We resided with host families and attended a language center for our studies. Additionally, we ventured on two remarkable excursions: one to the Cliffs of Moher and another to the breathtaking Connemara region.
Upon arriving in Galway, we were welcomed by our host families. Living with them provided us with a unique insight into Irish family life and an opportunity to practice our English skills. Even though they seemed quite uninterested in talking to us at the beginning, I had some nice conversations with the host father Kevin towards the end of the week. He turned out to be genuinely nice, unlike the rest of the family. The language center Bridge Mills, where we attended class every day, offered a structured and immersive learning environment. Our dedicated teacher engaged us in interactive classes, group activities, discussions and we even enjoyed a city tour and a treasure hunt to the historical sites of the city.
One of the highlights of our class trip was our visit to the world-renowned Cliffs of Moher. On the way we took a few photo- and coffee stops. That was a wonderful way to cherish the beautiful landscape on our way to the cliffs, although our bus driver Damien was a little stressed that day. As we approached the edge of the Cliffs, we were greeted by a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean. It was very peaceful to watch the waves crashing against the rugged cliffs. We captured unforgettable moments and took numerous photographs.
Our second excursion took us to the enchanting region of Connemara. With its pristine lakes, mountains and landscapes, Connemara offered a pleasant change from city life. We explored the Connemara National Park hiking through picturesque trails.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of our class trip to Galway was the afternoons and evenings spent exploring the city with my friends. After a long day of classes and excursions, we would venture into the lively streets of Galway, filled with music of the typical Irish buskers. We saw many shops, cafes, and pubs. Unfortunately, we could not get into the pubs because of the extremely strict Irish age restriction rules.
Some impressions
Culinary Delights
Nicole, our host mother, proved to be quite a skilled cook by Irish standards. She made a
genuine effort to prepare meals using fresh ingredients. On one occasion, we were even
treated to a salad as a side dish, which was an unimaginable luxury for my classmates. For
lunch, Nicole provided a range of fillings for our sandwiches or wraps. I must admit that I got
tired of eating toast, but at least we had the option to toast our sandwiches. For breakfast, we were offered cereal and a variety of fruits. One thing that surprised me was that all the food in their refrigerators was packaged in plastic. Additionally, not a single household had a
vegetable garden or anything of the sort. I also had the opportunity to try Indian cuisine for
the first time, which was incredibly flavorful, and I definitely recommend it.
The Scenery
I regret to say that I didn't particularly appreciate the landscape in Ireland. However, I
thoroughly enjoyed the main street in Galway. The atmosphere there was simply captivating, with the street adorned in an assortment of vibrant colors and adorned with small flags as decoration. At every corner, you could find talented buskers showcasing their skills. I remember a lively young girl playing the tin whistle, a traditional Irish instrument. Surprisingly, she wore flip-flops despite the cold weather. Perhaps she wished to keep her actual shoes dry.
The Locals
To my astonishment, we encountered nothing but kind-hearted inhabitants. One could
approach anyone for assistance, and they would respond with respect. An amusing aspect of
the Irish people is their customary greeting: "Hello, how are you?" However, they don't
necessarily expect a genuine response. In Ireland, it rains frequently, but those wielding
umbrellas are often tourists, not locals. A true Irishman only needs an umbrella when it's
raining heavily.
Overall, the trip to Galway was truly enjoyable. It provided a pleasant experience, and we had an abundance of fun.
Our teachers were a hilarious duo and we enjoyed their humor and company.
The trip has left me with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the unique experiences that Galway had to offer.
