Spotlight Cruise and Travel

11/25/2024

Ireland Day 7 - On my way home!
It’s always sad to see the suitcases in the hallway on the final day. My first flight home was at 11:30 AM and we were watching the weather in the airline app closely as a big storm was blowing in. Fortunately, our flight made it out just fine. Some of our friends from the tour were not so lucky and got to spend a very long day at the Dublin airport. After a slightly delayed takeoff in Boston I finally landed in Seattle at about 11:45 PM, and arrived home close to 1AM. This lady was not built for 26 hour days! I’ve got a plan for breaking it up a bit more next time, but what are your best tips for loooong travel days?

11/25/2024

Ireland Day 6 part 4
Farewell dinner at Nancy Hands

Nancy Hands Public House is a historic and beloved pub located in Dublin, on the banks of the Royal Canal. Known for its traditional charm, rich history, and distinctive setting, Nancy Hands has become a landmark in the city’s cultural landscape.

The origins of Nancy Hands date back to the 18th century, with the pub itself officially opening in 1860. The story behind its name is steeped in local legend and Irish folklore. The pub is named after Nancy Hand, who, according to popular tales, was a prominent and well-loved figure in Dublin during the 18th century. Nancy was believed to be the proprietor of an earlier establishment, or alternatively, a regular visitor known for her spirited character and generous hospitality.

Today, Nancy Hands is known for its cozy atmosphere, delicious traditional Irish food, and wide selection of drinks. The pub also frequently hosts live music, often featuring traditional Irish folk bands.

11/24/2024

Day 6, part 3 Dublin Castle

We had some free-time this afternoon so a few of us decided to explore Dublin Castle, a site rich with over 800 years of history. Commissioned by King John of England in 1204, it was built atop a former Viking settlement to serve as a fortress and the residence for the Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. While much of the original structure has been replaced, the Record Tower remains, standing as a testament to its medieval origins.

In 1684, a devastating fire led to significant reconstruction, transforming the castle into a Georgian palace. The addition of the State Apartments during this period reflects its evolution from a military stronghold to a center of British administration in Ireland. These opulent rooms were designed to impress visiting dignitaries and symbolize British authority.

The Chapel Royal, added in the 19th century, is a Gothic Revival gem, with intricate woodwork and breathtaking stained glass windows.

A fascinating detail: if you look closely at the Record Tower, you can see a line beneath the lower small window where the original tower ends and the newer construction begins, marked by a change in stone.

11/24/2024

Day 6, part 2 EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum

Visited EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum today in Dublin, and it truly lives up to its name! Every Person Is Connected. Through interactive exhibits, it tells the stories of 10 million Irish emigrants and their impact worldwide in music, politics, science, and more.
If you're in Dublin, it’s a must-visit to understand Ireland’s resilience and global impact!

11/24/2024

Ireland Day 6 - Newbridge Silver Shop

We just visited the Newbridge Silverware shop, and it’s a holiday wonderland! This was an unexpected stop on a day when weather changed our plans, and I’ll admit, I almost just stayed on the bus. I’m so glad I went inside! The shop was beautifully decorated, with displays of beautiful silver jewelry, elegant home decor, and yes, even the serving silver I expected would be the main feature - but really, so much more! I found a few special treasures that I’ll bring home as gifts from Ireland. I can’t wait to share them!

11/23/2024

Day 5, part 3 Waterford Crystal Step-by-Step

Our tour at the House of Waterford allowed us to catch a glimpse of the intricate process of crystal-making firsthand. From the shaping of the molten glass to the hand-cutting and polishing that gives Waterford Crystal its signature sparkle.

- Mould Room - where wooden molds are carved by hand. Each mold only lasts for hours before needing to be replaced.
- 1400 Degree Furnace - Master Blowers transform molten crystal into stunning shapes
- Quality Inspection - ensuring only the finest pieces move forward in production. The tiniest imperfection is enough to send a piece back to the furnace to melt down and start again.
- Hand Marking - Intricate patterns are meticulously measured and marked by hand to guide the cutters
- Hand Cutting - Master Cutters showcase their skills executing all the different cuts with precision
- Hand Sculpting - shapes are marked, cut, and assembled; transforming solid blocks into elegant figures
- Hand Engraving - detailed designs are engraved by hand to complete each artwork. This “Starry Night” inspired vase is one of my favorites!
- Polishing - the final step before a crystal piece is complete is to reveal its sparkle and shine, which is done offsite by means of a chemical dip.

11/23/2024

Day 5, part 2 House of Waterford

Waterford Crystal is one of the most iconic brands in Ireland, renowned for its high-quality glassware and crystal products. Located in the city of Waterford, it has been a key part of Irish craftsmanship and heritage since its founding in 1783.

At the House of Waterford, only the very best is acceptable, and their master crafters are the very best. Their path to becoming a master was demanding:
- study and work 5 years as an apprentice learning techniques.
- Complete a test piece with 600 precise cuts to showcase their mastery of each skill
- Complete the cuts in a single workday.
- Artists may have one chance to retest after a few weeks if necessary.
- Once they pass, their finished piece is presented to them in recognition of their great accomplishment.

After 8 years, these artisans earn the title of Master Cutter, reflecting their dedication and skill in every creation.

11/22/2024

Since we were just here a couple of days ago, I thought I’d share what the Cliffs of Moher looked like today after the snowfall. Stunning!

Cliffs of Moher covered by snow ❄️ this morning. The light and stormy clouds reminded me Arctic Circle up at north of Norway. Amazing to see Ireland like this ☘️

11/21/2024

Ireland Day 5
Even with the best laid plans, sometimes something out of your control will require a change to your travel schedule. We were meant to visit Blarney Castle today, but snow closed our route. Our excellent tour director, Niall, didn’t miss a beat and redirected us to the Cobh Heritage Center (Titanic’s final boarding stop), and moved our tour of The House of Waterford to today. Flexibility is key, and we are having a grand day!

11/21/2024

Ireland Day 4, part 2 Skellig Islands visitor center.

The weather and sea are too treacherous in November to land on the islands, so we made do with lunch and a presentation at the Skellig Experience Visitor Centre. Let me tell you, I can’t wait to come back and visit in the summer months! The Skellig Islands are home to seabird colonies, vibrant underwater life, and over 1,400 years of early Christian history. Skellig Michael, the larger of the two islands, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most westerly sacred site in Europe. Its beehive-shaped monastery, carved into the cliffs by monks of St. Fionan in the 6th century, required over 600 steps to be painstakingly created with rudimentary tools.

PS: Look familiar? Skellig Michael was featured as Luke Skywalker’s hideout in Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi!

11/21/2024

Ireland Day 4 - Killarney, Retail Therapy at Moriarty’s
Moriarty’s, at the Gap of Dunloe, is a family-run business known for its beautifully made tweeds, knits, and symbolic jewelry. They take pride in supporting Irish artisans, offering ethically sourced products crafted with care. With over 20 years of service from many staff members, their customer service is as exceptional as their goods!
One thing I love about traveling with CIE Tours? They connect guests with local, trusted businesses like Moriarty’s, ensuring quality and authenticity every time.

What Irish-made treasure would you bring home?

11/21/2024

Ireland Day 3, part 3
Great Southern Killarney
Staying here feels like stepping into a movie! Since 1854, the Great Southern has been a landmark of elegance in the heart of Killarney. Originally built by the railway, it’s steeped in history and has hosted notable guests like Queen Victoria and Jackie Kennedy. Today, it offers a perfect blend of timeless charm and modern comfort, surrounded by six acres of stunning gardens.
Have you ever stayed somewhere with this much history?

11/20/2024

Ireland Day 3 Foynes, Co Limerick
Just had an incredible visit to the Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum. (Incidentally, the TRUE home of Irish Coffee!) It was a journey through time, guided by Rachel, whose family are five generations local. Her grandfather is pictured in the museum.

Foynes became a major aviation hub between 1937-1945. You can walk through the original terminal building, watch a film in a 1940s-style cinema, and even board a life-size replica of the Boeing 314 Flying Boat!

Captain Charles Blair flew the last scheduled flying boat from Foynes to New York in 1945. His wife, Maureen O’Hara Blair, served as a patron of the museum, and their legacies are honored there.

11/20/2024

Ireland Day 2, part 3. Look at that view of the ocean! The Armada Hotel and Johnny Burke’s Pub sit on Spanish Point, named after the Spanish Armada ships wrecked (and never recovered) here in 1588. Beside the view, the Armada Hotel offers comfy rooms that have both modern finishes and traditional charm, friendly hospitality, and delicious, beautifully prepared and served food. We got to tour the property and learned that they really prioritize sustainability. Eco-friendly practices are woven into their daily operations, and in their kitchen, most ingredients are locally sourced from the best of County Clare’s farms and fisheries. They say Johnny Burke’s pub is where the history of the Armada Hotel began over 50 years ago. It’s a cozy little pub with an open fireplace and classic sing-a-long style entertainment. I would love to come back and spend more time here!

11/19/2024

Ireland Day 2, part 2 Cliffs of Moher, County Clare
We arrived in fog so thick you could barely see your hand in front of you—but then, something magical happened! We watched as the skies cleared, and the cliffs revealed their stunning drama. Towering above the Atlantic, the view is simply breathtaking!

Pro tip: Bring layers and your camera—this spot is unforgettable in any weather.

11/19/2024

Ireland Day 2: Athlone, County Westmeath
Stepped into over 1100 years of history at Sean’s Bar, the oldest pub in Europe! This place is full of charm and story!
Fun fact: Sean’s Pub dates back to 900 AD and holds the Guinness World Record for Europe’s oldest pub. Who would you share a pint with here?

11/18/2024

Day 1, part 3
Dinner and Irish Pub Show at Taylor’s Three Rock. Billed as “The Best Irish Show in Dublin!” and it just might be! Champion Irish dancers, traditional Irish musicians and some tongue-in-cheek audience participation made for a very energetic first evening and warm welcome to Dublin!

11/18/2024

Day 1, part 2: Brewery experience at the Guinness Storehouse Brewery - telling the tale of Ireland’s famous beer, with interactive exhibits, tastings, and culminating with a pint on the rooftop bar. (Soft drinks available for those who don’t partake.)
I don’t drink beer, but I enjoyed myself and learned more than I ever dreamt there was to learn about the science of beer making!