Wonderment Behind the Front Door (Ireland)

Author: Rhonda Page
Date of Trip: May 2001

We decided to go to Ireland for our honeymoon. I will remember the building my entire life. We ended up on an Island called Valencia. We liked to drive and get lost and enjoyed anything we found. Little did I know that we were about to find a treasure the likes I have never found since. The couple were Irish and spoke English. And yes, dinner and breakfast came with the room. Little did I know that Valencia Island was a worldwide destination for divers. That the gulf stream went right by us.

At dinner, we met folks from France, Belgium, Switzerland. At dinner we were served a gourmet meal of seafood, like I have never had since. The people were all so interesting, vital, excited to be there and alive. A short walk brought us to thatched roofs, a pub with pints and fiddles and penny wise, and the most wonderful people. If we had tried to plan a visit to a place with a perfect B and B, great folks, gourmet food, beautiful oceanfront views, a pub, and all heated by by bog……impossible you might say. I treasure this memory, and it started a lifetime of other wonderful memories. I learned that if we have no expectations, the gift is when the knock is answered and you are welcomed with a smile. Thank you.

Valencia is a small town with houses with thatched roofs. The area is filled with beautiful flowers because the gulf stream is right there. The ocean is bright blue. The local pub is the only restaurant, and the food is as authentic as you get. Dingle is not far and has wonderful shops, and restaurants.I remember that we actually ran into an american celebrity who I can’t remember now in a shop. The B and B on Valencia had no sign or name, Yet, it was full with divers. We asked some folks at the side of the rode, and they told us where to go.

We had no idea what a wonderful treat we were in for. The home was heated with peat, and linens we truly linen and ironed. The owners were Irish, and bought the house because they knew that the divers would come. We went out on a diving boat and it was one of the most spectacular experiences of our lives. We followed the road, our instincts, and were truly welcomed by strangers.