Ireland Travel Blog: Aran Islands and County Longford
July 7, 2024Considering how much I love to travel, it’s surprising how long it took me to finally visit Ireland. Needless to say, I understand why it’s such a popular destination. The history, natural beauty, and culture are incredible. I did, however, have a personal reason to visit. My paternal grandmother was born and raised in County Longford. I’m even an Irish citizen by descent! But I had never stepped foot on the island until this year. While this was my first time in Ireland, it absolutely will not be the last.
Before I went to visit my family in Longford, I had to do a little sightseeing. My favorite place by far was Inismor, one of the Aran Islands. I took a day trip from Galway, but I only wish I had stayed there longer.
The ferry passed by the Cliffs of Moher on the return trip from Kilronan to Galway. It was so interesting to see such a famous landmark from a different angle.
From Galway, I drove about two hours to County Longford to finally see Drumlish.
Twenty years after Irish independence, my grandma was born on a farm in a small village in the middle of Ireland. She was the oldest of five siblings and the only girl. They grew up in what seems like another world to me now. There was no electricity in the village until the 60s. They lived a simple life connected to the land. But like many young Irish people, my grandma left. She took a boat to New York and started a new life in America. Today, the farm is still in our family and two of my great uncles live in the village along with a big extended family. While the farmhouse has been modernized and they no longer bring the mama pigs into the living room to give birth, many things haven’t changed. It was so special to come here and see where we come from, and where we’re going.
My aunt and Uncle are local celebrities because of their amazing garden. Each year, they host a garden party to raise money for hospice care. I was lucky enough to be there for the party!