Today we’re visiting The Republic of Ireland. That is to say, the country which occupies the majority of the island of Ireland. The country most people think of when they think of Ireland. 

Ireland is arguably culturally closer to my own (the UK) than any other country. It’s the only other country that knows how to do a pub. Or even what a pub actually is. Not to mention the Irish also serve beer in the correct glass size, and at the correct temperature.

Irish and British humour, (something for which both cultures are known,) are strikingly similar. Irish humour leans heavily on irony, sarcasm, and self-deprecation and a twist of the macabre. If you want to understand what I mean, watch Father Ted, The Guard or almost anything with Dylan Moran.

Our shared histories are so interconnected and intertwined. Not all of this interconnectedness has led to good outcomes. The Irish even drink more tea per-head than the British. (That’s the only interesting fact you’re getting from me today.*)

Even though I’ve so far spent all of this post justifying ways in which I think I known Ireland, I have an awkward confession. I’ve never been to Ireland. Yes, that’s correct, I’ve never visited the only country which shares a land border with my own country. 

I have been to the island of Ireland though, on a brief trip to Belfast. Today we celebrate the Republic though, and for all of my claims that I understand Irish culture, beer and comedy, I’ve never actually visited.

I pledge to fix this as soon as travel is permitted, and safe again. 

Right, it’s time for a pint of Guinness 

* Actually I have come up with another (anecdotal) fact. The only people I have ever known who cook potatoes in multiple ways for the same meal are all Irish.