An ancient structure at a monastic settlement of Glendalough at Wicklow County in Ireland that dates back to the 6th century.
Formally called the Republic of Ireland -- with a population of some 4.6 million people, occupying about five-sixth of the island located northwest of continental Europe, with the remaining area being a part of the United Kingdom -- this tiny country is dotted with museums.
The more popular among them is the one dedicated to novelist-poet James Joyce of Ulysses fame. The country, which is separated from Britain by the Irish Sea, also offers some other energizing options to visitors like river cruises, visit to the over-four-centuries-old Trinity College or watching riveting tap dance performances.
Adding to the lure are the homely people of this country -- warm and welcoming -- and the appetising cuisine, all of which make Ireland a delight for a visitor, irrespective of his or her taste, budget and expectations. More than 6 million tourists visit the Republic of Ireland each year.
There are no direct flights as yet from India to Ireland, which was also under the British and formally gained independence on 6 December 1921. But there are numerous options to choose from including a comfortable journey with an overnight stopover in Dubai on an Emirates flight that has connections to 10 Indian cities.
