Ireland in winter is a magical place, with misty mornings, winding country roads and a promise of adventure at every turn. Over the past few weeks, my colleague and I packed up our notebooks, voice recorders and an unshakeable sense of curiosity as we travelled across the country, meeting learners of the English language and their instructors in every corner of Ireland. From bustling town streets to the storm-worn rural roads, we have crossed counties all over Ireland, discovering not only the experiences of English language learners and instructors but also the rich tapestry of landscapes, cultures, and warm welcome that define Ireland.

Our research took us to a variety of places in Ireland, from small towns with charming arts and craft shops to lively cities where history and modern life blended seamlessly. We quickly learned that no two journeys were the same. Sometimes, we found ourselves racing to meet our destination on time, only to be sidetracked by the breathtaking views across Ireland. This variety of experiences kept our journey engaging and exciting.

One of the unexpected joys of our travels was our conversations along the way. Learners from around the world generously shared their experiences of learning English in Ireland. While we cannot share individual stories, we can say how deeply privileged we felt to listen to them. Their resilience, determination, and openness to learning in a new country have a lasting impression on us. Equally inspiring were the instructors who welcomed us into their settings and shared their experiences teaching learners from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Their dedication and passion for helping learners succeed remind us of how important the role of education is in shaping lives.

Along the way, we developed a few traditions of our own. Wherever we went, we were on a mission to find the best cup of coffee in the area, and there were many great cups of coffee. We also made sure to end each research visit with a short stroll through whichever historic town we landed in.