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Travel Tales: Limerick
by
findingDulcinea Staff
As a child, my experience of Ireland wasn’t so much about visiting castles or carousing all night in a crowded pub with a pint of Guinness and a rugby match on the “telly”—that would come later. Back then, it was simply time to be with family. My granny had six daughters, one son and 21 grandchildren. Only my mother and one sister had moved to the States, so visiting Ireland meant a few weeks’ playtime with a gaggle of children, a few teenagers and six harried-looking mothers who laughed off their exhaustion.
Speaking the Language
As far as my siblings and I were concerned, they spoke a different language over there, but we were learning to translate. My aunts would often refer to some cousin’s whereabouts saying, “She’s down below.” This meant someone was in town, at the shop, at school or at church. “Sound” meant good. “Bold” was bad. “Cop on” meant behave. “Lads” meant kids. My cousins laughed hysterically when I said “you guys.” They repeated the phrase in a nasally voice—try pinching your own nose as you say it.
The phrase “your man” took a few repetitions before I understood it, having nothing to do with “you” or “your.” My aunt was telling my mother a story about a mugging where “your man” asked for directions, then took off with a lady’s purse as she was pointing down the street. At first, I tried to sort out if “her man” was my father, or my brother (though hardly a man) or if my mother had a second husband in Ireland. Finally I realized it simply meant “this guy.”
My granny, my brother and my sister, outside one of Limerick’s thatch cottages
Off to Limerick
One place I’ve been happy to visit is Limerick, the third largest city in Ireland, with a charter older than London’s. Limerick’s Life, bursting with history, amusing anecdotes and vintage photographs, recreates the enchantment of old Ireland. Browse the collection of maps from today and yesterday, or read the “Old Newspaper Extracts.” There’s even a section called “Tragic Stories.” My granny (who, bless her heart, always read the obituaries before the wedding announcements) would have found these tales irresistible.
Source: Limerick’s Life
While King John’s Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral, The Hunt Museum and the Treaty Stone, where the Treaty of Limerick was signed, may be the primary tourist attractions, don’t miss out on other activities. Frank McCourt’s devotees can take a walking tour highlighting key landmarks from his book, “Angela’s Ashes.” Families can pack a picnic to Cratloe Woods, and then let their children amble through its obstacle course. I can personally vouch for the obstacle course; while it may seem unimpressive to adults, it’s an absolute treasure for children.
Virtual Tourist features a terrific map link with street, satellite and hybrid street/satellite options. Be sure to take advantage of the reviews of different spots and activities; with nearly 200 site members living right in Limerick, the recommendations are sure to be reliable.
Source: Virtual Tourist
Munster Rugby is home to Limerick’s most celebrated sport. Limerick is the nation’s sporting capital and its newly built stadium is only one more reason to come for a match. Read about the key players and the latest matches or buy tickets (plan at least two months in advance) using the tabs on the left navigation bar.
Source: Munster Rugby
Limerick Leader updates you on the local news and happenings, whether you’re preparing for your trip or you’ve already landed. Don’t miss the community forum to learn what Limerick natives like best about their town.
Source: Limerick Leader
My cousins and me making up our own sport: basketball with a socerball
Day Trips
The Cliffs of Moher are among Ireland’s most enchanting scenic attractions. Rich with history and folkore, the cliffs also serve as a bird sanctuary and provide a natural perch for visitors wanting to relax and take in the splendid panorama. Look for driving directions, a calendar of events and even a virtual tour.
Source: Cliffs of Moher
Adare Heritage Centre is devoted to Adare, a town known as the prettiest village in Ireland. The Norman Castle is only one of the town’s attractions (open from July through the end of October). Though the site content is spare, you’ll find links to Web sites for lodging, restaurants and activities in the area.
Shannon Firth
Guides Writer
Guides Writer
© 2012 Dulcinea Media, Inc.
