Killarney, population approximately 10,000, is a relatively small town in County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland. It's well known for its beautiful scenery, friendly people, the fact that there are about 65 pubs, and its world class golf course - if you're into golf.

Other things it is well known for are rain, rain, and, occasionally, rain. This doesn't seem to deter the tourists, who flock to the town by the plane-load, which is not necessarily a bad thing. Most tourists are out to have a good time. Therefore, they force other people to have a good time, too. As a result, in the summer at least, this is one buzzing town. There are always interesting people to talk to, places to visit, things to do, and beers to drink.

What to See and Do

One of the interesting places to go is a nice little pub in the centre of town called the Strawberry Tree, or Yer Man's as it is known locally. It's a fairly dark place, with oodles of atmosphere provided by the candles and patrons. It feels like a cross between a pirate's den and a nightclub chill-out room. Of course, they play great music, too.

Another place well worth seeing is the Killarney National Park. It boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes and highest mountains in Ireland. It's teeming with wildlife (birds, foxes, deer, and birdwatchers), and the chances of actually seeing the animals while you're out for a walk are quite good.

Killarney is also within half an hour's drive of several beaches, notably Rossbeigh. This is a great beach for swimming, with plenty of white sand and blue water. Unless it rains, in which case the water is a kind of dark grey, to go along with the nice threatening black clouds.

In the winter, things go pretty quiet. Actually, dead would be a better way to describe it. The population seems to fall to about 300, and a lot of places (especially hotels and nightclubs) close for the winter, or only stay open weekends. Still, there's always Yer Man's!