Ireland - More than pubs and beer

Ireland is not one of the biggest countries in the world, but the beautiful greenery and fun pubs make Ireland a popular tourist destination to millions of travelers each year. The popular rock group, U2 came out of Dublin, Ireland, putting Dublin on the map in the music industry. There are also many famous actors that have come out of Ireland, like Colin Farrell and Gerard Butler. The blue beaches and gorgeous golf courses of Ireland continue to attract millions of people. The great thing about being a tourist in Ireland is that the people are very hospitable and almost everyone will flash you a smile and greet you.

Mullaghmore Blue Flag Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Ireland. You can do some sunning on the beach, surfing or head out for an aquatic adventure of surf fishing. It is a lot of fun for tourists to head over to the beaches for a nice relaxing day. The great part is that there are a lot of small pubs lining most of the beaches so you can head in for a party in the middle of the day if you desire.

The Brookend Nature Reserve is worth a visit. It is home to a number of exotic plants and birds. This is a great place to take your family or just to have a tour on your own. The cuckoos are out in the spring and you can hear them calling. This is when many of the animals are breeding so they are out and quite active. During the summer, the Nature Reserve is absolutely breathtaking with blooming flowers and gorgeous green grass. The pond is also unique as you can watch dragonflies land upon it and make it dance and shine.

The Cliffs of Moher are on the coast of County Clare. Looking upon the Cliffs of Moher from close up or far away is a magical sight. If you are coming in from afar, look for O'Brien's Tower. O'Brien's Tower is a round stone tower that lies directly in the middle of the cliffs. The cliffs are 700 feet tall, making them one of the most impressive natural landscapes to see. The great thing about the Cliffs of Moher is that there are about 300 different species of birds that live here. Look around and you will be able to see the beautiful Atlantic Puffins. The Cliffs of Moher are considered the top attraction in Ireland and for a good reason. Book a tour to head over and see the Cliffs of Moher before you leave Ireland.

Another must-see attraction in Ireland is Blarney Castle and Blarney Stone. This is the most popular castle in Ireland. Blarney Castle is about 600 years old and it is famous for it's Blarney Stone at the top of the tower. People come from all over the world to kiss the Blarney Stone located at the top of the Tower because they believe that it holds mystical powers that will give you the gift of gab or the ability to talk your way out of any situation. This is perhaps why we have seen some powerful people like President Obama and Sir Walter Scott come to Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone. Even if you only get to see Blarney Castle, the 18 foot thick walls will certainly leave a lasting impression upon you or at least your camera.

Finally, spend some time walking about the Dingle Peninsula and the Blasket Islands. The red sandstone is breathtaking and you will be able to meet some of the nicest people in Ireland when you head to the Dingle Peninsula.