A fairly low key day as we threaded our way back through the
Irish countryside to the tour’s end in Dublin. The thermals certainly came in
handy as it was quite chilly, though a clear sunny day as well. Some Americans
on the bus cracked up when us Aussies described it as a bit “fresh”.
After our 8.30am start we headed to Connemara Marble Factory
where we received a very interesting talk from the manager (who Carly thought
spoke and acted like a leprechaun). It was actually pretty cool and a lot more
interesting than I had anticipated. As well as the factory tour we also did a
bit of shopping in the gift shop (as you do) and then really enjoyed the tea
and scones that were included as part of the package. I have decided to become
a tea drinker and have had at least one cup of tea everyday – last time I “did”
Europe I came home a wine drinker, to come home a tea drinker may be a slight
improvement (well, a cheaper one anyway).
We then enjoyed a scenic drive around Galway Bay (a very
picturesque holiday spot that reminded Carly of St Kilda) and a stop in Galway
City to allow a bit more time for shopping. We are trying to pace ourselves
with the shopping but it is proving very difficult with these multiple daily
opportunities! Galway is a traditional Gaelic speaking area and we actually
heard a few people speaking the language in the street. Apparently 6% of Irish
people still speak it on a daily basis as their main language.
Our last leg to Dublin included a stop at an old whiskey
refinery where we ate in the café and managed to entertain ourselves when the
owner handed out multiple musical instruments and then put on some loud Irish
music for us to play along to. Thank goodness the music was loud enough to
drown our efforts out! Nevertheless it was good fun.
There was a bit of traffic
on the road this afternoon as it is the beginning of a long weekend and many cars
were heading out of Dublin so we didn’t get to our hotel until 6pm – a pretty
long day. We farewelled Martin and our fellow travellers and, after checking
in, set out to grab a quick bite to eat at Supermacs (a sort of Irish version
of Maccas but with a pizza option as well).
It was then an early night to sort out our luggage, fill in
some forms and generally get organised. We are heading off to Belfast tomorrow
on a day trip and will also be calling in to the new Titanic exhibition they
have there. It sounds like fun…can’t wait.
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