Why Ireland is the Perfect Place to Tie the Knot
Why Ireland is the Perfect Place to Tie the Knot
If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable location for your wedding, you might want to consider Ireland. This stunning country is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality, making it a perfect destination for a wedding celebration. Whether you're a fan of lush green landscapes, medieval castles, or lively pub culture, Ireland has something for everyone. In this blog post, we'll explore why Ireland is the perfect place to say "I do" and share some of the top reasons why this magical country should be at the top of your list for your wedding destination.
Delicious Food and Drink
Ireland is famous for its hearty cuisine, including traditional dishes like shepherd's pie, fish and chips, and Irish stew. And let's not forget about the beer! Ireland is home to some of the world's most famous breweries, including Guinness and Smithwick's. Here are some famous foods and drinks you might want to try during your visit to Ireland:
Irish Stew: This traditional dish is made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, onions, and herbs, simmered in a rich broth. It's a comforting and filling meal that's perfect for cold weather.
Fish and Chips: This dish of battered and fried fish served with chunky fries is a popular takeaway food in Ireland. It's often served with tartar sauce and a sprinkle of salt and vinegar.
Soda Bread: This bread is made with baking soda instead of yeast, giving it a dense and slightly sweet texture. It's often served with butter and jam, and it's a staple in Irish households. I’ve honestly tried remaking this at home and can’t get it to turn out like the locals.
Guinness: This dark and creamy beer is one of Ireland's most famous exports. It's made with roasted barley and has a distinctive taste that's loved by many. You may have heard it tastes different here in the US than it does in Ireland . . . AND IT’S TRUE! I’m not sure why, but it does!
Irish Whiskey: Ireland is also known for its whiskey, which is made from malted barley, water, and yeast. It's aged in oak barrels and has a smooth and complex flavor. It’s also a tad cheaper, so it’s worth bringing a few home if you’re a whiskey fan!
Baileys: This creamy and sweet liqueur is made with Irish whiskey and cream. It's often served over ice or added to coffee for a delicious and indulgent treat.
Cider: Ireland has a long tradition of making cider from locally grown apples. It's a refreshing and fruity drink that's perfect for a summer afternoon.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods and drinks you can try in Ireland and even serve to your guests. Honestly, everything I’ve had over there was amazing! Whether you're a fan of hearty stews or indulgent liqueurs, there's something for everyone in this culinary paradise!
2. Easy Logistics
Despite its reputation for being off the beaten path, Ireland is actually quite easy to navigate. The country is small enough that you can easily travel from one end to the other in a matter of hours, and there are plenty of transportation options available, from rental cars to trains. Here are some tips to help you with your travel planning:
Transportation: Ireland has a well-developed transportation system that includes buses, trains, and taxis. Dublin also has a modern tram system called the Luas. If you're planning to travel around the country, renting a car can be a great option, as it gives you more flexibility and allows you to explore at your own pace, but watch out as they drive on the opposite side of the road over there! If you don’t feel comfortable driving, I would ask another member of your party to drive or opt for the tram system. As an added note, don’t get the upgraded GPS…use your phone data instead. You can set it up before you leave or you can set it up when you get there. It’s much faster and easier to use, especially since our addressing systems are a bit different from how they do things over there.
Accommodation: Ireland has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. If you're on a tight budget, consider staying in a hostel or bed and breakfast. If you're looking for something more luxurious, there are plenty of high-end hotels and resorts throughout the country. If you’re looking for more of an adventure and want to get to know the locals better, the Bed and Breakfast option is for you. My husband and I did this option and we LOVED it!
Currency: The currency in Ireland is the Euro. You can exchange currency at banks and exchange offices, or withdraw cash from ATMs. Most credit cards are widely accepted in Ireland, but it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases. Just keep in mind there will be a currency change rate. You can check with your banks or credit card companies to see what those fees would be or if the fees would be waived. I believe our credit union waived the international fees every time we withdrew money.
These are just a few tips to help you plan your logistics in Ireland. With a bit of preparation, you can enjoy all that this beautiful country has to offer.
3. Affordable Prices
Compared to other popular wedding destinations, Ireland is actually quite affordable. You can find plenty of options for lodging, food, and activities that won't break the bank, which means you can spend more money on the things that really matter, like the wedding itself. I’m from Ohio and I would say things are pretty evenly priced, but you’re giving an experience to your guests!!
4. Friendly People
Ireland is known for its warm and welcoming people, and your wedding guests will surely feel right at home here, especially if it’s their first time traveling away from the States. From cozy pubs to bustling cities, Ireland offers a range of experiences that are sure to delight everyone. I would even say, if you have family that hasn’t ever traveled outside the US, Ireland is a great place to go first. The locals are happy to help and even give you other tips you may have not known. Ireland is also rated to be one of the safest countries to travel in 2023! So your guests can keep their minds at ease.
5. Rich History and Culture
Ireland has so much history and culture, with castles, ruins, and ancient monuments scattered throughout the country. From the majestic Blarney Castle to the ancient Newgrange passage tomb, you and your guests will have plenty to explore before and after the wedding. Here are some tour options that your wedding destination guests might enjoy in Ireland:
Cliffs of Moher: A trip to the Cliffs of Moher on the west coast of Ireland is a must-see for any visitor. The cliffs rise 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. There are several tour options available, including bus tours and hiking tours. If you have seen Princess Bride or Harry Potter I’m SURE you have heard of the Cliffs of Moher!
Dublin City Tour: A guided tour of Dublin is a great way to explore the city's history and culture. You can visit famous landmarks such as Dublin Castle, St. Patrick's Cathedral, and the Guinness Storehouse. There are also food and drink tours that allow you to sample some of the city's best cuisine and drinks.
Ring of Kerry: The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive that takes you through some of Ireland's most picturesque landscapes. The route takes you through charming villages, past rolling hills and rugged coastline, and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Game of Thrones Tour: If you have any Game of Thrones fans in your group, a tour of the show's filming locations in Northern Ireland is a must. You can visit places like the Dark Hedges, Ballintoy Harbour, and Castle Ward, and see where some of the show's most memorable scenes were filmed.
Titanic Experience: The Titanic was built in Belfast, and a visit to the city's Titanic Quarter is a fascinating way to learn about the ship's history. You can take a tour of the Titanic Experience, which includes a visit to the original shipyard and a chance to explore a replica of the Titanic's interior.
These are just a few tour options that your wedding destination guests might enjoy in Ireland. There are plenty of other options available, depending on your group's interests and preferences.
6. and one of the biggest reasons……Breathtaking Scenery
Ireland is famous for its stunning landscapes, from rugged coastlines to rolling green hills. Whether you choose to exchange vows overlooking the Cliffs of Moher or on a quiet beach on the Dingle Peninsula, your wedding photos will be unforgettable!!
Recap
Ireland is a truly magical destination for a wedding celebration. With its stunning scenery, rich history, friendly people, delicious food, and affordable prices, it's easy to see why so many couples choose to tie the knot in this beautiful country. Whether you're planning a small, intimate ceremony or a grand celebration with all your family and friends, Ireland is sure to make your special day unforgettable.
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Photos by: Hello Sugar Photography and a few from my travels
Amber Hansen Events
The little things matter in life, as much as the big things!