Island hopping, Irish style, Galway

Favorite thing: These three islands lie across the mouth of Galway Bay, about 30 miles out to sea. The Aran Islands consist of Inishmaan, Inisheer and the largest, Inishmore, which is about 8 miles long and 2 miles wide. These are Irish-speaking islands, and old traditions and folklore still persist here. Improved education, transport and communication have modernised the Aran Islands, although some practices remain, including Currach racing, fishing and the knitting of distinctive hand-made sweaters or 'ganseys'.

There is a choice of ferry or light aircraft when travelling to the Aran Islands, as well as a range of ticket deals and options. Inquiries can be made at the tourist office just off Eyre Square, Galway.

Favorite thing: Take a ferry ride to the Aran Islands. Rent a bike, escape from the other tourists, and find your own isolated patch of cliff from which to gaze out at the Atlantic. This sturdy horse I encountered on my way to my private cliff viewing.