Spring in Emerald Isle

Gather around, folks!

Confession #1: I've never been to Ireland. Shameful? Some would think so. Not sure if it's from this economical crisis booming everywhere, Ireland included, but I've been having the urges to do something about it and add the Emerald Isle to my visited countries list as soon as possible.Working every day with an Irishman by my side, I've heard countless anecdotes that would leave any person green... with envy! But enough - now I want to go there and bring along my own share of stories, 'Remember that time in Dublin when...' - maybe what I desperately need is a vacation.

So, at lunch hour this week, I asked Richard if he thought hiring a car in Dublin would be the best option to travel around the island. Well, first I had to wait for him to finish his pint. Eventually he acknowledged that that would be one way of holidaying in Eire.

And here we are at confession #2: it may seem surprising but I'm not much interested in an exclusive tour of Ireland's pubs for this trip, although I wouldn't refuse a sip or two at the finest Guinness brew. The itinerary would go more along the lines of driving my Ireland car hire to such places as the town of Limerick, not missing out on one of Ring of Kerry's routes or explore Cork, which hosts a number of eclectic festivals all year.

For a change of pace, Spring is a great season to be amazed at the wonderful landscapes this country has to offer and welcome new experiences. Times are hard but that doesn't mean we don't deserve to rest our worried heads on greener pastures.

Don't spare those helpful suggestions for a rainy day - share your thoughts on the comment box below!