How to Get Blarney - By Kissing the Blarney Stone

The term "blarney" means empty flattery and was coined by Queen Elizabeth I in response to the Lord of Blarney, Cormac Teige McCarthy's use of diplomacy. I heard horror stories about people violating the Blarney Stone, it's just a rumor. It's safe, and one of those lifetime experiences that you can say you did. I attribute 82% of my eHow.com capabilities solely on the fact that I kissed the Blarney Stone and received the true "gift of gab".

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Ticket to Ireland (flight, boat)
• Capability to walk up several (approximately 120) narrow stairs

1. 1 - ARRIVE IN BLARNEY, IRELAND and find the Blarney Castle. It is on beautiful grounds and the castle itself is 82 feet high.
2. 2 - PURCHASE TICKET to the Blarney Castle and Gardens
   2008 prices are €7 for adults, € for Seniors and Children (price in Euros will vary based on the exchange rage)
3. 3 - EXPLORE THE GROUNDS They are stunning
4. 4 - WALK UP BLARNEY CASTLE - The steps are narrow. My Dad and I went and he reminded me where his nitroglycerin tables were. (Don't go alone, this must be shared with a friend or family member)
5. 5 - WAIT IN LINE TO KISS THE BLARNEY STONE - Enjoy the view. Prepare to get your "gift of gab".
6. 6 - TIP THE ATTENDANT BECAUSE WHEN IT'S YOUR TURN...
7. 7 - HE WILL HOLD YOUR LEGS as you scoot back and hold some handles over an open hole to kiss the Blarney Stone. It's over too quick. Prepare to be exhilerated.
8. 8 - GET YOUR PICTURE MADE WHILE YOU'RE ON TOP OF THE BLARNEY CASTLE and also look for other couples who want their picture made.

Tips & Warnings

• STAY at the Avondale Lodge in Blarney, County Cork - Mrs. Rose O'Sullivan is a wonderful hostess.
• VISIT Blarney Woolen Mills - eat at their restaurant, it's top notch
• SIGHTSEE in the coastal city of Kinsale (45 minutes) and Cobh (40 minutes away)
• Get detailed maps