In the realm of travel writing and journalism, few events can match the prestige and allure of Travel Classics Magazine Conference. This year, we celebrated more than twenty-five years since Maren Rudolph started the conference in New York and the magnificent Ashford Castle in Ireland played host to an exclusive assembly of top magazine editors from around the globe. The event was a true testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the timeless charm of travel.
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of County Mayo, Ashford Castle stands as a symbol of opulence and history. Its turreted towers and lush gardens have welcomed dignitaries and celebrities, providing them with an unforgettable retreat. However, during our Travel Classics Ireland 2023 event, the castle took on an even more enchanting role, becoming a hub of inspiration and exchange for the world’s leading travel journalists.
As the sun cast its golden rays upon the ancient walls of Ashford Castle, the halls echoed with lively conversations and the clinking of glasses, as editors and writers from renowned magazines gathered to share their experiences, insights, and passion for travel. The air was electric with anticipation with this gathering of like-minded individuals who dedicate their lives to the pursuit of capturing the essence of remarkable destinations in words.
We had many discussions on the ever-evolving world of travel journalism. We exchanged stories of far-flung adventures, shared tips and techniques, and contemplated the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. I love the camaraderie at our meals and networking sessions and feel inspired by the group.
In the realm of travel writing, where words paint vivid pictures and transport readers to distant lands, Travel Classics continues to be a beacon of excellence. Enjoy my videos below and in the upcoming posts to feel like you were there with us!
Our unforgettable opening night dinner at Travel Classics Ireland 2023. The mouth-watering cuisine and enchanting musical entertainment set the tone for a conference with unparalleled opportunities. Networking with fellow writers, editors, and industry professionals inspires creativity and passion for travel writing. I look forward to gaining new knowledge, making meaningful connections, and elevating my writing career.
The bagpipes are a traditional part of Irish culture and are often used to create a grand and celebratory atmosphere at special events and ceremonies. For our welcome dinner at Ashford Castle in the George V Dining Room, the music of bagpipes evoked the rich cultural heritage of Ireland. What a memorable and meaningful start to our incredible evening.
We were immersed in music as we entered our welcome dinner! Thank you to the amazing teams at Ashford Castle, Travel Classics Ireland and Tourism Ireland for the inspiring conference, Irish music, the fantastic food and incredible service! Thank you to Glórnaróba!
Our festive night included the Irish Púca ceremony which is an ancient tradition that celebrates the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter. It involves lighting bonfires, performing dances, and making offerings to the Púca, a mischievous fairy creature. The ceremony is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.
Learning about IRELAND
What to DO in IRELAND? Travel writers discovering stories at Travel Classics Ireland!
As part of Travel Classics Ireland, we enjoyed two elegant lunches at the George V Dining Room in Ashford Castle. Savor delicious cuisine prepared by expert chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The opulent surroundings, impeccable service, and delectable food make for an unforgettable dining experience hosted by Experience Scottsdale, Arizona Office of Tourism and Visit Tucson on Tuesday and Destination British Columbia and Destination Vancouver on Weds!
Thank you Travel Classics Ireland for an unforgettable culinary journey from The Wild Atlantic Way. Our epic dinner experience at the Lodge at Ashford Castle savored the exquisite flavors of locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients elegantly prepared by your skilled chefs. It was a gastronomic adventure that celebrated the unique and vibrant culture of the region!
The Guinness dinner at the Lodge at Ashford Castle was a “brewtiful” experience! The chef’s imaginative use of water, hops, barley, and yeast in each dish was “hopsolutely” delicious, and the expertly paired Guinness beers were a “barley” believable complement. It was a night full of pun and flavor, leaving me feeling “yeasty” satisfied.
After a sumptuous dinner that tantalized all our senses by @Guinness, we were treated to an amazing vocal performance by Lisa Hannigan which mesmerized us with beautiful melodies and emotive lyrics.
One night after dinner we were treated to an incredible performance by Trad on the Prom— at The Lodge at Ashford Castle at Travel Classics Ireland 2023 April 25, 2023 Thank you Tourism Ireland and enjoy all 23 videos!
Travel Classics Magazine conference is in my soon to be released memoir, Brave-ish, One Breakup, Six Continents and Feeling Fearless After Fifty!
Thank you to Ashford Castle, Travel Classics Ireland and Tourism Ireland for my amazing adventures!
Enjoy more of my travels in Ireland
- Travel Classics Ireland 2023 Conference at Ashford Castle and on MSN
- Unforgettable Ashford Castle for the Travel Classics Ireland Conference 2023 and on MSN
- Wild Atlantic Way Adventures: Ireland’s Coast Gem and on MSN
- Enchanting Escapes in Northern Ireland’s Beauty! and on MSN
- Interview with Nina Ruggiero, Travel and Leisure Digital Editoral Director and on MSN
- Interview with Ambassador Bryne Nason and on MSN
- Travel Classics Ireland 2017
- Dublin Adventures 2015
- VIDEOS: from 2023 Conference and tour, from 2017 Travel Classics Conference and and my St. Patrick’s Day adventures in Dublin 2015