Marcia Abramson
I was just one of the many people from all over the world who threw caution to the wind to smooch with a rectangular block of limestone that has a 120-foot drop, and must have enough germs dating back to the Crusades.Actually, it was brought back from Scotland in 1314 and is believed to have special supernatural powers. The word "blarney" is attributed to the 16th century British Queen Elizabeth I when the loquacious lord of Blarney Castle made one too many unfulfilled promises to her majesty. In disgust, she is believed to have finally said. "It's Blarney; all blarney." Additionally, the Irish poet, playwright and philosopher Oscar Wilde has described the Irish as being the greatest talkers since the Greeks with a wonderful 'gift of the gab.' Cork is Ireland's largest county and second largest city, with a population of fewer than 123,000, in the south of Ireland. It was founded 1,000 years ago and has grown from a trading merchant city to a cosmopolitan vibrant 21st century city. I understand that this the year Cork has been recognized as the European Capital of Culture for its living culture and historical heritage. I agree that Ireland is a world class destination and Cork City is ideally located in the center of Ireland's most spectacular emerald green land with awesome seascapes. The Kingdom of Kerry is also less than a half hour's drive from Cork City. The most enjoyable highlights include a trip around the world famous Ring of Kerry passing through the scenic town of Kenmare onto Sneem and down to Waterville, where Charlie Chaplin frequently stayed with his family. I found the Rock of Cashel an easy drive from Cork, the seat of Ireland's kings and medieval bishops for over 900 years another interesting site. The City of Waterford, the home of Waterford Crystal, is a very tempting destination for an inveterate Waterford collector like me. (There were no real bargains because of the cost of the Euro ($1.25 US) but the selection was fantastic.Ireland's number two city hosts a first class jazz festival in the fall under the auspices of Guinness beer, "the wine of Ireland," according to the famed author James Joyce. Music fills the air from the grand Opera House where the big names like Bono appear. Other big names perform at the other theaters around Cork. But the spontaneous performances in the pubs and street corners of talented newcomers (reminiscent for me of New Orleans' French Quarter before the recent hurricane and evacuation).I also suggest staying at the Arbutus Lodge Hotel, which was the Georgian style home of a Lord Mayor of Cork, and where you will run into some of the jazz festival headliners and a gorgeous hilltop view.Kinsale, a lovely yachting and fishing town on the Irish Sea in Cork, has become known for the Kinsale International Food Festival. I have never been able to find corned beef and cabbage on the menu, but at least four different delicious kinds of potatoes are served at meals and nothing can beat the seven-course Irish breakfast served at the Blue Haven Hotel. You might want to try to walk off the calories of the wonderful cheeses, potatoes, soups and seafood on the charming cobble-stoned streets that are bordered by quaint 18th century pastel colored houses and a harbor full of delightful boats.Ballymaloe House in Shanagarry, County Cork, has been described as the "coziest inn in Ireland." It is a wisteria covered 19th century house built in the ruins of a medieval castle. There is a 400-acre farm abutting the manor house with an ancient gatehouse and stables. The gatehouse and stables have been converted into guest quarters. Cork is a destination included in Patricia Schultz's book "1,000 Places To See Before You Die."For further information contact your local travel agent.
Copyright by Marcia Abramson. E-mail: mascribe@aol.com.
