ireland, great britain, emerald isle, cottage
Cultural traditions reflected in modern life

The Emerald IsleFrom Dublin to Galway and the Ring of Kerry

Discover Ireland's many charms on this intimate exploration of the Emerald Isle
Starting at $5,158
Including airfare, airline taxes & departure fees
Call 855-330-1542
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Save $200* per person on the following departure when you book by June 7, 2013. Use promotion code LASTCALL online or when speaking to our travel specialists to secure these savings.
  • September 22, 2013
* Offer valid on new bookings only.
 
Overview
  • Experience the culture of Ireland, a country steeped in history and boasting a rich tapestry of arts and magnificent landscapes. In Dublin, see the famous Book of Kells at Trinity College and enjoy a visit to the National Museum of Archaeology to learn about Ireland’s rich heritage. Head west to the region some consider the “most Irish part of Ireland,” where traditional Irish is often heard. Experience Irish culture and tradition firsthand when a native of the Aran Islands shares stories of their oral tradition, and later near Killarney during a special home-hosted dinner.

    Take in breathtaking scenery as you travel through Connemara and the Burren and, farther south, view the dramatic Cliffs of Moher. From Killarney, visit an Elizabethan-style manor house and the Kerry Folklife Centre, and take a full-day excursion to the legendary Ring of Kerry. Explore the ancient monastic sites of Clonmacnoise and Glendalough, medieval castles, and the legendary Rock of Cashel, and before returning to Dublin, stop at historic Kilkenny, also known as Ireland’s cultural capital.
  • Special Value
  • This tour is specially designed for a small group of 16 to 24 Smithsonian travelers and offers outstanding travel value. Prices include airfare, airline taxes, fuel surcharges, and departure fees.
  • Smithsonian Experts
  • Throughout this tour, travel in the company of an exceptional Smithsonian Study Leader. Kate Chadbourne holds a Ph.D. in Celtic languages and literature from Harvard where she currently teaches Irish language and folklore. Kate will accompany the June 2013 departure. Miriam Davis is a medievalist with expertise in archaeology, history, and Christianity, and has worked on many archaeological excavations. Miriam will lead the August and September 2013 departures.
  • Special Highlights
  • Learn about the struggles for Irish independence during a guided visit to Kilmainham Jail.
  • Take a special tour of Inismor with a local islander.
  • Enjoy dinner with a warm and welcoming family outside of Killarney.
  • Stop in a village in the Ring of Kerry to watch a special sheep dog herding demonstration, catch a glimpse of rare Bog Ponies and Irish Wolfhounds, and enjoy a traditional Irish coffee at a local pub.
  • Learn about life during the Famine period during a visit to the Kerry Bog Village.
  • Don't forget to check out our photo slide show to glimpse the excitement of this special program!
  • View photos by clicking "Next Photo" at top of page!
  • World Heritage Sites
  • This tour features the following World Heritage site on this tour:
    • The Giant's Causeway, Ireland (Tour Extension)
    See a complete list of all Smithsonian tours featuring World Heritage sites.


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