The best Irish gifts online this Christmas

Wouldn’t it be nice to give something especially Irish this Christmas? Not only would you be supporting Ireland’s economic recovery if you have a mind to, but also lots of jobs that keep those rural communities we are all so fond of as tourists alive and awake! But most importantly you or your loved ones would be receiving a quality gift that will be appreciated and valued for its uniquely Irish appeal.

Like Waterford Crystal, who wouldn’t be pleased to ring in 2012 with a couple of crystal champagne flutes? The first edition Partridge in a Pear Tree from Waterford Crystals 12 Days of Christmas Range are reduced by 70% at www.giftshopireland.com while stocks last, they are fast becoming modern day collectibles. Just like their cut glass tree ornaments and baubles which make the perfect one size fits all gifts, from new babies, to birthdays and anniversaries and even hostess gifts this time of year. Gift Shop Ireland has the widest selection of Waterford Crystal in the world, as well as an exclusive on Nicholas Mosse pottery. Plus they are offering a 10% discount and free shipping worldwide for all Irish Central readers, simply enter the code Christmas Gifts at point of purchase.

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Another classical Irish gift is Newbridge Silverware which started out making cutlery in 1934, but has since diversified into designer jewellery, with several vintage collections to complement their Style Icons museum and smart contemporary giftware. Is there anything better than sleek cutlery that works, will stand the test of time and look beautiful? The Celtic 24 piece gift pack is a surefire winner. Guaranteed to set a lady’s heart on fire would be a little something from the Grace Kelly Collection which has everything from pearl earrings for her to classic onyx / silver cufflinks for him. All of the above (and lots more besides) come beautifully packaged and presented in pale blue and cream boxes from www.newbridgesilverware.com

Or if you would prefer to let the recipient, especially us ladies, do the choosing you can’t go wrong with a gift card from Brown Thomas, pretty please? Following on from the success of the Marvel room last year, Brown Thomas has pop-up Gift Box shops in all of its branches throughout Ireland to excite and delight shoppers this Christmas. Packed full of even more covetable and collectible designer goodies, believe me a gift card from Brown Thomas is as they say themselves, is the one gift that is sure to please all of the people, all of the time! Available online from www.brownthomas.com in whatever value you wish, simply add your personalised greeting and you wont see us for fairy dust….

Finally, why not send an edible feast to your loved ones here or at home. The Burren Smokehouse pack the finest hampers with the very best Irish food and drink from carefully selected Artisan producers throughout Ireland, alongside their own award winning organic Atlantic smoked salmon, which was fit for a Queen, Elizabeth II no less, when she was here last May. They have a huge range online from the small artisan baskets at €59 to full on banquets for €299, although the best selling baskets are the Whiskey Basket at €99, everything in it from the cheese to the marmalade and chocolates are laced with whiskey to the Clare Basket €89, all of the produce comes from County Clare, you can almost smell the Burren! But you would need to order from www.burrensmokehouse.ie before the 9th of December to guarantee pre-Christmas delivery.

If you do decide to buy Irish this Christmas and I hope that you will, thank you for supporting Irish jobs, Irish businesses and communities throughout Ireland.

www.irelands-hidden-gems.com

Hidden Ireland - Ireland's private house a world away from Irish hotels

Old Irish house - stylish bathroom

Hidden Ireland is a collection of magnificent private houses throughout Ireland who offer seasonal accommodation, albeit on a grand scale, to the public.

A stay in one of these great houses is quite unlike anything else you will experience in Ireland. "Downton Abbey" addicts (like myself) will delight in the country house experience where you are made to feel more like an invited friend than a paying guest.

Whilst not obviously commercial and not to be confused with country house hotels, these wonderful homes (most of which have been in the same family for many generations) offer something truly different.

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A peek at the Hidden Ireland brochure reveals a wealth of stunning, architectural gems from which to choose. Perhaps a romantic Victorian hunting lodge, on a wild river teaming with fish, a Palladian mansion on a vast country estate with leafy walks or an elegant Georgian townhouse right in the heart of Dublin.

Although still available many of the pursuits traditionally associated with country life, like hunting, fishing and shooting, have naturally translated into organic farming, with fresh fish and game, vegetables and fruit in season often featuring on the evening menu. Dinner (by request) is usually served at a communal dining table (although you can dine alone if you wish) designed to further enhance your appreciation of Irish country house hospitality.

Apart from fine wine and conversation, you never know who you will be your fellow guests and what life long friendships might be forged at these impromptu gatherings. Repeat business is a testament to and the lifeblood of these establishments, ensuring a continuity of tenure and responsibility for the second generation of hosts and their children, who are breathing new life into Hidden Ireland. What has been their privilege is now their great pleasure to share with you.

For further details, including seasonal special offers and Christmas Gift Vouchers visit www.hiddenireland.com

Aras an Uachtaran in the Phoenix Park - President Michael D Higgin's new home

Susan outside the Aras an Uachtaran

Aras an Uachtaran, in the Phoenix Park is the house where the ninth Irish President Michael D Higgins, who was inaugurated on Friday in Dublin Castle, will live for his seven years in office.

Not many people know that you can actually visit Aras an Uachtaran yourself on Satrudays, unless it is being used for official state business, which means tours can be cancelled at short notice. While admission is free, tickets are limited to about 100 which are allocated on a first come first served basis from the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, close by at Ashtown Castle.

Visitors are then transferred by coach and given a guided tour of the state rooms and a short history of the building itself that used to be the Vice Regal Lodge when it was occupied by the then governing body of Englands various Lord Lieutenants, one of whom the Duke of Marlborough who was Winston Churchill’s father.

Elegant corridor at Aras an Uachtaran

It’s a wonderful opportunity to take a peak behind the familiar scenes being played out in the media today, to be part of a living history so to speak. The boardroom, where new governments are sworn into office, under the watchful eye of former presidents, whose portraits line the walls.

The dining room is laid out in crisp white linen with fresh flower arrangements (from the Aras’ own garden) mirrored under the crystal chandeliers.

The lounge used for meeting and greeting visiting dignitaries and royalty so familiar from news footage you almost feel at home, with a final glimpse into the President’s own office, which they are allowed to personalize for their term of office. In fact, I was amazed at how homely and lived in the Aras felt, with fresh garden flowers everywhere and polished brass fire irons beside the grand marble fireplaces set with peat briquettes waiting to be lit in welcome for the next guests, which could be you.

For more information visit www.irelands-hidden-gems.com/aras.html