The Emerald Escape
Ireland - A land of legends, landscapes and lively culture
What makes Ireland a unique and unforgettable destination for travellers
seeking culture, nature, and adventure?
Ireland as a destination serves as the perfect mix of a culture steeped in myth and legend and immense natural beauty. From the world’s longest coastal route – the Wild Atlantic Way to ancient monuments predating the pyramids (Newgrange and Knowth) and an unparalled affinity for music – Ireland has it all. Whether you are a culture vulture who loves spending time wandering the rooms of museums or an outdoor enthusiast, happiest when clambering over rock pools or hiking a hillside, you will find there is no shortage of experiences awaiting in Ireland. In addition, how can I forget Irish hospitality – Ireland is also known as the Land of a Thousand Welcomes and Céad Míle Fáilte in Gaelic. The phrase highlights the historical emphasis on welcoming strangers and providing for them much as they do, here in India.
From hearty stews to fresh seafood and artisan cheeses, what are some must-try Irish dishes or culinary experiences you’d recommend to the tourists?
I would recommend tourists trying the Irish potato pancake (also called boxty), made with grated and mashed potatoes; pan-fried until golden and crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. For seafood lovers, I would recommend trying the salmon and Galway oysters. They can try colcannon – mashed potatoes with kale and coddle – sausage with potato stew – a Dublin favourite.
Ireland is one of the top choices for Indian students. What factors contribute to its growing popularity in higher education?
Ireland’s popularity among Indian students is driven by several factors. Firstly, our universities are top ranked globally, with a strong emphasis on research and innovation across sectors such as technology, business, life sciences and artificial intelligence. Second, our post-study work policies are among the most progressive in Europe, offering students a direct bridge from academia into the workforce. Students graduate not just with degrees, but also with experience, insight and industry-ready skills. Lastly, with Ireland’s reputation for friendliness and hospitality, students are not just welcome but also supported. Our universities offer robust student support services, from mental health counselling and academic advising to student unions and flourishing cultural societies.
India and Ireland share a deep-rooted friendship that spans diplomacy, education, and trade. Tell us about the Bilateral relations between the two nations.
The connections between India and Ireland go back centuries, and 2024 marked 75 years of official diplomatic relations between our two countries. The shared struggle for independence, a joint admiration of literature and culture and shared values around the importance of family and community, have created a strong bond between our two nations. Since the opening of our Embassy in New Delhi over 60 years ago, ties have only gone from strength to strength, thanks to increased partnerships across the business, education and the tourism sectors.
Ireland and India have a growing bilateral trade in goods and services, with the two-way trade valued at nearly €16 billion annually, in recent years. India is an important partner for Ireland. Our two-way trade in goods and services has grown steadily over the last decade, and now totals over €16 billion annually. India and Ireland have identified synergies in information technology, pharmaceuticals and trade. Ireland’s strategic position within the European Union offers Indian businesses a gateway to Europe, while India’s burgeoning market provides many opportunities for Irish enterprises.
Ireland recognises the importance of strengthening educational ties with India. Ireland has a vibrant and rapidly growing student community – more than 14,000 Indian students went to Ireland last year. Ireland welcomes Indian students to study, work and contribute to the Irish economy. Ireland has one of the most flexible post-study visa arrangements that allows students to live and work in Ireland for 2 years after graduation.
Is there any similarity between India and Ireland?
Both India and Ireland cherish deep family bonds, a rich culture steeped in music, dance and performing arts and of course food. Food is a love language in both Ireland and India – rich in variety, and shared generously. Much like in India, guests are family and hospitality is sacred. Of course, nothing matches Indian hospitality
and generosity but I would say Ireland is up there as well. We also have a shared history, one marked by colonization and a joint struggle for independence, which is what united us in the earlier twentieth century.
On a personal note, what’s your favourite Irish destination—and what makes it special?
I do not have a favourite destination as such but I do love Dún Laoghaire, which is always where I live. I enjoy going for a walk/run along on the East Pier, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the sea. The people are extremely friendly and the town has a rich history, and amazing coffee places. Definitely a must-visit.
Tell us about the festivals of your country.
Ireland celebrates a wide variety of festivals. St. Patrick ’s Day is the most famous. What was once a religious holiday has become an international celebration of Ireland, our culture and our history. In Ireland and beyond, the day is marked through parades, music, Irish dancing, traditional Irish food and wearing the colour green. The other famous festival is Halloween, which has its origin in the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain over 2,000 years ago and is celebrated with gusto, not just in Ireland but also around the world.