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From Antarctica to Zimbabwe, if you're going there, chances are Lonely Planet has been there first. With a pithy and matter-of-fact writing style, these guides are guaranteed to calm the nerves of first-time world travelers, while still listing off-the-beaten-path finds sure to thrill even the most jaded globetrotters. Lonely Planet has been perfecting its guidebooks for nearly 30 years and as a result, has the experience and know-how similar to an older sibling's "been there" advice. The original backpacker's bible, the LP series has recently widened its reach. While still giving insights for the low-budget traveler, the books now list a wide range of accommodations and itineraries for those with less time than money.
From pub-hopping and leprechaun-chasing to Ogham stones and the Book of Kells, Lonely Planet presents the essential Ireland. In addition to the requisite lowdown on food and accommodations, a detailed activities section covers everything from walking and birdwatching to hang gliding and rock climbing. The book's intriguing "boxed asides" delve into topics ranging from the mystical to the environmental, including the witch of Kilkenny, the legend of Inishbofin Island, the Birr Observatory and Telescope, even Ireland's disappearing bogs. --Kathryn True
Book Description
Slate-toned lakes, verdant pastures, peaceful mountain retreats, ragged cliffs pounded by the Atlantic, remote sandy beaches, ancient monastic ruins, cosmopolitan cities and the warmest welcome from its people - Ireland's charm is endless. Discover all its magic with this inspirational guide. • PLAN YOUR ROUTE with the help of compelling highlights and itineraries and over 80 easy-to-use maps • UNRAVEL THE PAST - in-depth coverage of the Emerald Isle's rich history and culture • FIND THE CRAIC in traditional country pubs, chic city bars and bustling seaside taverns • SLUMBER IN COMFORT whether you fancy elegant Georgian townhouses, snug B&Bs or sumptuous country mansions • GET ABOUT by horse-and-caravan, canal boat, bicycle or on foot with comprehensive activities info
Excerpted from Lonely Planet Ireland (Lonely Planet Ireland) by Tom Downs, Fionn Davenport, Des Hannigan, Etain O'Carroll, Oda O'Carroll, Neil Wilson. Copyright © 2004. Reprinted by permission. All rights reserved.
Destination: Ireland Pastoral, urban, poetic, feisty, backwards, brilliant, devout and debauched: Ireland has always been more complicated than its shamrock-laden image ever let on. But the old cliches are now more inadequate than ever. The past decade has been a time of rejuvenation for the small island nation. Ireland has finally shaken the shackles of colonization, and in the process its cities have blossomed with commerce and culture. Dublin in particular has become one of Europe's most exciting and vibrant urban centers. Meanwhile, Galway, Belfast, Cork and Kilkenny, always fine spots for a few lazy pints, have picked up the pace, with a range of flashy clubs and international restaurants exuding a cosmopolitan joie de vivre never before seen this side of London. The good life is spilling out to the remotest villages, where cozy country cottages have been converted into artisans workshops and fine eateries. Ireland's prosperity has also attracted, for the first time in its history, a wave of immigrants from Eastern Europe and Africa who have brought with them an energy and culture that add greatly to Ireland's own identity. In the North, the Troubles appear to be entering the last chapter of their turbulent history. But Ireland has not forsaken its stunning natural beauty and proud traditions. Slate-toned lakes, green pastures, tranquil mountain retreats, magnificent cliffs overlooking the wild Atlantic coast, remote sandy beaches, ancient offshore island villages and the friendliness of the people remain untarnished. Many traces of traditional culture survive, especially in remote western areas, and there are still communities in which Irish is the first language. Ireland remains one of the most beautiful and interesting countries in Europe.
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