Galway Vacations, Galway Vacation Reviews, Tourism Guide

Galway is located on the west coast of ireland, roughly a three hour bus ride from the hustle and bustle of Dublin. The city name derives from the Gaelic \'Gaillimh\' after the river but the meaning id unclear and disputed. One theory is that it is the name of a gaelic chieftain who drowned there! Today Galway is reputed to be the fastest growing city in Europe. Prosperity has returned with a vengeance. During the summer months traffic congestion is virtually unbearable; The Galway Arts Festival is followed & race-meeting at the end of July attracts thousands to the suburb of Ballybrit, where vast sums are wagered over six days racing. A variety of other festivals keep the city busy all through the summer, as Galway has gone back to its historic pre-occupation with trade, commerce and the making of money.

Galway contains two universities - the national University of Ireland, Galway, & the Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology. The overall population is quite young, and the city definitely has that \'college town\' feel in some respects.

Most activities center around Eyre Square with many small roads leading off offering various establishments to eat, drink, and shop. A good daytrip can bring you to the magnificient Cliffs of Moher, or the Aran Islands.

Galway is known for being a cultural hub in Ireland and it hosts numerous festivals and activities throughout the year - most notably the Arts Festival & Galway Races (horses) in the last week of July.