Globe Trekker

Ireland (6x2)

Uitzenddatum: Mei 31, 2002

Traveller Ian Wright journeys through a land which, though ripped apart by political conflict, is renowned for its hospitality. The spirit of good time is known only in Ireland as the craic. Ian begins his trip on the spectacular Antrim coast in Northern Ireland, boasting a geological wonder known as Giant's Causeway. The origins and name of this rocky landmark are enshrouded in myth and speculation, though Ian has his own theories. Belfast is the city where Northern Ireland's political troubles have been most intense. Ian takes a cab ride through the city and learns about the perils of Belfast life, and the terrifying events his driver has witnessed. That evening Ian tours the lively bars and clubs of the city on a mission to discover for himself the true meaning of craic. From Belfast Ian heads south towards Dublin. His journey takes him through the county of Armagh - known as bandit country due to the troubles - where he joins a game of road bowls. He also takes a detour to Boa Island in Fermanagh in order to visit a statue called Janus - a 2000 year old fertility symbol which was one of the first Christian burial sites. When he finally reaches Dublin Ian spends the evening at the Dublin Music Centre, hotbed of burgeoning Irish talent following in the footsteps of the internationally successful band U2. Also on the entertainment agenda is the semi-final hurling match between Kilkenny and Cork. It's the world's oldest surviving stick and ball game, faster than hockey and even more violent then rugby. Ian travels by train to Cobh in County Cork, a seaside town which was once a major shipping port and final resting place of victims of the Lusitania, sunk by a German submarine in the first World War. While he's in the vicinity of Cork Ian visits Blarney Castle, Ireland's most popular tourist spot where each year thousands come to kiss the Blarney stone, reputed to give you the gift of the gab. Not that Ian needs it! From Cork Ian gets on his bike