Attempting Local: A Year Abroad in Galway, Ireland

by Cullan McNamara, Sara Krahel (Editor), Jacob Richter (Illustrations)

Attempting Local follows Cullan McNamara's journey as he explores Ireland, surfs the waves of the North Atlantic, hikes the country's rugged mountains, and travels throughout Europe... all while striving toward a master's degree. It’s an extremely honest account of how tough it can be to leave everything behind and move abroad, though it simultaneously demonstrates the beauty of a life of solo travel.

271 pages, Paperback

Published April 9, 2021

Reviews

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me only 5 days to read this book. It is a truly an inviting experience; asking the reader to join them along for all of the ups and downs that moving abroad brings with it. Cullan is nothing if not honest in his account, which is all the more inspiring. Written in a series of journal entries, this story allows us to broaden our horizons through simply turning the page.

[Valerie Kolesar · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never read a travel journal-type book before this one, so I didn’t really know what to expect. But I enjoyed this SO much! Cullan has such a gift for telling even the most seemingly mundane event, like going for a run or studying in a coffee shop, as a beautiful story! I truly felt like I was there in Ireland reading this book. (As someone who hasn’t even left the continental US, that was special!)

I love how he really took the veil off of traveling abroad. Not everything was a perfect, beautiful experience, despite what people portray on Instagram! But even in not-so-perfect moments of his journey, he still found reasons to appreciate. Looooved that perspective!

I could go on and on about the life lessons and impactful quotes I took away from this book, but I don’t want to spoil it 😊 I highly recommend this for literally anyone. Travelers, adventurers, homebody’s, anyone!!!!

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're someone who is thinking about living abroad in a country where you know no one, then this book is for you. It is written in a journal/diary entry format that allows you to enter the mind of Cullan in a unique way. I've read quite a few travel novels, but not a story like this one. Cullan's story is relatable, honest, and enjoyable to read. Follow Cullan's life as he lives in Galway, Ireland for a year while pursuing his masters degree and see where his adventures in Europe take him!

[Viktorija Božina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks Cullan for the inspiration!