P2P Day 13: The Lakes of Killarney and the Gap of Dunloe (It Sounds So Musical)

I'm driving to my client's office when the phone rings.

It's a FaceTime call. Katie is in a candy shop in Ireland dying to show me all the cool candies. Only I'm on one of the busiest freeways of the commute. Needless to say, I didn't get to see the candy. I told her to take pictures.

I talked to her a little later in the day (sometime during the US Soccer game, I could hear the cheering in the cafeteria) and she was in the tub drinking something that looked eerily like wine - but I think I was projecting. She said they really enjoyed the hike in the Gap of Dunloe and it was about seven miles. I'm not sure if that's round trip or not but she said it wasn't that bad because they took a boat ride back so it went fast.

Larry, one of the leaders, had photos posted by the time I woke up this morning (which was about 3pm their time) and it looks like an incredible place. I have links and photos below. Tonight they are in Dublin and then tomorrow then head by ferry to Wales.

From the People to People Itinerary

Today you will experience the natural beauty of Ireland as you travel the Gap of Dunloe in a horse-drawn jaunty cart. The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow mountain pass carved by glaciers millions of years ago.

At Lord Brandon's Cottage, which was formerly a hunting lodge, you will stop for lunch and to admire the views at the bottom of the gorge, before embarking on a breath-taking cruise across one of the tranquil lakes.

During your time at the Gap you will travel across the Lakes of Killarney by boat which during this hour long trip you will enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. This will be a day to remember.

Following this wonderful day experiencing Ireland, you will welcome a small journey to Dublin.

  

P2P Day 6: Where Braveheart Outmaneuvered the English - Stirling, Scotland

She's gonna kill me
for this one.

They left the Highlands today and headed south to Stirling.

Their final destination was Glasgow and I finally got a FaceTime call right in the middle of a business lunch. I couldn't talk and barely saw her but she's breathing, happy and tired so all's well.

Matching monsters. All of them.

Katie also posted a favorite pic of hers on Instagram. I guess they didn't find the real Nessie but the found something just as good.

Here's the thing: those aren't her shoes. I'm wondering if any parent out there recognizes them. Katie has big feet (this is not news, I am not telling secrets). I am shocked someone else has the same sized feet that she has (oh Lord, it just occurred to me that maybe she bought them - that would be twice the price based on the exchange rate for American shoes?!).

The leaders have only posted a few photos but they include pictures of sheepdogs - and lots of huge smiles. I can't wait to see more. Today they should have made their way to Stirling on their way to Glasgow. There are interesting facts about Stirling below. Tomorrow they will head out on the ferry and make their way to Belfast.

From the People to People Itinerary

This morning we will leave the beautiful Scottish Highlands and head to Stirling.

Discover the medieval town of Stirling - once regarded as the most strategically important town in Scotland. It was at Stirling Bridge that Braveheart - William Wallace -outmaneuvered the English army and inspired the idea of an independent Scotland. The heart of the ancient town still survives today and gives Stirling its distinctive and historic appearance. The old town trail starts at the Castle Esplanade car park, comes down into the medieval streets and through the town defenses.

Stirling Castle, located in Stirling, is situated on a volcanic outcrop guarding the lowest crossing point of the River Forth. The castle is said to be a great symbol of Scottish Independence and a source of enduring national pride. Several Scottish Kings and Queens have been crowned at Stirling, including Mary, Queen of Scots, in 1542. There have been at least eight sieges of Stirling Castle, including several during the Wars of Scottish Independence, with the last being in 1746, when Bonnie Prince Charlie unsuccessfully tried to take the castle. This is a great opportunity to visit and explore the castle and familiarize yourself with the history of this imposing battlement.

Stirling Bridge

Stirling Castle