Ireland: the Emerald Island

CINTHYA DE MEDEIROS

This article aims to indicate a good place for those who like to travel or want to know a place which houses a cultural variety.

“Ireland is a European country which includes customs and traditions, language, music, art, literature, folklore, cuisine and sports associated with Ireland and Irish people”.¹

The diversity of immigrants who live in Ireland makes this country a special place able to reach all kind of tastes.

Influenced by Celtic culture, Ireland brings a mystical atmosphere that seems to enchant those who visit it.

Also known as Emerald island, because of the natural beauty, it impresses for the grandeur of the cliffs, such as Cliffs of Moher, that hide secular castles, and from its top we can behold the fury of the Irish seas.

Irish Cathedrals are known for its Gothic style. It’s also part of the tour route through Ireland. St. Patrick's Cathedral, one of the most famous in Ireland, was “built in the XII century and houses tombs of the old clergy”.² Irish Writers Museum brings the interesting works of the Irish authors, such as James Joyce and his most famous short stories collection called Dubliners.

The nightlife is watered with joy and Guinness, a typical Irish beer.The region of Temple Bar is an area located in central Dublin. According to Wikipedia website, its medieval architecture has been preserved.³

Summer promotes Irish music festivals in parks and plazas which promises shaking not only the young people, but also people of all ages.

On the other hand, the disadvantage of being in Ireland is that, as it’s an island, you have to take a plane in order to travel to neighboring countries and its winter usually leaves the country with a depressive atmosphere. Furthermore, despite the quality of life that Ireland can offer, it’s increasingly difficult to settle in Ireland. Often, immigrants who live there need to return to their homeland due to not getting a job.

For those who want to study and make an exchange program in Ireland, it’s easy to get in the country. You don’t need a visa and the country is welcoming. In addition, Ireland offers international recognized schools with qualified teachers. The easy adaptation in the country has attracted many students who want to learn and improve English as a second language.

Finally, Ireland is a country that brings a strong, difficult history involving religious and political conflicts, but which nevertheless did not take away its  joyful and friendly way of receiving immigrants increasingly in love with the Emerald island.

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References

¹Culture of Ireland. Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_Ireland. Access: August 22, 2013.

²St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin. Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Patrick's_Cathedral,_Dublin. Access: August 22, 2013.

³Temple Bar, Dublin. Available at: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Temple_Bar,_Dublin. Access: August 22, 2013.