I'm not Irish. I'm a Jewish/German American. But I'd always longed to visit Ireland and get exposure to the longstanding Irish tradition of storytelling. So when I got the opportunity to stay at the Ballyeamon Camping Barn and shadow storyteller Liz Weir, I jumped at the chance. I was there for seven weeks and helped run this amazing hostel, and any time I meet someone who's thinking about visiting Ireland, I tell them they must go here. Here's why: -Simple but clean and nice accommodations (with recent renovations) -Access to a full kitchen to make your own food -Gorgeous views in every direction -30 seconds from major hiking trails -6 miles from the charming small town of Cushendall (and the fantastic pub Joe's (http://www.mccollamsbar.com) -Not far (by bus) from the Rope Bridge and the Giant's Causeway (both free and amazing attractions) -Opportunity to interact with a variety of amazing storytellers, musicians, and other travelers Staying at the barn, I met people from England, Israel, Egypt, the US, Eastern Europe, Germany, etc. Some days it was quiet, some days we were a small troop of cooking and playing music and telling stories. I absolutely loved it and can't wait to go back! read more