EMBRACED

by a hazy mist of light rain, I trek along Ireland’s famous Cliffs of Moher with Ollie, one of Brendan Vacations' local expert guides and an Ennis local. After just 45 minutes into our five-mile coastal hike, we’ve discussed the intricacies of the area: the history of Doolin’s traditional Irish music and the famous Gus O’Connor’s Pub; how local farmers rallied to protect this famous stretch of coastline; plus, tiny Inis Mor on the Aran Islands, which looks like an alligator when viewed via plane. As we veer toward a steep stretch of the hike that tumbles precariously toward the sea and tempts seasoned surfers, our conversation lands upon the cycle of life. The Cliffs have long been a site of birth and death, where chaos is both quelled and entertained as the Atlantic’s ebb and flow mirrors human triumph and tragedy. For young Ollie, this cherished UNESCO Heritage Site is not just a must-see. It’s indicative of what I’ll further discover while exploring the Emerald Isle with Brendan Vacations: resiliency anchors Ireland’s playful personality.