painting in the world, after all. After the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre is a must-see in Paris and the crowds can become quite overwhelming, unless you know how to avoid them. Inside, after posing for a selfie with Mona, there are plenty more Renaissance works to discover. There’s an entire wing dedicated to the mostly Italian works; even if only a fraction of the Louvre’s treasures are on display.

2. Vatican Museum, Rome, Italy

Despite the Louvre being the most famous art museum, the Vatican is without a doubt the best museum for Renaissance art. Apart from the absolutely mind-blowing ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, there are Raphaels, Michelangelos, da Vincis, and Caravaggios at every turn. It is worth getting up early to enjoy the experience without too many others around. And after you gorge on art in the Vatican, why not catch up with some more Caravaggio paintings dotted around Rome, in various churches, displayed for free?

3. Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy

Sandro Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus is one of the main draws of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. The beautiful museum is really worth a trip just for its architecture, but inside, you’ll not only find a Botticelli or two, but also works by Michelangelo, Raphael, Titian, Fra Angelico, and Giotto. One visit is barely enough. But if you are roaming the halls looking for the rather handsome David, he stands in the Accademia Gallery not too far away.

4. Santa Maria Delle Grazie, Milan, Italy

For obvious reasons, Italy is the front-runner when it comes to museums exhibiting Renaissance works, but this will be the last one mentioned in this collection. It is a stunner; especially if you are lucky enough to plan ahead to get to see it, which I was not. The Last Supper, one of the most famous paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, is the only painting in this “museum” — because really, there is no need for any others. World famous, artful, and even embroiled in a conspiracy theory, it is worth planning ahead once you know you’re coming to Milan.

5. National Gallery, London, UK

The National Gallery, one of the free museums in London, is home to several Renaissance paintings by the common suspects like Raphael, da Vinci, and Michelangelo. It also holds several paintings by a non-Italian Renaissance artist, namely Domenikos Theotokopoulos, known as El Greco, The Greek. Although, to be fair, while he was born in Crete, in those years, it was a Venetian Island, making him practically Italian. He also studied in Rome under Michelangelo and Raphael. Also look out for The Ambassadors by Hans Holbein the Younger — definitely not an Italian.

6. Alte Pinakothek, Munich, Germany

The Alte Pinakothek in Munich is home to more examples of the very prolific Renaissance artists, with examples by Raphael, da Vinci, Botticelli, Titian, and Lotto. It also features some more local examples as well. There is, for example, the Self-Portrait at the age of 28 and the Lamentation for Christ by German painter Albrecht Durer. You’ll also find The Battle for Alexander by another German Renaissance artist, Albrecht Altdorfer, together with some other paintings, showcasing a bit more variety.

7. National Gallery Of Art, Washington, D.C.

Want to see a Leonardo da Vinci painting, but not travel too far? The National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. in fact holds the only Leonardo da Vinci painting on public display in the Americas. And while you’re there, you can catch up with Raphael, Fra Angelico, and Titian for good measure. Entry is always free, so what are you waiting for?

Do you have a favorite Renaissance artist? My personal favorite artwork is Michelangelo’s La Pieta in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome — not a painting, but a sculpture. It is incredible how prolific the artists were during that period, with so many superb artworks around. It could nearly become a trip in itself, trying to view as many as you can, but travel to Italy first to get a head start.

Top 5 Culinary Journeys In The U.S. For Foodies

If you call yourself a foodie, then chances are you’re always looking for the newest Michelin-starred restaurants, the latest openings from celebrity chefs, and the hottest trends in dining. And you probably plan your vacations around food.

I tell people I love to travel, but what I really mean is I love to travel so I can eat new foods and dine at trendy restaurants. After decades of traveling to eat, I consider myself a pretty good judge of the top culinary journeys in the United States.

Here are five cities you must visit if you consider yourself a foodie.

1. San Antonio

This city may come as a surprise until you learn it was designated a Creative City of Gastronomy by UNESCO — an honor bestowed upon just 50 cities around the world.

San Antonio has strong influences from traditional southern comfort foods and a wide range of Mexican cuisines. Mixed in is plenty of traditional Texas barbecue and a smattering of German influence thanks to settlers in the 19th century.

When visiting, be sure to check out Southerleigh for elevated southern classics, Carriqui for Tex-Mex done right, and La Panaderia for the best almond croissant you’ll ever bite into. Beer lovers will not want to miss Weathered Souls Brewing Company with some seriously creative beverages like the Rainbow Sherbert Sour and Red Velvet Stout.

2. New York

I’ve been visiting New York City since I was 9 years old and I still have so much more to learn about its culinary scene — influenced by immigrants from all over the world. But with over a dozen trips to the Big Apple, I’m confident in my foodie recommendations.

First, you really need to eat pizza. For the iconic New York slice, head to Joe’s Pizza. And bagels are de rigueur for breakfast, hopefully topped with generous amounts of cream cheese. For anyone with a sweet tooth, you cannot skip a slice of New York-style cheesecake at Junior’s.

A food hall is the ideal opportunity to try multiple restaurants in one location, and fortunately, New York has many of them. One of the newest is TimeOut Food Market in Brooklyn featuring two dozen vendors representing some of the city’s best cuisines.

3. Chicago

I’ll admit that I’m partial to Chicago as it’s my hometown. However, it’s also a foodie paradise. Similar to New York, food in the Windy City has been influenced by a myriad of cultures. When I was growing up, there was a large presence of Mexican, Greek, and Eastern European cuisines. Today, that’s been augmented by Vietnamese, Indian, Ethiopian, and many more. In fact, Chicago is now ranked as a top 10 most diverse cities in the U.S., so you know there’s great food to be had.

You have to start with pizza, and here that means a deep-dish pie. Pequod’s Pizza regularly ranks at the top, often followed by Lou Malnati’s. Then, move on to a classic Italian beef sandwich at Portillo’s. To round out this artery-clogging feast, be sure to snag a Chicago dog — an all-beef hot dog topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato wedges, and a pickle spear.

4. Portland

Fortunately, my brother lives in Portland, giving me the opportunity to visit frequently. And eating is always a top priority. Portland has been attracting young, innovative chefs for decades, turning it into a giant experimental kitchen. Unlike East Coast cities that have their go-to foods, Portland’s favorite dishes are always changing.

The best way to sample Portland’s food is at a food cart pod — an outdoor collection of food trucks or small stalls typically gathered around a bar or large seating area. Portland Mercado has gathered Central and South American food carts into one colorful and lively setting that includes a bar and a Latin American food market. Or head to Cartlandia, which features 30 carts representing 15 different countries.

No matter what you do, don’t leave Portland without visiting at least one of their 70 breweries. Among my favorites is Ex Novo. Not only do they make great beer, but they also donate 100 percent of net profits to organizations building a better world.

5. San Francisco

I dream of returning to San Francisco just to eat. This has long been a top culinary destination in the U.S. Its seaside location, proximity to Napa, and numerous international influences have contributed to the high caliber of food.

Seafood lovers do not want to miss Dungeness crab while visiting San Francisco. Order it in any number of restaurants or head to one of the outdoor stalls at Fisherman’s Wharf. Then it’s time for clam chowder served in a bread bowl at Boudin Bakery. Just a few blocks away is Buena Vista Cafe, famous for inventing Irish coffee. And finally, it’s time for chocolate at the Ghirardelli Square Chocolate Shop. And I would be remiss if I didn’t encourage every visitor to explore — and eat your way through — the city’s Chinatown.

If you’re like me, and travel to eat, you have an amazing array of culinary journeys to choose from in the U.S. San Antonio, New York, Chicago, Portland, and San Francisco should be on everyone’s list.

7 Restaurants With Gluten-Free Options in Columbia, South Carolina

Known by many locals as “Soda City” – not thanks to any connection to the fizzy beverage, but rather due to the affectionate shortening of its name to “Cola” – Columbia, South Carolina, is home to the South Carolina State Museum (in the building that once was the world’s first fully electric textile mill), the Columbia Marionette Theater (one of the few dedicated puppet theaters in the United States), the Riverbanks Zoo (one of a handful in the nation with a permanent koala exhibit), and the Columbia Fireflies minor league baseball team.

And amidst all these attractions, Columbia is also attuned to the dietary needs of its visitors and residents. With the rising awareness of celiac disease (an autoimmune condition in which the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and their hybrids, leads to damage in the small intestine) and gluten intolerance, or non-celiac gluten-sensitivity (a non-autoimmune condition in which gluten consumption causes sickness after eating), finding a good meal between taking in the sights has never been easier. (A happy fact for the roughly 1% of Americans with celiac and 6% with gluten intolerance.)

If you’re on a gluten-free diet, here are some of the top restaurants that are reported to have gluten-free menus or options in Columbia, South Carolina. (Remember to always alert your server to any dietary restrictions. Some of the venues listed here may not be safe for those with celiac or who are sensitive to cross-contamination. Be sure to call the restaurant ahead of time with any concerns.)

Gluten-free restaurants in Columbia, South Carolina

1. Tazza Kitchen

4840 Forest Drive, #20, Columbia, SC 29206
tazzakitchen.com
1-803-782-0760

This contemporary casual eatery features a variety of types of fare, from pizzas to salads to tacos. Although not a gluten-free establishment, the labeled dishes are “suitable for most gluten sensitivities,” the restaurant notes. It is important when ordering to alert your server to your dietary restrictions.

2. Publico Kitchen & Tap

2013 Greene Street, Columbia, SC 29205
publicokitchenandtap.com
1-803-661-9043

Featuring fusion Lat-Asian cuisine, this hip and relaxed restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes that are either naturally gluten free or can be made so with some ingredient swaps. All burgers and sandwiches can be made gluten free by substituting the bun for a lettuce wrap, and all tacos can be made gluten free by subbing in a corn tortilla or lettuce wrap.

3. Mellow Mushroom

1009 Gervais Street, Columbia, SC 29201
mellowmushroom.com
1-803-933-9201

A popular chain restaurant, the Mellow Mushroom menu includes a variety of gluten-free pizzas, from the house special to “Mighty Meaty” to “Veg Out.” The 10-inch pies are prepared according to the restaurant’s “certified gluten-free safe procedures.” You can finish off your meal with a Sweet Street gluten-free brownie.

4. Basil Thai Cuisine

702 Cross Hill Road, Suite 300A, Columbia, SC 29205
eatatbasil.com
1-803-782-0716

With various locations in North and South Carolina, diners can choose from a range of “refined Thai cuisine,” including soups, salads, stir-fries, curries, and fried rice. A variety of dishes are or can be made gluten free upon request.

5. Good Life Cafe

1216 Taylor Street Columbia, SC 29201
goodlifecafe.net
1-803-726-2310

Reputed to be one of the only organic, raw, and vegan restaurants in the Columbia area, this cafe offers a breakfast menu, a main menu, and a grab-and-go menu, all including a variety of gluten-free options. Sit and dine, or choose a snack to enjoy while sightseeing!

6. Eggs Up Grill

2930 Devine Street, Columbia, SC 29205
4711 Forest Drive, Suites 15 & 16, Columbia, SC 29206
eggsupgrill.com
1-803-661-9174 (Devine Street)
1-803-820-0742 (Forest Drive)

Breakfast, as they say, is the most important meal of the day. Start yours off with a hearty gluten-free meal from this restaurant, featuring two locations in Columbia. “Gluten-friendly” items include “Loaded Home Fry,” “Southwestern,” and “Gluten-Friendly Pancakes.”

7. Ally & Eloise Bakeshop

2833 Devine Street, Columbia, South Carolina 29205
5209 Forest Drive, Suite B, Columbia, South Carolina 29206
allyandeloise.com
1-803-708-2982 (Forest Drive)
1-803-661-6653 (Devine Street)

With locations on both Devine Street and Forest Drive, this bakery can help satisfy your sweet tooth no matter where you are in Columbia. Tasty gluten-free treats include “Queen Mother Cake Bars” — chocolate cake made with ground almonds and topped with espresso ganache — and gluten-free cookie gift boxes.

Columbia’s gluten-free treasures: dine with confidence in Soda City

There’s a world of gluten-free flavors waiting for you in Columbia. Enjoy every bite, and discover the heart of South Carolina!

Disclaimer of Medical Advice: This information does not constitute medical advice or recommendation of any kind, and you should not rely on any information contained in such posts or comments to replace consultations with your qualified healthcare professionals to meet your individual needs.

Satisfaction for Travel Apps Lag Behind Other Industries

Despite their usefulness, travel apps and websites receive only moderate satisfaction ratings from the customers who use them, according to a recent study by J.D. Power.

In an interview with Travel Awaits, Michael Taylor, J.D. Power’s managing director of travel, hospitality, and retail research, explained that travel app satisfaction scores have more to do with the nature of the service than the performance of the software.

“For the airline apps and other travel apps, but especially airline apps, you’re trying to meet a deadline and that will affect satisfaction no matter how well you do with whatever you’re doing,” Taylor said.

Taylor added that hard deadlines like a scheduled flight tend to “stress out” a customer’s satisfaction with a product whereas apps that can be used at leisure, such as insurance apps, get much higher satisfaction scores.

The types of applications and websites researchers focused on were all-encompassing. They typically allow customers to search and buy services as well as store tickets, meaning they’re meant to be used on the go and in real time.

For the study, researchers surveyed 5,543 users of airline, hotel, and rental car websites from June to July 2023. The apps were scored on a scale of 1,000 points using variables like speed, intuition, visual appeal, navigation, and day of travel performance.

The top three apps and websites in each category include:

Applications

Airline App

Alaska Airlines (688)
Southwest Airlines (687)
JetBlue Airways (680)

Hotel App

World of Hyatt (722)
Choice Hotels (691)
Hilton Honors (691)

Rental Car App

National (738)
Alamo (720)
Enterprise (687)

Websites

Airline Website

Alaska Airlines (658)
JetBlue Airways (654)
Southwest Airlines (648)

Hotel Website

World of Hyatt (676)
Hilton Worldwide (661)
Choice Hotels (652)

Rental Car Website

National (709)
Alamo (681)
Hertz (674)