You’ve already proven lucky in love, but why not keep your streak going? Luck (as well as a lot of Guinness) is what’s on tap in Ireland. And once you spend a few days on the Emerald Isle, you’ll begin to understand just how lucky you are. One of the country’s greatest treasures is its people. The Irish are genuinely interested in others’ stories and are quick to tell theirs. That’s probably why some of the best experiences are often had inside a local pub. But there’s also a fabulous world beyond the brew that’s worth exploring. Glorious castles and storybook villages dot pastoral countrysides and dramatic coastlines you’ve seen only in the movies.
Wedding Requirements For starters, you must give three months’ written notice to the registrar’s office in the district where you intend to marry. This registrar will send you all the forms to complete, but you’ll need to bring your passports, copies of your birth certificates, and certified copies of divorce or death certificates, if they apply. Once the office has received your paperwork, you’ll have to complete a brief residency stay (a minimum of nine days, which includes the day you arrive and the day you meet with the registrar) and then appear in person at the registrar’s office. You’ll be issued a marriage certificate and can marry anytime after the 22-day waiting period. Both civil and religious ceremonies are legally recognized, but religious ones require additional paperwork, depending on the church you choose. For more information, visit groireland.ie/getting_married.htm.
What to Do
Dublin Although Dublin is a big city, its distinct neighborhoods wrap you in their embrace and create a small-town experience. That said, you can see quite a bit of the city on foot in a couple of days. Obviously a pub stop is in order, and with places like the Temple Bar area, taprooms aren’t hard to find. Other famed spots include Trinity College (where you’ll see the Book of Kells and the exquisite Long Room), Chester Beatty Library, Christ Church and St. Patrick’s cathedrals, Dublin Castle, and the Guinness Storehouse (there’s a killer view of the city from the Gravity Bar).
Galway, Killarney and Beyond Since Ireland is a country of manageable size, it’s easy to take off by rental car and see many fantastic spots in a few days. The southern curve of the country from Dublin to Galway is scattered with some of the island’s best offerings. Near Tipperary is the Rock of Cashel, a cluster of formidable ruins with a stately history. A few minutes from Cork City is Blarney Castle; here’s where you take a break from kissing each other and plant one on the famed stone. Gap of Dunloe, near Killarney, is your next must-see. This narrow mountain pass formed by volcanic activity gives you one stunning photo op after another. And in terms of spectacular scenery, the Cliffs of Moher (six miles from Lahinch) are Ireland’s pot of gold. These dramatic bluffs will convince you that the earth is flat and you’ve reached the end of the world.
Belfast and Northern Ireland The Golden Mile is your starting point for exploring the city. This tourist route takes you past several key sights, including many examples of Belfast’s stunning Victorian-style architecture. For 15 minutes of romance (and stellar views), take a ride in the Wheel of Belfast. Splurge on the Ferris wheel’s VIP capsule, which includes a glass floor and a glass of bubbly. Next up is the Crown Bar, where you can enjoy the perfect pint and a plate of oysters in one of its cozy “snugs.” And since you’re in Titanic Town (once Belfast’s nickname), check out Titanic’s Dock & Pump-House, where the ill-fated ship was built over 100 years ago. Once you’re ready to slow it down, head north via the coast to Giant’s Causeway to see the bizarre and fascinating aftermath of an ancient volcanic eruption. And be prepared to make many impromptu stops in the area, as you’ll be surrounded by postcard-perfect villages and incredible castle ruins (Dunluce Castle is a must).
Off the Beaten Path
Dingle Couples looking to disappear for a while should make a beeline for picturesque Dingle, on the west coast. This seaside escape isn’t overrun with tourists and has plenty of options for shopping, eating and drinking -- at a leisurely pace. And the sweeping views of the peninsula’s coast are an added bonus. Although the Ring of Kerry is the most popular drive along the coast, lesser-known Dingle Peninsula is equally as spectacular (and significantly less crowded). From Dingle, head west to Slea Head and up to Dunquin before circling back. What you’ll find is rugged mountains and seaside cliffs perched over crashing waves and sandy shores. Every turn will take your breath away. — Anita K. Henry
