Last month, an elderly gentleman’s group got to experience what might literally be the trip of a lifetime as they travelled to Valencia, Spain, thanks to the Bluebell Community Development Project (CDP).
For many of them, it was a first trip outside of Ireland. Tommy Coombes, who manages the CDP, on behalf of the Canals Community Partnership, led the charge for this unique expedition.
“I’m interested in life’s journey. There are 60 occupied housing units here in Bluebell, and they are occupied mainly by men. These are gents who would [in many cases have had tough lives]. We have tended to experience a strong sense of apathy amongst a lot of the men in this community,” Tommy explained.
Tommy, a PHD student in Maynooth University, has worked in Bluebell for over seven years now. He has worked hard to try and promote health and a sense of well-being with these older men, in the hopes that it will bring them out of their shells, which seems to have been successful.
“We’ve organised various trips, gone out fishing for example. We tend to try take these chances. Importantly, we do what the men want, not what we want.”
This philosophy was what led to this whole trip coming to life.
“One of the men a while ago said: ‘Why don’t we just get out of here for a while and do something?’ While you had a few lads up for it, with places like Limerick mentioned, he goes: ‘No I mean out of the bloody country!’
“So since last January or February they’ve been saving to go to Valencia in Spain. Initially, when someone suggested Valencia because they had a mate who owns a pub there, most thought he actually meant Valentia in County Kerry. It became sort of a dream or wish and we set out to get funding through fundraisers. We engaged with local councillors, with Sinn Fein helping out massively,” explained Tommy.
With most men having never left the country before, the organisers were met with many obstacles, most notably, the organisation of passports. Ed Nolan, also of the CDP, has lived in the community for less than a year. As the new kid on the block, he was tasked with the challenge of helping to get everything together.
“Tommy asked me to organise the Valencia trip, so myself and a couple of others did the work for it. It took a lot of organisation, but we got there in the end. It’s all been worthwhile,” explained Ed.
“Some people here hadn’t even had a passport before. It took a lot of work getting everything together, especially with first time passports. I had a scheme where everyone gave €3-4 a week so that when it came to the day, you would have a few bob in your pocket at the very least,” Ed added.
Tommy, who himself is in his sixties, works hard to try and make sure that these men get the chance to continue to live fulfilled lives through retirement, and in this case, experience brand new things.
“I suppose the idea was to allow the men to experience the life of other older men in another culture. Also, the adventure. With most men never having a passport, it was a serious challenge at first. Fears of flying, fears of the unknown. A general fear of being taken out of their own comfort zone. A lot of these men have a very set framework,” Tommy explained.
“From getting up in the morning to going to bed at night, they have a strict structure that’s very hard to step out of. A lot of work from all the staff was pivotal in helping the men realise they could do this,” he added.
While it might not seem like much of a battle to those lucky enough to travel abroad on a regular basis, it unfortunately was too daunting a leap for some.
“Maybe to us who have gone away and travelled, it may not be a big deal, but for these lads, who may have barely seen the upstairs of a Dublin Bus, it’s a massive step. So much so, that a few men actually had to pull out because they couldn’t take that leap of faith,” Tommy revealed.
However, one man that could make the trip was a resident suffering from cancer, who had just finished his final chemo treatment. As Ed recalled:
“We didn’t ask him to come along originally as his chemo and radiology wouldn’t have been finished until the end of September when we had originally planned on going. Now because of funding and that we ended up going on the 18th of October, [he] was finished up by then.
“Four or five days before we left I asked him if he would come. We checked with the doctors and he was well enough to go. As it turned out, he hadn’t got a passport either. I went down to the passport office morning, noon and night and we managed to get it literally the day before we were going. It was great.”
On reflection, the whole event was deemed a massive success for Bluebell CDP, and for the group of men who got to have a life-changing trip that won’t be forgotten any time soon.
Ed finished: “It was a great little experience for all the lads. Even some in wheelchairs got to go around and see what was an absolutely beautiful city. And of course we had an old sing-song in the evenings. You never know, this could be a yearly thing.”
More and more countries have followed the lead of places like Amsterdam in decriminalising Cannabis in recent years. Is it time for Ireland to take another look at the issue?
Everyone has an opinion on cannabis. Is it harmless fun or an addictive drug? Should it still be a criminal offence to possess it?
People are extremely divided on the effects of cannabis, some argue it is as damaging and addictive as any drug, indeed a lot of its effects on the brain are still being studied. Others argue that it is no more harmful to society than alcohol, and they also have a legitimate argument.
Some may feel a nation as conservative as Ireland would never follow this lead, however even 20 years ago who would have thought we would be on the cusp of a referendum to legalise same sex marriage?
Daniel, Donal and James of TheCity.ie took to the streets to ask people where they stood on the issue. As you may expect the results were divided.
This year, on the 21st of May, seventeen year old Molly Sterling will become the youngest Irish entry to the Eurovision since Dana. We do of course have to get through the dreaded semi finals but all going well she will take the stand on the 23rd. ‘Playing with Numbers is a haunting ballad, with depth not many would expect from a songwriter so young. Molly has received enthusiastic support as well as harsh criticism, making her an initiated Irish Eurovision entry
Although Ireland remains the country with the highest number of victories, with seven to date, the last ten years have rarely been kind. Donna and Joseph McCaul became the first Irish Eurovision act to enter a semi final in 2005 but did not qualify. Brian Kennedy upped the anti with tenth place in the final in 2006 after a breathtaking performance; basically surprising nobody. 2007 saw Dervish give a lively performance of ‘They Can’t Stop the Spring’ but the song did not appeal to voters and came in at 24th. Dustin did not get through the semi final in 2008 and the less said the better. Under a youtube video of 2009 entry, Et Cetera, the second comment reads ‘thank god that they didn’t have the turkey again!’
Et Cetera, performed by Sinéad Mulvey and Black Daisy just missed entry to the Eurovision final, finishing in eleventh place in the second qualifying round. Niamh Kavannagh’s performance of ‘It’s for you’ finished in 23rd place which was disappointing but did not prevent Jedward rocking Dusseldorf in 2011, taking the audience with them and coming in at 8th. Things went downhill in 2012 with Waterline ending in 19th place. There may be more of the duo in the future though, if their fans keep up the pressure.
@LefaSN
No Jedward reading points for Ireland? THIS IS THE WORST NIGHT EVER. (courtesy of storify).
Ryan Dolan’s ‘Only Love Survives’ came in at 26th in the 2013 final in a surprising result and the run of bad luck continued into 2014 when the catchy ‘Heartbeat’ sung by Can-linn and Kasey Smith did not come out of the semi-finals.
Ireland’s victories, between 1970 and 1996 are well documented. For those in need of a reminder:
Johnny Logan captured the hearts of Eurovision viewers like none before or since but anyone I’ve spoken to agrees it’s a toss up between Rock and Roll Kids and The Voice for best Irish entry.
The eurovision has seen some fantastic acts over the years with both ABBA and Celine Dion first coming to the attention of the world through the contest. It has also seen some bizarre but unforgettable acts, with Lordy, 2005, taking the biscuit.
2015 will be one to watch. Germany, who set a high standard with their 2010 winner Lena Meyer Landrut have this year experienced difficulty finding a representative, according to The Telegraph; ‘The UK’s 2015 contestant will be revealed this Saturday (March 7). Germany’s selection (announced Friday) is perhaps the most fraught, with the winner of the national talent contest (rock singer Andreas Kummert) turning down his place on live TV to shocked presenter and booing audience. Runner up Ann Sophie will now represent Germany in May.’
2014 was a particularly interesting year with Concita Wurst taking first place singing ‘Rise like a Phoenix’. Wurst’s entry to the Eurovision had sparked conservative protests in Russia with some men shaving beards and posting photos to social media. Wurst received support from a number of high profile celebrities however, including Lady Gaga and Elton John and impressed viewers worldwide with her vocals.
Congratulations to this years winner of Eurovision @ConchitaWurst. She slayed with her beautiful vocals and message of freedom and equality.
11:38 PM – 10 May 2014 (Lady Gaga, courtesy of http://www.eurovision.tv).
As the BBC point out in their article, ‘The top ten song contest controversies’, the show is not new to disagreement.
‘The 1963 contest was held in the BBC TV Centre (things were a little more low-key in those days!) During the voting it was a tight race between Denmark and Switzerland. When it came to Norway’s turn to vote, the votes were disallowed since the spokesperson had not used the correct procedure for announcing the results. The legendary presenter, Katie Boyle, informed the jury in Oslo that their votes would be collected later. In the meantime the Norwegian jury altered their votes resulting in Denmark winning whereas Switzerland would have won had the original Norwegian votes been used. There was considerable consternation in the hall and questions remain to this day about the fairness of the incident. Today the results have to be sent into the EBU before they are announced on-screen meaning that such an incident cannot happen again. New voting rules in place for 2014 mean that the process will be even more transparent with the names of jurors and their individual votes made public for the first time.’
Eurovision humour is one of the best things about the competition, as proved by Marty Whelan. Getting into the spirit of the night, it’s worth listening to soundcloud podcast ‘Eurovision for Dummies.’
The Eurovision year after year attracts music lovers, fun lovers and those who just want to see how crazy the costumes and dance routines will be this year. Whatever your reason for watching, do watch and get behind Molly. It makes for a great night with family and friends. And in particular, readers from the UK; vote for us and we’ll vote for you.
No. No it won’t. Your life will be pretty much be the same as it was before, except that you will be able to marry whoever you love, without worrying about what is between his or her legs. And that’s great.
A referendum to chose between equality and inequality.
Ireland will hold a referendum on May 22nd. Voters will decide if the Constitution should be modified in order to grant access to civil marriage for same-sex couples.
“Marriage may be contracted in accordance with law by two persons without distinction as to their sex.”
This small modification to Article 41 is very important as same-sex couples will finally have access to the same protection that the Constitution gives to families composed of heterosexual couples. Everyone should be able to marry the person he or she loves. It is all about equality.
Ipsos MRBI did a survey for The Irish Times, in order to figure out the voters’ intentions. Even if the results seem very encouraging – estimating 74% of the voters will choose YES whereas only 26% will choose NO – the survey only included voters who were sure about their decision. In other words, undecided voters were left aside. Nothing is done yet: organisations still have to fight for equality.
The way to same-sex marriage is never simple.
In Europe, only twelve countries have voted for same-sex marriage. (Click on the map to see the date when it came or will come into effect.)
In France, for instance, the question of same-sex marriage resulted in several demonstrations from both sides of the cause. But frankly, nothing changed for the lives of the ‘Pro No’ campaign, because the law does not force you to marry someone from the same-sex. It just enables you to do so. People are just afraid of change, unreasonably afraid of change.
The case of France.
Same-sex marriage was one of François Hollande’s promises during his presidential campaign in 2012. A law was then presented to the members of the government on November 7th, 2012. On May 17th, 2013, the law was voted and finally applied the next day. The first same-sex marriage took place on May 29th, making Vincent Autin and Bruno Boileau France’s first same-sex married couple.
I was in Paris when all the talks and demonstrations were going on about same-sex marriage. Demonstrations were made by both sides, and organised as if they were answering to each other’s. When the pros did one, you could be sure that the contras would organise a demonstration a week or two later, and vice-versa.
Marriage Pour Tous, Photo by Pierre-Selim on Flickr
I remember being in the pro same-sex marriage demonstration. It was a very colourful crowd, people were waving rainbow flags, dancing, singing and holding funny signs to express their point of view. The crowd was composed of various types of people, young and old, male and female, homosexual and heterosexual, from all ethnicities and religions. Those people were supporting and fighting for equality.
The only thing I remember about the other side is seeing families in the subway, with their flags saying “La Manif’ Pour Tous” ; which can be translated as “The demonstration for all”. Their colour code was blue and pink. I guess that blue was supposed to represent the idea of masculinity and that the pink was supposed to represent that of femininity. Sweet clichés.
Photo by Nils Hamerlinck
One of their arguments was that a family had to be composed of a mother and father, and that legalising same-sex marriage and adoption might cause great damage to kids. Those kinds of arguments were used by a man who decided to put children in front of the riot police so that they would not push them, during one of the demonstration.
Those kinds of incidents shocked me, but I was even more shocked that those people were basically protesting against more rights for the community. In my opinion, protests should be used if individuals need their rights to be considered – not in order to prevent part of the population from finally having access to equal rights.
Ireland is now, again, one of the countries in EU where the economy is growing fast. Photo by: Maira De Gois
However, there is a problem that should be tackled: homeless people sleeping rough on the streets of Dublin. Photo by: Maira De Gois
Many of us pass by every day without noticing the social exclusion. Photo by: Maira De Gois
To earn a living without crime, the only alternative they have is to ask pedestrians for a few pennies. Photo by: Maira De Gois
Government’s problem or ours? Why should we give them some pennies when a few coins will not bring any solutions? Photo by: Maira De Gois
What change could ensure them proper food and shelter? Photo by: Maira De Gois
Without a roof over their heads, they have to strive against hunger and, in some cases, violence. Photo by: Maira De Gois
Due to their poor living conditions, some homeless people can suffer from mental illness such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and psychosis. Photo by: Maira De Gois
Invisibility: the cruel reality of being excluded. Photo by: Maira De Gois
Many homeless people have this sad life because of drug addiction, job loss or family problems. Photo by: Maira De Gois
Shame: They end up on the streets due to lack of government assistance and family support. Photo by: Maira De Gois
Homeless at Henry Street in Dublin. Photo by: Maira De Gois
Last year, Ireland was among world’s top countries on the Human Development Index (HDI). The nation was in eleventh place in the ranking. This means that Irish people had a good standard of education, health, wealth and equality. However, there is a disturbing reality: you can see many people on the streets begging for money. Many of them have this sad fate because of drug addiction, job loss or family problems. Homeless people find themselves in these appalling situations and their only alternative is to ask pedestrians for few pennies.
James B. (27) has lived on the streets since September last year. James was wrapped up in a blanket to protect himself against the cold. He said: “I’ve no other option besides asking for money. If not, I can’t eat, I can’t survive. I can’t wait for government aid.”
John C. (54) stated: “Things have gotten worse in this country. You can’t find a decent job these days like years ago. It’s better to beg for money than stealing money.”
Without a roof over their heads, they have to strive against hunger and, in some cases, violence. In order to provide permanent housing options, supports, preventive services, the Dublin Simon Community (DSC) supports the homeless and helps them to rebuild their lives. This institution provided services to more than 3,000 people in Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow and Meath who are homeless or are at risk of homelessness. Aoife Mulhall works for Mental Health Department, she remarked: “At Simon, we listen to people who turn to us for help and do everything we can to support them to move out of homelessness into independent living”
Due to their poor living condition, some homeless people can suffer from mental illness or addiction. In one survey carried out in 2013, DSC revealed that out of 163 homeless people who looked for its assistance, 63% suffered from depression, 46% from anxiety, 11% from schizophrenia and 11% from psychosis. To provide mental health assistance every year, Dublin Simon Community receives 52% of Statutory funding and 48% is received from fundraising.
Chart given by Dublin Simon Community
Dublin Simon Community’s goal is to create a more positive future for homeless. Aoife pointed out: “We strive to empower people to access, secure and retain a home of their own by reducing the reliance on short-term emergency accommodation and providing permanent supported housing for people to sustain a home in their local community.” She added: “Moving people into supported housing produces life-enhancing and life-saving results and is more cost-effective in the long run.”
Having spent many weekends in Galway and viewing myself as somewhat of a Galway aficionado, I felt compelled to share my experiences of this small city in the west of Ireland. If you wish to escape the busy streets of Dublin but still want to immerse yourself in urban life, Galway is the perfect spot for you!
With a population of 75,000 it may be small but it is certainly mighty. Galway is known for its stake in the arts and culture scene and there is always something going on in this town. While the weather can often be less than inspiring, you can be sure to find something to do when you pass through and when the weather is good in Galway it oozes an effervescent energy.
In the city centre there are plenty of bars, pubs, restaurants, cafes and shops to keep you entertained for a long weekend or even a week or two holidays. There is always something happening in the city that is different, making your trip that little bit extra special.
What’s on in Galway?
If you are planning a trip in the upcoming weeks there is lots of exciting events. Over the Easter weekend the annual food festival took place at the Spanish Arches. Paired with sunny skies and not a drop of rain in sight (but plenty of wine) it made for a memorable feast. Whatever your taste buds crave, there was something to satisfy it so I recommend checking it out next year. There is also a weekly market in Galway City, which opens all year on Saturday and Sundays and even on Fridays in July and August. This market has been running for centuries and you can find everything from beeswax candles to falafels to wooden furniture. http://galwaymarket.weebly.com/
Galway Food Festival, Easter Weekend 2015. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Galway Food Festival, Easter Weekend 2015. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Galway Food Festival, Easter Weekend 2015. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Galway Food Festival, Easter Weekend 2015. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Organic fruit and vegetables, Galway Food Festival, Easter Weekend 2015. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Galway Food Festival, Easter Weekend 2015. Photo by Rachael Hussey
For film fanatics, The Japanese Film Festival is coming to the Eye Cinema from the 12th April to the 16th. http://www.jff.ie/
For those who would are looking for more action and adventure, there is the Galway Water Sports Show on the 11th and 12th of April. http://galwaywatersportshow.com/
For the brave at heart who long to be at one with the elements, The Western Lakes and Atlantic Challenge (WLAC) might be what you are after. This cycling challenge suits everyone; it includes a short cycle (family friendly) and also a long cycle for the more athletically gifted. Taking place on the 26th April, it gives you enough time to get into shape before the big day. http://www.wlac.ie/
The Cúirt International Festival of Literature takes place in Galway City this year and it runs from the 21st April to the 28th and includes authors such as Colm Toibin and Jane Hershfield. From a celebration of Yeats to a Poetry Slam, the festival includes an eclectic mix that caters to many audiences. http://www.cuirt.ie/en
Over the summer there will continue to be exciting events so be sure to keep a look out for upcoming events in Galway for Summer 2015.
Where to Eat?
Despite its diminutive size as far as cities go, you can always find somewhere to eat and all appetites are catered for. Whether it is a salad and a healthy juice or hearty pub grub and a nice pint, Galway will have it. Here are my top places to eat depending on the mood you or in or your dietary requirements.
Weekend Brunch
As brunch continues to gain popularity across Ireland and we scratch our heads to think of what life was like before it became part of our weekend ritual, here is the lowdown to Galway’s best brunch options.
Gourmet Tart Co. in Salthill is a great place to go for something quick and delicious. It has a lovely deli and bakery section as well as serving lunch and dinner. On the weekends they cater for the brunch clientele and it is always tasty and the service is reliable. Rachael’s recommendations: brioche French toast, as it is zesty and sweet. http://www.gourmettartco.com/
My favourite place to spend a Sunday morning in Galway is Ard Bia at Nimmos. From the cakes displayed at the entrance door, to the stone bar, to the fresh juices, to the menu, everything is perfection! This place is hidden away under the Spanish Arches and is a must try. Not only is the food delicious but also the vibe is great and the building itself is quaint and full of character. The waiter’s laid back but friendly attitude will make you feel at home especially after a night on the town. Rachael’s recommendations: my absolute favourite brunch dish from here is the buttermilk pancakes, they are fluffy cakes of heaven and with honey, mascarpone and berries accompanied, they are the perfect Sunday treat. http://www.ardbia.com/
Ard Bia at Nimmo’s, Spanish Arches, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Ard Bia at Nimmo’s, Spanish Arches, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Ard Bia at Nimmo’s, Spanish Arches, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Art fro sale in Ard Bia at Nimmo’s, Spanish Arches, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Gourmet Tart Co. Salthill, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Lunch
For lunch in the city my best recommendation is McCambridges. Based conveniently on Shop Street in the city centre this is a charming spot. While it may not look like much from the outside, inside there is a large delicatessen grocery store full of specialist foods and a coffee spot. Upstairs is the restaurant and you can often be kept waiting to get your hands on their delectable lunch options. Rachael’s recommendations: the falafel wrap and don’t forget to order a side of sweet potato fries. They have nice desserts for afters as well. https://mccambridges.com/
McCambridges, Shop Street, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Coffee in the sun. McCambridges, Shop Street, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
McCambridges, Shop Street, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Dinner
For a fairly fancy dining experience that costs a little extra, it has to be Kai. Based just outside the city centre on Sea Road, this small spot offers something unique to its punters. With a constantly changing menu, Kai keeps you on your toes and everything is made with fresh and organic ingredients and for vegetarians out there, the options are always great. With mains starting at €20 it is not a cheap option but you won’t be disappointed in quality or taste. http://kaicaferestaurant.com/
If you are craving something more exotic, check out eastern Tandoori. With reasonable prices, attentive staff and delicious Indian cuisine, Eastern Tandoori is a hit in my books. Based on Spanish Parade it is easily accessible for those spending the day in the city centre. Rachael’s recommendations: onion bhaji to start followed by tikka masala and garlic naan bread. http://eastern-tandoori-galway.com/
Eastern Tandoori, Spanish Parade, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Pub Grub Dinner
There are plenty of pubs to choose from and here are a couple of pubs that do great drinks and food too. A few pints or glasses of wine, paired with hearty and flavoursome food might be the ticket after a busy day in Galway.
Everyone who goes to Galway should venture to Salthill, this seaside town is only a ten-minute drive from the city centre and is packed with pubs. Oslo is one that combines a good atmosphere, craft beer and great food perfectly. After taking a stroll down the promenade, be sure to pop in to Oslo for a drink and some food. Rachael’s recommendations: the falafel burger or the broiled salmon. http://www.galwaybaybrewery.com/oslo/
A little bit further outside the city you will find a pub that holds a restaurant upstairs, Tom Sheridan’s Bar & Restaurant in Knocknacarra. You may need a car to venture out here but if you have a rented car or you are willing to get a taxi, you can spend an enjoyable evening here. Rachael’s recommendations: traditional fish and chips but most items I have tried have not disappointed. http://tomsheridans.ie/
Where to Party?
Galway is known as a student city and a party place. Whether you are a student out with classmates or on a long weekend off from work or on a hen/stag do, there are plenty of places to let your hair down with a few drinks and some music. While there are much fewer clubs in Galway compared to Dublin, there is an abundance of pubs and a few nightclubs worth visiting.
Pubs
As well as the pubs mentioned for pub grub there are a couple of city centre pubs that stand out for me.
Tigh Neachtain’s is in the centre of the city and covers all bases for a popular Irish pub. It is over 100 years old so it has character and history, they host live music nights and have over 130 types of whiskey, what more could you want? http://www.tighneachtain.com/
Located on the same street in the Latin Quarter is The Quays. This pub trumps Tigh Neachtain as it is nearly 400 years old and it also provides music throughout the week. This area of town is always buzzing and a great place to start your evening off. http://www.galwaycitypubguide.com/the-quays.html
The Quay’s, Latin Quarter, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Tigh Neachtain, Cross Street, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Tigh Neachtain, Cross Street, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Clubs
The nightclub scene is not huge in Galway as more emphasis is placed on pubs but there are two nightclubs worth visiting if you have the stamina to keep going after visiting the Galway pubs.
Halo is situated on Upper Abbeygate Street and is an upmarket spot. It is over 23s however so not suitable for the younger students. It has a smoking area and has sizeable dance floor areas and with cocktails for under €10 it is pretty reasonable as far as club prices go. http://www.halonightclub.com/
Karma Club is another popular nightclub and is conveniently located on Eyre Square. It is a good spot to hit after 12.00 am when you are looking to keep the party going till the early hours, just be aware nightclubs in Galway close earlier and you will be out on the streets by 2.30 am. http://www.karma.ie/
Coffee and Cake
If you have little interest in hitting the bars, there are plenty of cute coffee and tea joints around town. My favourites are Cupan Tae, which will wow you with its kitschy furnishings and mouth watering homemade cakes and its neighbour, Pura Vida. They do great coffees and juices and it has a substantial outdoor area for a seat in the sun.
Cupan Tae, Quay Lane, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Cupan Tae, Quay Lane, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Pura Vida, Quay Street, Galway. Photo by Rachael Hussey
Whatever you enjoy doing on a weekend away Galway certainly has it. Only two hours by car from Dublin and with hourly buses leaving from the quays in the city centre for only €12 single journey, check Galway out this year for an idyllic staycation.
It is said that most men fall head over heels for a gorgeous physique, hair extensions and high heels…
Although physical appearance can be the first thing men notice, when it comes to settling down ‘looks’ often come in last and count the least. For some men it can come as a surprise if they don’t recognise the woman that they’ve woken up next to.
Yes of course, there will be some men who love hair extensions. They adore seeing you when you turn your head around, and strands of your hair go all over and all that’s visible is some artificial hair trying to escape from the back of your scalp. The best part about hair extensions is when a girl feels comfortable enough to whip them off in front of the guy – that always goes down a treat.
But that is not all. Believe it or not, a gorgeous physique is besides the point. The things men like in women often have nothing to do with looks. Here are seven completely non-physical things men like in a women and I am pretty much sure that you will tick and confirm many more. Every man loves to be with a woman who is:
A GOOD LISTENER
Many men appreciate a woman who is able to listen. They like to be heard and someone who shows them that they care. This involves being patient as well, you need to understand what a man meant to say and show them that you are there for him.
Ideally, a woman who has the ability to listen and really hear what is being said is one of the women many men love.
SPONTANEOUS
Most men like being able to “go with the flow”. Most of our male friends find this trait very appealing. You know what, you will never hear a man sing in front of a woman but they mostly love to hear women sing even if it sounds more like howling, it does not matter, they just like it. They love to see women dance around the house, they will gladly surprise a woman if they know the reaction will be positive and they love to see them being themselves (even if it involves a certain dose of silliness).
A GOOD COOK
It is said that the only way to get to a man’s heart is through his stomach! Well, most men would love a woman who can cook and be would be more than willing to learn to cook for them.
A REAL GIRL
Men love a real girl not the fake one, a girl who likes to smile, the one who does not care what others are thinking of her smile, her lips, teeth or whatever. A girl who can tell a joke, who does not use “words” like OMG, a girl who will not limit herself or have a nervous breakdown every time her foundation starts running.
CARING
Men will want to know whether you care for them or not but you have to be careful because repeating “I love you” until he cannot take it anymore is not a good way to let him know how you feel. A typical man will tell you that he loves you once and show you how much he loves you five times. Women should do the same and stop repeating “ I love you” rather than surprising him every once in a while, listen to his problems – show him everything you want to tell him because this quality is one of the very important things men like in women.
TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF
Believe it or not taking care of yourself will show your man that you will take good care of him as well. Men actually like when women spend money on all the creams and beauty products. They enjoy all the benefits of our waxing, beauty treatments and shopping.
NATURAL WHEN IT COUNTS
Just because we like makeup does not mean that we have to wear it all of the time. Men love a girl who is natural when it counts. But I tell you what, a guy loves it when a girl doesn’t take two hours to look perfect when, in his opinion, she is perfect no matter what. He wants a girl who is so confident in herself, who doesn’t need anything but herself.
counts. But I tell you what, a guy loves it when a girl doesn’t take two hours to look perfect when, in his opinion, she is perfect no matter what. He wants a girl who is so confident in herself, who doesn’t need anything but herself.
St. Patrick’s Day in Ireland is one of celebration and fun, a time to spend together with friends and family and the one day you’re allowed to break lent. St. Patrick’s Day is a day filled with traditions and superstitions. St Patrick’s Day in Ireland is a day to celebrate our heritage and be proud to be Irish.
The Parade
Every Irish household knows about the St. Patricks day parade, and if they don’t they are not truly Irish! If you are not going to attend the parade then you are most likely sitting at home watching it on the television. Every year, RTE film the parade from start to finish. David Fallon who blogged live from the parade last year describes the parade in his own words, “I remember an Irish wolfhound the size of a bungalow trotting in front of the tooting Boston bands, and youngsters peering over their parents’ head via makeshift ladders. Everyone in the crowd had two things in common- green gear and smiles”.
Themes
Each year the parade is based around a specific theme that is evident throughout the parade. In 2014 the theme was ‘Let’s Make History’. This year the theme will explore the ‘Present’ with the theme for 2016 being ‘Future’.
Céilí dance
Céilí dancing is a popular form of folk dancing that is practiced predominantly in the Gaeltacht areas. But around St.Patrick’s day schools across the country begin to hold Céilí dances and teach the students popular Céilí dances.
Music
The culture of Irish music is being forgotten along with the Irish Language. St. Patrick’s Day is vital for the survival of Irish folk music. The Pogues and The Dubliners version of Irish Rover is a traditional St Patrick’s day song along with “Some say the Devil is Dead” written by Derek Warfield, who is an Irish Singer, songwriter and the founding member of the music group the Wolfe Tones. “Molly Malone” and “The Fields of Athenry” are two very popular Irish songs that are sung or played in the majority of Irish pubs on St. Patrick’s Day.
Drinking
St. Patrick’s Day is the one day of the year when it is considered acceptable to get very drunk. Family members gather together to have dinner and a few pints in pubs across Ireland to chat about the Parade and hear bands play traditional Irish Music.
St. Patrick’s Day is a very sociable day, family member’s gather to attend the parade. There are a lot of activities taking place on St. Patrick’s Day including; face painting, many performances by hip-hop groups as well as traditional Céilí dancing. The day begins with getting the kids dressed up for the parade, but ends with a few pints of Guinness in the local pub.
The letter takes you by complete surprise. You assume it is just another letter from God knows whom. But when your eyes spot the ‘Central Criminal Courts of Justice’ stamp on the back you begin to panic. What could I have done? Did I forget to pay for the Tv license or drive away from the garage without paying for petrol?
No. The letter is opened and the dreaded words “You have been summoned for Jury Duty at the Central Criminal Courts of Justice” are revealed. Suddenly you find yourself wishing the letter had been about the Tv license or forgetting to pay for petrol.
Most people believe jury service is a doss week, an excuse to get paid for doing nothing. I’d beg to differ. In fact, the majority of the time you’re sitting around drinking coffee and wishing the day would finally end.
Every day is like Groundhog Day. You walk in through large glass doors and are greeted by metal detectors and bag scanners. Once you’ve passed through security, you then have to check in for roll call. This process involves calling out every person’s name that was summoned for jury duty, which means calling out approximately 200 peoples names. Every person reacts with surprise, as though they were not expecting their name to be called and wish that somehow there has been a mistake and they might somehow be sent home to get on with their lives.
After roll call, half the people in the room flood out and go straight to the smoking area. This is an area that was once empty but now looks like a tin of sardines. There are people crammed into every corner. The other half slowly rises and head toward the complementary coffee stand, the queue standing the length of the room.
All of a sudden the room goes eerily quiet as the jury controller calls out that “the judge will be appearing on the screen so please take your seats and make sure you can see the television clearly”. On a screen that was once a blank appears a judge in a white wig, looking very serious.
If your name is called you must wait in line until fourteen jurors have been picked. You then walk behind a jury controller into the courts, where the judge is sat upon a tall podium. The defendant is left of the judge and you are brought to the right . You are then told the charges that have been put against the defendant and how long the case is estimated to last. We were only dealing with a minor charge so the maximum time we would have to attend the courts for is six to seven days.
If you are called into the courts the defendant has the right to challenge you, which means that you have been eliminated from the jury panel for that particular case. As the jurors who have been challenged walk back into the waiting areas you can just see a look of relief spread across their face.
This process lasts four long days and if you were picked for jury service in the courts you must attend for the duration of the case. If you are lucky enough to make it through the four days without being picked, you are no longer required to attend the courts, and are free to go. Attending jury service was a very interesting and unique experience. Its very time consuming, however it is worth the time to see the court process and to see how jurors are picked.
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