Founders of Crystal Travel & Tours Jim and Teresa Kelly certainly know a thing or two about tourism. They both moved to Boston from Ireland and worked for airline companies before opening Crystal Travel in 1985. Through the years, Jim and Teresa have sent people all over the world – from their hometown of Galway to Medjugorje for a pilgrimage. They understand the world is changing and, as a result, the travel industry must change with it. Their approach to tourism is a key factor in what makes our clients travel with us again and again. Jim and Teresa’s experience has taught them much over the years. Here are a few helpful tips they have for your next vacation.
- Go on family trips and really make the most of them. There is nothing more precious to us than making memories with our three children and grandchildren. We look back on moments shared with them and realize the incredible way they’ve impacted our lives for the better. That’s something you really can’t put a price tag on, and we wouldn’t trade those memories for the world. We’ve watched our two sons and daughter grow up into wonderful people, and so much of their travels have made them who they are today. There’s no better way to learn about a place, its culture or its role in history than to see it for yourself. That’s something we’ve instilled in them, and it’s something we encourage all families to take advantage of during their travels.
- Ireland has never been more accommodating to tourists with various interests and hobbies. Of course, we don’t just send people to Ireland, but we do have a soft spot for our native country. It’s true, the Emerald Isle is one of a kind when it comes to castles, pubs and a warm welcome. However, there is so much more to see and do there than ever before. For example, West Cork was recently named the Foodie Capital of Ireland. Its reputation for fine drink and cuisine is owed to the care and devotion the Irish people put into their recipes. From the finest seafood we’ve ever tasted to a pint of Guinness like no other, you can’t go wrong. If you’re more of the adventurous type, Ireland has plenty of options to keep you on your toes. You can take part in anything from the everyday hike to the unique and exciting coasteering. Or, perhaps you’ve always wanted to trace your Irish roots and a library or museum is more your style. Places like EPIC Ireland and Glasnevin Cemetery use state-of-the-art tools and databases to make that a reality. We could go on and on, but ultimately, once we know your interests we’ll be delighted to point you in the right direction in Ireland.
- If you get the opportunity to go on a pilgrimage and you’re even slightly interested, take it. For many years, we’ve been traveling to Medjugorje, known for its apparitions of the Virgin Mary and countless other holy encounters. Medjugorje visits are the perfect way to get in touch with one’s faith and restore peace of mind. We host several trips each year and no two trips are alike. It’s an incredible experience we really can’t justify through words. You really have to be there, yourself!
