Galway, Ireland
(My First Odyssey)
The Claddagh
One of the first places I visited when I arrived in Galway was the Claddagh. Located just at the bottom of Shop Street in Galway, you can view the River Corrib meet Galway Bay. It was very cold in March but the water was crystal clear! Stick around and watch the fishing vessels dock directly on the rock walls. The Claddagh was once an old fishing village but you can still taste the fresh seafood in local restaurants!
NUI Galway
The National University of Ireland, Galway is one of the most beautiful campuses you can visit. The university was established in 1845 and features excellent stone architecture. It was really great to spend some time with my buddy who goes there full time from the United States. If you are considering going to school, Galway would be a great experience and features a “college-town” like no other! The ability to spend your free time in a city like Galway is a tremendous experience and well worth consideration. If you find yourself in Galway make sure you make time for visiting the University!
Inishmore
Inishmore must have been one of the coolest places I have had the privilege to step foot in. The second I stepped off the ferry and onto this spectacular island I was overcome by the peacefulness and beauty of the quaint seaside village. I was impressed that the entire island can be explored through a network of immaculate roads that run along the side of the shore. I highly recommend renting a bike as the salty breeze running through my hair is not something you would want to miss out on! With the bike, I was able to make it to every corner of the island and experience every detail. I was able to see donkeys, ponies, and even cows hanging their heads over just about every rock wall. I even got to explore an old fort that dates back to the B.C.s. The landscape is like nothing I have ever laid eyes on. It is because of the stones! Stones are scattered across the green country as far as the eye can see! But that's not all! The architecture has nods to the stone landscape, the properties are outlined in stone walls, and even the old fort is built from them! If you get the chance to visit Ireland don’t miss the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Aran Islands!
The Quays
Now, it would not be a trip to Galway without visiting some of their most iconic pubs! On my last night in Galway, I got to enjoy a pint of Guinness and live music from Blue Moose at the Quays! The atmosphere is amazing. The upstairs room is tremendous and features gothic architecture and bench seating. Sitting up on the top balcony you are positioned to look right over the stage with views of the whole room. It was really great to have a seat just outside of the sea of people who formed in front of the stage! If you find yourself in Galway make sure to stop by the Quays for some good music and good vibes.