This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel.
As colorful as Galway but not nearly as busy, Tralee is a bustling and lively city on the west coast of Ireland in County Kerry. In the day, there is plenty to explore, and during the evening, there are trad sessions in plenty of pubs, featuring local musical talents. It is a town that preserves tradition but at the same time progresses forward with its industry and economy. Even as a major tourist destination, Tralee still holds onto the fabric of originality.
Your Tralee hostel can be reached by bus, by car, or by train. In the city, there are plenty of sights -- the Kerry County museum is a good place to start for an understanding of the historical background of the city. Tralee has seen much history and turmoil over the centuries, but it remains a strong and lively place nonetheless.
Just outside of Tralee is the Blennerville Windmill, which the largest windmill in Ireland and worth visiting if you like windmills. There are also some good archaeological sites with impressive ruins from the ancestors of Ireland. Casement's Fort is remarkably impressive, and even if you're not a history buff, it's still cool to see.
There are some grocery shops in Tralee, as well as a shopping center with all sorts of stores. Nightlife is quite lively, especially on the weekends. Seán Óg’s Bar does some wonderful trad sessions. Bailys Corner is also quite good, and the Osbourne is good for those into rock. No matter what your taste is, in music, however, there is probably someplace in Tralee where you can listen to it.
Written by local expertz for Tralee
Emily Schreiber