See the world

Add comment August 26th, 2009

Once the travelbug bites, you’re a goner for life. Either he bites you or he doesn’t. I have some friends who have no desire to leave the city limits. They have no interest in seeing the great big world. I may not understand that mentality but I try to respect it. For me, I want to travel.

I want to see all 50 states and I want to see whatever else I can see. It fascinated me that most folks I met in Europe had limited knowledge of the USA - they knew of Vegas and Disney World. Can you imagine basing an opinion of a country on those two extremes? 

As a tourist it is hard to get a real flavor of a country if you just hit what is in the travelogue brochures. Getting a little lost can be good.  Hanging out with a local can also be the way to experience what a place is really like.

One place that has been on my wish list since college is Ireland. Last fall I announced a trip (via my newspaper column) to Ireland with fellow writer friend and Irishman PJ Francis and his wife Helena. Long story short the economy tanked and everyone was too hesitant to spend the money so we cancelled our plans.

Like I said, when the travelbug bites, there is no fighting it. The trip is back on and we are going St. Patrick week, March 2010. This allows plenty of time to save money and get your passport. The weeklong trip will cost about a grand plus airfare. If you sign up before October 30, there is a $200 discount per couple. For all the details, email me at kel_epperson@yahoo.com.

The Emerald Isle. I think it will be good for you. I know it will be good for me.