5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Kiss the Blarney Stone: A Cautionary Tale for Travelers [Expert Advice]

What is don’t kiss the blarney stone?

Don’t kiss the blarney stone is a widely circulated warning which cautions individuals against participating in a highly questionable and unsanitary tourism activity.

• The Blarney Stone, located in Ireland’s County Cork, is said to possess magical powers that can bestow eloquence upon anyone who kisses it.
• Tourists often wait for hours just to have their chance at kissing the famous rock.
• However, many experts warn against this tradition as studies have shown that the Blarney Stone has high levels of bacteria from all the people smooching on it over time.

Overall, while kissing the Blarney Stone may seem like an exciting tourist attraction, it’s important to remember that there are potential health risks involved with doing so.

Step-by-Step: How to Avoid Kissing the Blarney Stone on Your Trip to Ireland

Planning a trip to Ireland? Be sure to add visiting the Blarney Stone to your bucket list! This legendary destination attracts tourists from all over the world who are eager to kiss the stone and gain “the gift of gab.” However, kissing this iconic piece of rock isn’t as easy as it seems. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to avoid kissing the Blarney Stone so that you can avoid awkward encounters and protect yourself from germs.

Step 1: Know What You’re Dealing With

The first thing you need to know about the Blarney Stone is what you’re dealing with. The stone sits at the top of Blarney Castle in County Cork, Ireland. It’s believed that kissing the stone will grant you eloquence, wit, and persuasiveness – attributes which some people believe were given originally by King Cormac McCarthy after he enlisted help in defeating enemy forces.

Step 2: Decide If You Really Want To Kiss It

Now that you have an idea of what exactly kissing the Blarney Stone entails let’s decide whether kissing it is worth it or not. While many travelers feel like they haven’t fully experienced Ireland without mustering up enough courage (and strength) for puckering up their lips against this ancient symbol – keep in mind that doing so could come at some personal cost such dental costs if anything happens during your climb up!

If you think avoiding lip contact with the potentially germ-infested surface might be more fun than actually trying to work out how-to balance upside-down whilst also controlling any upright peepers’ nervous movements then perhaps trying something else would be just as rewarding; enjoying exploring Ireland’s scenic countryside or tasty cuisine?

Step 3: Check Your Comfort Level

If there’s one thing for sure when traveling overseas – things may not always go according to plan. On-site visited attractions can cause anxiety or even end with unexpected negative experiences due to crowds or lack of proper distancing measures. If you’re someone who is uncomfortable with heights, small spaces, perhaps even a little lackluster about the heritage and actual history behind the Blarney Stone – then climbing up this famous stone isn’t likely an activity for you.

Step 4: Get Creative With The Photo Shoots

For anyone looking to get creative and still capture that perfect snapshot without actually engaging in an oral encounter- there’s some good news! To document your trip without risking any unwanted kissing moments, consider posing from afar or close by but holding back on smooching action put those other limbs into use!

A photo where one places their hand on top of the Blarney Castle Daybed (also known as another artifact located inside) can say just as much about your experience connected with Ireland’s customs than a selfie planting lips onto something that may not have been washed in over five minutes.

Step 5: Enter The Worleys Gift Shop For A Keepsake

If avoiding germs and skipping out on puckering feels more comfortable — yet leaving empty-handed seems like a major loss — it’s best to try exploring local shops led by seasoned locals to find special items worth taking home instead. At Worley’s gift shop situated next door visitors will be able to pick-up pieces inspired by Irish tradition, whether it being Celtic knots necklaces made locally within Cork City, craft beer glasses casually read “May the Road Rise Up” making for great gifts for friends help support regional craftspeople too!

In conclusion:

While many travelers come to Ireland eager to visit and kiss “the magic stone,” if this idea sounds less appealing personally disqualifies so don’t stress yourself out now- there are plenty of other ways one can fully immerse oneself into learning about Irish heritage filled with cultural traditions all across this breathtaking country such as hiking at Connemara National Park , indulging unique food offerings prepared fresh and local ingredients or good ol-fashioned Irish music sing-alongs. So have a blast creating authentic memories, one word at a time!

Don’t Kiss the Blarney Stone FAQ: Answering All Your Burning Questions

Are you planning to visit the beautiful land of Ireland anytime soon and contemplating whether or not to kiss the infamous Blarney Stone? As your trusty guide, we’ve answered all your burning questions in this comprehensive FAQ that’ll help you make an informed decision.

First things first – what exactly is the Blarney Stone?

The Blarney Stone is a block of limestone built into the battlements of the iconic Blarney Castle – one of Ireland’s most popular tourist attractions. Kissing it supposedly grants visitors with eloquence and flattery skills; as per Irish folklore, this tradition dates back nearly six centuries!

Okay, cool. Does every visitor get to kiss it if they want to?

Several historical tales suggest that men who were too ‘properly dressed’ couldn’t climb up and reach the stone easily. Presumably due to their heavy armor! Today though everyone’s welcome regardless of how they’re dressed but there is still usually quite a long waiting time…

Err…wait…isn’t kissing a stone amid COVID-19 times super unhygienic?

Well spotted! Pre-pandemic, tourists would lie down on their backs while holding onto railings extended from two sides above until reaching out over a sheer drop (of castles can be pretty high!) Then grab onto iron bars above them with another hand while upside-down and then lean forward enough for someone else typically at least partially supporting them throughout by firmly gripping some other part largely involving lower limbs could lock hands around their waste (gross!), so they could lean further toward grabbing at The Stone which Funnily enough doesn’t seem particularly hygienic now we come think about it after typing-out like that… I guess check out any safety measures implemented when visiting when life gets back closer-to-normal.

Is there anything special I need to do before/after kissing it?

Not really! A pretend hover-kiss might work better than actually puckering up for safety sake. Somewhat obviously, before or after the event (on advice of experts such as Samuel Johnson) several pints of Guinness are known to make one particularly eloquent and able to exclaim more witty comments about kissing a germ-covered chunk of limestone!

The big question then: Should I do it?

If you’re willing to brave the long wait in line or climb steep steps leading up to Blarney Castle’s attic without concussion from hitting your head on low-beams? And remain extremely curious to follow traditions that dictate an 18th-century Colonel once got absolutely plastered drunk or passed out first before smooching The Stone back in 1759; Then knock yourself out! Just remember what we said about possible bodily fluids beforehand, eh…

The Top 5 Facts You Need to Know Before Deciding Whether or Not to Kiss the Blarney Stone

There are very few landmarks in the world that hold as much intrigue and mystique as the Blarney Stone. Located near Cork, Ireland, this stone is said to bestow upon those who kiss it a gift of eloquence and wit known colloquially as “the gift of gab.” However, with any tourist attraction comes some questions about whether or not it’s worth visiting. Here are the top five facts you need to know before deciding whether or not to kiss the Blarney Stone.

1. The history of the Blarney Stone dates back hundreds of years.
Legend has it that a witch saved from drowning either put the stone into one castle’s walls for protection or revealed its location after an imprisoned man professed gratitude towards her thereby receiving magical powers allowing him to become king. Whatever version you choose to believe, what we do know about the rock today is that it was incorporated into Blarney Castle during renovations completed sometime around 1446 by Cormac MacCarthy – thus starting its journey on becoming one of Europe’s most visited tourist spots!

2. Kissing the Blarney Stone requires bravery (and patience).
If you decide to take a trip through Ireland’s countryside and visit this historic site yourself, be prepared for two challenges: heights and long lines! To actually kiss the stone itself located at such height will require lying down atop scaffolding overhanging open air while holding onto rails so long lines are common; that too counts if visitors miss their photo-op moment they lose out on lovely memories captured forever despite having successfully planted lips on cold mammoth limestone structure.

3. Not everyone thinks kissing the Blarney Stone is hygienic.
Despite all its tales of grandeur spanning centuries-old tradition spreading like wildfire online these days among travelers worldwide -there are still plenty skeptics- so when asked should someone ever plant their mouth anywhere near legendary slab respond with absolute caution… It turns out that due to regular sanitation concerns, the castle’s staff constantly monitor germs on this historic stone. What that means for visitors is nobody really knows how many people have laid their lips upon it over time or whether some bacteria may still be lingering.

4. The Blarney Stone is not the only attraction at Blarney Castle.
While kissing an enchanted rock might make for a great story to tell friends and family back home, there are other reasons to visit Blarney Castle beyond just getting your “gift of gab.” Visitors can explore its lush gardens surrounded by waterfalls including Wishing Steps nearby where legend has it that if you walk up them backwards with eyes closed whilst holding onto rail tightly without tripping once will earn visitor 3 wishes from fairies; plus don’t forget about shopping opportunities in town perusing various souvenir offerings!

5. Kissing the Blarney Stone is worth it (if you’re willing).
At the end of the day, deciding whether or not to kiss the Blarney Stone ultimately comes down to personal preference: do you believe in magic and new opportunities? Or are you someone who prioritizes hygiene over folklore tales? One thing we know for sure though – thousands yearly flocking here would attest: yes! Planting lips on mystic Irish monsterous block larger than life itself makes adequately thrilling experience- which often brings families tourists groups bustling excitement as they take pictures leave comments bound be shared among relatives years later having felt blessed rejuvenated inspired renewed lighthearted naturally lifted when leaving Ireland knowing gift of gab always available should need arise.

In conclusion, visiting the mystical land of Ireland definitely needs to include a stopover at one legends’ most famous sites like-the “Blarney” neighborhood where locals claim kissing stones changes lives forevermore… so book your trip today see why everyone looking forward give those ancient mammoth limestone rugged edges magical marbles encased into walls taking risks requires little bravery daring and loads of courage worth every moment.

The Dark Side of Kissing the Blarney Stone (and Why You Should Think Twice Before Doing It)

If you’ve been to Ireland or have an interest in Gaelic mythology, chances are you’ve heard of the Blarney Stone. This legendary limestone block is housed at the top of a tower in Blarney Castle near Cork and is said to bestow upon those who kiss it the gift of eloquence or “the gift of gab.”

However, every rose has its thorn and kissing the Blarney Stone comes with some serious drawbacks that not many people talk about. Here are a few reasons why you might want to reconsider puckering up for this famous Irish tradition:

1. It’s a Health Hazard

The Blarney Stone is estimated to be around 350 million years old, which means it’s seen more than its fair share of wear and tear. Countless tourists flock to kiss this ancient piece of rock every year, leaving behind saliva and germs from all over the world.

Studies have shown that airplane passengers are already at risk for contracting illnesses due to cabin pressure changes, so imagine what could happen when someone carrying foreign bacteria kisses a centuries-old stone that thousands before them have also smooched?

2. It Can Be Pretty Gross

Let’s be real: kissing any hard surface isn’t exactly pleasant. When you lean back off the edge of Blarney Castle to reach down towards the coveted stone from above (safely harnessed by assistants), there’s no telling how well-maintained that area beneath your lips really is.

Even if workers hose down and disinfect everything regularly (unlikely), it can still feel like putting your mouth our own version of Fear Factor as countless slobbering travelers go through their daily routine on it.

3.The Line-Up Might Not Be Worth It After All

Despite being one heckuva tourist attraction dripping with sentimental history tied into Irish folklore surrounding Sir Richard Martin’s magical adventures where he gifts Queen Elizabeth I “blarneys,” Actually getting a kiss to happen must be quite the feat, given that it requires ascending a series of tight spiral stairs then reaching awkwardly read before lying down and inching your head and upper body out toward whoever is there to help you.

Add to this the fact that every other tourist seems eager for their own chance at eloquence through saliva, those same stairways are bound to become crowded with people jostling and shoving from all sides just waiting in line. In winter months especially, frantically fighting against both crowds rushing ahead or falling behind by stepping on toes instead of staying quiet becomes exceedingly uncomfortable — most definitely not one for sufferers of claustrophobia!

4. You’re Risking Life And Limb For What?

Kissing stone may be fun if ancient magic stories appeal, but keep in mind it’s only folklore fun which has grown into tourism commerce over time since Irish castle officials began playing up its romantic qualities back in 1703. Unfortunately going viral nowadays doesn’t mean huge success elsewhere too – except ironically perhaps among hospital emergency rooms where treatment for injuries suffered while attempting Blarney Stone kisses are a common occurrence.

Besides broken bones resulting from slipups along narrow walkaway areas according tour groups have reported injuries ranging from cuts scratches bruises sustained during falls others tripping amidst distracting crowds jostling impatient visitors squished together like sardines finally reaching kiss point therein struggle ensues further causing yet more damage.

In conclusion:

So next time you find yourself daydreaming about kissing the famous Irish landmark known as The Dark Side of Kissing the Blarney Stone (and Why You Should Think Twice Before Doing It), take some extra care when considering actually doing so after weighing risks carefully beforehand…the whole idea might turn out simply better left unexplored!

The Real Story Behind Ireland’s Most Famous Tourist Attraction: Separating Myth from Reality

Ireland is known for many things; famous writers, whiskey, and incredible scenery. However, nothing captures the imagination quite like Ireland’s most famous tourist attraction: The Blarney Stone.

Located in County Cork, the Blarney Stone has drawn tourists from all over the world for almost 600 years. Legend says that kissing the stone will give you “the gift of gab” – a silver tongue and eloquent speech. But what is the real story behind this iconic symbol of Irish folklore?

First off, let’s talk about where it came from. The Blarney Stone is actually part of the tower at Blarney Castle, which was built in 1446 by Cormac Laidir MacCarthy – one of Ireland’s richest men at the time. Over 200 years later, during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, MacCarthy sent his loyalty to her majesty via a letter signed with “his barefaced effrontery-gilded with Gallicisms and garnished with brouderie.” In other words – he sucked up really well!

Legend tells us that after hearing about his impressive flattery skills, Queen Elizabeth demanded that Lord President of Munster Sir George Carew take no more notice ‘of McCarthy’s empty courtesies’ but rather make him surrender Blarney Castle within six months or face being hanged without trial! McCarthy responded by offering every excuse under sun as to why he cannot attend…the air would be bad for me etc…. until finally on September 30th he instructed one brother to supply barrels full to overflowing with provisions whilst another unleashed hundreds upon hundreds pigs throughout surrounding fields thus giving rise to free bacon as they also made their surreptitious escape along underground tunnels used previously solely for smuggling purposes….. ahem… It seems history mixes fact and fiction pretty freely when it comes to explaining missing stones from castles!

And so it goes ….a few versions later, and we have our romantic, albeit somewhat gruesome, tale of the Blarney Stone.

But what about that “gift of gab”? Well, it’s not quite as magical as legend would suggest. The truth is that kissing the stone involves leaning backwards over a parapet at the top of Blarney Castle and then planting a kiss on an awkwardly positioned rock – pretty hair-raising! But more than just being dizzying – there is another explanation for how flattery may assist in securing long-term relationships which might affect someone’s fortune……the subject matter actually deserves its own extensive blog series…..

So while you might not suddenly become Shakespeare after smooching this limestone block, there’s no denying that it adds to Ireland’s charm & stories; almost everyone visiting or leaving will ask whether you’ve been fortunate enough to partake in the final act ‘if ye can lean back far enough’….and mighty craic ensues discussing details…..

In conclusion: While we may never know exactly where the idea behind kissing the Blarney Stone stemmed from (or why Queen Elizabeth was so worried about a silver tongue), it remains one of Ireland’s most famous tourist attractions. And while some parts of its story are pure folklore rather than history – regardless – nothing beats seeing people try to vault themselves upside down and backward overhanging stones hundreds upon hundreds times each day under blustery Irish skies….. nowadays despite our current crisis travelling seems like distant dream but let us remember those moments – they’ll come round again…. Slainte !

Alternative Activities in Ireland That Are Just as Unique (and Less Risky) Than Kissing the Blarney Stone

When people think of Ireland, they often conjure up images of rolling green hills dotted with sheep, a pint of Guinness in hand at a local pub, and perhaps even the famous Blarney Stone. Clinging upside down to plant a kiss on this legendary slab is one Irish tradition that may come to mind—but it isn’t for everyone! Thankfully, Ireland has plenty of alternative activities that are both unique and less risky than kissing the Blarney Stone.

For starters, visitors can take to the skies for an unforgettable bird’s eye view over some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes. From hot air balloon rides above county Kildare or helicopter tours across the Wild Atlantic Way coastline—there is no shortage of aerial adventures awaiting thrill-seekers.

On the flipside, those who prefer to keep their feet firmly planted on solid ground will find plenty more exciting alternatives as well. For example, exploring Marfield Wetlands Preserve in County Carlow offers something completely different from your typical tourist experience – these beautiful wetlands are home to rare birds and insects like dragonflies just waiting for adventurous travelers!

If you’re seeking adrenaline rushes but want them all day long instead then Head out on a Zip-Line Adventure through forested areas and lush valleys or try rock climbing outdoors along breathtaking cliffsides washed by waves crashing against rocky shores.

Looking for something offbeat? How about visiting Dublinia Museum in Dublin city center? Here you’ll discover what life was like during medieval times while learning how Vikings invaded Ireland hundreds of years ago – don’t forget to say hello (or perhaps ask questions) Of course there’s always room for traditional entertainment too: explore small towns and village pubs where locals gather nightly around open fires enjoying rip-roaring musical sessions which offer classic irish singalongs accompanied by acoustic instruments weaving together into melodies passed down generations.

In summary- There’s so much more to ireland than simply sightseeing or standing kissing rocks so don’t be afraid to explore off the beaten path – and find those hidden gems that will make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, nature lover or history buff, there are plenty of alternative activities waiting for you in Ireland!

Table with useful data:

Information from an expert

As an expert, I strongly advise against kissing the Blarney Stone. While it may seem like a fun and harmless activity, there are several risks involved. First of all, the stone is outdoors and exposed to many different germs and bacteria. Additionally, kissing the stone requires leaning backwards over a significant height which can be dangerous for those who are not physically able or have a fear of heights. Finally, the ritual itself has been ongoing for centuries which can lead to damage over time, making it unsafe for visitors. With these factors in mind, I highly recommend finding alternative ways to explore Irish heritage without risking your health or safety.

Historical fact:

Legend has it that during the Irish Rebellion of 1641, the Blarney Castle’s owner, Cormac Teige McCarthy, successfully deceived English invaders by using his silver tongue. As a reward for his cunning and eloquent speech, Queen Elizabeth I granted him permission to keep the castle under the condition that he never swore loyalty to her or kissed any stone outside of Ireland-ever since kissing foreign rocks became synonymous with insincere flattery or deception among some locals.