Day 13 - Galway.

We had free time in Galway today to explore the city.  The environment here is much more pleasant than in some of the villages or cities in Northern Ireland where after years of fighting they are still fearful that the close reconciliation they crave will not be achieved for a long, long time to come.

The word "wee" is used a lot here.  Eg our driver will say " it may rain, so you might loike to bring along a wee jacket with ye".  Ireland is pronounced "Oirlend".  Many of the road signs and village names are unpronounceable for us

This Irish Pub on the corner has lots of drinks, no food but plenty of Irish music and dancing.  The people are packed in like sardines and the noise far too loud, but a great traditional Irish night.

Pan Flute and Trumpet entertainers are common on the streets.  So are the CD's they sell.

This guy put on a really good show, great music and skilful performance with his puppet violinist.h

His little helper down below really got the crowd clapping.  Very clever.

This Irish lass really put on an enthusiastic show of Irish dancing wearing tap shoes.  We watched for about half an hour and she hardly stopped in that time. She will sleep well tonight !

They certainly drew a large crowd and their donation box was filling fast.