Ireland. For some, the mere mention of the name conjures images of all-night Guinness sessions in smoky pubs. For others, it is barren, rocky landscapes beneath gray skies. And still for others, it is lush green valleys, warm smiles, and Irish humor.

Ireland is all these things, and more. Especially when travelling with children. For those not old enough to drink a pint, the Emerald Isle is an educational and entertaining fantasyland of castles and kings, richer than any leprechaun's pot of gold. And for those adults travelling with them, the experience of Ireland goes far beyond the pub.

This June, my 11 year-old son Joshua and I toured the Republic of Ireland for two weeks at the beginning of our Around-The-World Trip, The GoNOMAD Adventure. Our route took us from the Rock-n-Roll streets of Dublin to the remote reaches of County Clare, from the ragged coast of Kerry to the fertile hills and valleys along the Shannon. From castles to kayaking, traditional music and pub lunches, we discovered Ireland to be one of the most kid-friendly and alternative destinations in Europe.

Dublin has changed. No longer the grimy, grey city of Angela's Ashes, like the rest of Ireland. Both sides of the River Liffey are filled with colourful shops, homes, and pubs. Grafton Street is body to body on Saturdays (the shopping day), and Temple Bar pulses to the beat of the best of Irish contemporary rock (and traditional music) all night long. Dublin is fast becoming the next big European destination, taking over London's role as the place to go for cutting edge culture. READ MORE