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Things We Did In Killarney

After an good evening’s sleep in Cork, we continue on now to Killarney. This is the university city of Trinity College. A super knowledgeable and very funny student took us around the grounds, explaining everything to us. We go through to see the Book of Kells which are so beautiful, having been written by Monks in the 6th century. We go upstairs to see the ‘long hall’. This floor houses 2 million books and is totally unbelievable. It is actually beautiful with books on two floors. There is another building that houses another 6 million books. It takes a staff of 150 people to look after these manuscripts and books.

Back on the bus to drive to Blarney. We were told there are 184 steps up to kiss the Blarney stone and due to the fact, I don’t do stairs that well I decided to sit and have a coffee, waiting for Don to return. He, as well, didn’t take the trek up but walked through the gardens.  When he returned we walked across the road to the mill (largest one in Ireland) and started shopping. Whew!

We hurry back to the bus not wanting to be late and get the applause of the travellers on the bus. We are now  going to cross over the Derrynasaggart Mountains to the peaceful town of Killarney.

Tonight we are going on an optional experience and going to watch the ‘Celtic Steps”show. This is Irish music, song and the most outstanding step dancing I have ever seen. This showcased the music of Kerry and beyond. Problem? Just not long enough for us. We know the dancers were exhausted, but we absolutely were enthralled with it. Needless to say, if you ever get over to this part of the world, do not miss this show.

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Old Lahaina Luau, Maui, HI

When in Maui, this is a MUST SEE! http://www.oldlahainaluau.com/. Reservations are a definite must. If you know when you are going to be there, click on the site and make your reservation or as soon as you arrive. I kid you not, the venue holds 500 people and it is sold out 7 nights a week, constantly.

Upon arrival, you are met with a nice mai tai while waiting in line. When the time comes and it is your turn to be seated,  you are presented with a fresh orchid lei. (The only luau to do this, by the way).  Now you can walk around and watch the wood carvers at work, a young man making roses and birds out of reeds. For a small donation, it is yours. Another shows how poi is made.

The host explains the opening of the emu and the significance on the Hawaiian life of old. You can go and see them remove the pig from the oven and then it is time to eat. Try everything they offer.  One of Don’s favourite dishes was ” Ahi tuna poke” ( pronounced po-kay).  They have salads, poi, fish, chicken, pulled pork, sweet potato (purple in colour). The list is long and delicious. Dessert is presented by youir server and one tray on your tables allows for each person to have 4 different pieces. Macadamia nut tarts, coconut custard squares, triple chocolate brownie-type square and chocolate cup with, I think, a pineapple mousse). Whatever it was, it was certainly yummy-yummy.

The servers (mostly young, handsome men weariong sarongs and big smiles, are at your beck and call. There are a variety of drinks (open bar here) that are beautiful to look at and also to taste. Common sense needed here.

The show is totally breathtaking. This is the 5th time we have seen this show and it has had subtle changes over the years, but is the best we have seen. More explanations to the history of the various dances.  Please, you must take an evening and see this. You won’t be sorry.

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