The city of Derry - or as it is otherwise known, Londonderry or Daire Calgaich or Derry and Strabane (whew!) - is a city dripping with history. Much of that history is rife with political turmoil, violence, and rivalries. Before I visited Derry, whenever someone mentioned the name, I just thought “the Troubles”. Now, I see the city for what it is today. A vibrant, beautiful, cultural capital of Northern Ireland that gives us the opportunity to learn from our mistakes and enjoy a really good pint.
Logistics of the United Kingdom
I find that title slightly daunting considering the large-scale logistical nightmare that is happening in the United Kingdom right now due to Brexit. (Too soon?) Luckily, this post has a much narrower focus, as I relay my personal experiences of navigating across the British Isles. What follows is probably more anecdotal than useful, but perhaps... Continue Reading →
Taking the Waters of Bath
“Ah! There is nothing like staying at home, for real comfort.” - Jane Austen Bath is a historic resort town nestled in the rolling hills of Somerset in Southwest England. At this point, it’s honestly hard to tell what it’s most famous for - the remarkably preserved ancient Roman Baths, the streets and sights straight... Continue Reading →
WWOOFing at Barrow Castle
WWOOFing at Barrow Castle in Bath, Somerset
It’s to Belfast we’re goin’!
The city of Belfast is a bustling metropolis, with a blossoming tourist economy existing side-by-side with an undercurrent of social tensions. Many of you who read this will full well remember the years of violence known euphemistically as “The Troubles”. Although those are technically over, there are still strong feelings on either side of the... Continue Reading →
The Footsteps of Giants: Ireland’s North Coast
Trekking across the Northern Irish Coast - from Giant's to Ruins
WWOOFing at Huntley B&B
When I told people that we would be WWOOFing during our year abroad, I got a lot of different reactions. “That’s really cool!” “You’ll be in the middle of nowhere.” “What a neat idea to travel cheaply!” “You’ll be exploited as slave labor.” “I bet you’ll learn a ton!” “It was nice knowing you.” “WWOOF”... Continue Reading →
The Art of Glasgow
The train ride to Glasgow from Edinburgh is just under an hour, so even if you don’t plan on going to Glasgow while in Scotland, there really is no excuse not to fit it in. Glasgow has a very different vibe from Edinburgh, making it well worth the visit. It’s a city known for its... Continue Reading →
Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags
Just as Edinburgh Castle looms over the Royal Mile, the same can be said of the hills Arthur’s Seat and Salisbury Crags over Edinburgh. Arthur’s Seat is the largest of a set of peaks in Holyrood Park, Salisbury Crags being its smaller sibling. Bereft of tall trees, they look majestic any way the sun hits... Continue Reading →
And Then I Lost My Heart to Edinburgh
We left London on September 27, boarding a train at King’s Cross Station. Trains in Europe will never cease to amaze me because - get this - they’re on time. To the minute. Again, maybe this is the jaded DC metro rider talking, but I can’t get enough of it. Our train took us across... Continue Reading →