Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Caves and wild walks at the Cliffs of Moher

After such an amazing day in Cong (check this place out!), I was excited to return to the Cliffs of Moher and show my family this spectacular place. First stop on our drive to the cliffs was Dunguaire Castle, a 16th-century tower house open for tours and banquets in the evenings. Oh the things we do for tourists… … More Dunguaire Castle, Aillwee Caves and wild walks at the Cliffs of Moher

Back in Ireland… Hurling and History in Galway

In September, I spent two weeks in one of my favorite countries in the world… Ireland! Usually I never return to places I’ve visited internationally (except Chiang Mai) so I felt very lucky indeed to be back in the Emerald Isle. It is really interesting to go back to place you have already been and have a completely different … More Back in Ireland… Hurling and History in Galway

New Zealand 8: A Wellington Hen Party and reaching my travel peak

After living abroad and traveling the world in short bursts, I can attest that there comes a point during travel when you have reached your peak. (Sometimes but not always a literal peak like the Tongariro Crossing) Although the time it takes to reach that pinnacle of experience varies, I can say that I usually reach my … More New Zealand 8: A Wellington Hen Party and reaching my travel peak

New Zealand 7: The Tongariro Crossing… a Tale of ice picks and wet socks

For more New Zealand posts Click Here That 4:30am wake up call came way too soon after a fitful night of sleep at Blue Duck Station. Jolted awake by the sheep bleating of M’s alarm, I groaned and rolled over, determined to stay in my warm bunk bed forever. But it was time to conquer the … More New Zealand 7: The Tongariro Crossing… a Tale of ice picks and wet socks

New Zealand 6: Horseback Riding and Lamb Cuddling at Blue Duck Station

We fell asleep easily in our warm bunk beds after a long night around the fire and woke up to the stunning scenery of Blue Duck Station. I elected for an afternoon activity and was finally allowed to sleep in for the first time in several days. It felt so good to rest and slow down for a moment. Bus … More New Zealand 6: Horseback Riding and Lamb Cuddling at Blue Duck Station

New Zealand 5: Hot Springs and Cliff Swinging in Rotorua and a very blue night

It’s been so long since I’ve blogged but I have an excuse! We bought a house! It is so pretty and cute and I love it. We close on June 30th so things are a bit mad. But that’s life. Back to to New Zealand!   We left things off at an exciting day exploring the … More New Zealand 5: Hot Springs and Cliff Swinging in Rotorua and a very blue night