PARTY/TRAVEL: TOURISM IRELAND COCKTAIL PARTY 2016

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TOURISM IRELAND COCKTAIL PARTY 2016

I recently encountered the strange coincidence that this annual party for Tourism Ireland fell on the same night as the opening of The Beauty Queen of Leenane, an Irish play in town! That meant that I got double-use out of all my fabulous green attire, accessories, and even eye make-up that I was rockin’ that night! So, yay to that part.

Photo by Karen Salkin.

Photo by Karen Salkin.

But, sadly for me, it also meant that I could attend only the cocktail and meet-and-greet portion of this “Jump Into Ireland” soiree, and not stay for the later presentation and dinner, which was all held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills.

But, no matter. It just meant that I had to be more prudent about my time there. While my pal, Alice, took care of taking pictures, and sampling the passed hors d’oeuvres (because they were all ones that I could not eat—lamb, fish, cheese, and beef,) I got to chat with every rep from the different areas of Ireland, and from the many lodgings and activities that await us there, should I ever have the good fortune to visit that gorgeous-looking country. Now I’m all set on exactly where to go, and what to do there.

The Irish step-dancer, performing right in front of our eyes!  (Doesn't she look a bit like Jennifer Morrison?) Photo by Alice Farinas.

The Irish step-dancer, performing right in front of our eyes! (Doesn’t she look a bit like Jennifer Morrison?) Photo by Alice Farinas.

I spoke with owners of bed-and-breakfasts, representatives of luxury hotels, (I was delighted to discover that some even serve afternoon tea!,) and agents for fun things to do once I’m there and settled, like taking a train ride across the countryside.

But the best part came when I handed my business card to one amiable gent. Most people don’t even look at the cards they receive; this guy was aware enough to notice not just the title of this e-zine, but also all my witticisms in the the tiny print! And I’m proud to say that he loved it all! He told me that not only was it the “winner” of the night, but that it was the best card he’s ever seen! You know that my mission in life is to entertain people, so this chance meeting made my night.

Even without eating or drinking anything, the cocktail hour proved fruitful for me. I met some lovely people, and got to also chat with my favorite server at that hotel, Victor.

The trio of musicians on the right, with the step-dancer taking a break, on the left. Photo by Karen Salkin.

The trio of musicians on the right, with the step-dancer taking a break, on the left. Photo by Karen Salkin.

All the while, we were treated to upbeat authentic entertainment. There was a musical trio, and even an Irish step-dancer! I loved seeing that magical art so up-close and personal!

I’m so sorry that I could not stay for the wonderful corned beef and cabbage (and all the trimmings) dinner that was to come, (I’m familiar with it from last year,) nor the little skits they usually do to show us the treats that are in store for us once we “Jump Into Ireland,” but I promise that the second this group organizes a press junket, I will be happy to join in, and tell you everything about it! After all, I’m already all set with my wardrobe!

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