Our schedule allowed us just two days in this surprisingly beautiful city. If you follow our blogs, you know we usually prefer the countryside and typically stay only a day or two any given city. London pleasantly surprised us with its unexpected charm, cleanliness, and vibrancy. On our first day, we packed in a lot: we explored the Tower of London, enjoyed paella at Borough Market, strolled through Hyde Park, visited the Natural History Museum and Kensington Palace, and B

This long but rewarding detour was inspired by our older son, who had visited Belfast a few months earlier and strongly recommended the Black Cab “Troubles” tour, describing it as one of the most impactful experiences of his trip. Although the Troubles officially ended with the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, their legacy still shapes daily life in Belfast. Physical barriers continue to separate Protestant and Catholic neighborhoods, with gates that close each evening.

On this day of the Ireland portion of our journey, we traveled from Kenmare to Kilkenny, making our first stop in Cork. We rang the bells at St. Anne's and sampled delicacies from the English Market in Cork before spending the remainder of the day in Kilkenny, the Medieval City. In Kilkenny, we explored Kilkenny Castle, strolled along the Medieval Mile, climbed the Round Tower, and had some pints in an Irish pub while enjoying traditional Irish pub music.

Driving the Dingle Peninsula is a "must do," in Ireland. True, we had perfect weather, but it is hard to imagine a more beautiful part of the Country. From Galway, we made our way down to the Dingle Peninsula where we made five stops in total: Clogher Head (Ceann Sraithe), Donquin Pier, Coumeenole Beach, Dingle Sheep Dogs (experience), and the Town of Dingle.

Our first day in the Irish countryside involved a scenic drive from Dublin to Galway. Upon arriving in Galway, we took a delightful walking tour through Galway's Medieval Old Town, where the vibrant streets were filled with colorful shopfronts and lively street performers. After exploring the town, we treated ourselves to the best fish and chips of the whole trip. We next drove out to see Ireland's famous Cliffs of Moher. The dramatic cliffs, rising majestically over the Atla

For an easy hike close to central Zermatt, opt for the 5-lakes trail, which includes charming mountain goats that graze along the way.

We drove from Interlaken to Zermatt, with a stop in Adelboden. In Zermatt, we explored the central district and Mountaineers' Cemetery.