Whilst we don’t celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday in Ireland, there is a lot to be thankful for being a tour-guide in Ireland.

Here’s my top 10:

1. Breathtaking Landscapes: As a tour guide in Ireland, I get to explore and share the beauty of the country’s stunning landscapes, from rolling green hills to dramatic coastlines.
2. Rich History and Culture: Ireland is steeped in history and culture, offering endless opportunities to educate and inspire my tour groups with tales of ancient castles, folklore, and traditions.
3. Warm Hospitality: Irish hospitality is world-renowned, and as a tour guide, I get to witness and be a part of the warm and friendly ‘fáilte’ (welcome) that makes visitors feel at home.
4. Diverse Cities and Towns: From the bustling streets of Dublin to the charming villages scattered across the countryside, Ireland’s diverse urban and rural areas provide a varied and exciting backdrop for tours.
5. Delicious Cuisine: Perceptions are often poor on Irish food but I always love  to introduce my tour groups to the delightful world of Irish cuisine, from traditional dishes like Irish stew to modern twists on seafood in the vibrant Irish food scene. Many towns like Dingle, Kilkenny and Kinsale have food festivals to celebrate local chefs and produce.
6. Live Music and Entertainment: Ireland is known for its lively ‘trad’ music and entertainment, and as a tour guide, I have the chance to immerse my groups in the energetic atmosphere of live performances in pubs or at cultural events like Fleadh Ceol.
7. Close-Knit Community: Being a tour guide allows me to become a part of a close-knit community of fellow guides, locals, and travellers, creating a network of friendships and support. This is really important when you are a solopreneur.
8. Festivals and Events: Ireland hosts a plethora of festivals from the New Years Eve festival to St Patrick’s Day festival, and  Bealtaine to name a few, providing constant opportunities to engage tour groups in vibrant celebrations of art, music, and culture.
9. Diverse Clientele: Meeting people from all walks of life and from different corners of the globe enriches my experience as a tour guide, allowing me to learn from my clients as much as I share with them. I learn something on every single tour.
10. Adventure Around Every Corner: Whether it’s exploring hidden gems, discovering new stories, or encountering unexpected surprises, being a tour guide in Ireland means every day brings a new adventure.

Thanks so much to all my guests who chose to tour Ireland with me this year. I love my job and you make that possible by supporting a small Irish business.

Go raibh mIle maith agaibh.

Mia