Dearest Readers,
This blog is typed with much anticipation indeed. I am taking my last trip to another country in just under a week! I will be traveling to Alicante, Spain to visit my absolute best friend. She has also been on exchange this semester from Linfield and doubles as one of my roommates. It’s been almost four months since I saw her last, and after living together for a full semester and spending tons of time with each other before that, this has felt like forever. I am over the moon that I get to see her in just under a week!
She has kept me updated on her trip of course and we chat all the time, so I’m looking forward to seeing the sights that she has described. I’ll be staying near the beach, and plan to spend my brief four days there walking and seeing as much as possible. I can’t wait to try some authentic Paella and Sangria and spend some time in the sun! I love my rainy days, but the sun has been an infrequent guest here in Ireland and I am excited to say hello again.
Now while I’m anticipatory of my trip, I still intend to make the most of my time in Ireland before I go. Something that I have yet to do is rent one of the bikes that are parked everywhere here in Galway. Though classes have ended, I still have two essays to get done before my trip to Spain. Something that I love about our little apartment is that we have a beautiful walking trail just across the street. So anytime I feel a little stifled I can take a grounding walk and have a nice break. Sometimes I can even see a swan or two! My favorite find so far is a cat that looked more like a cow with its markings.
Today is an especially rainy day, and I have passed the time doing some Sunday cleaning and packing for my trip. I wanted to share some photos of my favorite spots around Galway, so here we go! The first thing on my list is something I mentioned in a previous blog: the Saturday market. My favorite stall is by far this fairy one, it’s so mystical and fun!
Next up on my list is a sign I spotted after walking along the beach. I was shocked to find out that there is quicksand in Ireland! When I was younger, I was afraid of quicksand and thought it was a common danger to be aware of in everyday life. Later on, I found that to be false, but the little kid inside me was still a little wary of the walkway here! From what I have gathered, this is only the case in this singular spot of marsh just past the neighborhood of Salthill but it’s certainly interesting!
Next up is what seems like a. trail to another world. Coill Ros Cathail (Rosscahill Wood) is a quiet woodland, beautifully located along the shores of Ross Lake in Co. Galway and part of the old Ross estate. It is mossy and green, even in the throws of winter and it’s a pleasant walk no matter what time of year you go. This place makes the top ten for me!
The next photo is not a place, but all around Galway, there are rainbow crosswalks. Ireland was one of the first European countries to legalize gay marriage and has been one of the most inclusive places I have ever visited. These crosswalks are an example of the casual acceptance that can be found in Ireland.
Up next is my favorite sign to pass. This is a Claddagh. The Claddagh has a rich history in Ireland, and Galway is where it originated! The Claddagh Ring represents love (heart), friendship (hands), and loyalty (crown). These three elements form a powerful symbol of commitment and enduring affection. Men and women alike wear these rings, and there are different ways to wear the ring to signify your relationship status. The only time you wear your ring on your left hand is when you are married, otherwise, you wear it on the right. Flipped side up (like in the picture) means you are in a committed relationship, flipped upside down signifies you are single and ready to mingle! Back in the US, these rings can be expensive, but I bought one from this shop for only 25 Euro!
Last up on my list is the Woodquays. The Woodquays are the center of Galway and home to all of the shops and pubs! The picture I have included is a view of the entrance from the south. It was so festive for St. Patrick’s celebrations, and the flags have stayed up to my delight.
That’s all I have for you today, but stay tuned for my trip to Spain and all the sights I have yet to share!
Until next time,
Abigael LaBuhn