Day 6- October 19th

Today we are off at 8:30am, we have a lot to do and see. Our first stop today was at the Waterford showroom. We only had a half hour here, which just wasn't enough time. Doug told us we could buy the crystal when we got to Blarney, but there was so much to see! For me, the highlight was seeing a crystal plate commemorating Andre Agassi's Wimbledon win in 2000. I didn't have my camera with me, as I didn't think I would want it, but I regretted it later on. I didn't buy anything as there just wasn't enough time. We drove a bit more, hearing a lecture about the economic development of Ireland. It was interesting to learn that in the last 30 years or so, Ireland has gone from the 22nd wealthiest country in the world to number 4! Our next stop was in Blarney, we had just over two hours here, again, didn't feel this was enough time. But really, it's part of being on a tour. We were dropped off at Blarney Woolen Mill, which was near the castle. Andy pointed out a short cut to the castle for us. Jane, Audrey, Terry, Marcia and I went inside the restaurant at the mill and got some take-away sandwiches. To save time we were going to eat as we walked to the castle. It costs €8 to get into the castle, you also get access to the park there as well. The climb to the top of the castle, where the Blarney Stone is, is very strenuous. There are over 100 stairs and they are often steep. The stairwell just keeps getting narrower and narrower. The view from the top of the castle is wonderful! I didn't kiss the Blarney Stone; I decided to pass on being blessed with the gift of eloquence as I had heard too many stories about how the stone is cleaned. Jane, Audrey, Terry, and Marcia all kissed the stone and I got photos of all but Audrey puckering up. They take your photo when you kiss the stone and you can purchase it at the bottom of the castle at the exit. Going down the stairs was far easier than the climb up. Time was running out and I, finally, wanted to do some shopping! I left my companions and headed back to the woolen mills. I had an idea in mind of what I wanted to get. I stopped at the Waterford showroom and picked up a set of icicle ornaments and a claddaugh ring. In another shop there I got a matching earing and pendant set of a claddaugh ring for Tiffany. I went to the Aran wool section where I made my biggest purchase of the trip. I bought a handmade zip front sweater with hood. I also bought a scarf here. I had just enough time to find a restroom before I had to get back on the bus to head to Killarney. Once we got into Killarney we were dropped off outside one of the entrances to Killarney National Park for our Jaunting Car ride. These are horse drawn carts that seat about 6 people or so. My car had Jeanette, Terry, Kellie, Sandy, Henry, and myself. Marcia sat up front with the driver. We drove to the castle and walked around for about 15 minutes before we got back on the jaunting car to head back to the city. Our driver was very funny and it was difficult for most of the people in my car to understand his Irish accent. For some reason, I didn't have a problem with it, so I "interpreted" for my companions. When we were dropped off, I met up with Jane and Audrey and we went with Terry and Marcia to a very modern decorated bar and cafe. Everyone else had scones and coffee or tea, I didn't feel like having anything since dinner wasn't too far away. Our hotel was the Killarney Court hotel and I was rooming with Jeanette. Dinner tonight was pretty good. There were 3 choices of starters- chef salad, turnip and carrot soup, or chicken liver pate. I skipped on the starter as I had splurged and had some Bailey's chocolates, that I had purchased at the woolen mill, a bit before dinner. The main course was a choice of veggie spring rolls, chicken, or fish. I had the salmon. Dessert was a choice of pear belle Helene (poached pear, ice cream, chocolate sauce), chocolate cake, or lemon cheesecake. I had the chocolate cake of course! After dinner I went on a short walk with Jane and Audrey. Tomorrow we are off to Limerick.


Hotel: Killarney Court hotel. About 5 minutes away from city center. Hotel had good food and service. The room was pretty much like the other hotels we've stayed at. Nothing to complain about this one.















MORE PHOTOS!!