03/17/2026
Where my Ireland story began...
Like so many of us with Irish heritage, I've always been fascinated by the Emerald Isle. Our Keane family roots trace back to the small, picturesque farming village of Labasheeda, in County Clare, along the banks of the Shannon. Growing up in a small town Iowa, our community went all in on St. Patrick's Day each year with a big parade and celebration. Dyersville is a mostly German community, but during St. Patrick's Day everyone is Irish!
In 2014, I had the honor of being selected to attend the Adventure Travel World Summit in Killarney. Finally I would make it to Ireland! Before the conference we roamed in Dublin, took a train across the farmlands, and explored the famous Wild Atlantic Way. We journeyed to historic castles, kayaked the Di**le Peninsula, hiked the holy mountain of Croagh Patrick, visited ancient ruins, climbed around an old abbey, and wandered the vast Burren and open bogs. We sailed to little-known islands, enjoyed fresh seafood and sticky toffee pudding, and toe-tapped in countless pubs jamming with local fiddlers.
I knew I would love the country, but had no idea what an impact it would have on my life and future. Since that first special trip, I've been back to explore more deeply. I wanted to truly know Ireland so I could share it meaningfully with others.
During his college years, we sent our son, TJ, backpacking across Ireland. He had the privilege of staying at our original family farm. The hosts graciously shared their property, showed him the village, took him to the local church and even the cemetery to see our ancestors. Only in Ireland.
Over the past 12 years I've sent countless family members, friends and clients to Ireland. Not on bus tours or pre-packaged trips. We seek out the authentic bits and send guests where they can feel the country's heart and soul... Seeing the iconic sites, but in a less traveled, more impactful way.
For instance, everyone wants to see the Cliffs of Moher. Instead of popping into the Visitor Center (with 5000 other daily tourists), our guests slowly hike the cliffs with a 5th generation local farmer. He's a true storyteller with a twinkle in his eye. The magic happens when you're out there together alone, wind in your face, waves crashing below, learning about the struggles and triumphs of his fellow Irish villagers.
Our guests have slept in castles, both intimate and grand. They've been clay pigeon shooting with an Olympic Champion, gone whiskey tasting in a church, had after-hours private experiences in an historical abbey, and made chocolate with nuns. Our clients have sailed on a traditional Galway Ho**er, danced with an accordion player onboard and explored shipwrecks. They've tried glass blowing in Waterford, biked the Aran Islands, picnicked in beautiful gardens, taken a horse and buggy on the Dunloe Gap, cuddled with lambs and witnessed farm dogs round up sheep.
Thank you, Ireland, for all of your stories, magic and charm. I'm proud to be Irish and grateful to share your story.
Happy St. Patrick's Day to all!
Tourism Ireland; Wild Atlantic Way; My Heart is in Ireland; Love Ireland🇮🇪
