The Irish city of Cork is situated in the province of Munster in south-west Ireland. The city’s compact centre rests on an island in the River Lee, surrounded by a maze of intricate waterways and reclaimed marshland islands linked by limestone bridges, grand Georgian avenues, and quaint 17th-century alleyways lined with gorgeous Georgian facades. An eclectic range of arts and culture is on offer, as well as a slew of atmospheric tapas bars and exotic restaurants. Popular attractions include the Crawford Art Gallery, with its fine 18th-20th-century collection, and the hi-tech cosmological displays of Blackrock Castle Observatory. However, the main drawcard is the chance to pull up a chair in one of Cork’s cosy traditional pubs, order a locally brewed Murphy’s or a Beamish stout, and engage in some lively banter with the city’s friendly locals.