Compass: Ireland
Ireland is the mystic land of the past. This is the land of the Celtic Twilight, the country of Synge and Yeats and Stephens. It is the seat of an age-old tradition, of the remains of a once brilliant Celtic civilisation.
-Conrad Arensberg, an American writer, poet and scholar, giving his opinion of Ireland and the Irish in The Irish Countryman (1937)
Discover Ireland, aka the Emerald Isle, an island covered with a lush green landscape and rolling hills that are dotted with relics and ruins from the past. Traveling across Ireland you will find Celtic crosses, old castles, shamrocks and lots and lots of sheep, mountain goats and cows roaming free.
Guinness, lamb, potatoes and beef are the most popular agricultural exports from Ireland. Literature, music, folklore and arts are the country’s greatest cultural contributions to the world.
Irish people believe in fairies and Leprechauns and both are a huge part of Irish tradition. Perhaps you will cross the path of these symbols of luck and happiness as you discover Ireland through these stories.
Why is Ireland Known as the “Emerald Isle?”
By Derek CullenIreland is often referred to as the “Emerald Isle,” due to the vast greenery throughout the island. Most of the Irish countryside is dotted with farms and national parks, while the landscape in almost every county is dominated by some of the greenest hills anywhere in the world. But is … Read more Read more
Ireland Landscape History
One Magical Night on the Great Blasket Island in Ireland
By Derek CullenI was frustrated when the Wi-Fi died. My trip to the Great Blasket Island was hinging on the availability of a small boat, and I was now unable to contact the owner. However, after a ten-minute jog to the harbour in Dunquin, I was welcomed on board – the result … Read more Read more
Ireland Off the Beaten Path
TODAY IN HISTORY: Founding of Aer Lingus (May 22, 1935)
On May 22, 1935, Aer Lingus was founded as the flag carrier of Ireland. In Gaelic, Aer Loingeas means “Air Fleet” – the term was anglicized to name the airline. Established as the national carrier owned by the government, the airline today is owned 25% by the government of Ireland and 29% … Read more Read more
Ireland History
Aran Mor: Reliving a Traditional Way of life in Ireland
By Derek CullenAran Mor is arguably the most significant example that comes to mind and an island on which you can learn about the past, while enjoying everything it has to offer in the present. Read more
Ireland History Preservation
7 Hidden Treasures that You Shouldn’t Miss on the Wild Atlantic Way
By Derek CullenDriving the Wild Atlantic Way is one of the best ways to make the most of your trip to Ireland. Read more
Ireland Off the Beaten Path
Why and How Irish Culture has Changed Over the Years
By Derek CullenFor most of history, Irish culture was primarily “Gaelic” and stayed that way until the Normans arrived in the 12th Century. Read more
Ireland History
How I’m Dealing with the Coronavirus Lockdown in Ireland
By Derek CullenIreland was quick to respond to the coronavirus situation. While many world leaders were waiting to “see what happens”, social gatherings were banned and even the pubs were closed. Read more
Ireland Social Responsibility
Tonya and Ian on The Cliffs of Moher in Ireland
This is our personal take on one of our favorite attractions. The Cliffs of Moher offers an extraordinary view can be found on the west coast of Ireland. From atop the vertical drop of the cliffs one can see the heaving Atlantic ocean below and across the water to the … Read more Read more
Ireland Family Travel Landscape
Touring Ireland and introducing Irish Tenor Michael Londra
Adare Manor, Ireland. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick World Footprints will travel parts of Ireland with tour guide Will Collins who will take us on a well-rounded journey through the Emerald Isle. Will shares some of Ireland’s culinary and sporting traditions as well as the country’s interesting festivals, including a match-makers weekend, … Read more Read more
Ireland Literature & Music
LEGACY SHOW: Ireland’s Hidden Gems
This broadcast is a favorite legacy show that we produced under our old name Travel’n On and before rebranding as WORLD FOOTPRINTS. Let’s find hidden gems of Ireland. Travel’n On Radio returns to Ireland to discover some hidden gems, explore off-the-beaten-path attractions and play golf on one of the many … Read more Read more
Ireland Experiences Off the Beaten Path Sports History