Memoir
/ˈmemˌwär/ noun. a record of events written by a person having intimate knowledge of them and based on personal observation. Usually memoirs. an account of one's personal life and experiences; autobiography. the published record of the proceedings of a group or organization, as of a learned society.
If money were no object and you could live anywhere in the entire world where would it be? This is our prompt for week 35 of Memoir Monday. It’s easy to find ourselves completely bewitched by a vacation destination and want to immediately make plans to move there. It’s tricky because the old saying is true, the grass isn’t always greener…with the exception of Ireland, the grass truly is much greener. : )
Memoir Monday has grown so much that I won’t be able to comment on everyone’s posts anymore (and get my own work done) but I’ll still be supporting your posts with reblogs, votes, and shares on my other social media accounts (X, Facebook, etc.).
For all of those who’ve regularly participated in Memoir Monday - keep going, you’re making great progress in chronicling your very own life story for future generations to enjoy.
For those who missed the inaugural post explaining what the Memoir Monday initiative is all about you can find it here.
Now for next week’s Memoir Monday prompt:
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
My answer:
I've been fortunate to do quite a bit of traveling, but no place has captivated me quite like Ireland. During my first visit in autumn 2023, I was immediately drawn to the breathtaking landscapes and the genuinely warm hospitality of the Irish people.
At age fifty-three, the hustle and bustle of city life is something I prefer to visit rather than live in. A cottage in the Irish countryside (preferably west coast) , close enough to an airport for occasional travel, feels like the perfect home base for this stage of life.
Why Ireland?
Ireland’s appeal goes beyond its scenery. The shared English language makes daily life easier, helping newcomers navigate services, integrate, and communicate without the language barrier that exists elsewhere. Beyond that, Ireland has strong historical and cultural ties with the U.S., and a well-defined path to dual citizenship simplifies the process for Americans seeking to make Ireland their home.
The healthcare system in Ireland is another plus, providing quality care that is generally more affordable than in the U.S. For those with Irish or EU citizenship, there’s also access to low-cost education throughout the EU—a tremendous benefit in today’s global landscape.
Ireland’s economy is thriving, driven by a diverse range of sectors, including the global tech industry. Major companies like Apple, Google, and Meta (Facebook) have substantial presences, offering a wealth of job opportunities. For those with specialized skills, the Critical Skills Employment Permit provides a streamlined path for securing work visas, making it easier for Americans to find opportunities.
Of course, Ireland’s stunning natural beauty is one of its most compelling draws. The rolling green hills, rugged coastlines, and quaint villages create a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploration. History lovers can discover ancient castles, Celtic ruins, and rich folk traditions—immersing themselves in a culture both ancient and alive.
The Irish are known for their warmth and openness, making it easy for newcomers to form genuine connections within the community. This hospitality creates a sense of belonging, an invaluable asset for anyone moving to a new country.
Living in Ireland also puts the rest of Europe practically on your doorstep. Short, affordable flights to nearby countries make it easy to explore Europe’s diverse cultures and landscapes on weekends and holidays—without the Atlantic Ocean to cross. For Americans, this proximity to other countries is a huge advantage, removing one of the biggest barriers to international travel.
Finally, Ireland is one of the safer, more politically stable countries, with a relatively low crime rate compared to many U.S. regions. It’s reassuring to know that this beautiful country offers not only a scenic and welcoming place to live but also somewhat "future-proof" safe and secure environment.
Here are some of the photos from our 2023 trip to Ireland:
England—a very Close Second
If I were younger, I might consider England a close second to Ireland. The vibrant city life in cities like London has undeniable appeal, but as I grow older, I find myself more drawn to the peaceful charm of Ireland’s countryside.
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Let’s Keep In Touch
I thank you for these Monday initiatives that allow us to explore different aspects of our daily lives and invite us to let our imagination fly. Too bad I only came to it two weeks ago, but I fell in love with the idea. Thanks for coming up with these ideas. Happy week. Cheers and greetings.
You're welcome, brother. I'm glad you're getting so much out of it! This is, by far, the most rewarding initiative I've been a part of in my time on the platform. Even though I haven't been able to respond to every post I'm trying my best to read them all and am enjoying them. Cheers and I hope you have a great rest of your week!
I recognize the amount of publications you must read, plus all the work it means to be a member of this ecosystem. With just the reading, support and recognition I am more than grateful. Happy weekend. Cheers and best regards.
In the movies I've seen nice scenery, it must be a great place to live. For me it would be too cold, at this age I think it would be too hard for me to adapt to a climate other than tropical.
Thank you very much for the initiative dear @ericvancewalton . A big hug from Maracay.
There has been several changes in the world in this dispensation. Many of the countries we were looking up to are failing with insecurity and wars. I think I would prefer to stay where God planted me
God knows how much I would love to visit The United States of America, it's been my dream country for ever.
Ireland is a beautiful country. No wonder you and your family really like being there. Moreover, your ancestors came from there. Have a nice day, Eric.
#hive #posh
Ireland is a country I would love to visit. My oldest son wants to live there, so if he migrates from my country one day, this could be his destiny
Have a lovely afternoon I'm glad you enjoyed your visit to this beautiful place. The points you mention about why I would choose this country are more than valid, dear friend @ericvancewalton
The landscape is so green that it is called the “Emerald Isle”! You sell Ireland so well that I don't think there is anyone who can resist: even I want to move to Ireland now. hahaha. What you say and the pictures are enough to make you want to stay and live in Dublin, and if we add the Guinness beers, then it's declared paradise on earth. Ireland is a country that has given a lot culturally speaking to the USA. And if we remember that there was a time when the Irish found a home in the U.S., it would be nice if Ireland could welcome Americans who wanted to live in their country.
I think this is a great topic, because it's not clear to me. I have traveled so little outside my country, but as we have the rule of attracting with words, written and said, I am going to think in which country I would like to live, because maybe the universe conspires and gives me that gift.
Have a nice evening, Eric. Hugs
Haha, we'll have a Hive compound on the Emerald Isle. I think I read there are more descendants of Irish immigrants here in the US than there are people living in Ireland today. Unfortunately, I can't trace my recent lineage back there, if I could I could apply for dual citizenship. I think it only counts if it's 2-3 generations removed. My DNA test results say I have ancestors that came from County Cork but it's like 8 generations ago. It'll be interesting to see what country you choose! The Netherlands was a close third for me too but I figured if I was in Ireland the rest of continental Europe would be just a few hours away. Thank you Nancy! I hope you have a great Friday.
My grandparents on my mother's side were full Irish, I would like to visit there but not sure I would want to live there.
You could apply for dual citizenship and would be approved since your grandparents were Irish. I really wish that was an option for me. My Irish ancestors come from County Cork but left many generations ago.
That is so cool, I did not know this, my daughter will like it, I can't wait to tell her, she wants to go there.
I've never been there, but I always thought that Spain had a certain draw to it. I mean Ireland and Scotland of course, just because they are who they are you know... Honestly, as much as I would like to live someplace like that, if my family was still living in the states, I am not sure I could do it. I would need some kind of compound where we can all live together. At the very least a lot of land so we can all have our own neighboring estates! Ideally, I'd just like a house on a nice inland lake in Michigan, not too far from my family.
If Spain is anything like Portugal it would have appeal, for sure. The only way I could become an expat is to be able to travel back home twice a year and have a fund set aside to be able to go at a moments notice if I needed to. I've been conditioned over the past 29 years though to be 800 miles away from immediate family. It would be a dream come true to buy 10 or so acres on the west coast of Ireland and build tiny homes for all the family members.
Haha, yeah, that last part would be awesome. You make a good point. I have never lived more than about a half hour away from my parents and my wife has never been more than about 15 minutes away from hers. I interviewed for a job down in Columbus a long time ago, and that would have been a real adjustment!
It would definitely be somewhere close to sea and a house among trees with garden :)
Oceanside would be great! The salt air is super healthy.