Don't miss the city of Cork

You should not miss a visit to a relatively small city in the Republic of Ireland by name Cork. Its history goes back to sixth century A.D. and was in the thick of many historical events throughout history. Beautifully set on the side of River Lee it has endeared to visitors by its charm, hospitality and great repose. The river divides itself into two and the city centre is in the island creating a fine impression. Thereafter it merges into the sea near Cork Harbour, ranked as the second most beautiful natural harbour in the world!

The city can be reached through air travel, train travel, roads and through the sea routes!

Red Abbey is remarkable architectural piece surviving from the MiddleAges. Two 19th century Cathedrals, St.Mary’s and St.Finbarr’s are elegantly constructed and one could perceive a sense of repose in these graceful buildings. They are a feast to the eyes and for those spiritually inclined confer a quietude and piety, rare in the modern bustle. The depiction of Angel of the Resurrection in St.Finbarr’s is breath-taking.

Cork City Hall and Elysian Tower are two structures which attract the tourists for their sedate surroundings. The latter is reputed to be the tallest building in Ireland. Elizabeth Fort is yet another piece of tourist attraction. Cork Opera House is renowned throughout the land for its cultural activity while English Market dating back to nearly four hundred years whets the appetite of shoppers.

The fact that the city has very recently been named among the top best cities in the entire world by Lonely Planet, a travel guide organisation, is an indication of its status.

Cork Vision Centre, Shandon Church, Lewis Gluckman Gallery are some other notable places to be visited in the city. The University College Park is cherished by all the tourists as a memorable place for leisurely walk!

As many as four major festivals in the City, representing the cultural strand of the people and place attract tourists from across Europe. They are Midsummer Festival during June-July of each year, Jaaz Festival in the last part of October where top Jazz groups take pride to participate, Film Festival during October and Elizabeth Fort Market Festival held every Sunday.

There is a unique relaxation on Friday evenings when The Unofficial Cork City Pub Crawl takes care of your time and moods. People throng here where in many places drink are free and there is a general get together of local people and the very large number of visitors. The City is also noted for its great food and satisfies the tastes of a gourmet. Uncle Pete’s Pizzeria is a special local treat and has gained immense popularity. There are a number of restaurants, dancing halls and pubs to satisfy the visitors’ quest for good food and wine. There are also specialty food courts catering to particular tastes like American or Continental varieties. Liberty Hill, Café Paradiso, Bana Tai, Clenceys are some renowned restaurants.

The Bru Hostel, Cork’s International Youth Hostel are among some of the places where an average tourist can comfortably lodge himself. There are fine star hotels too.

Transport within the city and for brief outside excursions is not a problem. Rather it is a pleasure with a host of Tour Operators offering Luxury limos, coaches and the needs of small or big groups are easily satisfied.

It is not often that one comes across a relatively less populous city offering so much for diversion from the bustle of modern work-a-day world. Cork would surely rank among the high priorities for the quality of life and culture of the people. One generally longs to return to Cork once in a few years to recoup from the sedate or strenuous life led in one’s own place.