Irish Fireside: Recent Episodes
Liam Hughes & Corey Taratuta
The Podcast on Irish Travel, Irish Customs and All Things Irish. We take you to some of the best Irish towns and villages. As we explore Ireland's most popular destinations, we offer our suggestions to get you off the tourist trail and in to the "real" Ireland. Sit back, relax and make yourself comfortable at the Irish Fireside, and feel free to use our Episode Guides for maps, destination recaps and links to the sites and topics we discuss.
In an era of religious oppression, one Irish priest found a way to circumvent the laws and inspire his congregation on the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare.
Music composed by Hicham Chahidi Library “Shine” & “Tendresse” royalty free music http://musicscreen.org/
Holycross didn't always have that name... until the arrival of a relic of the True Cross arrived it was known as the Church of the Eight Hands -- for rather gruesome reasons. There's a lot more to this church than you might notice on first glance, and I'm happy to tell you some highlights.
Music composed by Hicham Chahidi Library
Genval Style & Gregorian Song Style royalty free music
http://musicscreen.org/
In the tiny village of Kilcormac, there's a holy statue that has been safeguarded by the locals for hundreds of years. It has survived religious suppression, Cromwell's armies, and a parish priest who thought it belonged with him.
In this episode I introduce you to a bit of the history and charms of Timahoe, County Laois, and sites nearby.
If you go off the beaten path to visit Timahoe, you might consider some stops nearby, like climbing the impressive ruins of the Rock of Dunamase, touring the grand home and gardens at Emo Court, exploring the Slieve Bloom Mountiains, trekking along the Abbeyleix Bog Walk, and wandering the paths at Heywood Gardens.
Whether it's because you don't have an international plan for your smartphone or you simply hit a deadzone, it's a good idea to download local maps to your phone before you get lost in Ireland. In this episode, I walk you through the "hidden" feature in Google Maps that lets you get directions even when you phone is in Airplane Mode.
A video version is available at https://youtu.be/2pQZmdIqWfc
Google Maps is available for free in both the Apple and Google Play Stores.
We've grown accustomed to around-the-clock internet access in our daily lives. That doesn't necessarily have to change when we travel in Ireland. Even if you're looking for occasional online check-ins, here are my tips for getting your devices connected on the Emerald Isle.
Visit http://www.IrishFireside.com/wifi for more info.
Here are my tips for choosing the right car rental company when planning your trip to Ireland.
This special episode come from the Traveling in Ireland Podcast with Jody Halsted. I thought Irish Firesiders might enjoy the tales and tidbits shared by author Felicity Hayes-McCoy.
More at https://irelandfamilyvacations.com/old-irish-traditions-with-felicity-hayes-mccoy-traveling-in-ireland-podcast/podcasts/
We've gotten used to carrying the internet in our pocket, but when it comes to mobile phones and tablets abroad, there are few things every traveler should know to avoid expensive bills or unusable connections. In this episode, I've got tips to keep you connected during your trip to Ireland.
Show Notes: http://irishfireside.com/2018/02/15/154-smartphone-tablet-ireland/
Lullaby for Caoilte is our Christmas tradition here at the Irish Fireside. Enjoy. FYI: Nollaig shona dhuit=Happy Christmas in Irish
In the spirit of Christmas we bring you this song performed by our friends in Tipperary, Ireland – Sheelagh Chadwick, Kathleen Costello and Theresa Larkin. Merry Christmas everyone. It’s become a Christmas tradition for us to post this one every year.
A video version of this episode is available at http://irishfireside.com/2017/06/18/153-daily-dose-ireland-alexa-amazon-echo-audio-video/. Here's an overview of how you can keep up on Irish music, news, weather, books, and travel plans using the Amazon Echo.
Whether it’s prescriptions or over-the-counter, you’ll need to know how to pack them, what you can bring, where you can get more, and what to do if you need an emergency refill.
Whether it’s your phone, tablet, laptop, curling iron, or sleep apnea machine, here’s a look at how you can power up all your devices while visiting the Emerald Isle.
I’m launching a series of quick, rough and ready podcast episodes that cover specific Irish travel questions.
Today Corey visits Jody Halsted and Ireland Family Vacations to discuss the ins and outs of Ireland's airports.
Our efforts to anwer Brian's question about budgeting for a trip to Ireland continue with Stephanie Chastain from Infinite Ireland as we focus on food and other expenses.
Jody Halsted answers Max's question about choosing the best castles for kids in Ireland.
Pól Ó Conghaile answers Terry's question about seeing sites outside of the Capital without renting a car... "We’ll be in Dublin this September, and want to strike out and see some other parts of Ireland, but we won’t be renting a car. Where should we go and how should we get there?"
Michele Erdvig sheds some light on a topic that can save tourists some serious cash on their purchases in Ireland.
Stephanie Chastain returns to talk about the various accommodation options available and how much you should set aside in your budget.
Stephanie Chastain steps in to help us figure out how much it will cost us to get to Ireland and how much we should set aside for getting around once we get there. Whether it’s a self-drive or public transportation, she’s got us covered.
Eoin O Conchuir from Bitesize Irish Gaelic steps in to tell us a few spots that are perfect for catching locals using the Irish language.
Pól Ó Conghaile steps in to answer a question many of Dubin's first-time visitors ask... "how much time should I spend there?" Pól's got tips for setting your pace, things to see, and making the most of your visit to the Fair City.
We're announcing a new segment on the podcast where we answer your questions about travel in Ireland. You're invited to email you questions or record and send them. Plus, there's a new "holiday" in the works... Practice Speaking Irish Day!
Carl O'Grady takes some time to talk about the wonders of Clare Island and Corey offers a few tips that will help you take a second look at your travel plans and assure you don’t over extend your itinerary.
The pages of “Delightful Dublin” feel like you’re spending a day exploring a Dublin neighborhood with a good friend showing you her favorite places to eat, shop, play, and meet people. I've been lucky enough to chat with author Emily Westbrooks about her beloved city.
Hostels have come a long way in recent years, and many hostels offer a boutique, yet budget, experience for travelers. In this episode, we talk about Irish hostels and reveal a list of the best hostels.
Neil Jackman introduces us to some of his favorite sites in Ireland and offers some insight into archaeology in Ireland.
Eoin Ó Conchúir from Bitesize Irish Gaelic offers his insights in to the Irish language and teaches us a few handy phrases in the process... "Pionta Guinness Le do thoil!!!" And Liam sings us a song in Irish.
We're hosting an old-fashioned pen pal exchange where people write real letters to each other and send them through the mail. Details at www.IrishFireside.com/penpals
Enjoy a few minutes of the top stories, quotes, videos, and photos from the Irish Fireside in the last year.
Chris Christensen talks to Mary Jo Manzanares about her travels in and around Belfast... Titanic, murals, meals, and more... on the Amateur Traveler Podcast. http://irishfireside.com/2013/12/19/american-in-belfast-travel/
The original headless horseman, St Kevin’s hideaway, the remains of St Nick, and the Hellfire Club are among the fairytale treasures from The Fairytale Traveler Christa Thompson.
In this episode Corey chats with blogger, podcaster, and photographer Gary Arndt about his recent trip to Ireland, world heritage sites on the Emerald Isle, and Ireland's appeal to Americans.
In this episode Corey sits down with blogger Helen Davies to talk about her recent visit the Emerald Isle where they talk about traveling by ferry, taking in a bit of adventure travel, and Ireland's connection to the city of Liverpool.
In this episode Corey shares our listeners' picks for alternatives to five more of Ireland’s most popular sites. Then Liam honors Ireland's Titanic heritage by singing the last song reportedly played on the deck of the Titanic.
In this episode Corey shares our listeners' picks for alternatives to five of Ireland’s most popular sites. Then Liam finishes the podcast by singing Yeats’ poem “The Wandering Angus.”
Test drive some special offers on Irish travel from the Gathering Gestures and Heritage Island Ireland Discount Guide… on your smartphone!
In this episode Liam talks about Irish story telling and the old souls that bring tales to life as part of the launch of Gavin Greer's free ebook "Ireland: A Gathering of Stories"
In this episode, I chat with Jody Halsted and Stephanie Chastain about smartphones in Ireland and the best apps for Irish travel.
In honor of the St Patrick's Day Season, Corey stops over at This Week in Travel where he chats about Ireland... and all kinds of other travel headlines.
In this video episode Corey considers a several factors that may influence when you will plan your trip.
In this video episode Corey considers a several factors that may influence when you will plan your trip.
In this episode, we chat with Mary Mulvihill about Ireland's science and innovation contributions with a look at the Hill of Tara, Newgrange, the Antrim Coast, Dublin City, and interesting places throughout Ireland
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Michele Erdvig and Corey Taratuta cover some of the most popular Irish travel news in preparation for the 2012 tourism season.
The good folks over at the This Week in Travel Podcast invited Corey come on and talk about travel... RVing... and, of course, IRELAND!!! Enjoy.
It's the season of Sundays in Irish sport, and there's no better place than Dublin's Croke Park, the home of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), to take in a match.
Jody Halsted gives her tips for traveling with the kids as well as shares her secrets to finding fairies on the Emerald Isle.
It's time to get away from it all by visiting a horse named Speedy Rambler in County Tipperary.
Ella McSweeney tells about some of the interesting people and traditions she's encountered on her travels around Ireland for her radio and television programs.
We look at genealogy in Ireland and President Barack Obama Irish heritage. More info at http://irishfireside.com/2010/12/17/irish-genealogy/
We look at genealogy in Ireland and President Barack Obama Irish heritage. More info at http://irishfireside.com/2010/12/17/irish-genealogy/
We look at genealogy in Ireland and President Barack Obama Irish heritage. More info at http://irishfireside.com/2010/12/17/irish-genealogy/
Expert genealogist Megan Smolenyak delves into the tips and techniques for uncovering your Irish ancestry.
Corey chats with Anita Higgins from Adare and Fergal O'Connell from Dublin to shine the spotlight on the regions our Passport With Purpose winner will be visiting.
Here's an audio-only overview of the 5-Star City & Country Irish Getaway we put together for this year's Passports with Purpose.
Here's an overview of the 5-Star City & Country Irish Getaway we put together for this year's Passports with Purpose.
Came upon this bucolic scene while visiting the cemetery near Templederry, County Tipperary
After the U.S. and Australia adjusted their travel information to Northern Ireland, we chatted with Heidi McAlpin, Belfast resident and editor of Belfast in Your Pocket.
We explore the ancient site of Skellig Michael in County Kerry and get a full does of seals, dolphins, sea bird... namely PUFFINS!
Sunny day in Kilkenny City as we visit St Canice's Cathedral, St Francis Abbey Brewery, St Mary's Cathedral, St John's Cemetery, Kilkenny Castle, Grace's Castle/Courthouse, the Parade, the Hole in the Wall, the medieval gate & wall and Rothe House.
We take you on a tour of the brand new House of Waterford where crystal will again be made in Waterford!
We have a listen to Frank Delaney's "Venetia Kelly's Traveling Show" and tell you about a way to get a FREE audiobook download.
In this video episode I explore some of the often-missed features on Ireland's main tourism website.
The volcano in Iceland has upset travel in Ireland. We hear from two people affected by it's cloud of ash.
Corey was invited to spend a wee bit of St Patrick's Day with the gang at the This Week in Travel Podcast. Have a listen to their chat.
We chat with Dr. Tim Campbell about the St Patrick's Centre and Counties Down and Armagh.
We celebrate this milestone with some of our listeners... and some other notable names in Irish travel.
In this episode, we cover more Irish holiday traditions and chat with Sam Bates, an artist featured in our Holiday Gift Guide for his Celtic knotwork stone carvings.
We look at Christmas memories from Bridget Haggerty and talk with Imen McDonnell about her life as an American married to an Irish Farmer.
We chat with Peirs Duggan from glorious County Tipperary, and we thank our listeners for their votes in the Podcast Awards.
In this audio podcast episode, we talk about some of the unique aspects of traveling Ireland in the "shoulder season." Then we chat with Simon and Maria O'Dywer about some of Ireland's oldest musical instruments.
We sit down with Travis and Kathy Nelson from the Engaging Ireland podcast and get their take on trip planning, saving money and experiencing Ireland.
We talk about Ireland's new Pre-Clearance facility, chat about Irish dirt with Pat Burke and listen to Holly Kirby perform Carrickfergus.
We chat with Geraldine Enright from the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience as she talks about County Clare, Shannon Airport and opportunities a down economy can hold for those who travel.
Corey talks about Irish immigration and the steps you need to take to make sure you don't get turned away. He also talks about Irish Fest and the Engaging Ireland Podcast.
We chat with Meaití Jó Shéamuis about traditional Irish sean-nós singing, passing down traditions and Milwaukee Irish Fest School.
We answer some questions about self-catering accommodations and chat with Tom Sweeney about Irish-American culture and Irish music.
We look back at some of the amazing people we met along the Irish-American Roadtrip and reflect on what it means to be Irish-American.
We close out our trip with a visit to the Raglan Road Pub in Kansas City, MO, where Danielle Fitzpatrick gives us some great Irish Dancing with music provided by Colin Farrell & Damien McCarthy. Then we head back to the cold and snow of Wisconsin.
We meet up with the Unsinkable Molly Brown, stop in at Fort Hayes and get a big smooch from Liam's cousin Joycie.
We wrangle some livestock at Buffalo Bill's place and visit Liam's old haunts in Colorado.
This part of the roadtrip includes fields, fruit trees, a snowy mountain and a run-in with the law.
A visit to our Irish-American friends Katie Harrington near Hollywood and Michael Connolly in Ventura.
Liam and Corey take a break with what their friends in Ireland would call a Posh Day...relaxation, good times and pampering. All in Temecula Southern California Wine Country.
We are off having a great time...you'll have to visit www.IrishFireside.com to find out the details.
It's time for some Irish music history, an Irish-American Roadtrip Hoolie with the Sanfords, and there's even a little Irish poteen (moonshine) as well.
Corey and Liam dash west across Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico as they search for all things Irish-American
The Iowa roads weren't good to us, but Cindy from www.soupourri.com certainly was...as she let us make Irish oatmeal soap. Then we made it to the John Wayne Birthplace in Winterset, IA before calling it a night in Kansas.
We join a wonderful group of Irish set dancers as we pass through Minneapolis on the Irish-American Roadtrip. www.IrishFireside.com
Liam and Corey have a very busy day in the Twin Cities in search of all things Irish-American
Liam and Corey continue their search for all things Irish-American with a stop in Minneapolis.
After giving away a few things, we sit down and chat with the former mayor of Newry and Mourne.
This one is a little different as we share some details about our big Holiday giveaway, our Holiday Gift Guide and even announce some more ways you can experience the Irish Fireside.
We enjoy our nomination to www.PodcastAwards.com, interview Tony Hearty about Irish Belleek and south County Armagh and feature the Brobdingnagian Bards.
We enjoy a chat with Katherine Webster from County Clare and feature an original song honoring Tommy Makem
Ireland's top sean-nós dancers "Sweep the Floor" at Milwaukee Irish Fest. Oireachtas na Gaeilge took over the Gaeltacht tent and showed the crowd real Irish craic.
We enjoy some Irish set dancing, explore Galway and enjoy some music at Milwaukee Irish Fest.
A look at mobile phone options for those traveling to Ireland as well as some listener mail and a song from Craic Wisely.
An overview of iPhone service in Ireland, as well as it's capabilities for easy photo uploads, blogging and photo blogging.
Tom Joe shares "Rising of the Moon" at a session at Jim O' the Mill near Upperchurch, Co. Tipperary.
Corey discovers a favorite Dublin attraction and laments his sub-standand accommodations.
Corey stays in a Dublin Hostel and spends the evening with Johnny Daly from Celtic Folk Tours.
Corey is on-the-road and visits some Roscommon sites and finds himself in an ancient underground room.
We take a tour of Knockpatrick Gardens in County Limerick and answer some listener mail. Enhanced podcast...also available as an MP3 at www.irishfireside.com.
Spring is on its way, and we're heading to the Gardens of Ireland. Plus, Liam sings the Tipperary Waltz.
We celebrate the Irish language in song as Emer de Barra talks to us about Oireachtas na Gaeilge.
Brian Ó Cuinneagáin introduces us to real Irish sean-nós dancing. He is a champion Oireachtas na Gaeilge dancer. Check back in a few days for interview featuring Oireachtas.
Here's a session from Philadelphia's Irish Center, during the city's Saint Patrick's Day celebrations last weekend.
We continue our look at Belfast and chat some more with Heidi from Belfast In Your Pocket.
Heidi from Belfast In Your Pocket gives us a local's perspective of the celebrations that happen in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland on July 12th.
We share our experience at one of the many bonfires we visited on July 11, 2007, the eve of the Belfast Marching Day. More info in our show notes at www.irishfireside.com.
We continue our interview with Ireland Expert Pat Preston. In this episode, she shares with us all kinds of details about Irish travel.
We welcome a very special guest, Ireland Expert Pat Preston. In this episode, she shares with us all kinds of details about Irish travel.
We chat with listener Bill Sweeney about his experience obtaining dual citizenship...without ever having to leave the United States. Sorry about some of the sound quality.
We kick off the New Year with some memories of winter in Ireland. Then we chat with some experts in Irish B&Bs.
Lullaby for Caoilte is our Christmas tradition here at the Irish Fireside. Enjoy. FYI: Nollaig shona dhuit=Happy Christmas in Irish
Today it’s off to the Irish-speaking region known as the Dingle Peninsula. Our neighbor Aine tells us all about her summer school experience there, and she tells us a story that is sure to leave you in stitches.
October in Ireland is the theme of this episode where Corey talks about visiting Ireland in the fall, the Celtic Colours Festival and some plans he has made for his trip to Ireland.
Roche (with Liam) shares "Ned of the Hill" at a session in Grace’s in Cloughjordan, County Tipperary.
Just back from 3 months in Ireland, we have loads to share...including our Treasures of Ireland Tour, some Irish-Gaelic and A Song for Ireland.
We take you to Glenstal Abbey, where the monks celebrate Mass in Gregorian chant, the gardens provide a peaceful respite for visitors and the Icon collection present a look into Church history. THIS EPISODE IS iTUNES ENHANCED. AN MP3-ONLY VERSION IS AVAILABLE AT WWW.IRISHFIRESIDE.COM
We visit a hidden tower in County Waterford, try speaking a little Irish and get a traditional Irish song.
On the eve of his departure to Ireland, Corey shares some of the items he typically packs for touring around Ireland. MOV VERSION AVAILABLE AT WWW.IRISHFIRESIDE.COM
We chat with Mary O'Halloran and Marrie Keane about the southern most portion of Ireland. We also let you in on Matt Lauer's visit to Ireland and a possible sale at Aer Lingus.
We head to the lesser visited treasures of the Shannon Region, enjoy toasted ham, cheese and tomato sandwiches and Liam sings Limerick You're A Lady.
ATTENTION: MP3 version available at www.IrishFireside.com. Liza continues to share her recent experience searching for and buying her dream cottage in Ireland. We also tell you about The Gamer Traveler Podcast's Ireland episode.
Our friend Liza shares her recent experience searching for and buying her dream cottage in Ireland. We also give you one last chance to sign up for the Ireland Getaway.
Enter our Trip to Ireland Giveaway, visit some Best Websites for Dreaming About Ireland and hear Liam sing Salley Gardens
Unfortunately Corey's down with the flu, but Liam has some updates for everyone in this pre-St. Patrick's Day Podcast
We go to our comment line to hear what our listeners have to say and field a few questions.
We reveal Northern Ireland as an up and coming tourist hotspot and visit with John Bustard from the Causeway Coast and Glens.
We keep you dreaming about Ireland by telling you about a special coach tour of Ireland, several downloable resources, our comment line and music by Culann's Hound.
Stop dreaming about a trip to Ireland and start planning with our podcast dedicated to helping you get your trip to the Emerald Isle on its way. We provide you plenty of resources and talk to Marie McKown from Tourism Ireland.
We visit the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal, make Irish brown bread and Liam sings the Wild Rover. THIS EPISODE IS iTUNES ENHANCED. AN MP3-ONLY VERSION IS AVAILABLE AT WWW.IRISHFIRESIDE.COM
We introduce our e-newsletter and get the inside scoop on Dublin from Jenny Finegan from Dublin Tourism.
Katherine Webster, Director of the Cliffs of Moher New Visitor Centre updates on their construction, we taste some of Fionn mac Cumhaill Salmon and we finish up with a song by Theresa Larkin.
We celebrate the one time of year when Ireland comes to us, Milwaukee Irish Fest, we test out some new podcasting equipment, Liam gives us his secret to the best Bread and Butter Pudding just before singing us Farewell to Nova Scotia.
Corey tells you about his recent visit to Ireland and invites listeners to share their fondest memories of Ireland.
We wish Liam safe travels as he heads back to Ireland to search out some new destinations and discover some new songs to share with us here at the fireside.
Dublin is loaded with attractions that unfortunately most visitors miss. In this episode we visit a few of our favorite lesser-known sites and offer some tips for traveling to Dublin.
In this episode we answer your questions about managing your money while traveling Ireland with tips that will allow you make intelligent decisions as you travel. We also feature Mary Ryan's Apple Custard Pie and Liam sings Molly Malone.
In this episode we answer your questions about managing your money while traveling Ireland with tips that will allow you make intelligent decisions as you travel. We also feature Mary Ryan’s Apple Custard Pie and Liam sings Molly Malone.
We visit the Waterford Crystal Factory and some interesting sites nearby; then it’s time for our recipe for shin and Guinness and Liam sings The Old Dungarvan Oak.
We celebrate Saint Patrick's Day by exploring the life of the saint and the places he visited, as well as look at the Irish connection to corned beef and listen to an Irish-American Favorite.
We visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park where we give our tips to avoid the crowds, suggest some interesting sites nearby, mix up a potcheen cocktail and hear Liam’s haunting version fo She Moved Thro’ the Fair.
Our first podcast takes you to the Rock of Cashel where we give you tips to make the best of your visit, suggest some off the beaten path destinations nearby, share Liam's family scone recipe and listen to Liam's rendition of the song Kitty O'Toole.
Our first podcast takes you to the Rock of Cashel where we give you tips to make the best of your visit, suggest some off the beaten path destinations nearby, share Liam’s family scone recipe and listen to Liam’s rendition of the song Kitty O’Toole.