Longing for Ireland

Tune in to the rhythmic heartbeat of Belfast, a city where melodies echo through the streets and music is woven into the very fabric of its culture. In this special episode, we explore Belfast as the vibrant UNESCO City of Music, delving into the harmonious tapestry that defines its soul.Join us as we navigate the musical corridors with local experts, Dolores Vischer, from Creative Tours Belfast, uncovering the diverse genres, iconic venues, and the rhythmic pulse that makes Belfast a true musical haven.Discover more at creativetoursbelfast.comAnd at ohyeahbelfast.com or at visitbelfast.comIrish words and saying:Feile (Festival) – Pronounced: "fay-luh"Feis (and Feisanna plural) (Irish word for a festival competition) – Pronounced: "fesh" (and "fesh-uh-nuh" plural)Bodhrán (Traditional drum) – Pronounced: "bow-rawn"Fiddle (Violin) – Pronounced: "fid-uhl"Seisiún (A traditional music gathering) – Pronounced: "seh-shoon"Feile an Phobail (Community festival) – Pronounced: "fay-luh an fo-bal"Fleadh Ceol (Music festival) – Pronounced: "flah k-yohl"Musicians:Van MorrisonSnow PatrolAshGary MooreJames GalwayBicep David HolmesRuby Murry Ulster Orchestra Film: BelfastPlaces:Oh yeah Belfast2 Royal AvenueKelly's CellarsMadden's BarThe Black BoxThe Second FiddleThe Dirty OnionThe American BarThe SunflowerScott's Jazz ClubBert's Jazz BarThe Deer's HeadThe Banana Block Sound Advice God's Waiting RoomEvents:Events on the maritime mileFeile an PhobailOut To Lunch Arts Festival

Prepare to uncover the captivating history and spirit of Cork, Ireland, as we delve into the city's rebellious character. Joining us for this exploration is Dara Burke, the founder of Rebel City Tours, a company dedicated to showcasing the unique character of Cork.  Discover the historical events and iconic figures that have shaped Cork's reputation for rebellion and how this legacy continues to influence the city's culture. Dara shares his top recommendations for experiencing the 'Rebel City' first-hand, and we'll get a sneak peek into the unique tours offered by Rebel City Tours.  Discover more at rebelcitytour.com Mentions:The Wallace sisters - change.org/p/remember-the-wallace-sistersCork City Jail - corkcitygaol.comSpike Island - spikeislandcork.ieMutton lane inn - corkheritagepubs.com/pub/mutton-lane-innNano Nagle Place - nanonagleplace.ieGreenway harbour cycle tour rebelcitytour.comVillage of Passage West and Maritime Museum - passagemuseum.ie Irish words or sayings in this episode:Seanfhocail (Old word/oral wisdoms passed down) – Pronounced: "shan-uh-fo-kull"'Tá fhiach an t-aon rud is mícheart a íoc' (Revenge is the only debt not worth repaying) – Pronounced: "Taw fee-akh on t-ayn rood iss me-khart a eek

Mischievous, unpredictable, and shape-shifting – this mythical Irish being is said to be especially active at Halloween, or what we call Samhain. But what is it, and why is there a Halloween festival named after it?We're joined by Dr. Kelly Fitzgerald, Head of the School of Irish, Celtic Studies, and Folklore at University College Dublin to explore this mythical creature and its namesake, the Púca festival. Discover more about the Púca festival by visiting pucafestival.com Irish Words and Pronunciations:Lúnasa (the beginning of the harvest) – Pronounced: "LOO-nuh-suh"Samhain (the name for November/Halloween) – Pronounced: "SAH-win"Nollaig (December/Christmas) – Pronounced: "NUL-ig"Fear dearg (a red man) – Pronounced: "FAIR JARE-ug"Breac (speckled) – Pronounced: "BRACK"Mummer (costumed performer) – Pronounced: "MUH-mer"Guisers (costumed Halloween goers) – Pronounced: "GIZE-ers"Barnbrack (Irish Halloween fruitcake) – Pronounced: "BARN-brack"

Have you ever gazed up at the night sky, wondering about the mysteries it holds, or can you hardly see the stars at night? Join us as we head off into the starry embrace of OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, nestled in the Sperrin mountains in Northern Ireland, where the stars shine so undisturbed and bright that you can see galaxies with the naked eye. Guiding us through the constellations and landscape is none other than Dr. Barry Lynn, astronomer at OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory, so join us as we turn off the lights and adjust our eyes towards the endless skies. Discover the OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory by visiting omdarksky.com Irish words in this episode:Ceoldán (music and poetry) – Pronounced: "kyool-don"Ogham – (Medieval Irish alphabet) Pronounced: "og-uhm"Dabhach (cauldron / bowl) – Pronounced: "da-vahg" Experiences mentioned:Beaghmore stone circles and Solar Walk: omdarksky.com/landscape-experienceThe Giants of the Sperrins - Wooden Giants by the recycling artist Thomas Dambo: trollmap.comSperrinview Glamping: sperrinviewglamping.com

Are you intrigued by the serene world of flyfishing in Ireland's enchanting west or have you never even considered the sport? Join us as we uncover the essentials of this peaceful pastime. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner seeking guidance, this episode covers the how, what, when, and where of flyfishing in western Ireland.We're joined by Heather Richie from Delphi Lodge and Felix Sproll from Screebe House, both experts in their craft, as we gracefully cast our lines and explore the tranquil beauty of this timeless pastime. Discover the perfect fishing spots by visiting Great Fishing Houses of Ireland at irelandflyfishing.com or Inland Fisheries Ireland at fisheriesireland.ie This episode's Irish words or sayings:Ceol (music) – Pronounced: "kyol" (rhymes with "yowl")Craic (fun) – Pronounced: "krak" (rhymes with "crack")C'mere (expression used to grab attention which can mean 'let me tell you something') – Pronounced: "ka-mere" (rhymes with "come here")Céad míle fáilte (A thousand welcomes) – Pronounced: "kayd mee-leh fawl-cheh"

Whiskey with the extra ‘e', this episode is all about the history of Irish whiskey, the fall and resurgence of Irish whiskey and the whiskey experience on the island.Today, we're joined by John Callely from Whiskey Island, as we go on an exciting dive into the delicious drink that is whiskey. We explore its history, from its rise to prominence to its remarkable resurgence in recent years and leave you with some top tips for whiskey drinks.For more information on Whiskey Island and their tours visit www.whiskeyisland.ie This episode's Irish words or sayings:Uisce beatha (Water of life / whiskey) – Pronounced: ISH-ka bah-haAn Irish toast:Health and long life to youand land without rent to youA husband or wife of your choice to youA child every year to youAnd may you be in heaven half an hour before the devil knows you are deadSláinteDrink recipes:Irish Old Fashioned•A young blend Irish whiskey – 60 ml•Benedictine Dom (instead of sugar syrup) 25 ml•Angostura bitters - 2 dashes•Orange bitters - 2 dashes•Rocks glass with orange peel•Good thick well-packed ice-Stir(Irish) Whiskey sours •Teeling small batch•Lemon juice•Honey sirup•Apricot brandy•Egg whites•Coupe-style glass-Shake upIrish coffee•Pouring cream•200 ml size glass•Good coffee-Shake the creamJohn's favourite cocktail (batch)•Young Irish whiskey (full 750 ml bottle)•Cranberry juice 1l•Apple juice 1l-Stir-Pour into slim jim glasses with ice and a slice of limeExperiences mentioned:The oldest pub – Sean's Bar, Athlone: www.seansbar.ie

Rooted in ancient myth the stunning Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark is one of the world's best-kept secrets, boasting a wealth of natural beauty and cultural heritage that will take your breath away.Today, we're joined by Darren Rice, Geopark Manager for the area, as we go on a fascinating journey and delve into the areas rich history and uncover the secrets of its geology and culture. From the mythical tales of Slieve Gullion and Cú Chulainn to the astonishing Mourne wall.For more information on the UNESCO Global Geopark visit: mournegullionstrangfordgeopark.com This episode's Irish words:Booleying (taking cattle to the uplands for summer) – Pronounced: Boo-lee-ingPoitín (Irish moonshine) – Pronounced: pot-cheenCú Chulainn (Cullan's Hound) – Pronounced: coo-hull-inSleive (Mountain) – Pronounced: sleeve Experiences mentioned:Sup and soda - Tracey's farmhouse kitchen: traceysfarmhousekitchen.comBooley and butter - Mountain Ways Ireland: mountainwaysireland.comSing For Your Supper: bluebell-lane.com/sing-for-your-supperPaedric's land (artistic centre) - https://bluebell-lane.com/events-2/

Nestled on the coast of County Dublin, the picturesque town of Dalkey is a hidden gem of Irish history nestled in a cosy seaside town. At its heart stands the iconic Dalkey Castle, a towering monument to the town's rich heritage.Today, we're joined by Margaret Dunne, Manager at Dalkey Castle & Heritage Centre, as we explore the fascinating history and culture of this beautiful area. From the stories of its famous residents to the secrets hidden within the castle's walls.So, sit back and join us as we discover the wonders of Dalkey and the incredible history of its castle.For more information on Dalkey Castle and Heritage Centre visit: dalkeycastle.com This episode's Irish words:Céad míle fáilte (a hundred thousand welcomes) – Pronounced: kay-ed me-la fall-chaDeilginis (Thorny Isle) – Pronounced: Delig-inishGo mbeirimid beo ag an am seo arís (May we be alive at this time again) Experiences mentioned:Bloomsday and Joycean Evening: dalkeycastle.com/home/events/bloomsdayMaeve Binchy Festival / Echoes: echoes.ieDalkey Book Festival: dalkeybookfestival.orgDalkey Lobster Festival: dalkeylobsterfestival.comKilliney Castle Hotel /Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel: fitzpatrickcastle.comThe Haddington House hotel: haddingtonhouse.ieRoyal Marine Hotel: royalmarine.ieDART (Train): dublinpublictransport.ie/dart-timesLiterary walks: dalkeycastle.com/home/the-visit/literary-walksColiemore Harbour ferry to Dalkey Island (Ken the Ferry Man): kentheferryman.comThe James Joyce (Martello) Tower & Museum: joycetower.ie  Writers mentionedJames JoyceSamuel BeckettGeorge Bernard ShawSeamus HeaneyMaeve Binchy

Tea is something that has bound households together, it is synonymous with gossip, and in general just something to sit and love while enjoying the cosy atmosphere around you. But what is afternoon tea – the Irish way? Today we are joined by Ciara McCaughey, from Vintage Tea Trips to talk about what tea means for the Irish and why you should try a cup when visiting!For more information on the trips on offer visit: vintageteatrips.ieOr find them on Instagram @ vintageteatours or TikTok @ vintage_tea_trips Teas mentioned:Barry's Tea Lyons This episode's Irish words:Ar mhaith leat cupán tae? (Would you like a cup of tea?) – Pronounced: Air wua lat cup-on tayTá (Yes) – Pronounced: tá

Stallions, mares, and foals – Horses are amazingly beautiful and this time we delve into the Irish National Stud - A government owned commercial breeding farm for top class racehorses, featuring two spectacular gardens, an experience centre and the retired ‘Legends' of the sport, all within the 600 acres/242 hectares farm.Today we are joined by David Wardell, Tourism Development Manager at the Irish National Stud & Gardens to talk about why the government owns a stud and how it all works and what you get to experience there when you visit. For more information on the trips on offer visit: irishnationalstud.ie Horses MentionedStallions:Invincible SpiritI Am Invincible  (Resides in Australia, Son of Invincible Spirit)The Living legends (Geldings):Beef or salmonFaugheen (The Machine)Hurricane FlyKicking King

Single pot, blended, peated, malted - single, double, or triple distilled - what does it all mean and what makes Irish Whiskey different from other whiskies?Today we are joined by James Kilgannon, whiskey expert and Distillery & Brand Coordinator at Teeling Distillery to talk about Teeling Whiskey and how to experience whiskey in Ireland.For more information on the trips on offer visit: Teelingdistillery.com for the distillery and tours and Teelingwhiskey.com for the global brand and information on the whiskeys.  This episode's Irish words:A couple of wordsCheers! (To your health)Sláinte - Pronounced:  S + lawn + Ch(urch)---Water of life (whiskey)Uisce beatha - ISH-ka bah-ha

Rooted in ancient myths and the fastest sport on grass; Gaelic games give a glimpse into ancient Irish heritage that still thrives to this day – But what are Gaelic games?Today we are joined by Cormac Ó Donnchú, co-founder of Experience Gaelic Games to talk about the sports and their connection to Irish culture.For more information on the trips on offer visit: experiencegaelicgames.com  This episode's Irish words:Hurling (Sport) – Pronounced: Huer-ling---Camogie (woman's hurling) – Pronounced: Ka-maw-gi---sliotar (ball for hurling) – Pronounced: Schli-tar---Camán (hurling stick) – Pronounced: Com-oon ---Caid (ancient mob football) – Pronounced: Ka-id---Cú Chulainn (mythic character - "Hound (cú) of Culann") – Pronounced: Koo-kul-in---Fite fuaite (something that is intertwined – something that can't be unpicked) – Pronounced: fi-tcha Foo-cha  

City breaks – a great way to do a quick trip to another country and culture. Come, explore, enjoy, and return another day. But which city should you choose and what should you do?Today we are joined by Veera Bianca, a travel writer and travel photographer to talk about Dublin and Belfast as weekend getaways and what to do in each city.To read and follow Veera's Finish blog visit: veerabianca.com or find Veera on Instagram @Veerabianca.Dublin:Stores:Siopaella - siopaella.comSheridans Cheesemongers - sheridanscheesemongers.comExperiences, drinks and food:Fanshion and food tour - fabfoodtrails.ieRo & Co Whiskey Distillery - roeandcowhiskey.comGuinness Storehouse - guinness-storehouse.comJameson Whiskey Distillery - jamesonwhiskey.comTrinity college and Book of Kells- tour - tcd.ie/visitors/book-of-kellsThe Seafood Café by Niall Sabongi - klaw.ieRustic Stone Restaurant -rusticstone.ieSaint Stephen's Green ParkThree Twenty Ice-Cream Lab - threetwenty.ieMurphy's Ice-Cream - murphysicecream.ieHotels:Wren Urban Nest - wrenhotel.ieIveagh Garden Hotel - iveaghgardenhotel.ie BelfastTitanic Belfast - titanicbelfast.comTitanic hotel Belfast - titanichotelbelfast.comBushmills Whiskey Distillery - bushmills.euGiant tours - gianttoursireland.comBelfast gin tour - tasteandtour.co.uk   

Cosy cottages, town houses, country homes, farmhouses, and historic houses – They are all very different, but one thing thy have in common is the sense of Irish homeliness.Today we are joined by Helena Healy, CEO at B & B Ireland to talk about Irish homeliness and how to experience Ireland from a B&B.For more information on the trips on offer visit: bandbireland.com This episode's Irish words:A couple of wordsCúpla focal - Pronounced: Coop-la Fuc-ull---Cheers! (To your health)Sláinte - Pronounced:  S + lawn + Ch(urch)

Three giant mounds stand on top of 3 hills overlooking a bend in the Boyne River. But these three mounds are no ordinary mounds, they have been named as UNESCO World Heritage and figure throughout Irish history, myth, and folklore. So, what makes them so special and why should you visit? Today we are joined by Clare Tuffy, from the Office of Public Works at the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre to talk about Ireland's ancient heritage.For more information on the trips on offer visit: Heritageireland.ieFor more in-depth info visit worldheritageireland.ie This episode's Irish words:The Palace of the BoyneBrú na Bóinne - Pronounced: Bry na Boiñe Other attractions mentioned:Louchcrew Cairnsheritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/loughcrew-cairnsHill of Taraheritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/hill-of-taraCarrowmore and Carrowkeel, Co. Sligoheritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/carrowmore-megalithic-cemeteryBoyne Valleyireland.com/en-se/destinations/county/meath/boyne-valleyHill of Taraireland.com/en-se/things-to-do/attractions/hill-of-taraHigh cross of Monasterboicediscoverboynevalley.ie/boyne-valley-drive/heritage-sites/monasterboice-finest-high-cross-ireland 1st Cistercian Abbeydiscoverboynevalley.ie/boyne-valley-drive/heritage-sites/old-mellifont-abbey 2nd Cistercian Abbeydiscoverboynevalley.ie/boyne-valley-drive/heritage-sites/bective-abbey Largest Anglo-Norman castle: Trim Castle heritageireland.ie/places-to-visit/trim-castle 

Guinness – Synonymous with Ireland and a must try when on the island - but what makes it so special? How is it made and what is the story behind it the famous beer?Today we are joined by Colm O'Connor, Beer Specialist at the Guinness Storehouse to talk about what makes Guinness so special as well as what you can expect when visiting the Home of Guinness in the heart of Dublin.For more information on the tours on offer visit: guinness-storehouse.com

U2, The Rolling Stones, Ed Sheeran, and many more have recorded songs or albums at Dublin's first recording studio, since its founding 40 years ago – but, what makes it so special and why should you visit?Today we are joined by Aidan Alcock, Director at Windmill Lane Recording Studio to talk about the studio, its history, process, and famous recording artists as well as what you will experience when you visit the studio.For more information on the tours on offer visit: windmilllanerecording.com This episode's Irish words and saying:Music and FunCeol agus Criac – Pronounced: qu-eol agus krak

RMS Titanic – the world's largest ship at its launch has not only left its mark in film culture but also in its birthplace – the city of Belfast – where you now find the world-leading Titanic Experience visitor attraction in the very shipyard where Titanic was built. But what legacy has Titanic left and how can you find its traces and experience this famous ship?Today we are joined by Scott Shaw, from the Visitor Experience Crew at Titanic Belfast to talk about the Titanic Experience, Harland and Wolff, Titanic Hotel Belfast, SS Nomadic and the impact it made on the city of Belfast.For more information on the tours on offer visit: tianicbelfast.com This episode's Irish words and saying:Keep going (encouragement)Keep her lit – Pronounced: Keep ‘eer lit

Beautiful seafood, warming chowder, lamb and beef from the greenest pastures and absolutely delicious derry products… so much to try, yet so little time – so where should you start?Today we are joined by Suzanne Burns, owner and guide at Kinsale Food Tours, to talk about Irish food; tips on what to try, Irish raw ingredients, and what to bring back when returning from Ireland.Kinsale Food Tours offer guided food tours of Kinsale and surrounds. Ranging all the way from multi-stop walking town and food tours, wild food tours, foraging and picnic tours and all the way up to a luxury yacht tour & picnic.For more information on the trips on offer visit: kinsalefoodtours.com This episode's Irish words and sayings:(reply) Cheers/good health back to youSláinte mhaith - Pronounced:  S + lawn + Ch(urch) wha---Take it easy/chill outTóg go bog é - Pronounced: tóg-go bog-é---I'm amazing / terrible – context dependentI'm grand---Are you enjoying yourself?Are you having the craic? – Pronounced: Krak

Poetical, political & provocative – Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, W.B. Yeats and many more playwrights come from Ireland, but why are there so many playwrights and what makes Irish theatre so special?Today we are joined by James Hickson, from the National Theatre of Ireland, the Abbey Theatre, to talk about theatre culture in Ireland and how theatre has influenced Irish culture.The Abbey Theatre offers plays, classes as well as tours of both the theatre and Dublin city.For more information on the trips on offer visit: www.abbeytheatre.ie This episode's Irish words:A traditional Gaelic storyteller:Seanchaí - pronounced: Shan – á- key---spoon (literally: young spoon):Spúnóg - pronounced: Spuon- ooeg---the stain left by tears:Súghóg – pronounced: Sue-hoe-g The plays/performances mentioned:Faith Healer by Brian FrielTranslations by Brian FrielGaeilge Tamagotchi by Manchán Magan 

Stone age fortresses, endless stone walls, a shipwreck on land and special jumpers – what makes the Aran Islands so special? How do you get there and what should you see?Today we are joined by Eugene Garrihy and Joan Hamilton, from Doolin2Aran Ferries. The Garrihy family have been sailing the waters between the islands for more than 70 years from Doolin, co. Claire and now offer ferry services between the mainland and the Aran Islands; Inishmore, Inishmaan and Inisheer.For more information on the trips on offer visit: www.doolin2aranferries.com This episode's Irish words:Potato:Prátaí – pronounced: praw-tee ---How are you? :Cén chaoi a bhfuil tú? – Pronounced:  Kay hee ah will too I am very good:Ta me go maith - Taw may guh mah And yourself? :Agus tu fein? -  ogg-us too fayne I am very, very good (excellent):Ta me an-mhaith - Taw may on a wha---Cheers! (to your health)Sláinte - Pronounced:  S + lawn + Ch(urch)

Giant`s Graves, Fairy Trees and Cure Wells - what are they? And how does Celtic History, Mythology and Walking Trails come together in Ireland?Today we are joined by Martin Bradley, an Ecologist who brings groups on mystical adventures through the countryside surrounding Derry~Londonderry in Northern Ireland. Adventures where every step provides you with glimpses into the mythology of local trees, flora, prehistoric monuments and the fascinating folklore of bogs, fairies, and cure wells.For more information on the trails visit: www.foyletrails.com

This episode we will be talking about one of the most famous attractions on the Island of Ireland – a UNESCO world heritage site and a landscape formed by myth and geology.But what is the Giant's Causeway? How was it formed? And who was the Giant? To answer these we are joined by Kathryn Weir, Storyteller at The Giant's Causeway Experience Centre. The centre and site is owned and managed by the National Trust, a charity and membership organisation for heritage conservation in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.For more info on The Giant's Causeway visit: nationaltrust.org.uk/giants-causewayLegendary Giant:Fionn mac Cumhaill or Finn McCool

How do you find a good pub? What should you order in a pub? And what are the top tips when going to a pub?This time we are joined by Garvan Rushe, owner and guide at Dublin Tour Guide which offers private walking tours of Dublin. Their Pub Tour is a firm favourite amongst travellers for the last ten years. For more info on Garvan's tours visit: www.dublintourguide.ieThis episode's Irish word:Cheers! (to your health)Sláinte - Pronounced:  S + lawn + Ch(urch)

Who was Saint Patrick? And why is he so important in Ireland? And how should you experience Saint Patrick in Ireland?This time we are joined by Martina Purdy, former BBC political correspondant, turned nun and now guide at the Saint Patrick Centre as well as the director of the centre, Dr. Tim Campbell.Bonus info: the Irish name "Niamh" (pronounced "Neeve") means Saint in Irish.For more info on the tours and the centre see www.saintpatrickcentre.com

What is and was Christmas in Dublin like?This time we are joined by Mark McKenna and Gerry Dowling, two Dubliners and guides at The Little Museum of Dublin, who will take us back to their childhood Christmases and give their best advice on what to experience in Dublin during Christmas.Visit The Little Museum of Dublin at www.littlemuseum.ieThis episode's Irish phrase:Happy Christmas to you!Nollaig Shona Duit! (singular)  pronounced - Null-igg Hunna DittNollaig Shona Daoibh (plural)  pronounced - Null-igg Hunna Deeve 

What is Halloween? And is it true that it is Irish and not from the US? This time we explore the origins and traditions of Halloween.  We are joined by the expert of everything to do with Irish traditions, Clodagh Doyle, Keeper at the Irish Folklife Division of the National Museum of Ireland.   Irish words to learn this episode: Samhain (Halloween) Barmbrack (a traditional cake) Colcannon (potato stew)  Remember you can do an Irish Halloween this year by playing games like apple bobbing, apple on a string or fortune telling games - although we suggest you try and come up with some more up to date predictions! Carve a lantern out of a pumpkin, turnip or potato. You might also be mischievous this year! Just like our recording software - we apologise for the poor audio quality. Next time will be better.

Today we interview travel writer and photographer, Simone Moelle, and get her top tips for things to do in Dublin, Ireland - featuring great ideas on what to see and where to eat.