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Ireland West Tours

By Julie Miche Leave a Comment

Cong, County Mayo, Ireland Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle

I recently hired Jim Parslow from Ireland West Tours for an extended private tour. I’ve taken many tours on the bigger coach buses around Ireland, but was looking for a more intimate experience.

I have found with the coach tours, you don’t get to go off the beaten path, you are always with lots of people, and your time is limited at scheduled stops.

Many times, I just wanted to wander longer and explore the area. I also found myself wishing there weren’t so many people around. I wanted to be able to stop to take photos without feeling rushed, or trying to get a shot without a bunch of other tourists in it.

Ireland West Tours
Connemara road

Ireland West Tours came highly recommended, so I gave Jim a call. We talked about where I’d been in Ireland, prior tours, what my expectations were, and what I wanted out of my private tour.

The most important thing for me was to be able to get out of the car, stop anywhere along the way, without any time constraints. I wanted to feel as if I was driving myself, but without the stress of it.

Just the thought of driving on the “wrong” side, while navigating Irish roads, sends shivers of fear through me…  So, for the time being, I’ve decided not to.

Booking the tour with Ireland West Tours was the perfect solution. I was able to customize the entire trip, plus Jim is also a photographer, so he had some fantastic suggestions that we incorporated into the itinerary. In the end, I decided on exploring more of the Connemara Region, and also invited another photographer to join the tour.

Jim picked us up in Galway, and off we went to our first stop… Aughnanure Castle, a tower house in Oughterard, County Galway.

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Ireland West Tours of Aughnanure Castle in County Galway, Ireland
Aughnanure Castle grounds

The castle was built by the O’Flahertys in the 16th century, one of Connacht’s most notable lord families. Although, I had seen other castles in Ireland, this was the first one that I was able to go inside. Jim had arranged a private tour, and we learned the history of Aughnanure as we explored.

Aughnanure Castle in County Galway, Ireland
The path to the castle
Aughnanure Castle Tour by Ireland West Tours
Entry into courtyard of Aughnanure Castle

As you walk up the path to the castle, the ruins of the banquet hall are off to the right. Peering out the windows, you can feel the history oozing from this place. I can only imagine the parties that were held there!

Aughnanure Castle in County Galway, Ireland West Tours
Banquet Hall Windows

Entering the castle, I was surprised by it’s size. I was expecting it to be much larger inside. I hadn’t realized how thick the walls were, and how much space they took up.

Aughnanure Castle in County Galway, Ireland
Inside the castle
Aughnanure Castle in County Galway, Ireland West Tours
Aughnanure Castle Tower House
Aughnanure Castle in County Galway, Ireland West Tours
In the courtyard

After our tour of Aughnanure Castle, we headed over to Maam Cross where we stopped for tea and scones at the Peacockes Hotel restaurant.

The hotel has a viewing tower where you can see 360 degree amazing views of the area.

Ireland West Tours, Connemara
Tower View!

Next to the Peacockes Hotel is a replica cottage from the classic movie “The Quiet Man”. The movie was shot in the West of Ireland, and starred John Wayne, Maureen O’Hara, and Barry Fitzgerald. Many of the outdoor scenes were shot in the Maam Valley on the shores of Lough Corrib.

Replica Cottage from Quiet Man movie
“Quiet Man” Replica Cottage

You can tour the inside of the cottage too!

Inside the Replica Cottage of Quiet Man
Step inside the cottage.
Connemara, Ireland
Just across the road from Peacockes Hotel.

Time to move on and see more of Connemara! We had to stop at Derryclare Lough, so I could grab a photo of Pine Island.  It’s absolutely gorgeous with the Connemara Mountains as it’s backdrop.

Pine Island, Derryclare Louch, Ireland
Pine Island

We continued on around the countryside of Connemara, with Jim sharing his extensive knowledge of the area. Driving through the boglands, we learned how the turf from the bog is cut, dried, and used for fuel to heat homes.

The preservation of the bogland is being debated, as it’s in danger of being completely destroyed.

Connemara Bogland Turf
Turf footed for drying.

Next, Jim took us through the Inagh Valley. We drove down a very narrow road, not accessible to the big tour buses. This is the Ireland that most tourists don’t get to see. It was exactly what I was looking for, and made me very happy that I had decided to book with Ireland West Tours.

We got out of the car and were able to just wander. There was not another car or person anywhere in sight… How absolutely fantastic!

Road in Inagh Valley, Ireland
We’ve got the place all to ourselves!

We were not totally alone… There were plenty of sheep everywhere! The mountainside is speckled with them!

sheep in the Ireland countryside
Sheep in the Inagh Valley

I was on a mission, determined to get a selfie with the sheep… They however wanted nothing to do with it!

Taking photos of sheep in Ireland
No selfie! This is as close as I could get!

After awhile we finally came across some hikers. What a great place to do just that!

Hiking in Inagh Valley, Connemara, Ireland
Hiking in Inagh Valley

After hiking around and taking photos, we had worked up an appetite, Jim suggested we stop in Letterfrack for lunch at the Cloverfox Restaurant. One of the specials was a lamb burger… I have to admit, I felt a bit guilty ordering it after taking photos with the sheep! I got over it quickly once I took my first bite. It was delicious… Sorry sheep!

The food and the service was phenomenal. Jim definitely knows his stuff!

Cloverfox Restaurant, Letterfrack Ireland, Connemara
Yum!

After filling our bellies, we got back on the road… There were a few more special places that Jim wanted to share with us. We stopped at Renvyle Beach first.

Renvyle Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve been too, and I’ve been to some pretty amazing beaches in California and Mexico. It’s truly magical!

Connemara, Ireland Renvyle Beach
Surfing at Renvyle Beach
Connemara, Renvyle Beach, Ireland
Renvyle Beach
kids at Renvyle Beach in Ireland
Getting ready to jump!
Young surfers at Renvyle Beach, Ireland
Young surfers
Ireland, Renvyle Beach kayakers
Renvyle Beach kayakers

Just when we thought there couldn’t possibly be more to see, Jim brought us to another amazing place… Killary Fjord. The fjord is situated on part of the Atlantic Ocean, and is the only natural fjord in all of Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales!

Killary Fjord in Connemara
Killary Fjord
Killary Fjord, Ireland
Killary Fjord

Continuing on to the other side of the fjord, we stopped at a cemetery right on the waterfront… Guess if that’s going to be your final resting place, it’s a pretty sweet spot!

cemetery in Connemara
Waterfront cemetery… location, location, location!

It was getting late, and we were about to head back to Galway. I just happened to mention to Jim that I had never seen Ashford Castle… So, off we dashed to the last place on our tour.

I’m so glad I said something! The castle is majestic! It’s located in Cong, County Mayo and dates back to 1228, and was once home to the Guinness family.

Cong, County Mayo, Ireland Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle

We had just enough time to walk the grounds, and see some of the inside.

Inside Ashford Castle, Cong Ireland
Inside Ashford Castle

Ashford Castle was a great way to end the tour. The whole tour was pretty spectacular!

Having Jim as a tour guide was more like hanging out with a good friend. He knew all the best spots to go, was extremely knowledgable with the area, was very witty, and had a ton of good stories to share along the way!

If you ever are thinking about taking a private tour of Ireland, contact Jim at Ireland West Tours. It’s well worth it!

Ireland West Tours
Natalia, Me & Jim!

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Filed Under: Connemara, Galway, Ireland

What The WWOOF?

By Julie Miche Leave a Comment

What The WWOOF Did I Get Myself Into?

Last summer, I traveled around Ireland for 5 weeks hopping from one place to the next. I wanted to do things a bit different this time, and was looking for a new kind of adventure.

Beautiful Ireland
Irish Adventure

I’d heard about an organization called WWOOF that connects volunteers with organic farmers and growers. It’s purpose is to promote cultural and educational experiences, while helping to build a sustainable global community.

It’s based on trust…

The WWOOF hosts provide food, accommodation, and the opportunity to learn about organic lifestyles and sustainable living.

In exhange, the volunteers provide help on the farms. Each opportunity is different, but it usually consists of 4-5 hours of work per day, Monday – Friday.

wwoof in ireland
Trust…

It sounded like an interesting way to see rural Ireland, plus I wanted to learn more about sustainable living. Other travel bloggers had done it, and had good experiences. I figured I’d give it a shot.

I joined WWOOF, and went in search of a host. I picked out 5 that sounded interesting, and sent off my letters.

I heard back from one… Positions tend to fill up fast.

I was accepted for 3 weeks by a family just outside of Gort in County Galway. In addition to accepting volunteers through WWOOF, they run several workshops for families coming from Spain.

Some of what they offer the families includes: English language instruction, eco building, organic agriculture, Irish storytelling, and much more.

I was impressed by their website, and what they offered. It also made me feel more comfortable that they ran a tourism business as well. I had made a 3 week agreement with them, so this is where I’d be staying for my last few weeks in Ireland.

The good, the bad, the ugly…

Upon arrival into Gort, I was picked up by one of the owners, and taken to the property. The area was very rural, peaceful, and pretty.

WWOOF in Irelane
So peaceful

I was given a quick tour of the property, and then taken to where I’d be staying. We passed several small cabins, finally reaching a meadow with two large tipis. Imagine my shock when I was told that’s where I’d be sleeping. A tipi in Ireland? You’ve got to be kidding?

Tipi WWOOFing in Ireland
Seriously? In here?

Entering the tipi, I received another surprise. The overwhelming smell of must & mildew, 3 individual tents set up inside, and wet laundry hanging everywhere. I could almost see the mold spores floating in the air.

I was mortified. I had made a 3 week commitment, and all I wanted to do at that moment was flee. I couldn’t imagine living in such squalor for the next 3 weeks. I felt as if I had entered third world living conditions. I seriously wanted to cry at this point.

Tents inside tipi for WWOOF
Am I in a Refugee Camp?

I decided to sleep on it overnight, and try to sort it all out in the morning. My first night I slept fully clothed, raincoat and all, with 7 blankets on top of me… I still froze.

In the morning, I awoke to a very wet top blanket… Things were going from bad to worst quickly.

After breakfast, the other volunteers & I were told to clean the cabins, bathrooms, etc as they were preparing for the next group that would be arriving. This is not what I had signed up for, but at this point I was grateful to be inside.

Entering the cabin, I was once again hit with the musty smell & wondered if mold was lurking in here as well. As I stripped the linens off the beds, and pulled off the duvet covers I discovered mold spots on the duvets. I felt sick inside. I struggled with putting a clean duvet cover over a duvet covered in mold, knowing a family, or child would be snuggling up against it later that night.

Then came the rest of the cleaning… A single sponge was used. The same sponge to clean toilets was also used for the dishes… A clear recipe for E Coli.

I quickly realized I was not going to learn a thing about organic farming, or sustainable living. We were being used as the cleaning crew as well as English tutors… It’s one thing if that’s what you’re expecting, quite another when you’ve discover you’re being used.

After 4 days of this, I was now afraid for my health. I was feeling the effects of mold in my throat & having problems breathing at night. I still was sleeping fully clothed with a hat now, had not showered, and was wet the entire time. I never had the chance to dry out.

I had also pulled a tick from my hair, and discovered we had slugs sleeping with us in the tipi.

A couple other WWOOF volunteers & I finally decided to approach the owners to let them know we had to leave. We could not stay here any longer. We had suffered long enough.

They were not happy, but agreed to give us a ride into town the next day. They told us to not tell their guests why we were leaving. They planned on telling them that we decided to travel & see a bit more of Ireland. We agreed because we wanted out.

Once, back in Galway, we discovered all the clothes in our backpacks were wet & beginning to mildew. I also had a very wet camera, which at the moment appears to working, however my laptop took a major hit.

I’ve suffered from the most painful stomach cramping I’ve ever had, as well as fatigue & vertigo for 12 days, all while recovering at a hostel in Galway.

I imagine, it’s just a matter of time before someone else gets really sick. I wouldn’t wish that kind of suffering upon anyone. It’s been absolutely hellish!

I’m concerned for the health of future volunteers. I’m worried about the Spanish families coming over on holiday, not knowing what lurks under the duvet, or that their dishes get washed with the same sponge as the toilet… It’s disgraceful to say the least.

So, I’ve thought long and hard about what I would have or could have done differently… I consulted with the 2 other WWOOF volunteers that left with me. In the end, we concluded we’d done everything we could have. We did our homework… We researched the host, and were communicating via email with any questions we had… We trusted the information that was given to us.

Unfortunately, we were dealing with people who consciously chose to lie, and exploit the WWOOF volunteers. They chose to put us in an unhealthy environment… They knew exactly what they were doing.

I’ve been asked if I would try WWOOFing again. At this point, I would have to say no. I’m sure there are many fantastic WWOOF hosts out there, and these were just the bad apples of the bunch… But, sometimes one is all it takes for you to you lose your faith, and spoil it for the rest.

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Filed Under: Galway, Gort, Ireland Tagged With: County Galway, Eco Tourism, Gort, Ireland, Julie Miche Travel Blogger & Photographer, Organic Farming, sustainable living, Traveling in Ireland, WWOOF, WWOOFing

Ireland… What Have You Done To Me?

By Julie Miche 24 Comments

Ireland… What have you done to me? And, why did you call me back so soon?

My first trip to Ireland was in February. I spent 12 days in Dublin, and 2 in Galway… It was not enough. I was officially addicted, and wanted more.

Accepting my new addiction, I decided to skip summer in Santa Barbara, California and head to Ireland. I felt pretty good about my decision! All addictions aren’t bad are they? I thought of it kind of like really good chocolate, or a fine wine. I’m quite ok with both of those, so what’s one more?

After landing in Dublin, I jumped on a bus to Galway for my first few days.  I felt like I hadn’t spent enough time there on the first trip, plus I also wanted to explore other areas of Ireland. Dublin would have to wait for later in the trip.

So off I went to explore Ireland…

I was in Galway for the International Arts Festival, Galway Fringe, & Race Week.

In the Claddaugh looking at Galway
The River Corrib in Galway, Ireland

I surfed in Bundoran.

Tullan Strand in Bundoran, Ireland for surfing, traveling in Ireland
Heading to Tullan Strand with the surf crew

I went in search of Fungi the Dolphin in Dingle.

I toured the Wicklow Mountains and visited an Medieval monastic settlement in Glendalough.

Glendalough, Ireland Monastic Settlement, traveling in Ireland
Touring the early Christian monastic settlement of Glendalough.

I had some of the best Irish Stew in Kilkenny.

Kyteler's Inn in Kilkenny Ireland, Best Irish Stew, traveling in Ireland
Best Irish Stew at Kyteler’s Inn

I took a black taxi tour in Belfast and signed the peace wall.

Northern Ireland, Peace Wall, traveling in Ireland
I signed the Peace Wall!

I walked across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in Ballintoy, County Antrim , Northern Ireland.

County Antrim, Northern Ireland, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, traveling in Ireland
I did it!

I checked out the Giant’s Causeway, and wondered if the legend was true.

The Giant's Causeway, Northern Ireland, County Antrim, traveling in Ireland
Checking out The Giant’s Causeway!

Manipulated Reality is supported by readers. Product links on Manipulated Reality are referral links for things I like & believe you will too! Read more here.

I saw an improptu Irish Broom Dance at a very traditional pub in Ennistymon.

I hiked and soaked in the pure beauty of the Cliffs of Moher.

Hanging out at the Cliffs of Moher in Liscannor, County Clare, Ireland, traveling in Ireland
The reward after the hike!

I partied like a rock star in Lahinch.

Lahinch Ireland pub for a stag party, traveling in Ireland
How did we end up part of a stag party?

I traveled the coast of the Wild Atlantic Way from Donegal to Dingle.

I learned how to pour a perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse.

Learn how to pour the perfect pint at the Guinness Connoisseur Bar, traveling in Ireland
Pouring the perfect pint at the Guinness Connoisseur Bar

I achieved the status of Irish Whiskey Taster at the Jameson Distillery.

Old Jameson Whiskey Tasting tour, Dublin Ireland, traveling in Ireland
Got my official Whiskey Taster Certificate here!

I traveled through 12 counties in Ireland, including: Dublin, Kildare, Westmeath, Roscommon, Donegal, Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, and Kerry.

Traveling in Ireland, all the places of been, traveling in Ireland
All the places I’ve traveled to in Ireland!

It was quite the adventure. I had seen a lot of Ireland, and wanted to continue to the south. None of my airbnb accommodations. however, were working out. The south would have to wait for another trip. Ahhh… A reason to come back! Did I really need one?

As I tried to figure out where to go next, one place kept tugging at me to come back. It was Galway.

It had quickly become my favorite. I had to ask myself… Why Galway?

Somethings can’t be explained. Sometimes it’s the things you just feel… Sometimes you’re not even really sure why.

Perhaps it was…

The avante-garde vibe that just is…  Artists, dreamers, and free spirits will feel right at home there. I felt more at home in Galway than where I’ve lived in Santa Barbara for the past 6 years… How is that even possible?

Live music is everywhere… My favorites were the daily Trad Sessions at multiple pubs around town. The best part is that most have sessions starting at around 5:00 pm & 9:00 pm. You could make it an early night and see the 5:00 session, but most likely you’ll still be out and about for the 2nd round. And while bouncing between pubs, there are plenty of buskers on the street that are very talented, and worth a listen.

The singing in the pubs… Everyone sings! And, they know all the words… Even the American songs. I don’t know all the words, and I grew up hearing them! The funny thing is, it made me think of my Grandma. She was part of a huge German family that settled in Chicago, and back in the day sang in the neighborhood pubs with her brothers and sisters. She would have loved this place! Nobody sings in American bars… I refuse to count karaoke! It’s not the same.

The many Irishmen that gave me Irish dancing lessons in the pubs. I should be better at it by now, but I think I spent more time laughing than learning any steps… Good fun!

It’s a festival town. Who doesn’t like a good party? Galway does it right.

Watching the world go by, laying on the grass along the River Corrib on a sunny day… Yes, they do exist! Everyone comes and hangs out by the Spanish Arch alongside the river on sunny days!

Walking through the Claddagh  in the morning, heading for coffee and crepes at my favorite place in the Latin Quarter… The simple everyday things that make you feel like you’re at home.

The people… I traveled solo this time, and no matter where I went, I never felt alone. The people are amazingly friendly.

The Craic… Oh, the craic! I love it! Don’t know what it is? Guess you need to go to Ireland!

So Ireland, what have you done to me?

I have decided not to question it anymore. Sometimes you really don’t need an answer.

Somethings I do know, others I’m not so sure of.

For whatever reason, you have weaved yourself into my heart, and that’s a good thing!

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Filed Under: Bundoran, Dublin, Galway, Ireland Tagged With: Ballintoy, Best Irish Stew, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge walk, Cliffs of Moher, County Antrim, Dingle Ireland, Donegal to Dingle, Ennistymon Ireland pub, Galway Ireland a festival town, Glendalough Monastic site in Ireland, Irish Stag parties, Irish Whiskey Taster at the Jameson Distillery, Kilkenny Ireland, Northern Ireland, perfect pint at the Guinness Storehouse, Searching for Fungi the Dolphin in Dingle Ireland, Signing the Peace Wall in Belfast, Solo travel in Ireland, Surfing in Bundoran Ireland, the coast of the Wild Atlantic Way, Traditional Irish Broom Dance, Visiting the Giant's Causeway, Wicklow Mountain tours in Ireland

Galway Ireland – A City of Festivals

By Julie Miche Leave a Comment

Galway, Ireland is well known as a City of Festivals. Be sure to check out what’s going on in Galway before you book a trip. There are many fun festivals throughout the year, and you’ll want to catch at least one. I wanted to be there in July to catch the Galway International Arts Festival, Galway Fringe, and Race Week. This is by far one of the most lively times to visit!

The International Arts Festival hosts over 200 shows, over 14 days, in venues all around town. Make sure to grab a festival guide, so you don’t miss anything!

Galway Fringe is a multidisciplinary Arts Festival which encompasses theatre, dance, literature, visual arts, cabaret, and street performances. Galway Fringe also puts out an events guide to keep track of what’s going on. You’ll need it!

There are so many amazing artists and events to see, and two weeks is not enough to do it all. You will have to pick and choose what you can fit in!

Race Week starts just as all the art events are finishing up. The Galway Races runs for 7 days. If you’ve never experienced horse racing, this is a super fun event to check out. There are different themes featured throughout the week. Family Day and Mad Hatters Day is fun for adults & the kids. Enter the competition! The prizes are really good if you win! Ladies Day is another popular time to go. It’s when “The Best Dressed Competition” takes place. If you want to check out some amazing fashion, this is the day to show up!

Even the lads dress up! A City of Festivals
Even the lads dress up!

Here’s a few of my favs from it all!

Patricia Piccinini is an Australian contemporary artist. Combining silicone, fiberglass, and human hair in her sculptures, she creates mutant beings which are incredibly realistic.

A city of festivals, galway art
Patricia Paccinini Art – Galway, Ireland

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I was on my way to a Fringe Event for a painter taking place at the Galway Mechanics Institute. I must have looked at my schedule wrong, because I wandered into a Spoken Word Event. I was invited in by one of the poets. I’m so glad I showed up at the wrong event. I was impressed by the poets, and made a new friend too! Sometimes getting lost is a good thing!

James Delaney, was one of the poets that shared some of his poetry at Galway Fringe Festival. James is part of the Tullamore Rhymers Club.
https://youtu.be/wPzAB2usfB0

One of the the events that I was really excited to see was The Giant Divas & Les Tambours. The Divas are three giant dolls that move through the streets of the Galway while singing opera.

Giant Divas perform at Galway International Arts Festival.
https://youtu.be/bpuJJ34KTwQ

Tin Soldiers’ Band of Drummers perform through the streets with the Divas.
https://youtu.be/-bAu-1hjMrI

And, last but not least, I was able to see Fia Rua perform at De Burgos. He is such an extraordinary artist, combining Irish Traditional & Folk music, and giving it a punk edge.

It was fantastic seeing him in such an intimate club in Galway. I even had the chance to sit and  chat with him after the show! Amazing!

Fia Rua performing at De Burgos for Galway Fringe Festival. Check out the official site of Fia Rua to hear more!

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Filed Under: Galway, Ireland Tagged With: De Burgos for Galway Fringe Festival, Fia Rua performing at De Burgos, Francesco Biondina poetry, Fringe Festival Galway, Galway Ireland a City of Festivals, Giant Divas & Les Tambours, Going to Galway for Race Week, James Delaney Irish Poet, Julie Miche Travel Blogger & Photographer, Patricia Piccinini Australian artist at Galway International Arts Festival, Tullamore Rhymers Club in Ireland

Trusting Randomness

By Julie Miche Leave a Comment

I’ve decided to just give into trusting randomness on this trip. It seems to have served me well so far and I like the spontaneity of it. By going with the flow of random encounters and circumstances, I’ve made new friends, been introduced to restaurants, cafes and pubs that have quickly become my favorites, plus have had a whole lot of fun along the way!

french cafe in Galway Ireland by Julie Miche
Java’s is such a cozy cafe.

It all started when my host recommended a restaurant called the High Cafe in the Latin Quarter of Galway, Ireland. His directions were somewhat obscure… Turn left out of the apartment, make a right past the pizza place, cross over the first street, go up a couple blocks, turn left, and it’s up on the second floor. I wondered if any of the streets had names. It couldn’t be that hard to find, right? It was only a few blocks from where I was staying.

After circling several blocks many times, I stood standing on a corner looking very lost, and was contemplating whether or not to make another round. I was approached by a man that started speaking Spanish. I thought he was lost, and trying to ask for help. I apologized, and told him I didn’t understand Spanish.

He suddenly started speaking English. He was actually a local Irishman that thought I was from Spain. He said I looked Spanish. Hmmm… Since I’ve never been to Spain, I wasn’t sure if it was true or it was a pick up line. Either way, it was funny and we struck up a conversation on the corner.

He was heading to a French cafe for coffee and invited me to join him. I figured why not? Part of the adventure of traveling solo is meeting new people, and this seemed like a good start.

trusting randomness in Java's cafe by Julie Miche
Love hanging out here!

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We went to Java’s Creperie and Cafe Francais. It’s such an adorable, cozy cafe, and was a perfect place to hang out. I was happy to see the many different options of crepes to choose from, since I was now starving! Despite the many choices, my sweet tooth won out… It’s hard to turn down Nutella crepes for dinner!

Java’s has quickly became one of my favorites in Galway, Ireland and I’ve already started bringing friends here. So, in honor of trusting randomness, I have decided my mantra for the trip should be “Why Not”?

Trusting Randomness, coffee at java's by Julie Miche
Coffee at Java’s!

Check out Surfing in Bundoran, Ireland.

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Filed Under: Galway, Ireland Tagged With: Coffee, Crepes, Galway Ireland, Ireland, Java's Creperie and Cafe Francais., julie mi, Solo Journey, Solo Travel, Surfing in Bundoran, Trusting Randomness, What to do in Galway

My First airbnb

By Julie Miche Leave a Comment

In search of my first airbnb… Several friends have used airbnb, and recommended trying it as I traveled around Ireland. Since I would be traveling solo, it also seemed like a great way to get to know some local people.

I began searching for my first airbnb a few weeks prior to my trip. I was able to save places I liked on a wish list, so I could sort through and compare my options. I read through reviews written by previous guests, and tried to narrow it down.

As I was about to make my decision, a new property popped up. It was in the perfect location in the Latin Quarter of Galway, and right where I wanted to be. The only problem was that the host was brand new to airbnb, which meant there weren’t any reviews. I went back and forth trying to decide if I should take a risk.

I finally decided to take a leap of faith. I booked six days, and hoped he wasn’t a serial killer. I kept telling myself that things like that only happen in the movies…

I was so excited when I arrived at my first airbnb. The location was absolutely perfect, and my host was waiting outside to meet me. My first impression was that he apperared normal, and that put me at ease.

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my Galway, Ireland airbnb by Julie Miche
My first airbnb in Galway, Ireland

He gave me the tour of his very lovely two story apartment, showed me my room, and then we chatted. We had a good laugh as we discussed our nervousness. This was, after all, the first airbnb experience for both of us. I was his first guest, and I hadn’t even considered he might be a bit worried as to who was going to show up at his door.

I think we both were relieved!

charming airbnb by Julie Miche
This place oozes charm!

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Filed Under: Galway, Ireland Tagged With: Airbnb, Galway Ireland, Irish Tourism, Julie Miche Travel Blogger & Photographer, My first airbnb, Solo Travel, Travel in Galway Ireland

Ireland… I’m Back!

By Julie Miche Leave a Comment

Back in Ireland… As I step off the plane and into the Dublin Airport, I realize I am grinning like a lunatic that has escaped the asylum. I don’t care what anyone thinks. My soul is happy. I am back in Ireland, and adventure awaits me.

back in Ireland and happy by Julie Miche

So happy to be back in Ireland!

I continue to walk through the airport in search of the bus which will bring me to Galway. I have been on 3 planes, and traveling now for 19 hours. I still have a 2 1/2 hour bus ride to my destination, but I don’t feel tired at all. In fact, I’m invigorated. I wonder when the jet lag will kick in… The thought is fleeting.

I find my bus to Galway, making sure it is the Express Route. I took the 5 1/2 hour scenic route the last time. I don’t want a repeat.

I take my seat, and begin to dream my way through the Irish countryside. The ride flies by… Hmmm, perhaps I dozed.

I arrive in Galway, and make my way through Eyre Square. I’m amazed at how quickly I find my way around. Before I know it, I find myself in the Latin Quarter.

Galway, Ireland Buskers by Julie Miche

Buskers in Galway, Ireland

Everything is so familiar. I feel like I’m finally home.

Filed Under: Dublin, Galway, Ireland Tagged With: Buskers, Dublin, Galway Ireland, Julie Miche Travel Blogger & Photographer, Solo Travel, Street Performers, Traveling in Ireland

And… Then There Was Galway

By Julie Miche

Galway stole my heart… I’m really not quite sure when or how it happened, only that it did. It happened in less than 48 hours.

We got on a bus out of Dublin in the morning, with the expectation of arriving in Galway 2 hours later… Wow, what a surprise when the college girl behind us informed us we were not on the express bus! We had another 3 hours to go! WHAT????

Travel Lesson: Pay attention to the bus schedules and what you are boarding!
The Positive: We traveled at a VERY leisurely pace and saw some of the most incredibly beautiful countryside of Ireland… What’s the hurry anyway right?

Galway City in Ireland by Julie Miche travel blogger
Where’s our hotel?

Once we arrived in Galway, we went in search of The House Hotel in the Latin Quarter. It wasn’t horribly far from the bus stop, and we quickly found our way with the help of some friendly locals.

House Hotel in Galway Ireland  by Julie Miche Travel Blogger
The House Hotel, Galway Ireland

You have no idea how happy we were to arrive at The House Hotel! OMG cute appeal! The décor of the lobby and the lounge made me feel as if I had stepped into an Alice In Wonderland fantasy! After our nightmare hotel in Dublin, we felt like our fairy godmother had sprinkled fairy dust upon us and blessed us with The House Hotel! The location was ideal, the service phenomenal, the hotel very eco-friendly… And, the staff absolutely amazing! I’m already planning my return trip!

House Hotel Galway Ireland by Julie Miche Travel Blogger
Cuteness!

Make sure to check out the lounge… They are open late and you’ll be sure to get some good craic with the bartender!

Lounge bar in the House Hotel in Galway Ireland by Julie Miche Travel Blogger
Check out the lounge!


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Once we checked in… Food was the priority! After over five hours on the bus, we were starving! We had been given many recommendations of where to go, but we decided to wander and let fate play it’s hand…

We didn’t have to wander too far. We stumbled upon Cactus Jack’s, which was just across the street. Make sure to go for the Early Bird pricing! Despite the Early Bird Hour name, this is usually dinner time in the USA… Bonus is cheaper prices.

The food was delicious… And, I mean everything! Make sure to get some wine too… Get the bottle, not the glass.  The Early Bird pricing applies to wine too… It’s worth it! We chose a Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile and it was fabulous!

Cactus Jack's Early Bird Special by Julie Miche travel blogger
Early Bird Special

The staff was fantastic… Our waiter was an American guy that fell in love with an Irish girl and stayed…  Ahhh love! It’s a good thing!

They gave us a list of where we should go after dinner to hear some Trad, and then for some late night fun… All I can say is, I can’t thank you enough! Wow! Good times!

So, that being said… No matter where you start, you will most likely end up at The Quays in Galway. They’re open late, they have live music, and well… what can I say… it’s lot’s of fun!

Quays .Pub.. Late night Galway by Julie Miche travel blogger
Quays… Late night Galway
The Quays Pub Galway Ireland by Julie Miche travel blogger
Inside The Quays

I love all the fireplaces in the pubs in Ireland… Cozy!

Galway Ireland Cozy fireplace in The Quays by Julie Miche travel blogger
Cozy fireplace in The Quays

In the morning, and I use the word morning loosely, we found our way down to Griffin’s Bakery for breakfast. Any place that serves crepes, Nutella, maple syrup, and a stack of bacon on a plate… Well, what can I say other than I will return to over and over again! I know… It’s not a traditional Irish breakfast, but good God… It’s oozing with a whole lot of sugar, and of course let’s not forget the bacon! For a picky eater like myself, it was a good thing!

Bakery in Galway Ireland Griffin's by Julie Miche travel blogger
Griffin’s Bakery

February is not the warmest time to visit Ireland, and most wouldn’t choose this time of year to come… I, however, found it refreshing and invigorating to my spirit, and my soul.

Living in California can get somewhat boring in the realm of weather…. I love rain, thunder storms, clouds, mist, dreary weather and all that comes with it… It’s the space where mystics, dreamers, poets, and writers are born and thrive…

This is what I found in Ireland… In a sense my home away from home. I can breathe here and dream… I found peace and a connection that can’t really be explained…  Can I stay please?

So Ireland… I fell hopelessly in love with you… Head over heals, and I will be back… Nothing will keep me away!

Did I dream it or did it dream me? Galway Ireland by Julie Miche travel blogger
Did I dream it or did it dream me?
River Corrib in Galway Ireland by Julie Miche travel blogger
River Corrib, Galway Ireland

Many thanks to the Tourism Board of Ireland for sponsoring our stay at The House Hotel in Galway Ireland. This is one of the top hotels I have stayed in and will do so again, as well as recommend it to others.

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Filed Under: Galway, Ireland Tagged With: Cactus Jack's Galway, Galway Ireland, Griffin's Bakery Galway, Julie Miche Travel Blogger & Photographer, The House Hotel in Galway Ireland, The Quays Pub, Tourism Ireland, Travel in Galway Ireland, travel in Ireland

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