Ireland - there's a reason why this small island nation is on everyone's travel list. It's gorgeously green, full of history and art and culture, and boasts world-renowned drink (Guinness, looking at you!) and delicious food. There's also the Irish people, known for their hospitality and kindness.

The Gap of Dunloe, Co Kerry, Ireland: in which we have an adventure, involving an early awakening, horses, mountains, rain, a boat ride, extreme rain, and great travel companions.

It's almost a cliche, those photos of cemeteries and crosses in Ireland. I didn't know, until I  was there, how powerful these spaces are. And, it's like your camera has a mind of its own, and you end up with 500 photos from a single hour spent there, and still have time for quiet reflection and solitude.

I know you, dear wandering educators. I know you’re always on the lookout for bookshops while you travel (because, well, BOOKS).

Green. Cloudy. Ancient.

For me, those 3 adjectives describe rural Ireland and its history. With hidden beaches, impossibly green hills, and plenty of castles, Ireland is definitely one of my favorite travel destinations.

Last Christmas, my family and I explored Ireland. Even though we stayed in the cities of Dublin and Cork, we did a lot sightseeing on the coast and in rural areas, enjoying pub food and fish and chips in between each destination.

Quick! I say Irish food, you say???

If your mind jumps to the Irish breakfast or maybe fish & chips, I can’t say I blame you. Nor will I shudder at that because both are so. very. good.

Tera Sabatino is a senior at the University of Pittsburgh. She is a History major with a concentration in 20th century history and will be starting nursing school in the fall. She notes, "after studying abroad, I caught the travel bug and would love to spend time being a travelling nurse."