My stay at Clonkill Manor with Carmel was pure magic. Words cannot describe the experience, but I'll try. To begin, I'll start with a list.

1. Carmel picked me up from the train station, which (in my opinion) is already above and beyond. I was exhausted from days of travel, so this warm welcome soothed me instantly. Her kindness and generosity suffuse the house; for example, I slept for 16 hours straight, which I've never done before in my entire life.
2. The finishing touches added to the comfort of home
- Varied breakfast out every morning
- The bathroom was stocked with toiletries and towels
- Bedroom and sitting room full of magazines and travel guides
3. The house itself is a historical property on 16 acres on which Carmel and her family live. They own two white ponies, a dog named Cookie, and 3 cats living in the barn. Meeting all of them was a pleasure.

If you are up for exploring, you will receive plenty of recommendations from horse-back riding to dancing to sight-seeing. The Mullingar area is not your run-of-the-mill tourist place, which adds to the charm. Note that a car is the best way to get around.

Overall, this short stay spoiled me for life, and I can't wait to come back.