Niamh Hayes
Freelance Travel Writer, Travel Lemming
Niamh Hayes is a New York City-based freelance writer and communications associate. She grew up in upstate New York and spent many summer months in Ireland, visiting her relatives around the country. She loves to spend the weekend taking mini-day trips and finding hiking spots around New York State. Niamh’s passions include soccer, writing, art, attempting to learn Spanish, and spending time with her friends in her neighborhood of Astoria.
Meet Niamh
📚 What was Your Favorite Travel Experience or Story?
When I visited Dublin in 2016, I brought two childhood friends who had never been to the country. I had never experienced the nightlife since I was a child when I visited with my family. So, this was my first “solo” trip at age 23.
The three of us took a taxi from my aunt’s apartment to an area near the famed Grafton Street, eager to start the night. We didn’t have a specific plan, so we walked into the first bar we saw. Immediately upon arrival, we were pulled into a circle of people, arms locked, singing “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver at max volume. The experience was unexpectedly hilarious and heartwarming – we still laugh today!
🗺️ What’s Your #1 Expert Travel Tip?
Always check ahead to see if you need to preorder tickets, pay for specific tours, or set reservations. When I went to Colorado, I was massively disappointed when I arrived at Maroon Bells in Aspen. I didn’t check that you needed to book a reservation in advance to access the scenic area and related amenities. The security wouldn’t let me and my group access the park, and I had to restructure the entire plan for the day.
Make sure to check the website of any place you’re visiting in advance. Some rules may change due to seasons, local laws, and other restrictions. If a destination is popular, it’s likely to book out. Don’t make the same mistake I did by just showing up and not preplanning!
🧳 Backpack or Suitcase?
Suitcase
✈️ Window or Aisle Seat?
Window 🙂
