Live Clare 2023

Daytripping in County Clare

3-4 Options aplenty are out there, right on your doorstep when trying to plan a day out in County Clare, from the tip of West Clare where Loop Head Lighthouse opens all summer long, to the beautiful banks of Lough Derg in the east of the county

Scattery Island

5 Discover one of Clare’s truly magical gems in West Clare. Scattery Island is rich in history, ecology, and scenery, we help you discover the best way to explore the ancient island

Destination Doolin

6 Doolin is a must-visit for incoming tourists, but the locals love it too! The perfect jumping off point for the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, the Aran Islands, and a hotbed for food, craic and traditional Irish music

Excellent Ennistmon

8-11 Another gem in North Clare, Ennistymon is perhaps the biggest success story amonst Clare’s towns and villages over the last couple of decades, becoming a standalone attraction for fo, drink and culture. We visit some local businesses to see what’s helping put Ennistymon on the map

East Clare

12-13 We map out the perfect day out in East Clare, taking in a water-based adventure, a mountain climb and even a chocolate factory!

Shopping in Ennis

14-15 No trip to Clare is complete without a visit to the county town with boutique shops and artisan cafes and restaurants aplenty - not only that, it’s Ireland’s friendliest town!

PICTURED

(from top) taking in the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher; exploring all there is on offer at Bunratty Folk Park; windsurfing in Fanore in North Clare; shopping in Ennis is sure to be good for the soul too

DAY TRIPPING IN

County Clare

Are you looking for a great day out? Then look no further than your own County Clare and embark on unforgettable days out. Here are some suggestions to inspire your next outing:

Visit Ennis and immerse yourself in its rich history as you stroll through enchanting medieval streets. Take in a visit to the magnificent Ennis Friary, a 13th-century Franciscan friary boasting exquisite carvings. Unearth the county’s heritage at the Clare Museum, where engaging exhibits take you on a captivating journey through time. Don’t miss nearby Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, a favourite family destination set on 26 acres.

Venture to North Clare and experience the captivating Burren and Cliffs of Moher.

Marvel at the geological wonders shaped over millions of years, stroll through vibrant flora and take a tour of one of the brilliant show caves at Aillwee and Doolin. The Cliffs of Moher, with their awe-inspiring cliffs plunging into the Atlantic Ocean, offer breathtaking views that never fail to impress. Take a short cruise beneath the cliffs for a truly memorable experience. Consider a day trip to the Aran Islands, easily accessible by ferry from Doolin.

Uncover the unspoiled natural beauty of West Clare. Take in the panoramic cliff views of Loop Head

Peninsula, visit Loop Head Lighthouse, wander through our coastal villages, and enjoy the Victorian charm of Kilkee. Embark on a dolphinwatching cruise from Kilrush or Carrigaholt or set sail to Scattery Island—an important site in early Christian Ireland. For a thrilling adventure, take a boat tour with West Coast Rib Adventures from Kilrush.

Families will love Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre in Kilrush, offering a tranquil oasis and one of Ireland’s finest gardens. The West Coast Aqua Park at Kilrush Marina promises endless fun for all ages.

Embrace Clare’s stunning coastline and indulge in a day of relaxation and water-based activities. Choose from Clare’s six blue-flag beaches, including Lahinch, Kilkee, Spanish Point, Fanore, White Strand Doonbeg, and White Strand Miltown Malbay. Dive into swimming, surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding, sea angling, or diving. Local activity companies provide lessons and guided tours to ensure you make the most of your time on the water.

Experience the charm of East Clare, home to magnificent Lough Derg and the scenic Shannon Waterway. Explore its towns and villages, including the twin towns of Killaloe/ Ballina. Engage in fantastic on-water trails and exhilarating activities such as boating and fishing.

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...perfect day out in the Banner

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Two blue-flag inland beaches await at Ballycuggeran (Killaloe) and Mountshannon. During summer, take a one-hour lake cruise from Ballina/Killaloe. Don’t miss the West Lake Aqua Park on Lough Derg near Killaloe—an inflatable obstacle course on the water, promising family fun. Delve into Clare’s rich history with visits to cultural sites. Take a short boat trip from Mountshannon to Inis Cealtra (Holy Island), one of Ireland’s most famous monastic sites. Alternatively, visit St. Cronan’s Church in Tuamgraney, which has been in use since before 1,000 AD. To experience life in the Bronze Age, head to Craggaunowen near Quin, where you can step back in time and discover fascinating insights into Ireland’s past.

These suggestions merely scratch the surface of what County Clare has to offer. To discover even more hidden gems and exciting activities, and day trip ideas, visit www.VisitClare.ie/great-ideas.

PICTURED Kayaking in Killaloe

CLARE COASTAL EXPERIENCES

Islands, Cliffs, Dolphins & Wildlife, The Shannon Estuary has it all!...

DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THE ICONIC SCATTERY ISLAND

Framed within the calm waters of the Shannon Estuary, Scattery Island is the perfect day out with family or friends. Enjoy a wealth of historic sites, including five Churches, the newly reopened Cathedral, a magnificent Round Tower, Napoleonic War Artillery Battery and a working Lighthouse and the newly renovated village street, where the last of the islanders lived until 1978. Pack a picnic and explore!

Scattery Island Tours offer a daily ferry service during the summer months which includes a guided tour. Phone (085) 2505512 or book online at www.scatteryislandtours.com

EXPERIENCE A CLIFF & COAST SAFARI TO BALLYBUION CLIFFS

Explore the stunning Clare and Kerry Coastline like never before on a Cliff and Coast Safari with West Coast RIB Adventures Enjoy stunning up close views of the famous Cliffs of Doneen, Bromore Cliffs and the Devils Stack and the famous Ballybunion Cliffs and Sea Arch On the Clare Coastline you'll enjoy views of Kilcredaun Lighthouse, Kilkerrin artillery battery and Carraigaholt Castle An unmissable 2 hour experience!

West Coast RIB Adventures also offer one hour family fun RIB Adventures and all tours depart from Kilrush Phone (085) 2505514 or book online at www.westcoastribadventures.com

Destination Doolin

A visit to the charming coastal village of Doolin should be on everyone’s bucket-list this Summer. Lying on the edge of the Burren, Doolin is an ideal spot for family groups, nature enthusiasts, music lovers and adventure seekers alike.

TOP 3 THINGS TO DO IN DOOLIN:

Cliffs of Moher Cruise – A Different Perspective

Sail beneath the iconic Cliffs of Moher and gaze up instead of down, for a new perspective of County Clare’s most loved natural attraction. As you cruise beneath the soaring heights of the Cliffs, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for their sheer magnitude and beauty.

Harry Potter fans will be delighted to sail past the famous sea cave from 'Harry Potter & the Half Blood Prince.' Relive the magic as you imagine Harry and Dumbledore on their quest to find a Horcrux.

Have fun spotting the Puffins and other seabirds perched on the cliff sides and the Great Sea Stack while keeping an eye out for dolphins, seals and basking sharks in the surrounding waters! With expert onboard commentary, learn about the history of the Cliffs that spans millions of years as well as fascinating facts and folklore.

Cliffs Cruise Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour. Book online at www.doolinferry.com

Enjoy A Day Trip to the Aran Islands

Escape to the enchanting Aran Islands and embrace the slower pace of island living. Inis Oírr is the nearest to County Clare, just fifteen minutes by ferry from Doolin with six crossings daily during the Summer months.

Inis Mór, the largest island is just thirty-five minutes by boat and the less visited, Inis Meáin lies between the two. There are lots of hidden treasures to explore on each island from the ancient Dún Aonghasa fort perched on a cliff edge to the striking Wormhole, a rectangular natural pool that will leave you in awe. Discover the rusted charm of the Plassey Shipwreck, famously featured in the opening credits of Father Ted and visit the lighthouse.

And don't miss the chance to relax on the Aran Islands' pristine white beaches and enjoy a swim in crystal-clear waters. For the ultimate summer adventure, opt for a combo tour that includes a return trip to the Aran Islands with a Cliffs of Moher Cruise. What better way to experience the best

of Ireland's west coast in one unforgettable day! For sailing times and to book online, visit www. doolinferry.com

Doolin On A Plate

All that Atlantic sea air is sure to give you an appetite and you’ll be spoilt for choice in Doolin which boasts a vibrant food scene.

Whether you’re looking for pub grub, fine dining or something in-between, Doolin is the place to enjoy all. Indulge in mouthwatering fish and chips or seafood chowder and savour a creamy pint of Guinness while enjoying the best of Irish trad music in the local pubs. Visit www.doolin.ie for a list of places to eat.

Falling in love... with Ennistymon

The Falls Hotel & Spa in Ennistymon, Co Clare, is a family-run hotel at the heart of the Wild Atlantic Way, and at the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher & Burren UNESCO Geopark. They passionately support sustainable tourism.

When staying at The Falls Hotel, you are staying in hotel that gets its electricity from the power of the river running alongside them – yes, they are running on hydro power from the powerful cascades that give the hotel its name! In January 2021, they received rare Carbon Neutral status from Green Hospitality Ireland, through their Carbon Neutral12 GREENMark. By staying in the Falls, you will have significantly reduced your carbon footprint and your impact on the wonderful environment around you.

While staying at The Falls, enjoy walking around their 50 acres of woodlands, where you can enjoy nature. They have three beehives producing honey, their cultivated wildflower area is a haven for local pollinators. In recent years, they have planted over

1000 native Irish tree seeds to offset any excess carbon emissions produced by the hotel. Guests in the hotel are encouraged to ‘be green’ during their stay! There are separate bins to encourage recycling, a towel reuse policy in the bedrooms and there are no single use plastics to be seen within the hotel.

The hotel is just 10 minutes from the majestic Cliffs of Moher, and is the perfect base to explore this beautiful part of the country. Soak up all the wild natural attractions of the area from Loop Head to The Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark, and everything in between. Golfing and surfing are located in Lahinch, just 2km from the hotel. Doolin is 15 minutes from the hotel and from here you can take a cruise to the Aran Islands.

The hotel facilities include 140 bedrooms, 9 apartments and one large self-catering cottage. The award winning luxurious River Spa is a haven within the Leisure Club offering 12 treatment rooms including a Thermal Suite, Relaxation Room

and Rasul Mud Treatment Room.

TOWER POWER: Pictured inside The Falls Hotel & Spa’s water tower is (background) Isabella, Sophia and Daniel McCarthy, with (foreground, l-r) Michael McCarthy, General Manager and John McCarthy, Deputy Manager. The Ennistymon hotel is now powered by hydroelectricity generated by this very turbine, following the completion of a large-scale two-year project that enables the property to harness energy from the adjacent River Inagh. The family-owned and managed venue is making waves as the first in the country to generate power from its own hydroelectricity plant.

Pic: Arthur Ellis.

Airmid: Luxurious self-care

Are you passionate about supporting local Irish artisans and embracing sustainable living?

Airmid are thrilled to invite you to their independent shop, located in the beautiful town of Ennistymon.

Tina Robinson and Kevin Lynch had both been running their own successful businesses in the Burren region of Ireland for years when their second child was born with eczema. Airmid was born in 2012, out of a passion for natural and sustainable living but also out of their personal experience as parents. Pure Chamomile was their first soap and still of the most popular products.

Airmid’s all-natural, handcrafted soaps and balms have achieved remarkable success in addressing various skin concerns, including sensitive skin, acne, and eczema.

Airmid are dedicated to crafting exceptional products, with captivating

essential oil scents that will transform your daily self-care routine into a luxurious experience. Whether you're

What sets Airmid apart is their commitment to sustainability, minimising otheir environmental

room accessories. From biodegradable bamboo toothbrushes to eco-friendly bath accessories, have everything you need to create an eco-conscious haven in your own home.

When you step into our Ennistymon store, you'll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, filled with the tantalising scents of natural products. Browse the carefully curated collection of Irish makes and designers, showcasing the incredible talent our country has to offer.

in the mood for a pampering session or simply want to indulge in a little self-care, they have everything you need to create your own at-home spa experience.

impact while maximising the benefits to your skin. That's why, along with eco friendly packaging they have expanded their offerings to include a range of sustainable bath-

Whether you're searching for a thoughtful gift for a loved one or a treat for yourself, Airmid is the perfect destination to find unique, sustainable, and luxurious products that will nourish both your body and soul. Shop online: www.airmidsoap. com.

The Market House was awarded the Good Food Ireland Meat Producer of the Year 2023 award

Farm to fork at the Market House

MEAT PRODUCER OF THE YEAR

Father and daughter team, Sean and Fiona Haugh of The Market House in Ennistymon have this year been recognised as the 2023 Meat Producer of the Year.

Bringing a taste of the best locally-produced food to visitors at the foodhall & deli in Ennistymon, The Market House also offers an online butcher shop with next day delivery and an online bespoke hamper service.

The Good Food Ireland Meat Producer of the Year award was won by the Ennistymon business in April. Fiona Haugh tells The Clare Echo that the family was delighted to be recognised as an industry leader, with The Market House sourcing its beef and lamb from Sean’s own cattle farm in Kilkee - and preparing the produce for consumption at their abbitoir.

MEET THE MAKER

Sean has three decades worth of experience in sourcing excellent livestock, all processed and managed in house ensuring customers have clear and direct traceability back to the locality. Stock is sourced from North Clare and West Clare before being finished off on the family farm.

The stock is finished on the family farm and fed on a grass-fed system, the animals roam free, feeding on the rich in nutrient clover pastures that make up the family farm in coastal Kilkee.

Customers get to enjoy a true farm to fork experience as the meat is expertly prepared by their inhouse team and available fresh each day in their Craft Butchers.

ONLINE BUTCHER & HAMPERS

The Market House brings together the family’s beef and lamb offering in a retail setting along with a dynamic foodhall, cafe and deli.

Not only that, Fiona has introduced an online butchers which offers nationwide next-day deliveries. Some of their signature products include a melt in your mouth 21 day aged Angus beef, spring lamb, dried cured bacon, ham and homemade sausages and black pudding. The black pudding recipe is produced in house using fresh ingredients.

“We have an online store where we’re selling hampers and meats fresh from our own butcher counter, whereby if a customer orders online today, they would receive their produce tomorrow morning,” explains Fiona.

Bespoke hampers can be created starting at €50, including fresh artisan products such as cheeses, the Market House’s signature pudding cake, organic and biodynamic wine. “Most of our products are from small Irish artisan producers such as Sheridans Cheesemongers, Foods of Athenry, Wilde Irish Chocolate.”

READY-MADE MEALS

The foodhall has a full production kitchen, creating an exciting mix of fresh salads, hot gourmet wraps, ciabattas and paninis, quiches, pastries, crumbly buttery scones and desserts which are served fresh each day. There is plenty of choice available from the deli, you can even order pizza. Items can easily be ordered for takeaway too.

To shop online at The Market House, visit https://markethouseennistymon.ie/. Call them on 065 707 2548.

The Market House Ennistymon is a father and daughter run business founded in 2015, with the aim of providing locals and visitors to the charming town of Ennistymon with only the best fresh local produce created by themselves and from fellow local producers. Versatile in every way, the Market House Ennistymon comprises of a craft butchers, foodhall, deli and cafe.

Meat Producer of the Year 2023: The Market House

Exploring East Clare...

Rolling green hills and lakelands lie waiting to be explored east of Ennis. With its breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and a touch of

indulgence, East Clare offers an ideal destination for a memorable day trip. In this article, we present an enticing itinerary that highlights the

region's beauty and culinary delights, with a special focus on the delectable treats offered by Wilde Irish Chocolate.

MORNING:

Begin your East Clare adventure by immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area. Start your day with a visit to the majestic Lough Derg, one of Ireland's largest lakes.

Parking at Ballycuggeran at Twomilegate puts you in prime position to seize the day in a number of ways. Ballycuggeran is a blue flag beach popular for swimming, sailing and wind surfing, and it’s the perfect picnic spot. But there’s the added bonus of the West Lake Aqua Park, an epic adventure for all the family to enjoy where you can jump, slide, climb and bounce your way around our inflatable obstacle course on the water.

If getting wet isn’t your thing, just put on your hiking boots and turn in the other direction as Ballycuggeran is the ideal starting point to climb Moylussa, Clare’s highest mountain.

Moylussa at 1748ft is about a 3-4 hour round trip with breaks included, with signposting and seats along the trail.

Brian Boru’s fort is also nearby, a large ring fort between the River Shannon and the Killaloe to Tuamgraney road. It has long been identified as the ancient seat of Brian Boru, the most famous High King of Ireland. Brian Boru’s fort is located in a very serene and spectacular setting, overlooking Lough Derg on the River Shannon, just one mile north of Killaloe. Beal Boru, as it is more commonly known, stands on a spur of land which commands the point where the lake narrows into the River Shannon.

Brian Boru (Bórumha, bóraimhe, meaning a cattle tribute) was either born or reared at this mystical location, according to folklorist Daithi O hOgain,

...the perfect day trip

and the placename, Béal Bóramha, means the ‘port of the cattle tribute’. Boru was high-king of Ireland from 1002 until his death in 1014AD.

His headquarters was the nearby Ceann Cora (in English Kincora) which is located one mile from here in Killaloe. His death came during the battle of Clontarf against the Norsemen, a battle which was to claim Boru’s life, but which he won nonetheless.

AFTERNOON:

No visit to East Clare would be complete without indulging in the delectable offerings of Wilde Irish Chocolate. Located in the village of Tuamgraney, this artisanal chocolate factory is a true delight for chocolate enthusiasts. Embark on a guided tour that takes you behind the scenes, showcasing the chocolatemaking process from bean to bar. Witness skilled chocolatiers handcrafting mouthwatering creations and learn about the history and art of chocolate production.

Take part in a chocolatemaking workshop and unleash your creativity as you mold and decorate your own sweet treats. Sample an array of delectable chocolates, ranging from classic favorites to innovative flavors inspired by the Irish countryside. Whether it's a rich truffle, a creamy caramel, or a smooth dark chocolate bar, the creations at Wilde Irish Chocolate are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

EVENING:

As the day winds down, make your way to Durty Nellie's, a historic and iconic pub located in Bunratty, just a short distance from East Clare. Durty Nellie's is renowned for its warm Irish hospitality and traditional atmosphere. Step into the pub and savor a delicious dinner featuring classic Irish dishes. Indulge in hearty comfort food like traditional Irish stew, fish and chips, or succulent roast beef, all made with locally sourced ingredients.

As you enjoy your meal, soak in the lively atmosphere of Durty Nellie's. The pub often features live traditional Irish music, creating a truly authentic experience. Raise a pint of Guinness or sample a fine Irish whiskey to toast to a day well spent in East Clare.

400 Years Of Fun – Waiting To Be Explored, There’s always something happening at Nelly’s

Durty Nelly’s can truly be described as one of Ireland’s landmark pubs. Nestling in the shadow of the magnificent Bunratty Castle and the adjoining Folk Park, it is the first stopping off point for generations of visitors to Ireland arriving at nearby Shannon Airport. Whether you’re just passing through on your way to explore the beautiful mid-west of Ireland or can spend a little longer with us, you’ll find that a visit to Nelly’s is an essential Irish experience – one that will provide a lasting memory of your visit to Ireland.

A TASTE OF

Ennis

We

Ennis this year retained its status as the largest town in Munster, with the publication of the latest Central Statistics Office results showing the town has a population of nearly 28,000 people.

A long-standing tradition of a market town endures, and while its market stalls still attract crowds on the weekends, it’s the boutique shops and industryleading cafes and restaurants that make Ennis a draw for locals and tourists alike.

Rich heritage, vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and a delightful shopping experience all help to form what’s known as Ireland’s Friendliest Town, an achievement bestowed upon Ennis in last year’s Retail Excellence Awards.

From historic landmarks to contemporary stores, Ennis offers a charming

blend of traditional and modern shopping opportunities. Join us as we embark on a shopping adventure in Ennis, exploring hidden gems such as Collins Jewellers, Carmody Shoes, Maurers Jewellers, Patrick Bourke Menswear, and indulging in a delicious lunch at Sweet N Green.

HISTORIC AND CONTEMPORARY TREASURES:

Ennis is a treasure trove of historic and contemporary shopping delights. Maurers Jewellers, with its longstanding reputation, offers timeless elegance and bespoke creations, enchanting jewelry enthusiasts. Maurers jewellers is part of Ennis retail since 1903, with its timeless exterior being matched by its famous customer service and quality products inside - offering an extensive range of gold, silver and diamond jewellery,as well as a selection of watches, childrens jewellery and giftware. Another important aspect of Maurers is their inhouse jewellery repair service. From fixing a broken watch to resetting an engagement ring, they can do it!

Collins Jewellers, another beloved establishment, is almost 50 years in existence and run by three generations of family jewellers after being established by Tadg’s dad Christy and mam Liola on Parnell Street in 1974. It is now located on the main shopping thouroughfare of O’Connell Street and showcases an array of exquisite and handcrafted jewelry pieces, from traditional Celtic designs to modern styles.

FUEL UP

The Collins storefront just a stones-throw from the famous Old Ground Hotel, unarguably one of Clare’s most iconic hotels and a famous lunch spot for locals and visitors alike with the Town Hall restaurant and Poet’s Corner pub bustling all the week long.

Another charming eatery on the other side of town is Sweet n Green. Still relatively new to Ennis having been established about five years, Sweet n Green prides itself on offering healthy ingredients with delicious flavors. We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again, the Chilli Eggs is among the best brunch dishes available on this island.

After refuelling, there’s still plenty of shopping to do. Ladies boutiques are aplenty with landmark locations such as the County Boutique, which attracts shoppers from across the country. Carmody Shoes, a must-visit for shoe lovers, provides a diverse range of footwear options for the entire family, blending style and comfort effortlessly. They also specialise in, and offer a fantastic range of medical and therapeutic shoes.

When it comes to menswear, Ennis has an embarrassment of riches with long-standing businesses including Patrick Bourke Menswear and Club Dangan catering to men's fashion needs, offering a curated collection of high-quality clothing and accessories for every occasion.

Ennis not only offers a captivating shopping experience but also tantalizes taste buds with its culinary delights. From the historic

take a stroll through the historic and bustling streets of the county town of Ennis

charm of Collins Jewellers and Maurers Jewellers to the fashionable finds at Carmody Shoes and Patrick Bourke Menswear, Ennis satisfies every shopper's desire. And with a delightful lunch break at Sweet N Green, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the pleasures of Ennis, creating cherished memories of a well-rounded and fulfilling experience.

Visit Loop Head Lighthouse where

History Meets Scenic Splendour

Venture to Loop Head Lighthouse, one of the great lighthouses of Ireland, proudly situated at the peak of the stunning Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare. This historic structure invites you on a guided tour of maritime discovery, surrounded by unparalleled natural beauty.

Visit the Lightkeeper’s Cottage and the Cottage’s ‘Crows Nest’. Then, trace the steps of lighthouse keepers of yore as you ascend to the top of the lighthouse. Gaze out over the wild Atlantic, the rugged cliffs, and the scenic splendour of the peninsula stretching out beneath you.

Loop Head Lighthouse, a signature discovery point on the Wild Atlantic Way, is where past and present meet, and the views are always extraordinary.

Experience the Enchanting Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre

Set amidst 170 hectares of native woodland, this one-hectare botanical wonder was once the private retreat of the Vandeleur family, the landed gentry of Kilrush in the early 19th Century.

Rediscovered and revitalised in 1997, the Vandeleur Walled Garden now showcases a stunning variety of rare and exotic plants that flourish in our unique microclimate. Meander along the gracious gravel paths and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of floral beauty, showcasing everything from vibrant magnolias and acers to curious banana trees and bamboo.

The garden’s design invites exploration and play, with a unique horizontal maze leading to a charming summer house, an elegant Victorian-style working glasshouse, unusual water features, and a giant garden chess set. It is loved by all, especially families.

Visit the Woodlands Bistro for a delightful refreshment, browse the garden centre for a green souvenir, or explore the gift shop.

Dive deeper into the rich past at our new visitor centre. Uncover the complex history of the Vandeleurs, the development of Kilrush and its surroundings, and the resilience during the Famine years. This fascinating story offers a compelling backdrop to your visit.