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Have You Ever Spent the Night in a Haunted Castle? Here's a Look Back at My Night Alone in Ireland's Ross Castle

4/27/2020

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My Irish cousin thought I was crazy to want to spend the night in Ross Castle. In a place filled with reportedly haunted castles, Ross is said to be one of the most haunted, perhaps only behind the famously terrifying Leap Castle in County Offaly that's been featured in numerous paranormal shows. Plenty of paranormal investigators have stayed at Ross Castle, located virtually in the middle of nowhere in County Meath, reached through a maze of back roads which gives it even more an eerie, "should I really be doing this?" kind of feel. 
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Not one to shy away from an adventure like this and the opportunity to stay in an authentic historic castle, I left my cousin's house with little containers filled with what was marked as "holy salt" and "holy water" and I took off. 
I recently wrote about my night there, which turned out to be a night spent all alone, in the castle's tower room at the top. You can read all about it here, 'A Night Alone in the Tower of Ireland's Ross Castle.'

Note: If you want to check out this castle, be aware that there are two Ross Castles in Ireland, the other one is located in Killarney National Park. This one is in County Meath, about 90 minutes northwest of Dublin.
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The Hardest Question for a Travel Writer to Answer: What's Your Favorite Destination?

12/22/2019

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​Not surprisingly, the most frequent question I'm asked is "What's your favorite destination?" It might seem like an easy question to answer, but that's far from the reality. There are so many destinations around the world - I love mountains, beaches, wildlife, warm weather, cold weather, meeting new people. I've traveled to Newfoundland and Iceland many times. I have family in Ireland and have been visiting since 2001 - I think I'm on my 10th or 11th trip, I've lost count. Those countries are all on the top of my list. 

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​Staying in the heart of the Amazon in beautiful Ecuador, one of the most diverse and spectacular countries was an experience of a lifetime - listening to the howls of the monkeys through the rainforest, seeing the red eyes of the caimans in the river after dark, the toucans perched in the trees and the hundreds of parrots soaring through the skies, it was something I never thought I'd see outside of a TV screen. 

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Greece was incredible, the history, the people, the food, the scenery!

And, traveling to Croatia this year I fell hard for that country too - I'm returning to experience more of some of my favorite spots there in 2020 - there's so much I have to say about that spectacular country, it deserves a post of it's own...on the list!
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Of course, I've been mostly living in Baja, Mexico for the last 18 months or so - the Wild West feel, the stunning beaches and crystal-clear blue waters for snorkeling that are like swimming in an aquarium, the Mexican people and the mouthwatering cuisine, make it one of my favorite places too. And, the whales...humpbacks and gray whales come so close you can almost pet them - in some places, you can!

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Truly, it's an impossible question to answer. But, after visiting New Zealand, I have to admit, that one is going to be hard to beat. Not that I have to choose just one, of course. When I returned from my trip, I endured some of the worst jet lag ever... but I also felt more calm and relaxed than I had in a very long time. There was just something magical about this place that I tried to boil down to a list of reasons, but to really understand it, you'll need to visit yourself. Trust me when I say, the long flight and jet lag is worth it.
 
I'm going back in March of 2021 - in one of my latest articles for Trips To Discover I reveal just some of the reasons why:  !3 Reasons New Zealand is the Best Country to Visit
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Adventures in 2020

12/11/2019

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Where will you go in 2020?

2019 was quite the year for travel - and, I've been so busy with client work I've barely had time to breathe between working and traveling. It's time to slow down the pace a bit, but I have got some very exciting adventures coming up in 2020.

I'll be traveling to Ireland like I do most years, visiting in late April/early May, a great time to be there with all the green and wildflowers, but far fewer tourists than what the summer springs. From there, I'll fly to Porto, Portugal for a few days and then drive north to Asturias, Spain. That region is rarely visited by American tourists, and it happens to be one of the last places that Anthony Bourdain featured on Parts Unknown before passing in June of 2018. Mountains, ocean, amazing food... there are many reasons I've decided to visit, some of which I've outlined in this article for Trips To Discover: Top 9 Reasons to Visit Asturias, Spain.
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In July, I'll return to one of my favorite places on Earth, Newfoundland - this will be my sixth trip, but it will be shorter than usual. Last time I visited the west and north, so heading back to spend more time in St. John's and Trinity, for two whale watching trips. There were hundreds of humpbacks there last year so crossing fingers that it will be just as good in 2020, but it's always a beautiful place to visit. From there, I'll head to the Arctic - Churchhill, Manitoba from there to spend a week with the beluga whales. The Hudson Bay coastline in Northern Manitoba is home to the world's largest population with over 57,000 belugas  congregating in the region in the summer. And, while polar bears don't usually come into town until the fall, I'll be heading out with Lazy Bear Expeditions to go where they are.  Seeing the belugas and the polar bears is something I've wanted to do for years.
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Finally, I had such an amazing time in Croatia this past September/October that I'm going back again in 2020. I was fortunate to be able to join a small-ship cruise with Unforgettable Croatia, one of my clients, and I was seriously blown away by the experience. A small-ship cruise is nothing like going on one of those mega ships and it was one of the best trips I've ever had - it really requires a full blog post, and during this "slower" time of the year, I'll  be getting to that soon. The food, the wine, the people, the scenery, the history. Incredible.  For this next trip I'll be visiting Crete in Greece for a week first and then head to Dubrovnik, Korcula Island, Split, the Plitvice Lakes area, into Slovenia (Lake Bled) and the Istrian Peninsula, which is amazing, a lot like Tuscany with hilltop towns and lots of vineyards - the area is famous for its truffles too. 
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Just recently I spent a couple of weeks in New Zealand, so I'll be detailing that trip in my next blog post. I'd wanted to travel there since I was a teenager and it was even better than I imagined. While it's always hard for me to pick a favorite place, I have to say, that was it. I really never wanted to leave... but more on that coming soon. I'm already planning a return trip in March of 2021.

Where will you go in 2020? I'd love to hear about it! 
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5 Destinations in Ireland That You Really Don't Want to Miss

7/25/2017

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Other than when to go, the question I'm asked the most when it comes to Ireland, is which destinations to visit. Of course, most people only have a limited time to spend, making the answer a rather difficult one.

If you have to limit yourself, these are my 5 favorite destinations that are truly not-to-be-missed.


Wicklow National Park

Located just 40 minutes from Dublin, Wicklow National Park is home to lots of stunning scenery that's been featured on television and in films, along with a number of attractions. If you like to hike, the Lough Tay to Lough Dan walk is particularly breathtaking, with gorgeous views of the towering Luggala Mountains, tranquil streams and emerald green hues everywhere you look. The lakes (Lough Tay is pictured above) have been prominently featured in the History Channel’s “Vikings,” and the Irish television series, “Ballykissangel.”  

At Glendalough, also in the park, you can explore one of the best preserved examples of a round tower, medieval churches, decorated stone crosses and a cathedral. There are numerous hiking trails too, including one in which you can walk in the footsteps of St. Kevin. If you're up for a challenge, hike St. Kevin’s Way, an 18.6-mile path  through the heather-covered hills.​

Portmagee, and the Ring of Kerry
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Portmagee is a tiny village on the southwest coast of Ireland along the Ring of Kerry. The Ring of Kerry is an absolute must experience for any trip to Ireland, and if you're looking for the best place to stay, you've found it here. It has a quintessential Irish feel with its row of brightly colored buildings along the main street which faces the harbor, and at the Bridge Bar, you can enjoy live music many nights of the week, as well as award-winning cuisine and a perfectly-poured Guinness. The Moorings is a B&B-style hotel that's adjacent to it, providing the perfect spot to lie your head down after an evening of fun. Portmagee is also the departure hub for trips to Skellig Michael, a now famous island that is home to preserved monastic settlements that date back to the 6th century. 

Inisheer Island

The Aran Islands are one of the most fascinating destinations in all of Ireland, a place with an Old World feel where locals speak Irish Gaelic among themselves. The smallest of the three islands, Inisheer, is also the most peaceful. Few tourists make it here, and with a population of only around 250, it’s easy to get to know the locals. The two-square-mile island boasts a white sandy beach that faces crystal clear blue waters, where the local dolphin can often be seen playfully interacting with the ferry that glides in and out of the pier. The island is small enough that it can easily be covered on foot, though there are bicycles for hire and a number of pony and cart drivers willing to show you around for a small price.

There's no better place to stay than South Aran House, just a short walk from the main village. Not only are the hosts amazing, but you're sure to enjoy the fabulous meals and accommodation too.


The Dingle Peninsula 


The Dingle Peninsula is home to that picture-perfect scenery you've probably seen in postcards and travel brochures, with cobalt blue waters that surround lush, emerald green hills dotted with thatched cottages, and golden sand beaches. In the backdrop are a range of mountains that form its spine, running from the Slieve Mish range to Mount Brandon, the country’s second highest peak. The peninsula is also known for its high concentration of ring forts and other ancient ruins, though its beauty is what’s most unforgettable.

The town of Dingle itself is an ideal place to base your stay with more pubs hosting live music every night of the week than you could possibly experience.


The Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland

Driving to Northern Ireland, you won't have to show your passport at the border, in fact, there's little to tell you that you've crossed it, other than the different license plates and road signs that now indicate miles rather than kilometers.

This is where you'll find 
Giant’s Causeway, located near the town of Bushmills. Flanked by the wild North Atlantic and a landscape of soaring cliffs, this coastal area is made up of about 40,000 basalt columns and was created by a volcanic eruption that took place some 60 million years ago. It's inspired many artists, stirred scientific debate and sparked numerous myths and legends over the centuries. Nearby is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which invokes anxiety in some, though most feel it’s well worth making the crossing for the spectacular views. If you dare look down, watch for passing dolphins and even the occasional basking shark. 

This same area is home to a number of "Game of Thrones" filming sites, including Ballintoy Harbour and the Dark Hedges. The Dark Hedges, a gorgeous avenue of ancient beech trees, and one of Northern Ireland’s most photographed spots. Planted by the Stuart family in the 18
th century, it was intended as a compelling landscape feature in order to impress visitors as they approached the entrance to Gracehill House, their Georgian mansion. Today, this almost magical stretch of trees remains an impressive sight after more than 250 years. It was used as a filming location in “Game of Thrones,” when Arya Stark escapes King’s Landing with the latest recruits heading for The Wall. As you walk down Bregagh Road, it almost seems as if the trees have some kind of magical power, drawing you in. 
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These Irish Castles Offer A Truly Unforgettable Overnight Stay

7/23/2017

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One of the many reasons people visit Ireland, is to see its castles. There are hundreds, ranging from fascinating ruins to magnificent palaces that have been transformed into luxurious hotels, and everything in between.

If you'd like to fulfill your dream of staying in one, the good news is that you'll find something for nearly every budget. These castles in particular provide some of the best experiences of all, whether you're looking to be treated like royalty, enjoy a more laid-back experience, or, hope to glimpse a bit of the paranormal.

Dromoland Castle Hotel, Newmarket-on-Fergus, County Clare

Known as the “hotel of dreams,” Dromoland, pictured above, dates back to the 5th century, but opened its doors as a hotel in 1963. The castle is the ancestral home of one of the few families of true Irish royalty, direct descendants of Brian Boru, High King of Ireland from 1002 to 1014, and it remained in ancestral ownership of the King until 1962, when American industrialist, Mr. Bernard McDonough, purchased the estate and began renovations.

Today, it offers luxurious accommodations that are popular with honeymooners and others seeking a very upscale experience. The façade and  towers, added in the 1830s, are reminiscent of knights and dragoons, while rooms feature lavish touches throughout. There are a variety of onsite dining options, as well as a golf course, spa, award-winning falconry school and activities like horse riding, fishing, clay shooting and archery. 

​Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, Clifden, County Galway

While Dromoland is truly unforgettable, my favorite overnight stay in a castle thus far, is Abbeyglen Castle Hotel. Significantly more budget-friendly, it's also more intimate, laid-back, and is renowned for its entertaining, friendly staff. Your stay begins with a hosted champagne reception that includes a fun history lesson on the castle. Abbeyglen also boasts a gorgeous mountain backdrop and beautiful rooms, including some that have four-poster beds, fireplaces and Jacuzzis.  An award-winning restaurant onsite serves mouth-watering local seafood and Connemara lamb, while the piano bar offers a music-filled night afterward.

Ross Castle,  County Meath

Ross Castle offers a very authentic medieval castle experience - just be aware that this is not the same castle that's in County Killarney, far from it.  This one sits on the shores of Lough Sheelin in County Meath, about 60 miles northwest of Dublin. A stay in one of the tower rooms of this castle built in 1563 is sure to be something you'll never forget, though it may not be ideal for doing much sleeping. It's been ranked on Lonely Planet's Top 10 list of the world's "lesser-known haunted places," and guests have been known to hear voices when everyone seems to be asleep, or the sound of doors shutting on their own. Some have even felt the presence of a spirit at the edge of their bed while trying to get some shuteye. 

I stayed here, alone, in the top tower room just a few years ago. Let's just say I did not sleep well that night, but it was certainly something I'll never forget, and don't regret doing for one minute. It is not a luxury experience, in fact, there were more than a few cobwebs and it could have used a good dusting, however, there are new hosts running the castle today, and it's said have been spruced up quite a bit since.  The bottom line is that if you want authentic, you've got it here.

Abbeyglen Castle Hotel, Clifden
Room at Abbeyglen Castle Hotel
Ross Castle, County Meath
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When Is the Best Time to Go to Ireland?

7/21/2017

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PictureRainbow over Portmagee, from Valentia Island


​When it comes to Newfoundland, everyone asks, "Why?" or "Where?" but when I'm asked about Ireland, it's usually, "When is the best time to go?"

Ireland is among the top destinations on travel bucket lists, thanks to its breathtaking scenery, magnificent castles, rich history and charming people. Making the decision to go isn't difficult, but knowing WHEN to go can be.

While I talk about that aspect in my book, Best Travel Guide for First Time Visitors to Ireland, I don't mind sharing a bit of that here as well. Helping people plan their own trips to Ireland is one of my favorite things to do, which is why I encourage anyone who wants to go to contact me for advice.

Really, anytime is a good time to go to Ireland, but I do have my own preferences, having visited in every season of the year. If you're looking for the best odds for great weather, unfortunately, that's just something you can't count on. You might think it would be summer, but I've personally experienced more rain in the summer than any other time of the year - that season also brings the biggest crowds, highest airfares and greater difficulty in finding accommodation.​






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There are no guarantees when it comes to the weather, so your best bet is to bring clothes that can be layered, along with appropriate rain gear, and be prepared to take things as they come. Often times the rain isn't so brutal that it prevents you from going on a hike or other outdoor activities, and when it is, just pop into one of the many cozy pubs, enjoy the warmth of a fire and conversation with the locals.

If you have your heart set on a dolphin watching excursion or a fishing trip, early May through late September may be your only option. If you can, plan to go closer to the outer ends of that period for the best experience. In fact, I find May and mid- to late-September to be the ideal times of the year to visit Ireland. This is when you’ll often get the best of both worlds with decent weather, a more relaxed atmosphere and many popular attractions will still be open. 

But don't rule out winter.  Ireland tends to have fairly mild weather, similar to the Seattle area, so you're unlikely to have to deal with snow. Traveling between mid-January and late February will typically earn you the best deals on airfare, the cheapest rates on accommodations, and you’ll have few crowds to contend with. This is also an ideal time to get to know the locals with your B&B host usually not as rushed. 

In a future post, I'll reveal some of my favorite Ireland destinations, places you might want to consider for your own itinerary.

Have any questions about Ireland or other destinations you'd like to see answered here? Comment below, or email me directly at kc@kcsendlessadventures.com. 



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Best Travel Guide to Ireland’s Lesser Known Destinations to be Released Before the End of 2014

7/9/2014

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With piles of notes and pictures from my last trip to Ireland, I've decided to complete my second book on the Emerald Isle before the end of this year. Many readers have commented that they'd like to hear more about lesser known places to visit in Ireland for their next trip after already exploring many of the more well-traveled destinations.

While I'm still working on the book about my local area, the beautiful Olympic Peninsula, I've decided that finishing this one first is the priority after multiple requests.

Best Travel Guide to Ireland's Lesser Known Destinations will focus on the specifics of many wonderful off the beaten path destinations I’ve thoroughly enjoyed, including some recommended by locals, and castles that aren’t found on that more well-worn itinerary. You’ll even discover details on some of the country’s most haunted castles – a few of which you can even spend the night, if you dare.

In addition to being much more extensive than the first, this book will provide you with the leads you need to experience a more unique adventure in the Emerald Isle. All you'll have to do is savor each and every moment.

I'll post updates here when I have a better idea as to exactly when it will be released - in the meantime, if you have questions or comments, including anything you'd like to see covered in this book, please feel free to leave them here or email me at kcdermody@gmail.com.


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New Reviews for Best Ireland Travel Guide!

12/27/2013

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My book has been available for a couple of weeks now, and I've been excited to see a few reviews come in. It is wonderful to see those and also look forward to hearing lots of feedback now as well as following anyone's trip to the Emerald Isle.  Feel free to comment here or email me directly any time. I'm also always happy to answer specific questions in regard to travel to Ireland. 

Here is one review, which is also posted on Amazon: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/801043685

A big thank you to those who have purchased and have been so supportive - I look forward to starting my next book soon.

If you haven't purchased yet and are interested in doing so, it is available here for just $4.99: http://www.amazon.com/Travel-Guide-First-Visitors-Ireland-ebook/dp/B00H68CD54

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Visiting Ireland's Most Haunted Castles

10/14/2013

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During my travels to Ireland later this month, I'll be visiting a number of haunted castles and other locations in addition to spending the night at one of them: Ross Castle in County Meath. 

I'll plan to include some of my experiences as well as interviews with the castle owners in my upcoming Ireland travel guide.

Ross Castle in County Meath is one of the most famous in the country, set in a remote area on a hill filled with ancient trees overlooking Lough Sheelin. Many guests who have stayed there have had some rather interesting encounters which can be found here: 
http://www.ross-castle.com/en/history/ghosts

This should make for a rather interesting night - look forward to details in my book to be released December 13: The Best Travel Guide for First Time Visitors to Ireland. Be sure to sign up for updates under the previous post entitled with the same name. 
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    After spending much of her life in a cubicle, at 40-something K.C. decided to finally LIVE. Today, she is always on some sort of adventure, or writing about it.
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    She hopes her journey will inspire you to do the same.
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