Tour guides from the north and south of Ireland let us in on their picks for sights and experiences that will make a first trip to the Emerald Isle a memorable one. Plus, an Irish American singer explains the importance of music to the Irish and how the island's history is found in its folk ballads and songs.

• Irish tour guides Susie Millar, Stephen McPhilemy, and Dara Herlihy
• Singer/tour guide Cathie Ryan

• Epic Ireland, in Dublin, is an interactive exhibit on the contributions of the Irish around the world.It's located across from the Jeanie Johnston replica famine ship.
• Stephen points out that the National Leprechaun Museum is a popular storytelling attraction in Ireland.
• Rick recommends the manuscripts and Islamic Art collection, as well as the cafeteria, at the free Chester Beatty Library in Dublin.
• Susie Millar conducts tours of Belfast, including sites associated with the doomed ship Titanic.
• Dara Herlihy operates Aisling Tours from Dingle, Ireland and runs Neligan's Bar on the Main Street in Dingle as a venue for live music.
• Stephen McPhilemy operates the Milltown House bed and breakfast on the Dingle Harbour.
• Cathie Ryan's solo albums of Irish and folk music are featured on her website. You can also find Cathie's music posted on YouTube.

Pgm #825 Ireland Haiku

"'Twas once a wee man,"
the bard leaned back and began…
Pub tale, Donegal.
— Teresa Janssen, Port Townsend, Washington

Travel to Ireland!
Marrying in middle age —
Passport was required.
— Leslie Latham, Buffalo, New York

Ireland is green.
Forty shades, to be exact.
I bring it home in my eyes.
— Dan Whaley, Omaha, Nebraska