Tag Archives: travelguide

Ireland — A new favourite.

I am ever thankful for the life enriching experiences working for TourRadar has brought me. A few weeks ago, I came back from a free trip to Ireland. I would’ve never imagined touring to be *this* enjoyable – Brendan Vacations sure did not disappoint. Every single detail perfectly organised, absolutely fuss free and in no rush. On all levels, 10/10 recommend!

From the breathtaking sceneries, the exquisite accommodation, the fine dining to the heart warming cultural exchanges and ever so friendly local hosts; this Brendan Vacations trip ticked all the boxes. While I do not possess the right words to express how grateful I am, I would like to lay out the some of the highlights of this trip.

1. Unique experiences

A great first introduction to Irish folk on our second night in Dublin. Live Celtic music and Irish dance, everything you would expect but yet SO MUCH MORE. The lead singer, Iandrew kept his crowd well entertained with songs inspired by forced migration and nagging wives while the dancers tapped the night away. This show is an absolute amongst tourists and locals alike. Be sure to not miss this hot spot at the heart of Dublin city for a night of pure joy and laughter.

** Entry includes a 3 course Irish dinner (and there’s a hip bar next door) — doesn’t get any better.

I’m not a big drinker myself but man did I enjoy that Jameson Whisky Ginger Ale concoction! To be fair, I smashed the whisky on its own too :V. If you think you’re not a fan of whiskey maybe it is because you haven’t had Jameson 😛 While Guiness beer isn’t of my taste, various quirky advertisements they had had over the years peaked my interest. The industrial style multi-storey steel- framed building painted in bright blue is quite unique. Both visits were a tickle to my olfactory senses.

The Be My Guest experience from this trip was particularly wholesome – three course farm cooked dinner with TWO desserts, two professional Irish music performers, a toasty fireplace and great company in a cosy setting. We learnt how butter was made back in the early 1920s and even got to roll our own butter balls. This experience felt very genuine and unstaged.
** All Trafalgar tours include unique “Be My Guest” experiences that allows their guests to help small businesses and keep local traditions alive – this is the real deal **

2. The Sights

Easily one of the most scenic and magical experiences of my life (literally) – Crisp weather, the enchanting clip clop of horse hooves, expanse of lush green forest and a chatty local who wasn’t low on dad jokes. This ride was the perfect surprise activity and a great way for us to grasp all the beauty of the Killarney National Park. If you get the chance to visit Killarney, you cannot miss this.

The Blarney Castle and Gardens is yet another must do when in Ireland. The gift of the gab isn’t for the faint at heart –  visitors are to climb a distinctively steep, narrow and slippery all-stone staircase. Once at the top, you hang upside-down over a sheer drop to kiss the Stone of Eloquence – true adrenaline rush! The gardens is where there is more than meets the eye – amongst the poisonous plants, waterfalls, woodlands, lakes, rivers and extensive range of centuries old trunks you will be taken back in time and perhaps even made to believe fairylands exist.

We were blessed by the mild weather of the early Irish spring when we went out to the Cliffs. The Cliffs of Moher is a sight to behold, we were literally on the verge of being blown away . A place where your heart just feels at ease and all worries seem to vanish into thin air. However, we were reminded countless times of the power of nature – unfortunately each year the cliffs see a few deaths caused by visitors getting too close to the edge. 

3. The Hotels

This centrally located boutique hotel is the epitome of city luxury. With a high accent on history, their quintessentially French Chic cafe Lafayette and the crystal chandelier are definite eye catchers. The bedrooms and ensuite emanate royalty with plush pillows and quilts, old school sinks and touches of gold here and there. I surely have acquired a taste for old school royal from this visit!

Good, Lord! The grandeur of this establishment blew me away — the level of luxury, service and attention to detail is to no compare. An array of activities and facilities entertain guests; from archery to falconry, world class golf course and spa treatments. You can bike ride or boat across the lake to explore the property. The high ceilings in the rooms, the large windows, the spacious bathroom, the lush linens! And don’t get me started on the gourmet dinner – THE most succulent dishes one could have; the textures and balance of flavours DELICOUS! Felt like true royalty on our last night.

You often hear people complaining how cold and wet the weather is in Ireland, but it is all well worth it . The Irish are one of the warmest, funniest and kindest people I’ve ever met on my travels. I cannot sell Ireland enough. While travelling has come to a halt, I am blessed to have Ireland as my latest destination. We will travel again, maybe not next week or next month but we will travel again – and when we do, keep the Isle of Skye and TourRadar in mind.

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The Maldives – What you didn’t know.

One&Only, Reethi Rah (Maldives)

” Things you didn’t know about the Maldives”

The Maldives, is to many of us the utopian definition of paradise – miles of white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and 365 days of sunshine each year. You’d be absolutely right picturing the Maldives as such. But did you know that alcohol cannot be purchased in the capital city of Malé? Or that the great majority of establishments are closed on Fridays; that the Maldivian weekend isn’t actually your typical Saturday and Sunday? Here’s some interesting and yet lesser-known aspects of this dream destination 

— Alcohol is banned

The Maldives is an Islamic nation which means that alcohol is banned for the local population. There are practically no bottle shops around nor can you purchase alcohol in restaurants. That being said, the resorts will have an endless supply as well as an extensive variety. 

** Tip: 

  • You cannot bring alcohol into the Maldives. If you have purchased alcohol from your previous destination, your item will be seized at the airport. 
  • Carry your passport with you at all times. As it is illegal to serve alcohol to locals, make sure you have a valid ID with you if you’re wanting to consume some

— “Spice Spice baby” 

Traditional Maldivian food is Spiiicy! It is DELICIOUS and full of flavour – but it is HOT. If you’re anything like me in that aspect and can’t take too much heat, make sure to ask your waiter if it’s possible to tone it down a notch. The Maldives also serves a large range of international food too so your appetite will be satisfied, no matter what.

— City life, not as you know it

Most of us think of cities as “big” – have their fair share of employment opportunities, shopping centres and skyscrapers. Malé, the capital city of the Maldives does not meet those expectations. The great majority of locals live on resort islands working in the hospitality industry. Tourism is indeed the largest GDP contributor with 90% of government taxes and import duties flowing in from the industry. There are barely any skyscrapers or shopping malls. Instead, Malé acts like a port with a prominent fish market – oh and you can grab some delicious thirst-quenching coconuts there too.

— Prayers and Friday is a sacred day

By now, we know that the Maldives follow the Islamic religion. This implies that Friday is a sacred day – even more so than your long-awaited FriYaY celebrations!! Maldivians pray 5 times per day every day – at dawn, midday, afternoon, sunset and night. Bearing that in mind, prayer is usually at 5am, 11am, 3pm, 6pm and 7pm – this does vary depending on the season. Shops and other establishments are closed for about 15/20mins at prayer times.

** Tip: 

  • If you’re wanting to “live like a local” and experience Malé, please be aware that a lot of establishments, if not all are closed on Fridays. Others will only open later in the afternoon, think around 3/4pm
  • As per be culturally sensitive – take note of any prayer times and pay respect to this highly religious population

— When are the weekends? 

Following what I’ve mentioned above, the Maldivian weekend is actually on Friday and Saturday. Shops, government institutions and banks are closed on those days or open late. Their typical week is from Sunday to Thursday. 

** Tip: 

  • If you’re needing to exchange foreign currency on the weekend, the Maldivian weekend, the bank is most likely going to be closed. No need to worry though, your resort and most places accept USD. Most locals working on resorts as well expats are more often than not paid in USD.

— Symbols of religion

We’ll jump straight into a tip on this one! Take note that symbols of other religions is strictly illegal – think statues such as buddhas, medals such as Jesus Cross and holy books such as the bible. Please refrain yourself from bringing those into the country. It will be destroyed.

** Fun fact for the road

— Pets aren’t allowed

Due to religion, Maldivians aren’t allowed to have dogs. Domesticated dogs are prohibited. You will, however, notice strays. While locals aren’t allowed to own them, they have always appeared friendly towards strays.

=== How do I know this? === 

From experience! I was very lucky to work for The One&Only, Reethi Rah over the summer holidays of university in 2017. One and Only has to be THE essence of luxury. Their guest list is impressive – think the Beckhams (David is really friendly! Whenever he visits, he plays soccer with the staff), Jason Statham (the lead actor for the Transporter movie series) and the King of Saudi just to name a few. My dad also worked as an expat account executive for 3 years and has become quite accustomed with all the little things that make the Maldives a unique beach destination 

Ps IMPORTANTLY, Locals are SUPER friendly and welcoming !! 😀

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