Scruffy's Pub and Fun in Killarney - Killarney, Ireland

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Killarney, Ireland

Opening the large, intricately-carved wooden door, a blast of stale cool air and the sound of Celtic rock music pleases the senses like rain in the desert. Curious faces look up from their lager shandies and pints of dark, syrupy Guinness. Without hesitation, those same curious faces smile in unison as if they have just seen an old family friend they have known for ages. A few of the faces are vibrantly youthful with sun-kissed cheeks. Others are worn and tattered, reflecting decades of sun-drenched hard labor. Toward the end of the long gently lit mahogany bar is a small booth in a dark corner of the pub. Despite the drab atmosphere, the booth erupts in laughter. "We knew you were American." A young man with a thick Irish brogue smiles at a few captivated teens sitting across from him. They stare at him mysteriously dumbfounded. "Yeah, only Americans wear shorts in Ireland, we spotted you a kilometer away!" Another boy, this one with a red-haired mop top, laughs and points at the boy across from him wearing shorts -- the American. These young people, although worlds apart, will remember this moment in this enchanting city for their lifetime.

The small Irish pub, affectionately named Scruffy's, is centered in the postcard town of Killarney in County Kerry, Ireland. Although gracious humor and welcoming faces, young and old, are always found in any Irish establishment, Killarney is supremely special. The local townspeople smile for a reason in this small metropolis. Not only is it the gateway to the scenic Ring of Kerry, a forty-mile drive around the panoramic Iveragh Peninsula, it is also an enthralling city filled to the brim with warmth and kindness. Beautifully colored facades line the mazes of oddly curved streets through the charming town center. Buskers are never in short supply. Linger on the sidewalk for a moment to hear traditional Irish music from local musicians, or stop in any of the shops to buy handmade gifts or antiques.

Considering its modest size, Killarney boasts everything a cosmopolitan city can offer: great hotels, restaurants, nightlife, shopping, entertainment, and charismatic people. Minutes from the town center, lush green parks, lakes for miles, stately mountains, and Killarney National Park, await any traveler eager to explore the outdoors. Whether in a car, on a bike, or on foot, if beautiful thriving parks, velvety lakes, majestic mountains, and a city overflowing with history are on the agenda, Killarney leaves nothing to be desired for any type of traveler. So, Slainte (to your health)! The smiling faces await, but leave your shorts at home.


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