David Condon Finds

I’ll start this by saying that this post applies to tourists coming to Ireland on vacation or holiday, and to our own “staycationers” who are brave enough to holiday at home. It’s written as a broad, practical guide for getting the most out of your time here, whatever the weather. If you do happen to find yourself in Kerry at any point, many of these ideas apply just as well there too.

How Airbnb Experience Reviews Really Work — A Guide for Hosts and Guests This guide is for both new Airbnb Experience Hosts  and curious Guests who want to understand how the Airbnb review system really works . Reviews on Airbnb aren’t just a formality, they directly affect a Host’s visibility, bookings, and reputation. Even well-meaning feedback  like dropping a star, making a vague comment, or answering Airbnb's extra questions without much thought can hurt a Host’s score and reduce their chances of getting future bookings. Many people don’t realise how easily this happens, or how much it can impact a small business. Note: This post originally lived on my main site, David Condon Woodcraft, but I’ve rehomed it here to keep that site focused purely on woodcraft and woodturning. This topic fits more naturally on David Condon Finds, where I write about platforms, experiences, and wider observations beyond the workshop. I was brought up with the phrase 'If you've nothing good...

I finished building the UCS Venator during Christmas, and at over 5,000 pieces it has been one of the most demanding LEGO builds I’ve taken on so far. Not difficult in a frustrating way, but demanding in terms of focus, space, patience, and sheer physical tiredness by the end of a session. I’ve already written about why I wanted to buy the Venator and where it sits in my growing UCS collection , but this post is more about the build itself . The practical side. The moments where things flow beautifully, and the moments where you really should stop, step away, and come back fresh.

We've all been there at one time or another.  A leisurely trip to the local Farmer's Market suddenly turns sour and brings you to the point of panic. Unexpectedly, a Market Trader and your good self  have made brief eye contact.  He/she has smiled pleasantly with a hopeful look that you will come over and look at their goods on display and possibly make a purchase.   Your heart beat increases exponentially and in your 'fight or flight' state your eyes dart around left and right looking for that distraction that will get you off the hook. You only came down for a loaf of bread and some small cake goodies, you never expected to be caught in the gaze of some small craft maker who wants you to buy from them.