Always Ireland: An Insider's Tour of the Emerald Isle

by Jack Kavanagh

This alluring travel guide from National Geographic, covering every county of the Emerald Isle, offers the ultimate insider’s tour of Ireland’s most iconic places, from the literary pubs of Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher.

From the emerald green coastal cliffs to centuries-old castles, hole-in-the-wall pubs to world-renowned distilleries, this richly illustrated narrative showcases Ireland’s best sights, bites, and experiences. Written by a renowned expert in all things Eire, this book celebrates the multilayered beauty of the landscape, shines a light on the the country’s innovative traditions, and reveals the robust nightlife across a variety of picturesque cities. More than 300 glorious National Geographic images, along with recommended itineraries, practical tips, and insightful histories, populate these informative and inspiring pages.

Organized by region, Always Ireland will allow you to map your way through the country’s well-known places and hidden treasures alike, featuring must-do experiences, scenic destinations, and expert advice on where to stay, what to eat, and what to do. Each section offers in-the-know secrets and off-the-beaten path recommendations, featuring art galleries, hiking trails, national parks, fishing villages, and more. You’ll also discover favorites from Irish luminaries who know their country best, as well as recipes―from soda bread to Irish stew―to bring the tastes of Ireland into your home kitchen.

Both beautiful and enlightening, this one-of-a-kind guide will allow you to experience Ireland as the locals do!

Genres: Travel, Ireland, Nonfiction, Irish Literature, History

336 pages, Hardcover

Published February 7, 2023

Reviews

[Alexandria M · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic "planning to travel" read with phenomenal photography of just about everything in Ireland!

[Birdy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just received this book in the mail and it’s absolutely stunning. I cannot wait to read it! This is the perfect book for foreigners with Irish heritage to catch up on what they are missing overseas.

[Brigita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to DMPasinski and Goodreads for this complimentary giveaways copy!

I opened the package containing this book excitedly, and my immediate reaction was… WOW. This is the most stunning, durable, and official copy of a book I’ve ever received from a giveaway. This is a book I can see on my coffee table in the future—having Irish heritage certainly makes this very personal and special!

Anyway, onto the content review:

Are you looking for a guide to Ireland’s expansive history and culture? Perhaps for stunning full-page photographs? Maybe to learn facts about the country that you didn’t already know? If you answered ‘yes’ to any or all of these questions, then this book is for you.

“Always Ireland” informs us readers about even the smallest Irish towns, listing and describing in helpful sections which remarkable sites to see at each location. There are informative and up-to-date suggestions on the best places to eat, stay, and visit, as well as the best times to visit. If you like sporting matches, scenic drives, or special events, the author makes sure to include information on those too, including photographs, maps, and descriptions.

Overall, this is an atmospheric, comprehensive, and loving guide to a country that more people should explore and know about. I feel like I’ve been to the country now, although I’ve never actually visited—and most importantly, I’ve been convinced greater than ever to take the pilgrimage.

#goodreadsgiveaways

[Jim Gallen · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Always Ireland” is a delightful literary and photographic trek across the Emerald Isle. It follows the island clockwise from the Ancient East, starting in Dublin, through Munster and the South, The Wild Atlantic Way, Ulster and Northern Ireland and Offshore Ireland, the islands off the Isle and its lighthouses. Each section is organized by county, with towns, sites, drives, places to stay eat and drink, spiced by an occasional Irish recipe.

Being more than a travel guide, it is interspersed with pages on culture, history, customs, the diaspora overseas, poets and singers. I appreciate this book on several levels. The pictures are magnificent. The maps put the geography in context. I enjoyed reading about places I have seen, and others in my bucket list. My knowledge of Irish history and culture was broadened. Whether planning or reliving a trip, or just looking for an enchanting account to read through, skim intermittently or leave on your coffee table to pick up whenever the spirit moves you “Always Ireland” will never disappoint.

[Tracy Montefour · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! I wish it had been published before our trip to Ireland. The author is Irish and has first hand knowledge of the country. And the photos are stunning of both the landscape and the towns/villages. I found the information accurate and interesting. He provided interesting tidbits not found in the usual travel books. Information on festivals, local folklore, sports, and things to do. Now this next topic may seem strange but here it goes. I really enjoy a book that has been beautifully designed. And this book checks that box!! The book has a great "feel". The paper inside is substantial and the cover has amazing pictures and perfectly selected fonts. If you're planning to ever visit Ireland and even f you aren't, you have to read this one.

[The Keepers of the Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Experience Ireland through the eyes of a local. Visit the most picturesque towns, learn about the history, and what makes each place unique. The photographs are stunning and bring the areas to life. The text is engaging and informative. With unique information to share about the areas’ histories and their secrets, fans of Ireland, Irish History, or whoever wanted to travel to Ireland will want to pick this one up. Recommended for most library collections.

Please Note: A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are our own. No other compensation was received.

[Bern · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can’t think of enough good things to say about this book, it is absolutely beautiful. National Geographic usually does a fantastic job, but this one is outstanding. It’s got everything in it from language and travel information to hotel information, where to eat, hiking and trails and it is loaded with Irish history, which is fabulous. By Provinces and each county, there’s detail and information of each county’s charm. Islands, film, music, saints, politics, religion, faeries and folklore, it has it all.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the most exciting travel guide I have ever come across. Not only does it include detailed driving tour maps and listings of great local pubs & dining spots, but it also has historical facts and local lore and interesting pop culture tidbits. The photos are stunning and the layout makes it easy to access the exact information you might be searching for.

[Dr. Lehman L Ellis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautifully illustrated book. Goes county by county for all of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Lots of places highlighted and recommendations for food. I found it difficult to use to put together a plan of travel when I visit in the near future. Otherwise a nice book

[Muriel McLemore · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is a lot of detail on each area of the country. I really was only interested on the few areas where I would be traveling, which were very informative. So, I dud skim through much of the book.

[Sharon]

Lovely layout and organization. I enjoyed the pictures and read some of the sections but not every page.

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent read begore my trip. Would have been a five if the author left out Recipes. Want looking for a cook book

[Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book makes you want to purchase a plane ticket to Ireland immediately! All the beautiful pictures and interesting sights. Truly the best travel book I’ve ever read, and I did READ it. Cover to cover, which is not typical for me, given the type of book it is. The organization by county and what each has to offer is perfect. The bits of history were fascinating and give you an understanding on each areas struggles & story. When I travel to Ireland someday, I’ll refer back to ‘Always Ireland’ for my planning 🇮🇪 💚🤍🧡