Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
You probably won't find the proverbial pot of gold in Ireland, but you will find
plenty of treasure, starting with the engaging and feisty Irish people.
Belly up to the bar in a neighborhood pub and engage a local in conversation. Want to
really get to know the Irish? Ask for directions. It's almost always a rich experience and a
fast way to connect with locals. Nearby friends often chime in with additional tidbits that
may or may not be useful, and soon it's a communal chitchat session.
That legendary Irish “gift of gab” has its roots in the ancient Celtic culture. With no
written language (until the arrival of Christianity), the ancient Celts passed their history,
laws, and folklore verbally from generation to generation. Even today, most transactions
come with an ample side-helping of friendly banter. As an Irishman once joked, “How can
I know what I think until I hear what I say?”
