If you're among the 70 million Irish in the world, Ireland probably holds a special place in your heart. It certainly does mine. And it would have to; crossing the Irish Sea by ferry isn't my idea of fun. Boats, water, and I don't mix! But I'm not one to let a little water stand in the way of adventure.

Consider your modem a virtual rainbow; at its end, the Emerald Isle awaits. Centuries of culture and history are within reach, so let's explore. (You won't need Dramamine for this journey!)

Survey the landscape in its 360° glory at the Irish Tourist Board . This fact-filled site provides an overview of Ireland, covering arts and culture to flora and fauna. Disabled travelers will find tips on how to get there, places to stay, and things to do. Create your personal brochure as you browse; print or view selected information later.

Stones of Ireland are slow loading, but what's the rush? These archeological wonders bear witness to time. Marvel at the standing stones, dolmens, cairns, crannogs, and tombs. Few Irish castles withstood time, but you can tour eight castles on the web www.dynasty.net/users/jmoats/castles.html.

Land, sea, and air, these Sports Links are a pot of gold. You'll encounter every sport imaginable: horse racing, hurling, rallying, mountaineering and more.

If shopping is your idea of sport, hop over to the House of Ireland or Blarney Woolen Mills (www.blarney.ie/) for Waterford crystal, Belleek china, Aran sweaters, Irish linen, Molly dolls, or Irish jewelry and crafts.

Updated weekly, Ireland's Eye offers a free newsletter. Articles from various Appletree Press titles highlight B&B's, museums, gardens and lots more. Trace your Irish roots. Review the "Impressions of Kerry" slide show. Kiss the virtual Blarney Stone or pub crawl.

Chrys' Page of Celtic Stuff forms part of the Heraldic Circle. Fancy the faerie folk, victuals and drink, clans or clothing? If not, investigate another of the 267 resources at hand. Read up on Celtic law and religion, subscribe to Celtic-L, or perhaps learn the Gaelic language.

Browse Ireland: The Complete Guide to Everything Irish ranks among the top 100 Irish Web sites. Scan city guides and Irish headline news. Discover "What's On" for arts, entertainment, travel, and tourism. Navigate through business, government, education, and lifestyle links. You'll spot folklore, kids' stuff, and maybe even a leprechaun.

Don't miss the Book of Kells ; Dublin's Trinity College houses the original. Oregon State Library's $18,000 reproduction is one of 1480 limited editions produced by Fine Art Facsimile Publishers of Switzerland. It replicates the 8th century illuminated manuscript in fine detail, worm holes and all. Lots of fabulous images, informative articles, and links.

The Irish Bookstore This comprehensive site puts Irish literature, mythology, folklore, and drama at your fingertips. Follow the time line of Celtic people and Irish historical achievements. Examine Celtic knots and arts or study herb and medicinal lore. Humanity's riches abound: classic to contemporary literature, cinema, opera, photography and more.

If you're an Irish dancing fan, visit Michael Flatley, the Lord of the Dance . Rehearsal time to show time, witness a pictorial "day in the life" of Riverdance (www.riverdance.com). Interviews and biographies go behind the scenes with the talented designers, performers, and creators. Uncover the roots of Riverdance, or sample video and audio clips. Tour dates, ticket information, and merchandise are a click away.

How Are Things in Glocca Morra? What, you've forgotten a verse or two? From Cockles and Mussels to When Irish Eyes Are Smiling, the lyrics to nearly 30 Irish Folk Songs will have you singing all day. "Too-ra-lay, how are things in Glocca Morra this fine day?"

Need a special Irish Recipe? Don't despair. Try colcannon, soda bread, potted chicken, boxty, or steak and Guinness pie. Dublin lawyer, apple mash, rutabaga pudding, or sorrel soup should whet your appetite.

I hope you've enjoyed this sampling of Ireland. Next time you see a rainbow, look to its end.

Go néirí leat! (All the best!)