COBH (COVE), IRELAND, Saturday, April 19

Cobh is the port town for Cork which is Ireland's second largest city and the gateway to Ireland. The train runs directly in front of the ship and is about a 20 minute ride to Cork. Cork's most famous attraction is the legendary Blarney Stone. We were here several years ago and both kissed the Blarney Stone which, I'm certain, accounts for some of Gary's stories. The Titanic's last stop was in Cobh where several people embarked. Here the last photo was taken of the ship before the fateful voyage. We visited the building that held the new passengers. There are several monuments to those who perished and to those that helped in the effort to save the people of the Titanic and the Lusitania.

We walked into town with friends Gail & Dennis and parted when we decided to take the Titanic walking tour. It was very cold and windy so they chose not to go as it would last about an hour (they're from South Africa & not used to the cold). We met in a local pub afterward and stayed for about 1 1/2 hours. Had lunch at a nearby hotel (The Commodore) that is about 150 years old...it was charming. The entire town is very quaint and typically Ireland. Lovely people, cool weather and quaint, very old towns (with lots of pubs) and a beautiful countryside.

This evening is Passover and we are having about 50 people to dinner, both Jewish and non. It has been another wonderful day. Only 1 more stop in France before we get to Southampton.