The Isle of Man: A 72-Hour Adventure
Join me on an unforgettable journey as I explore the Isle of Man, a self-governing British crown dependency rich in history and unique attractions. From the stunning landscapes to cultural experiences, discover what makes this island a hidden gem in the British Isles.
Journey Begins: From Belfast to the Isle of Man
My adventure started with a bus ride from Belfast to the Dublin Airport. The excitement bubbled as I anticipated my arrival at the Isle of Man -- a unique British crown dependency. It's essential to note that the Isle of Man is not part of the United Kingdom "proper," which adds to its charm and allure.
Upon reaching the Isle of Man, I was surprised and disappointed to find that I wouldn't receive a passport stamp. After requesting one, I realized I now had a novelty stamp in my official passport -- a quirky souvenir from my journey and one that I hoped would not cause any passport-related issues in the future.
First Impressions: The Airbnb Experience
My stay was at an old schoolhouse turned Airbnb in the small town of St. Marks. This historic building ceased operations in the 1960s and is run by volunteers from the nearby church.
Staying next to a cemetery added an eerie yet intriguing element to my experience. Not only was I staying in an old schoolhouse, but I was staying by a church that had been in operation since the late 18th century as well as the final resting place of individuals who had lived in the St. Marks area.
As I settled into my accommodation, I quickly realized just how far I was from the island's major tourist attractions. I had mistakenly assumed that public transportation would be available and that I would not have any issues getting to the various sights -- wrong. I realized that I would have to rely on the local taxi service more than I would have liked, but this would not be an insurmountable obstacle.
Exploring Douglas: Breakfast and the Welcome Center
On my first full day, I took a taxi into Douglas, the capital city. My day began with a familiar stop at Starbucks for breakfast. Sometimes, you just need a taste of home to kickstart your adventures.
I will say, however, that I was very disappointed to see that the Starbucks in Douglas did not have any "You Are Here" coffee cups for sale. I was told that such an item does not exist. I have since made it my mission to contact and annoy Starbucks until one is created. After all, creating one would only be to their benefit considering these collectible cups would likely sell extremely well.
Next, I visited the Isle of Man's Welcome Center. The staff members were incredibly helpful, providing me with maps and answering my questions about navigating the island. I left feeling much more confident about my itinerary.
In addition to receiving guidance on how to navigate the island, I couldn't help but indulge in a bit of souvenir shopping. Two of my favorite items to purchase when I travel are stickers for my suitcase and postcards to send to my family. I mean, who doesn't love receiving snail mail from someone they personally know?
Cultural Insights: Statues and Local History
While wandering, I stumbled upon a statue of the Bee Gees, an unexpected homage that piqued my interest. It seemed everyone wanted to claim a piece of their legacy. I say that because, on a recent trip to the city of Manchester, I was convinced that the Bee Gees claimed that city as their own -- and even that was disputed by claims that the band considered Australia as their homeland of choice.
I also found a memorial statue honoring fallen service members, highlighting the Isle of Man's connection to British military history. During my taxi ride to Douglas, the driver shared insights about how the British military is obligated to defend the Isle of Man. He made it clear, however, that while residents of the Isle of Man are not able to be drafted into the British military, many have volunteered to serve -- a testament to their loyalty and bravery.
A Ride on the Electric Railway to Laxey
My next adventure involved taking the electric railway from Douglas to Laxey. This scenic ride was a delight and showcased the island's beautiful landscapes. The anticipation built as I approached my first major destination: the Great Laxey Wheel.
Visiting the Great Laxey Wheel
The Laxey Wheel, known as Lady Isabella, is the world's largest working water wheel. It was built in 1854 to pump water from the Great Laxey Mine.
Upon arriving, I was greeted by stunning views and the history of this iconic structure. It symbolizes the Isle of Man's rich industrial heritage and is a must-see for any visitor.
However, reaching the wheel required a bit of a hike, which only added to the sense of accomplishment once I arrived.
Summiting Snaefell Mountain
After visiting the Laxey Wheel, I hopped on the Snaefell Mountain Railway. This historic tramway has been transporting visitors since 1895.
The ride to the summit of Snaefell -- the highest peak on the Isle of Man -- provided breathtaking views and a sense of adventure. I was even able to see some of the island's unique and slightly intimidating four-horned sheep known as Manx Loaghtan.
At the summit, I couldn't help but notice how the landscape resembled Snowdonia National Park in North Wales -- a place I had recently explored during a day trip from Manchester, England.
Culinary Delights: Fish and Chips Dinner
After an exhilarating day, I returned to Douglas for a classic meal: fish and chips. This iconic dish, often associated with British culture, did not disappoint. The crispy fish paired perfectly with golden fries and served as a satisfying end to a busy day.
As I savored my dinner, I reflected on the day's adventures, feeling grateful for the experiences the Isle of Man had offered me thus far.
Day Two: Discovering the Manx Museum
Waking up to another beautiful day on the Isle of Man, I took a taxi to the Manx Museum, a cultural hub that showcases the island's rich history. Upon entering, I was greeted by a collection of fascinating art, much of which had a nautical theme. This connection to the sea is no surprise, given the island's maritime heritage.
One highlight was learning about the local folklore and superstitions. For instance, locals avoid saying the word "rat," believing it brings bad luck. The mention of fairies, however, was even more intriguing, as my Airbnb host had humorously explained that the island is home to its own brand of whimsical fairies, reminiscent of Tinkerbell.
Exploring the Isle of Man Parliament: Tynwald
After the museum, I aimed to visit Tynwald, the Isle of Man's Parliament building. This establishment is notable for being the oldest continuous parliament in the world. Unfortunately, I discovered that public access is only permitted on Mondays and Fridays, and my visit fell on a Thursday.
While disappointed, I took the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. The architecture of the building is impressive and reflects the island's unique identity and governance. I made a mental note to return one day in the future when I'd be able to step inside and learn more about the building and parliament's historical significance.
A Scenic Steam Train Ride to Castletown
Not letting my earlier disappointment get me down, I hopped on the steam train from Douglas to Castletown.
The journey was delightful, with spacious seating and stunning views of the countryside. The sound of the train chugging along added to the nostalgic experience.
Upon arriving in Castletown, I was struck by its charm. Despite having only two hours to explore, I was eager to make the most of my time.
Discovering Castle Rushen
My first stop in Castletown was Castle Rushen, a stunning medieval fortress that has stood the test of time. As I walked through its imposing gates, I felt transported to another era. The castle's architecture is not only impressive but also steeped in history, having served various purposes, including a prison in more recent centuries.
Inside, I found exhibits detailing the castle's history and its role in the Isle of Man's governance. I also stumbled upon an unexpected restroom situation that caught me off guard, which added some humor to the experience.
Sampling the Isle of Man's National Dish: Queenies
After exploring Castle Rushen, I made my way back to Douglas, determined to try the Isle of Man's national dish: "queenies," or queen scallops. I found a cozy restaurant that served them with bacon in a creamy sauce, accompanied by brown bread. The dish was not only delicious but also a true representation of the island's culinary offerings.
Sampling Queenies was the culinary highlight of my trip. The combination of flavors was delightful, and I appreciated the local touch that made the experience even more special.
Bingo Night: A Fun Cultural Experience
As the evening approached, I decided to join a local bingo night at the Isle of Man's only bingo hall. I’ve played bingo in various locations, but this experience had a unique charm. The atmosphere was lively, filled with locals and tourists alike, all eager to participate.
To my surprise, I won a full house! Not only did I walk away with £40, but I also received my first Isle of Man banknote. The currency, known as the Manx pound, is equal to the UK pound but cannot be used outside the island. This little victory was a fantastic way to cap off my day.
Final Thoughts and Farewell to the Isle of Man
As my trip came to a close, I reflected on my time on the Isle of Man. From the beautiful landscapes and rich history to the delicious cuisine and friendly locals, every moment was memorable. The challenges of solo traveling only made the experience more rewarding.
Leaving the old schoolhouse Airbnb, I felt a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. The Isle of Man offered me a blend of adventure, culture, and delicious food. With a new sticker on my suitcase and a heart full of memories, I bid farewell to this charming island, already planning my return.
