I am really getting into this whole blog thing...as if you can't tell. I keep finding things to add! Below, I am telling you my 21 Travel Tips for Ireland. These come from experience. Yes, some of them are corny, but I do mean well. Just remember that as you are reading! Heather

1. Pack at least one full change of clothes in your carry on. Put at least 2 pairs of socks and underwear in too, just in case your luggage gets lost. I know this from experience! It is not fun wearing the same underwear and socks for two days.

2. Pack the following in your carry on: toothbrush and paste, deoderant, hair brush and something to wash your face with ( I prefer Olay Daily Face Wash cloths with the soap already in them). You feel a whole lot better when you can wash your face and brush your teeth after being on a plane all night. I did this and it was a god send! I felt like a new women after I brushed my teeth and washed my face.

3. Buy all the batteries and film you think you will use before you leave home. Film and batteries are very expensive and you really don't have any choice of brands...it's Kodak and Duracell- no "cheaper" brands.

4. If you plan on calling home, purchase pre-paid calling cards once you get to Ireland. They come in various denominations and can be found virtually anywhere.

5. Tie a colorful ribbon around the handle of your suitcase, especially if it is blue or black, since most luggage is that color. It is much easier to pick out your luggage when you have something that sets it apart.

6. If you buy something big or breakable, ( ie Waterford or Belleek) ask the store where you purchased it if they will ship it home for you. Some will do it for free or for a small fee. This keeps you from lugging it around and having it take up room in your suitcase.

7. Don't buy Belleek or Waterford at the factory unless the pieces are limited editions and can only be purchased there. You can almost always find the pieces cheaper at Blarney Woolen Mills or some shops in Killarney, Blarney or Bunratty.

8. Pack all the things you think you want to take with you and then take half of them out. Remember, less is more! You can always pick up a sweatshirt or sweater once you get to Ireland. Pack things that you can mix and match and don't show dirt....in case you need to wear them again. Layers are key. Also, take two pairs of walking shoes since you never know when it might rain and who wants to walk around wearing wet tennis shoes?

9. Sleep on the flight-even if it means taking something to make you sleep. It sure beats being up for 24-30 hours. Get your body on the time zone you are going to as soon as possible. Once you have gotten yourself situated set your watch to the local time. You'll thank yourself once you've landed and you are awake and ready to take in all the sites on the first day.

10. This is for all those Catholic people out there....Go to Mass in Ireland! It is one of my most fond memories. Plus, the Irish Mass is very short!

11. Meet the local people! They are worth their weight in gold...no blarney!

12. In Bunratty, eat at Durty Nelly's! It is the quintessential Irish pub! It has been around forever! It is a true Irish experience!

13. During the summer months, the sun doesn't go down until 10-10:30. Don't be fooled by this! Go to bed if you want to set out early the next day!

14. Keep a journal! Or, keep a blog!

15. Visit those quirky tourist sites and those things that you read about in the guides. I loved finding the Molly Malone statue and taking a picture of herself with her cart!

16. Stop and listen to some traditional Irish music!

17. Have Advil with you at all times. Your legs start hurting after walking for a long time and also after being on a plane. Like batteries and film, medicine can get pricey, bring it from home.

18. When you order a soft drink, ask for a glass of ice. Sounds dumb I know, but some places don't serve it that way unless you ask. If you are like me, I like to have drinks with me where I am staying. Pick some up at a gas station or store while you are out. It is much cheaper than picking them up from a vending machine.

19. Read travel guides like Lonely Plant and Frommers. Check out sites like BootsNall.com. Anytime you can get information from other travellers, it is good. Remember, people who take the time to submit things on a website are usually very honest.

20. Remember that in foreign countries, various language is acceptable and is often heard on the street and on television. Remember, you aren't at home anymore..."When in Rome..." you get the hint.

21. Most of all, just have fun! Enjoy the trip and just take it all in! This is something you will remember for the rest of your life!