Although I occasionally get the opportunity to go on some really incredible vacations, I usually have to content myself with living vicariously through other people's vacation photos. Recently, a friend who shares my love for architecture spent a week in Ireland. Looking through her detailed, beautifully composed photos, I almost felt like I was there.

1. Adare Manor, Adare. Built as a 'calendar house', it has 365 windows, 52 chimneys, and 4 towers (for the seasons). Built in the 19th century as the seat of the Earls of Dunraven, it is now a luxury hotel.
2 – 4. Townhouses in Dublin
5 – 6. Adare Manor
7. Abandoned monastery, County Clare
8. Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin
9. Townhouse in Dublin
10. St. Mary's Cathedral, Limerick — built in 1168, it is the oldest building in Limerick still in use.

All these photos were taken by my friend Sarah, a portrait photographer living in the St. Louis area. You can see more of her work on her website and her blog.

(Images: Sarah Sue Photography)