At age 62, I’ve been traveling in Europe as a teacher for 40 years. That’s long enough to see some of my very favorite people slowing down and retiring. Don Herlihy is dear to my tour-guiding heart — and one of the most inspirational guides anywhere in Europe. He’s one of those guides who, with the power and love of his own personality as a local teacher, can make a good town into a great stop. For several decades, Don has shared stories and memories about Kinsale with my Ireland guidebook readers and tour members. Now he’s slowing down and has apprenticed Barry Moloney.
While our Rick Steves’ Europe Tours guide Declan Field could have done a fine job taking our group on a historic Kinsale walk, there’s something special about having a local guide walk you through his or her home town. Our Kinsale walk with Barry was one of the best hours in our two-week Ireland tour.
While seeing my old favorites hang it up saddens me, I’m always encouraged by the vigor, creativity, and freshness the next generation brings. Don’s legacy is in very good hands with Barry.
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This is Day 79 of my “100 Days in Europe” series. As I travel with Rick Steves’ Europe Tours, research my guidebooks, and make new TV shows, I’m reporting on my experiences across Europe. Still to come: England, Scotland, Germany, Switzerland, and more. Thanks for joining me here on my blog and via Facebook.