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So it is official. Bae has been upgraded to wifey/hubby status. No-one messed up their vows, the in-laws behaved themselves, people danced to “Shout”, so now it is time for the honeymoon. But you and the ole ball ‘n’ chain have opted against the traditional beachside marathon of sipping Mai Tais and canoodling. So where to instead? Ireland could be an adventurous alternative for couples that want to hear music, are eager to see stunning sites, and maybe think PS I Love You is the most romantic movie of all-time (PS I do too guys). So couples grab your four-leaf clovers, cause you’re about to get lucky, and check out our reasons why an Ireland honeymoon should be on the cards.
Cozy Up in a Castle
Ireland has plenty of romantic places to stay, but chief among them may be to spend a few evenings in a traditional Irish castle. Many of the ramparts available to rent will certainly make any couple feel as though they are staying in a fairytale castle. With the proper research, it will become clear that there are many honeymoon packages exclusively for granting newlyweds the dream of cuddling up in a manor house or legitimate stone castle.
While on the subject of castles, Irish honeymoon touring should include stops at Rock of Cashel, an intact example of castle grandeur, and Blarney Castle to smooch the Blarney Stone.
Dublin’s Culinary Scene
Ireland and the rest of the British Isles, in recent history, have been teased and disparaged for their unappealing cuisine. No-one gave that memo to Dublin. As the capital city has grown, diversified, and modernized, its culinary scene has benefited greatly. And whether you’re die-hard foodies or simply casual diners, everyone should treat themselves a little when honeymooning. In 2019, Dublin will be home to five Michelin-starred restaurants, ideal for a candlelit dinner for two. Suggestions for fine-dining include Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud, widely considered the best dining experience in the country, and Chapter One, a restaurant in the Dublin Writer’s Museum.
Regardless of culinary inclinations, most visitors to Ireland will spend some time in the capital, so be sure to check out Airbnbs in Dublin to stay like a local.
Long Walks on the Beach
Ireland’s rolling green hills and general connection with nature is well documented. And for good reason, this country is truly stunning. However, at times, the greenery of the interior can overshadow some of Ireland’s striking coastlines. Irish beaches may not be the best place to enjoy a sunny beach read on your next vacation, but they are ideal for a long walk while hand-in-hand with your significant other. Excellent ways to enjoy both the coastline and other areas of Irish nature would be a drive around the Ring of Kerry, a road that winds past beaches and through Killarney National Park, or taking a trip to the Cliffs of Moher.
Get a Little Boozy
Some party couples enjoy throwing a drink or two back together, so why not get a little tipsy on a honeymoon? Spirits are high and stress is low. Perhaps not so surprisingly, Ireland is a good place for drinking. A trip to Dublin’s Guinness factory, or simply testing local Irish whiskey, is an easy and fun way to enjoy the company of your betrothed. Perhaps the best way to enjoy drinking in Ireland is to wander in and out of the pubs in major cities that have constant live music — an important part of the country’s culture.
Budget-Friendly
Let’s face it, falling in love can be expensive: meals, gifts, romantic escapes. And what’s even more expensive? Getting married. After the “I dos” there may not be a whole lot of extra cash to throw around for a honeymoon. Ireland is a great option for newlyweds who might be pinching pennies to get their new lives started. Only a five to six-hour flight from the East Coast of the US, it’s possible that a first-class or business-class ticket to Ireland would be the same amount of money as a budget ticket to a tropical getaway in the South Pacific. Just try to avoid Dublin’s high-end shopping district on Grafton Street.