Daily Log 1 (3/3)

Today was extremely busy and I can’t believe it has only been 13 hours since we landed in Galway. The first thing that I noticed when we left the plane was how the air smelled. It’s very earthy and pleasant. The trip from Shannon to Galway was very eye-opening as far as making me feel that I am in Ireland (being on the opposite side of the road may have had something to do with it).  I am still amazed at how green the grass is. I also love seeing the flocks of sheep.

Once in Galway, it became very apparent that it is a walking town. We spent several hours exploring the streets, eventually making our way to the river. I love the way that the city is designed, even if it is a bit confusing. I have figured out one section of it and will return tomorrow to continue shopping (I certainly have my priorities straight!)

After we got back to the hostel, we were led on foot around Galway by a GMIT professor, Paddy, and it was phenomenal to see Galway from the top of a taller building. The buildings were still too crowded to figure out the roads from that height, but it was still an amazing view. The tour ended on Nun’s Island and we were re-released into the labyrinth of sights, smells, and beautiful mingling of Irish voices. I had my first Irish meal of fish and chips, which was very good and tasted “cleaner” than its American counterpart (maybe they use a different kind of oil). All of the shops were closed by this time, so we headed back to the hostel to finish our first deal in Galway.