Ireland with Michael

Michael learns about Charlie Chaplin's love for Kerry and his particular fondness for the Butler Arms Hotel in Waterville. Opera tenor, Gavan Ring guides us around Cahiciveen. Michael hears about Daniel O Connell, and his friendship with Frederick Douglas. Despite a fear of heights Michael climbs to the top of Cahergall Fort for a view of Skellig Michael. Aoife Scott sings Wild Atlantic Way.

Michael performs with the Riverdance show at Dublin's Gaiety Theatre; Gardiner Brothers; hurling at Croke Park; National Gallery of Ireland; Museum of Modern Art; concertina player Niamh Ní Charra.

Damien McGeehan and Shauna Mullin perform in Donegal Castle; Hanna Hats; exploring Studio Donegal; Ardara Distillery; the Henry Girls.

The Celtic band Clannad; a walking tour around Derry; sampling scones; Riverdance singer Denise O'Cain.

Michael visits Iniskeen to honor the life of one of Ireland's greatest poets, Patrick Kavanagh with Singer Ben Reel performing On Raglan Road and a listen to a poetry jukebox, The owner of the The Handmade Soap Company also play the Uilleann Pipes. A visit to Carrickmacross Workhouse reminds us of a tougher time in history. Michael then crosses to Glaslough for a stay at the Castle Leslie.

Michael heads to the Republic of Cork to meet Darina Allen who hosts him at Ballymaloe Cooking School. Nearby Ballycotton Lighthouse and port, sunbathing is nothing short of idyllic. From the River Lee Hotel in Cork city, Michael explores the English Market and speaks to a fishmonger with a connection to royalty. Michael visits Middleton Distilleries and visits the last stop for the Titanic.

Michael stops by Strokestown House, home of the National Famine Museum, to hear a performance by CEOL and to sing. Next a stroll in the gardens to witness a performance by Mintesinot Wolde, blending influences from Africa and Ireland. Leather designer to Beyonce and Lady Gaga, Una Burke, invited Michael to her home. He stops by Rathcroghan, home of halloween and visits the Lough Key Center.

Poet Laureate of Wexford, Sasha Terfous hosts Michael at the Irish National Heritage Park. Michael meets legendary potter Louis Mulcahy whose at his scenic kiln site. Chocolate legends, Bean and Goose host the singer to hand make chocolate and satisfy his undying sweet tooth, Hearing impaired Harpist Una Walsh plays some tunes and shares her story. The Henry Girls sing a Fats Waller song.