Experience Ireland with Professor O’Riordain and the Friends of Irish Studies in the West
Experience Ireland with Professor O’Riordain and the Friends of Irish Studies in the West
(photo: Traolach “Terry” O’Riordain with wife Erin)
Some of the best advice when traveling – If possible travel with a local. If you’re traveling in Ireland, you would be hard pressed to find a better guide than Traolach “Terry” O’Riordain. Growing up in Ireland, his family spoke Irish as a first language at home. Now, as Program Director of the Irish Studies program at University of Montana, he continues the tradition with his family in Missoula (the kids speak English too). For over a decade his Irish Studies programs have offered people Irish language, dance, music, and cultural events – All the while connecting the significant historical and current relationships with Irish America.
Every summer Traolach returns to Ireland for two months, which includes leading a “Magic of Ireland” tour with folks from the States. This year the tour is June 19th -28th and he is encouraging all to come.
Actually not all, according to Traolach, “We keep the number of travelers to 20, so they can get to see interesting cultural and historical places not accessible with big bus tours.” Sponsored by Friends of Irish Studies in the West, Traolach prides his tours to be unique and memorable. “The tour is designed to give people the most intimate experience possible of Ireland. It’s not a simple site-seeing trip. We like to give people the opportunity to meet the locals, build a relationship with them, and learn about the country from the people who live there.”
Travelers make their own way to Ireland, flying out of the airport most convenient for them. “We used to try to arrange a flight together, but we learned over the years that so many people have different frequent flyer programs and favorite airlines that it is best for them to book their flights,” explained Traolach, adding with a grin, “We all meet at the Shannon airport on a prearranged day and time. To date, we’ve never left anyone behind!”
The impressive tour itinerary is at www.friendsofirishstudies.com. In short, the sightseeing starts with County Galway and heads south to Clare, Kerry, Cork and then back north towards Limerick and Clare.
The cost is $1699 per person sharing [$1599 for members of the Friends].
“There are a few spots remaining on the tour, so this is a great opportunity if you are considering a trip to Ireland,” enthused Traolach, “This will be a very exciting and informative experience that you don’t want to miss. If you are interested, please contact [email protected] as soon as possible. The final date to reserve your seat is April 30!” www.friendsofirishstudies.com. 
