Trading New York High-Rises for Irish Adventures

Hey there, fellow travelers! Imagine swapping skyscrapers for shamrocks. That’s exactly what my wife, Loli, and I did, with our English Bull Terrier, Zeke, tagging along. On June 29, 2023, we hauled boxes out of our New Rochelle high-rise, beginning our NY High-Rises and Irish Adventures. After six decades in the States, we craved a fresh start. So, we set our sights on Ireland for some real adventures. For Zeke? As long as kibble’s in the bowl, he’s happy anywhere.

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Why We Left New York Behind

So, why ditch the Big Apple? Simple: retirement and a hunger for change. Loli wrapped up her 30-year gig as a special ed teacher on June 30, 2023. She also taught at Columbia University—because she’s awesome like that. However, New York’s cost of living? Brutal for retirees. Our four kids are grown and thriving. Thus, it was our turn to chase a new chapter. Trading New York high-rises for Irish adventures felt like the perfect fit.

Trading High Costs for New Horizons

New York would drain our wallets. We considered cheaper U.S. spots—Florida, the Carolinas, Texas. Yet, Loli’s 10-day Irish getaway with friends changed everything. She’d visited in 2002, but this time, she returned buzzing. Retirement in Ireland? Yes, please! My dual U.S.-Irish citizenship—thanks to my grandparents—sealed the deal. Planning this move took years, and we were ready for trading New York high-rises for Irish adventures.

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The Big Move: New York to Dublin Journey

Our lease ended July 1, 2023, but Aer Lingus only ships dogs on Mondays. So, we flew out July 3 instead. Meanwhile, we visited with our daughter upstate. Then, we jetted off from JFK, landing in Dublin on July 4—ironic, right? Zeke snoozed through it all. Honestly, the timing felt like fate, making trading New York high-rises for Irish adventures seem even more perfect.

Where Were We Headed?

Initially, we dreamed of the Mizen Peninsula in West Cork. It’s Ireland’s southernmost point—rugged, wild, and part of the Wild Atlantic Way. This 2,500 km route stretches from Donegal to Kinsale. Think cliffs, waves, and pure escape. My Irish cousins thought I was crazy for loving its isolation. But, hey, it’s even Star Wars territory—scenes from The Force Awakens were filmed nearby! Our NY High-Rises and Irish Adventures definitely brought us to unique places.

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Dublin: Our Unexpected Irish Adventure Base

We didn’t dive straight into West Cork. First, we tackled practical stuff—bank accounts, insurance, phone plans—in Dublin. It’s the capital, after all, and a great launchpad. We planned to settle in, then head southwest. However, after a year in the lively Liberties and now another in fancy Ballsbridge, Dublin won us over. The charm, the people, the vibe—it’s home now. Trading New York high-rises for Irish adventures was indeed the best decision we made.

Swapping Skyscrapers for Ireland’s Charm

From New Rochelle high-rises to Dublin streets, we’ve embraced this shift. Zeke’s along for the ride, happy as ever. Ireland’s been our leap, and we’re loving every minute. Our NY High-Rises and Irish Adventures have truly enriched our lives. Want more tales? Check out our Adventures in Dublin for city scoop or Pro Tips for Yanks for expat hacks.