Star Collector: Irish Stout to Bordeaux Wine: A Tour of Ireland and France

Bordeaux has long been known as La Belle au Bois Dormant, Sleeping Beauty.  And while the beauty part is undeniable, the sleeping part could be argued. Sure, the region is filled with treasures from long ago, including more than 350 historic monuments and buildings in the city alone. But the capital of Aquitaine is also home to a vibrant culture and, as oenophiles well know, is the gateway to some of France's most famous vineyards. In this UNESCO World Heritage city, 13th century cathedrals and 18th century palaces are commonplace. Venture beyond the city's borders to the chateaux of the Médoc region or to Saint-Émilion, a breathtaking medieval village set among the vineyards that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

La Rochelle is said to be the most lovely and unspoiled port city in France, and who are we to argue?  Two 14th century stone towers guard the gateway to the medieval core of the city, the Vieux Port. And this is a city that is focused on ships. You'll find yachts floating in the Port des Minimes, ships in the stained glass of church windows, maybe even decorating the arcaded walkways that line the streets. Learn the art of brandy making with a visit to the Cognac region and the Hennessy maisson, dating back to 1765. While walking past the aging barrels, inhale the heady aroma-the escaping vapors known as "the angels' share."

Once notorious as the home of pirates, St.-Malo today is better known for the UNESCO site monastery and town of Mont St. Michel and the famous oysters of nearby Cancale. Walk the city's ramparts, or pass the time at a seaside boulangerie sampling a fresh and buttery croissant.

Once notorious as the home of pirates, St.-Malo today is better known for the UNESCO site monastery and town of Mont St. Michel and the famous oysters of nearby Cancale. Walk the city's ramparts, or pass the time at a seaside boulangerie sampling a fresh and buttery croissant.

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This third largest port of Normandy is a small ship only port full of historical significance and is the gateway to the Normandy beaches of WWII. View the stunning former Benedictine monastery, the imposing Chateau de Caen built by William the Conqueror in 1060 and the Pegasus Bridge. Then take a walk in the Vaugueux District with its pedestrian-only street lined with shops and eateries.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover's delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d'Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover's delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d'Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

Explore Ireland's oldest city from the Viking Triangle, surrounded by 10th century fortifications, to the sparkling House of Waterford Crystal, home to the largest collection of the landmark cut crystal in the world. Take time to raise a glass at T&H Doolans' Pub, where visitors have been heartily welcomed for more than 300 years.

Located on an island in the middle of the River Lee, Cork is a compact, friendly, laidback city with unique museums, like the Butter Museum, eclectic pubs and aroma-filled coffee houses all easily accessible by walking.  The recognizable icon of Cork, St. Anne's Church and Shandon Steeple offers visitors the unique opportunity to ring the church bells.

Located on Ireland's stunning west coast, Dingle enchants with its breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and quiet sea shores. The town's colorful buildings frame bustling streets brimming with traditional pubs and artisanal shops. Surrounded by the wild beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, visitors can explore ancient ruins, golden beaches, and dramatic cliffs.

Galway's popularity is its food scene that boasts the very best local ingredients and innovative techniques even with traditional favorites like fish and chips. It has one of the liveliest pub scenes including Galway craft beer. Check out the weekend market set in the shadow of St. Nicholas' Medieval Church. Galway is also gateway to the stunning Cliffs of Moher, rising over 700 feet from the sea with views of the Aran Islands. These are one of Ireland's most famous tourist attractions.

Friendly Killybegs is the largest fishing port in County Donegal located at the head of a scenic harbor with mountains as a backdrop. It is famous for its tapestries and carpets and sites to see here include Killybegs International Carpet Making, Cyndi Graham Handweaving, Glencolmcille Folk Village and expansive white-sand Fintragh Blue Flag Beach. Visit the nearby Slieve League Cliffs, which rise almost 2,000 feet from the Atlantic and are the highest cliffs in Europe.

Located on the River Foyle, Londonderry is known for its intact 17th century Derry's Walls with 7 gates that surrounds St. Columb's Cathedral with artifacts dating from 1688. The landmark Peace Bridge spans the river and the Tower Museum has local history exhibits.

Probably best known as the birthplace of the Titanic, Belfast was a hub for not only shipbuilding but also tobacco processing, rope-making and Irish linen in the early 20th century. Today the old shipyards are giving way to luxury apartments in what is known as the Titanic Quarter, home to the Titanic Belfast Centre, a beautiful star-shaped building covering the Titanic's construction. Other must-sees include the Ulster Folk Museum and the Belfast Cathedral, as well as numerous award-winning restaurants and bars.

Dublin is a city of delights and surprises. Stroll across the Ha'Penny Bridge to Trinity College for a glimpse of the Book of Kells. Step inside the 11th century Dublin Castle. Stop by the Guinness Storehouse or Old Jameson Distillery for a taste of Irish history. And embrace the beauty of Dublin Bay, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.