Sorry McGrath...maybe a bad choice of words. What I meant was there is a sense of optimism that permeates the Republic. It's a good time to be Irish as the music, dance, art and other forms of culture continue to influence the world at large. It's an exciting, youthful vibe brimming with confidence. Certainly, there's some antiquated ideas regarding marriage/divorce, etc., but you can't deny the excitement when you're there. Spent a month on a bicycle tour of my owm design and came away with that impression. I'm self-employed and several of my clients go to Ireland frequently for their merchandise and express the same observation.