Ireland 2007: Day 3 - Prof Finnegan

We reboarded the bus in Sneem and Richard took the microphone once again. Today he spoke about clans (over 600 of them throughout the country when they existed). He focused on the clan names and their origins. He also shared the explanations of "lace curtains" and "Two Toilet" Irish.

He then spoke at length about the educational system in Ireland. Set up in 1853 by the English, Ireland's ed. system is one of the earliest in the world. He also shared how the system has changed (and grown so remarkably) over the years. He fielded questions from the travelers - several regarding higher education in the country. Once again - very enlightening comments!

A message home from a guest journalist: Peter '70 writes, "A special HI to Jocelyn's mom and dad, Dan, Pam, Don and Mark. We're having a terrific time. The sights are beautiful!! Love, Peter and Jocelyn." While he was the only official entry - I know everyone shares his sentiments and send their best to loved ones at home (and can't wait to them you what a great time we're having!!!!).

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January 20, 2010 at 12:08 PM

Barcelona - Dos

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Cordoba

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2011: Day 4 - Vienna

Another great day! We had a 6am wake up call - but it paid off! Our tour director, Robert, secured the first reservations of the day at Shronbrunn Palace - which meant we were the only guests in the Palace for the most part. We went room to room with our own local guide, Gabi, for a nearly private tour! A one-of-a-kind experience for sure. The Palace and Gardens were beautiful. 1,441 rooms and acres and acres of grounds. We learned about Mary Theresa (and all of her 16 children). This was the summer palace for the Hapsburg dynasty. We then switched gears and went to see modern art at KunstHausWien - what a creative artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser was. And a man who epitomized eco-friendly living and work. A very different experience after our tour of the Palace. Next was a driving tour of some of the city's monuments, etc. with a stop for lunch along the way. We ended with a walking tour to additional historic spots and a tour of the downtown palace - the winter residence of the

Stonehill College Alumni Travel

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