I backpacked through Ireland on my own in 2005. I took a bus and stopped in many cities, mostly the one’s I had heard of. I would love to return to this country with more resources as I actually ran out of money while backpacking here with no place to stay. I ended up almost having to sleep near a bridge outside with some local drunks, but then got the brilliant idea to stop trying with the hostel and see if perhaps the nicest hotel in Cork would allow me to make an emergency phone call for funds. This worked well, but was my most memorable adventure on my bus trip through Ireland.

EXPERIENCE

I took a bus through the country since I was backpacking, but if I returned, would likely rent a car to have more freedom to explore beyond the cities. The countryside is lovely and I made stops in Dublin, Cork, Kerry and Limerick. Memorable activities, though it has been nearly seven years, were the castle in Cork, the Guinness Brewery Tour in Dublin and of course enjoying myself in Temple Bar.

STAY

I was staying exclusively in hostel on this trip, and I’d be guessing name them at this point.

EAT

I believe Guinness and traditional Irish cuisine were the meals of choice while hear, not the lightest of dining, but Ireland is rumored to have outstanding seafood as well that I would try on a trip back with a bigger budget.