Bernd Biege, a native of Germany, moved to Ireland in the late 1990s. Living in the province of Ulster and working as a writer and journalist, he has witnessed and written about Ireland's transformation through the "Celtic Tiger" period and beyond.
He has never ceased to be amazed by the country he lives in - in many ways.
Bernd started out in journalism in the 1980s, first at a local newspaper near Stuttgart, later writing for German and international magazines. In addition he had three books and the same number of video films published.
Since moving to Ireland he has concentrated on writing about his adopted home country - from tourism matters to political commentary. He is a regular contributor to several websites focussing on Ireland.
Bernd's first personal encounter with Ireland was during trips in the 1980s. He traveled both the Republic and Northern Ireland extensively since then, using (nearly) all modes of transport and staying in all sorts of accommodation.
Bernd holds a Master's degree from Stuttgart University in English, German and History. He is also a certified IT systems specialist.
Céad mile fáilte, a hundred thousand welcomes. As you About Guide to Ireland I will try to help you to make the most of your visit.
Not an easy task, as I know. Even after living here for years I still think that Ireland has so much in store that a lifetime of travel could be filled with a tight agenda. Pick and mix is my advice, read up on Ireland and take some standard destinations and some places out of the well-trodden way.
And take your time. Let Ireland impress you instead of pressing on to see more. Contrast the hustle and bustle of Dublin with a day of whale-watching on the Atlantic coast. Leave the main road and take the scenic route (more than often signposted). Enjoy Ireland with all senses, not just through a camcorder lens.
And if you get wet in a shower - always remember that a sunny moment is just a few moments away. Irish weather being what it is, the proverbial vice-versa is (unfortunately) true as well ...