7 Take Aways from Donegal Women in Business Conference 2015! #WomenBeyondBorders

Today was my very first event with Donegal Women in Business and it was brilliant, I took my best friend and I'm so glad we went. How cool is it to be in a room filled with other entrepreneurs? 

I got so much from this event I wanted to share:

1 – There’s never a right time to start the journey to self-employment, just go for it. Make the decision, then make the decision right. Just do it! With WIB you have support!

2 – Business is about people, never forget that and its how you make them feel that matters, people buy from people – Be Yourself in business, you sell you best by just being you. Samantha Kelly

3 – I loved this from Leona of Broighter Gold -  "Using what you have in your own place". This is so true, we tend to look beyond what we have in our reach. For me, building my business over the last 4 years, I didn't look further than my place. Place can be so powerful in business. 

4 – You can secure major accounts using Twitter to connect with potential clients, by just using the resources you have to build your business from home, mother of two Leona of Broighter Gold had little knowledge of marketing - she just did it!! I love that. 

5 -  "The days of pension and a job for life are long gone, you can carve out a life yourself in rural ireland and still work on a global platform, inspired by place and bonded with the community in which you live"  – hear hear Kathy Donaghy - Fabulous dress!

6 – Samantha Kelly – You just don’t know where your next customer or client is going to come from, speak to everyone, call everyone, don’t choose and don’t judge. (I met a potential client on the loo today) 

7 - Introducing who you are what you do takes a lot of guts, I loved the opportunity Samantha Kelly opened up today for people to say who they are and what they do. That was powerful and for me one of the most inspiring moments of the whole event! Nice one Samantha. 

A fabulous bit of networking with Donegal Women in Business, roll on 2016!

Ar aghaidh linn in 2016 le Gréasán Gnó Mhná Dhín na nGall. 

Is mise Moira Ní Ghallachóir, I'm based in Gweedore, West Donegal and I've worked my ass off to build my business in tourism. By making difference locally helping people have a dream experience in Ireland. After 4 years of getting to know what works, I'm now helping people build their dream businesses with clients from Donegal to America and all from this wee corner of Ireland. I'm so grateful for my best friend Sally Murphy who without her support and unique creativity and faith in me I would've struggled. Its a simple thing having the support of another woman, but so feckin powerful all the same! 

If you want my weekly tips on building your dream business, click here. 

Slán go fóill. 

Moira 

Moira Ní Ghallachóir and Sally Murphy - Donegal Women in Business 2015 #WomenBeyondBorders

Rock agus Roam - Cleamhnas Ceilteach - Tory Island 2nd - 4th October 2015

A cháirde,

Are you sick of Tinder and POF? Check out our latest Rock & Roam. Click here for all the information & booking. 

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8 did you knows about Irish Whiskey - Experience more with the Whiskey Pilgrimage Donegal

Whiskey was invented in Ireland by the monks, what a smart bunch. It’s only apt that a Whiskey Pilgrimage would exist in the oldest county in Ireland to pay homage to the legends and the stories that connect with this global water of life and the land that it was created, right? Ireland's only The Whiskey Pilgrimage is inspired by the many Americans I’ve met over the last 3 years of creating customised tours of Ireland. This one is for you. Ireland & Whiskey together as one for a reason. I’ve picked up a lot of interesting bits while putting this package together, so here’s 8 bits I’d like to share:

1 – “Whiskey is Irish. It cannot be made to the same quality anywhere else in the world. It is the Irish climate, Irish water is good, as is the barley, but it is the climate that gives Irish Whiskey the unique mellow flavour. The oak barrels breath in the gentle climate. Too hot, like the US in the summer and the oak expands, allowing quicker and harsher maturation. Too cold like Canada and Scotland and the oak closes up, reducing maturation, a moist climate brushed by winds from Gulf Streams coming in from the Atlantic Ocean is perfect”. John Teeling, founder of Cooley distillery – Irish Edge, Orpen Press 2013.

2 – Irish Whiskey is spelt with an “e” and Scotch Whisky, without the 'e".

3 – Whiskey was perfected by the ancient Celts, who gave its name, ‘Uisce Beatha”  in Irish meaning “water of life” and forming the word Whiskey.

4 – In the year 1779 there were 1,200 Whiskey distilleries in Ireland, dramatically reducing to less than 3 in the 80’s.  Kilbeggan. Co Westmeath is the oldest distillery in the world although Bushmills could be too. (Irish Edge, Orpen Press)

5 – Whiskey is best taken with a drop of water. In every traditional Irish bar, you’ll find a small jug placed on the counter to add that vital drop of uisce to the whiskey. Apparently this is to prevent ones senses being numbed. But sure who knows if that works.

6 – Are you a whiskey and ice drinker? Ice dulls the taste of the Whiskey and reduces the temperature so dramatically. One small cube is acceptable. 

7 - Irish whiskey is distilled three times, "triple-distilled," using pure-malted barley as the grain. By comparison bourbon is made with corn giving it a sweeter taste.

8 – The Pogues are to launch their own brand of whiskey ths year. With a unique flavour said to have chocolate and citrus undertones. Anything the Pogues do is good with me. They’ll surely find out about the Whiskey Pilgrimage and come on a rampage to Donegal, we can’t wait.

Are you ready to let the spirit guide you in Ireland on a once in a life time Whiskey Pilgrimage in the most undiscovered corner of Ireland? This is how to experience Ireland in two days, like other visitors who visit and search for Ireland never will. I always say, what would you rather, come to Ireland and visit distilleries with all the other tourists OR get off the beaten track and come drink whiskey with a king and learn about the legends and stories that makes Irish the most celebrated culture in the world. You certainly won’t find it in the tourist traps. And no matter the weather, the Whiskey Pilgrimage is all about those moments in 200 year old bars, the stories told and the wind howling outside. Cosy, authentic and unforgettable. 

The tour is based in Donegal which has a very strong connection with Scotland, this makes the location for this tour all the more special. You can dig deeper into your ancestry with our genealogists, fireside over a whiskey. Sounds good right?  Click here to view the tour and to book. 

Are you visiting Ireland soon? Click here and book a free consultation and let me make sure you experience the Ireland of your dreams. 

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“I’ve been visiting Ireland for 8 years, and Moira showed me more of Irish Culture in one day than I have ever experienced, it was what I had imagined Ireland to be, but never found it until now”

— Nancy Gardella, Executive Director of Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce

I reference The Irish Edge many times in this blog - I can't recommend this book highly enough. If you're in business in Ireland, this is a must read. Click here to view. 

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Donegal is just like Co. Clare but without the tourists

Dolmen, The Burren. 

I'm just back from a wonderful week down the West coast of Ireland, in The Burren in Co. Clare, wow. The Burren is hopping with tourists, it has been this way for years but now more than ever. I saw so many tour buses packed with tourists.

Donegal is a lot like Co. Clare but without the tourists and steady stream of buses. Co. Clare is overrun with visitors and Donegal is the undiscovered corner of Ireland tucked away on the edge of Europe with few visitors, although our secret is slowly getting out. I found myself wondering as I watched all the buses 'are those tourists really experiencing Ireland? I know some travellers prefer the commercial hotspots, the standard Irish experience and that can be a wonderful but perhaps they're not aware that there are alternatives. Ireland has so much more to offer. 

mngTours offer a whole other experience entirely, not just scratching the surface. Imagine, no queues, no gimmicks and no other tourists. Our tours give back to the community, we use all local services and resources, we embrace the culture by attending local events and joining other locals in activities. Its makes for a much more enriching experience, one where you make friends for life and feel connected to the Irish way of life. Not only will you experience the Ireland of your dreams but your visit will make a positive impact on the local economy and our culture. Does that appeal to you? 

Your arrival in Donegal will be unforgettable, it will feel like coming home. Imagine arriving by plane to the edge of Western Europe at Donegal airport (just 50 mins from Dublin) to the warmest Irish welcome you'll ever experience. We'd go straight to Leos' Tavern, the home of Clannad and Enya and begin your vacation with some tunes and a whiskey or two, as part of our Whiskey Pilgrimmage, all will be in true Irish style. Each day we'll guide you through our landscapes telling stories that will inspire your imagination, touch your soul, move your spirit, and bring you to a level where you feel the peace of being removed from the frantic pace of modern life.

Europe's Highest Sea Cliffs - Slieve League or Sliabh Liag - Donegal. 

“I’ve been visiting Ireland for 8 years, and Moira showed me more of Irish Culture in one day than I have ever experienced, it was what I had imagined Ireland to be, but never found it until now”

— - Nancy Gardella, Executive Director of Martha's Vineyard Chamber of Commerce

Moira Ní Ghallachóir, founder & CEO of mngTours

I was jumping over myself at that comment, it means so much to get that kind of reaction. Ultimately, I started this business when I moved back home to Donegal 3 years ago, after living away for 18 years, because I want to make a difference in my community and my culture. I want to help people get the real deal and not a manufactured version of Ireland or any "Paddy Whackery". I just love hosting Americans, and if there's one thing I've learned it's how proud they are of their Irish roots. I want to honour that, so our tours have genealogists that will research your 'clanns' before you get here, at no extra cost. And lets be honest, for many this is your one vacation in a year. We totally get that. 

“People have a dream of Ireland and I want to make that dream come true”

— Moira Ní Ghallachóír, founder of mngTours

There's no reason why your dream holiday in Ireland needs to wait any longer, get it from your bucket list and onto the lasting memory list forever, or until you return, because you always return home to Donegal. 

What date are you coming? October? November? Just choose your best date, and we do the rest for you....

*Discounts for groups of 8 or more if you mention this blogpost

*For bookings taken on or before the 10th August, we have two priceless bonuses. 

We're offering a "Whiskey Pilgrimage", in the company of the King of Tory*

AND 

*We'll make you a personal video of your Irish experience so you can take to take home and cherish. 

*Free with tours booked for October & November*

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If your visiting Ireland as part of the Web Summit - The Whiskey Pilgrimage is the ultimate experience to combine with a business trip to Ireland. Two days in heaven and Donegal is only 50mins by plane from Dublin!!

“In this globalised age, authentic experiences founded on tradition and sense of place are more valuable than ever. What makes mng distinctive is that this venture harnesses Ireland’s cultural and natural heritage as living resources. Rooted in the community, it is the essence of a green business, contributing greatly to ecological stewardship.
”

— - Finbarr Bradley, educator and co-author of The Irish Edge [Orpen Press, 2013]

The Irish language is stronger than ever

Ten reasons Donegal is world class 

Three years on and its Ireland to India

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Gweedore Golf club, a real hidden gem on the Wild Altantic Way, Donegal, Ireland

Donegal is a golfers paradise, with stunning courses all over the county such as Murvagh, Rosapena, Nairn and Cruit, but if its a natural classic links your looking for then you must experience Gweedore golf club, West Donegal. This is the perfect starting point for your holiday in Ireland, as you can fly direct from Dublin airport  to Donegal airport for €35 and be here in just 40mins. Gweedore Golf Club is a prime example of the gems you'll find in this undiscovered corner of Ireland. Here a round of Golf is only €15 for 4 hours. I think the locals have been trying to keep this gem all to themselves, but the secret is getting out as visitors touring the Wild Atlantic Way are looking for unique places to tee off to the sound of the Atlantic ocean just metres away. 

The club is used mostly by local members, that's changing says Paul, one of the long term members of the club, "we're noticing more visitors than ever before. We've been working hard on developing the course for the last 5 years from a noble 9 to a fighting 14 and we're not stopping there, soon we'll have an 18 hole course that can rival the best courses in the world".

As well as a loyal local following the club enjoys regular visitors from Northern Ireland, who say this course to be one of the best in the county. Even if you come unprepared, you can rent clubs on site. "We have many big events throughout the year, classics, mixed competitions, lots of women play here, we have very strong women’s league. In fact the women recently won the latest competition, in fact the women cleaned up on the last competition laughs Paul, they deserved it. 

 "Which shows the level of these ladies” Kathleen bar manager at the club says “one thing I really love about this club is how supportive the men are to the women players, its really encouraging, even when we win – and that’s very often, laughs Kathleen. Other clubs have a men’s only policy on Sundays for example, we don’t have that here".. The Máire O’Donnell Competition is the biggest event of the year,  Máire O'Donnell used to play for Ireland, one of our most famous lady golfers, she’s in her 90’s now,  Murvagh is her home club, "she was an amazing player, she didn't quite make it pro, but as good as, says Kathleen. We’re one of the strongest clubs in terms of women players, 10 years ago we didn’t exist, now we’re winning competitions – we won the West Coast Alliance, for the last 5 years, I really love being part of it. The scenery is spectacular, says Kathleen, people usually walk in and just can’t believe the location". But this Donegal secret is getting out.... 

"We forget how stunning the location is because we're here all the time, so when you see how visitors react to the islands, beaches and mountain views that surround the course, that really reminds us just how special this place is and we want to share that" says Paul.

"A couple from Sweden who were traveling the Wild Atlantic Way – made their way to Gweedore – all the way from Belfast to spend the day on the course and said it was worth every minute, they played 18 holes, enjoyed a pint of Guinness and some food as well as plenty of banter with the locals, says Kathleen. They had been in Dublin and didn’t really enjoy it she explains,  but thought Donegal is simply amazing". Lots of the work has been done voluntarily, a real community effort has brought this club to the standard it is today, and you can feel that when inside the club, that sense of community, with a warm Irish welcome for all their guests and members alike. I certainly felt welcome. 

Par 3 - Panoramic Views of all the Donegal Islands. 

Gweedore is known as Ireland's cradle of culture, this is a place where the Celt and the Gael are in abundance, where the Irish language is still spoken every day and ancient traditions survive. If your travelling with family, there is an endless choice of adventure and activity. 

Fun Fact: International local star Enya is a former player and the Clannad classic was here for years, and then changed it to Altan. Also a lot of Celtic players frequent, Martin McHugh and Packie Bonner all play here from time to time.

When to go?  "This is the perfect course for every weather type, says Paul, the layout of the course offers a natural drainage, with the sand and even If it does rain, you can save your fee and come back when it stops! The club is open all year round. 

John Mac Clean, The Sun Newspaper, is a regular visitor to Gweedore, so I asked him to contribute to my blog, this man is clearly inspired with this course, thanks John! 

"STANDING on the sixth tee at Gweedore Golf Club, I glanced to my right past the golden mile-long strand and the azure waters of the Atlantic to the white cottages of Inis Méan and Gola islands bathed in glorious sunshine little more than a mile away: a million-dollar view for just a handful of Euros, and with a game of golf thrown in for good measure. Not that I'd dare to suggest that these classic links are only worth visiting for the scenery. This unique collection of 14 greens and 18 tees spread out over an idyllic corner of Donegal's coastline offers numerous challenges and delights. White out-of-bounds posts extract cruel penalties from the wayward driver while scores of bumps and hillocks test every shot-maker's imagination. Truly, there are no boring holes at Gweedore. You can choose to play the first nine – including its mammoth, picturesque sixth – or shorter back nine, with its stunning short 15th, which is also down by the beach.

Ideally, though, you should find the time to visit all 14 tees and savour the thrill of plotting your way round a layout that, much like life itself, first heads for the ocean before returning home via a graveyard. Then you can linger awhile at the 19th hole to reward yourself with a pint or a whiskey (or both) served up in the clubhouse bar along with copious portions of good-humoured banter. There are very few rules to intimidate or annoy the casual visitor. If you can't find a tee, ask a local; they're a friendly bunch. If your shot hits one of the many big, white, furry grass-cutters that wander harmlessly round the course, just take it again; the sheep won't mind. Gweedore is an experience to be enjoyed by golfers of all standards. All for a fee that is less than you'd pay for any public or park course in the UK".  - John Maclean, The Sun Newspaper

Where to stay? I recommend Teac Campbell, Máire & Charlie have been running this central family guest house for 30 years, you'll be greeted with the smell of home baking and chickens roaming freely. Go leor gaeilge sa teach seo and good value for money. On a Saturday evening throughout the summer, they host a family friendly traditional music session. 

Máire & Charlie Campbell from Teach Campbell 

Where to eat? Gweedore Golf club offer light bar snacks, but just up the road you'll find Sean Ógs bar and restaurant, seafood is their speciality, the seafood chowder is known as the best, as well as many other local delights fresh from the sea, and at great prices. Expect a rustic feel, plenty of locals and always impeccable service. 

Music? Gweedore is home to Teach Huidaí Beag, or Hiudaís as its fondly known locally, here you will find the best Irish traditional music session in the country. Monday is their official night, but they also have sessions on Fridays and live music at the weekends. They also stock local craft beers and have a top shelf of the finest whiskey that should definitely be visited. Willy will look after you. 

Gweedore Golf Club is open 7 days a week, check out their facebook page for weekly competitions and if you would like more information, give them a call, they will be more than happy to help. Donegal Airport is just 15 minutes away from the club offering flights from Dublin and Glasgow. If you would like a unique weekend package with Golf coupled with the Whiskey Pilgrim tour contact Moira@mng.ie. Or join our newsletter for regular updates on our tours, adventures and how mng is helping businesses grow. 

Sunset Gweedore, Donegal, Ireland. Photo credit Joanna Melon. 

Days out in Donegal, Ireland, here's what the locals have shared with us...

Donegal is Ireland's hidden gem, the undiscovered county, with hidden gems, myths and legends, endless beaches cliffs and people that are some of the warmest and kind in the whole world. You know it must be good if it's what the locals say. So I asked a few if they would share their favourite places in Donegal, their perfect day out in this wonderful county. Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their secret places. 

"A perfect day for us is to get up early on a clear balmy day, and just when the tide is turning to go out, we go down the Gweebarra on our two man canoe. Because the canoe is at water level we really feel that we are part of the river, river life and nature in general. Everything is clean, clear and silent. The water is like glass and we paddle down to the mouth of the river, sometimes we stop to explore the islands or to swim. The seals pop up to have a look and swim under and around the canoe, they're very nosey! On the way home we stop to collect fresh mussels, the water in the Gweebara is sparkling and the mussels here are just the most succulent ant juicy I have ever eaten. We make our way home and cook our delicious fresh mussels in some white wine and garlic for lunch which we eat on the deck overlooking the river. This is what I dream of when we're not here, this is paradise. I feel so lucky to live in this amazing place" 

                                                                                                           - Marie & Tony, Leitirmacaward, Donegal 

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We're lucky to live in Inishowen, we have some of the best in the country right on our doorsteps. If the day is good we jump in the car, bring our towels and togs and some buckets and spades. Within 15 minutes we can be at Shroove Beach at Inishowen Head or at Culdaff Beach, both blue flag beaches. Kinnagoe Bay is our favourite. With its red sand and huge blue/green rolling waves this beach is great for exploring and climbing the rocks. We live on the shores of Lough Foyle and so literally we can throw a stone and hit the water. There are few days in life that we don't walk over the shore, picking up unusual shells and throwing stones. I love the smell of the sea. Even though I spent many years away from Donegal, there were many days when I longed for that fresh smell of sea air. I tell my sons to savour it and always remember what it's like because no matter where they go in the world, they will always think of home when they smell the sea"

                                                                                                                                                                             - Kathy Donaghy, journalist, Inishowen.

"There is nowhere more beautiful on this planet when the sun is shining in Donegal and in the community gardens the sun melts away our worries and the warm soil gives us happiness beyond belief . My name is Joanne Butler and I run OURganic gardens, a growing network of six gardens in Donegal. Never will you meet a happier bunch of people than in the community gardens. People sharing, people caring and people smiling. We get together in different locations every two weeks and work away getting our hands dirty and our hearts filled. A contented bunch of people if ever you saw them. The healing and health benefits that come from spending time in the garden make every day a great day . When OUR gardeners garden , it's not just the plants that grow, but the gardeners themselves. Come and join us at one of our gardening sessions, you will find our location here, everyone is welcome, visitors, neighbours, friends".

                                                                  - Joanne Butler, Gardener for the people, Caiseal na gCór & Derry

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"Donegal is a never-ending adventure for us. Our favourite days out are hopping in the camper and heading out from Ramelton where we live to wherever the mood and road takes us. Sometimes that's walking the Bridal Path in Glenveagh or trekking through the Bluestacks or exploring the coastal walks around Malin Head but our go-to place more often than not is the Fanad peninsula, partly because it's so near to where we live and we can get there quickly but mainly because it always has something new to offer, no matter what time of year it is. It's the place I have been bringing visitors for the past 26 years I have been living in Donegal and the first place I showed Don when he moved to live here from America! So these long summer days, perfection for us is packing ingredients for lunch and supper, getting in the van and heading north, past Milford and Kerrykeel, skirting along the eastern banks of Mulroy Bay until eventually there is nothing but sea in front of us. We decide on whim whether to go right towards the lighthouse and Fanad Head or left towards Ballywhoriskey Pier and beyond to the tiny beaches that present like hidden jewels along the way. This is a timeless place, where you can wander out along sea worn rocks and watch  the fishing boats bobbing on the horizon or cycle the fuschia lined country roads with scarcely another human in sight. We find a beach to have lunch and maybe, if conditions are perfect, take a dip!  If it's windy we fly a kite! There's always something new to  discover. Soon we will be adding a kayak to our toys which will open up a whole new playground!  At the end of our perfect day we fix a barbeque,  listen out for the corncrake and then head to a local hostelry such as the Stores Old Worlde Bar in Portsalon, formerly known as Rita's for a nightcap. Pizza and a craft beer at Rathmullan House Cellar Bar makes another perfect end to a perfect day". 

                                                                                                               - Anita Guidera, Why Donegal

Fanad Light House

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Trá Dhearg, Cruit. 

Walking at Cruit Island. 

"You start at the bridge onto Cruit. If the tide's low, walk along the strand past the two dead boats, across Coffin Island, along to Caravan Beach, cross over to 'Tra Dhearg', then carry on up the westward side of the island past lovely Lough Scalpachore, following the windswept beaches all the way to the pier at Owey Sound. Stop for a brew in the club house, then follow the path round the golf course, take the road home past Daniel O'Donnell's house (though he doesn't live there any more) and head on back to the bridge. At Tra Dhearg, you can take a beautiful diversion round Aughnish Point and add a stone to one of the many cairns. No better place! We've also been known to stop for a Guinness at Iggy's bar Kincasslagh, and if we're lucky a local seafood platter". Check out Bonners bar to for great grub!

                                                                                             - Malachy & Liz Doyle, Kincasslagh, author, artist

View from my house in Derryconor, Donegal. 

Personally, I love climbing our magical mountains Errigal and Muckish, or simply sitting at my house and taking in the view. I feel so lucky to wake up every morning to the majesty of the mountaints and the stunning landscape that surrounds me here in West Donegal. 

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If you're looking for a good day out this weekend the 18th July and you like history, archaeology, legends and folklore, then you might want to join us for the "The Cults of the Celtic Gods Lugh & St Comcille in the Northwest", guided by Brian Lacey. 10-4pm Saturday, leaving from Gortahork, across from the church. Check out the Facebook event here, or call Moira on 083 123 0529 for chats and bookings. 

mng have been in business for 4 years, we have grown our tours and experiences to attract both local and international. We're now helping other businesses grow. Contact us today for a free consultation on how we can help you have the business you've dreamed of. More money, more time and less stress. Yes, it is possible click here. 

The Irish language is stronger than ever, in my opinion.

Moira Ní Ghallachóir, An Earagail ar mo chúl

There are more classes and teachers than ever before and not just here in Donegal or throughout Ireland there's a thriving Global Gaeltacht attracting learners from all corners of the globe! I’m pretty sick of seeing links suggesting it's dying because in my world and in thousands and thousands of others it's thriving. Don't listen to it. Do something positive to support the language. 

I love being able to speak Irish, it’s not my first language, I was born and reared in bonny Scotland till I was 8 and then moved to Donegal where both my parents are from. In Scotland my brother and I got hassled for being Irish then in Ireland we got hassled for being Scottish. We had to learn the language and we did. If we didn’t our parents wouldn’t have been given planning permission to build our house and to live in the area. When I finished secondary school, I left Donegal. I never had a social circle with Irish after that. So when I returned to Donegal 4 years ago after 18 years away, speaking Irish again as an adult and in business was very challenging. Now, 4 years on and my Irish has come on leaps and bounds, although writing Irish I still difficult, but I’m getting there. I have a language coach and that makes it a lot easier. We talk about my business in Irish and as mistakes come up he explains where the words come from and how to use them. This has given me a better understanding and appreciation of the language. He helps me tell my story in Irish. I also live in the Gaeltacht so there is every opportunity to speak with others. I love that. I also honestly believe that the craic is better in Irish. The banter is just priceless. It's such an emotive language. With some friends, when we speak English it's just not the same. 

I think as an Irish language learner you should focus on being able to tell your story, who are you, where are you from, what are you about, what are your passions etc. Play with that conversation with as many Gaeilgeorí’s as possible and your story will start to grow naturally, and your confidence in telling your story will also grow. Your personality will start to shine through as you pick up other bits and share more about yourself and learn from those you share your story with. Couple that with a few whiskeys at the same time and you’re going to be fluent in no time. I can’t lie, when I have a few scoops it all rolls off the tongue with ease. 

I lived in Madrid for 2 years, I was an English language teacher and 'dhia inniú sa márach', I bloody hated it. I found it so boring. So with very little Spanish, I used my powers of persuasion to get a job in a Spanish bar. I knew my story in Spanish, well a little and I definitely knew my way around a bar (4 summers at Leos Tavern). I got to know the vocabulary and everyone asked me the same questions so I got to practise telling my story so much that I felt fluent in no time! 

A friend of mine said to me of a difficult situation they're in, “I can’t fight it, but I can try to outgrow it” that really struck a chord with me. The only way we can fight against the Irish language dying is to learn it, use it every day however you can and grow with it. 

So my advice if your learning Irish is to learn some phrases to embellish your daily communication with loved ones and friends:

Its a beautiful day – Tá lá galanta ann inniú

I love you – Tá mo chroí istigh ionad (directly translates to, my heart is in you)

Give me a cuddle – Tabhair do croí isteach

Sit on my lap – suí ar mo ghlún

You’re so smart – Tá tú go cliste

Get up! – Eirí amach as sin!

Sit down – Suí síos

Make me a cup of tea please – Déan cupan tae do le do thóil

Lift that for me please – Tóg sin le do thóil

Put that away – cuir sin ar shiúl

Hurry up – Déan deifir

John Handy, Irish Language learners.

Use these phrases everyday for you and for your kids and more so for your culture and this can make a HUGE difference. You will find there is real beauty in our language and it's good craic. Join the Global Gaeltacht – Irish language Learners – started by John Handy, Irish American from Pennsylvania, felt compelled to learn Irish and also do what he can to keep the Irish language alive. There are over 17k members from all over the world online chit chatting in Irish, it’s a great resource, there’s a real sense of power on this page. You’ll find a daily feed of easy to understand stuff. Definitely worth checking out.

Imagine if using those few words could change the course of history? 

mng is all about using what we’ve got, local services, natural resources and the Irish language. It's a collective collaboration. We offer opportunities to use your Irish in inspiring landscape with like minded others. If you want to reconnect with your Irish, your culture. then come to Tory Island this Sept. This is immersion in culture at its absolute authentic best. The culturally conscious will love this. Reconnect with your heritage, learn to tell your story os gaeilge, visit ancient sites, join the session and dance - ladies, I promise you, a dance with the king of Tory is like a fair ground ride. You have to try it. 

Rock agus Roam is taking place on Tory on the 25th, 26th Sept. There's a limited amount of spaces. We expect a cool gathering of about 60 culturally conscious and single people. If you’ve heard stories and have always wanted to go, this is your chance. There’s a special kind of romance that just doesn’t exist anywhere else. And this year is going to special. You never know who you’ll meet. 

We'll plan it all, just show up and enjoy. There's an early bird package for the first 15 people book. 

Book Now. 

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The king of Tory Island and artist. Patsy Dan Mac Ruaidhrí

Antain Meenan, Tory Painters