The Emerald Isle vs. The Keystone State: A Tale of Two Titans (Except One Isn't Really a Titan)
Ah, Ireland and Pennsylvania. Two places that conjure up strong emotions. One, a land of rolling green hills, leprechauns with questionable financial advice, and the most delicious Guinness you'll ever sip. The other, well, Pennsylvania has Rocky (respect), cheesesteaks (drool-worthy), and, uh... that time they found a giant sinkhole that swallowed a bowling alley (weird, right?). But one burning question remains: which one is bigger? Let's throw on our detective hats (or, in Pennsylvania's case, maybe a cheesesteak hat?) and crack this case wide open.
The Size Showdown: Don't Let Pennsylvania's Ego Fool You
How Big Is Ireland Compared To Pennsylvania |
Ireland: The Emerald Underdog
Coming in at a charming 84,421 square kilometers (or 32,595 square miles for our American friends), Ireland is no slouch in the size department. It's the third-largest island in Europe, which means leprechauns clearly have a thing for elbow room.
QuickTip: Reread tricky spots right away.
Pennsylvania: Packing a Punch (But Not a Size Punch)
Clocking in at a respectable 46,054 square miles (or 119,280 square kilometers), Pennsylvania shouldn't be embarrassed. It's got plenty of space for rolling hills, Amish country charm, and, of course, all the room you need to lose a bowling alley in a sinkhole (seriously, Pennsylvania, what's the deal with that?).
The Verdict: It's Not Even Close, Folks
Tip: Train your eye to catch repeated ideas.
Okay, maybe that's a bit harsh. But with almost double the landmass, Ireland takes the crown (or should we say, the shamrock?) in this size battle. Pennsylvania could fit in Ireland about twice, with room leftover for a pint or two at a cozy Irish pub.
So Why Does This Matter? (Besides National Pride)
Well, it mostly doesn't. Except maybe if you're planning a road trip. Ireland might take a bit longer to traverse than, say, driving from Philly to Pittsburgh (though with scenery that stunning, who's complaining?).
Fun Fact: Pennsylvania Has More People (For Now)
Tip: Read once for flow, once for detail.
Despite its smaller size, Pennsylvania boasts a population of over 13 million, compared to Ireland's 5 million. So, while Ireland might have more sheep (just a hunch), Pennsylvania takes the lead in the human category (for now. Leprechaun procreation rates are a mystery).
How Big is Ireland Compared to...
FAQ: How to Get a Feel for Ireland's Size?
Tip: Read actively — ask yourself questions as you go.
- How to: Imagine driving from New York City to Maine. That's roughly the length of Ireland!
- How to: Picture Indiana. Ireland is about the same size as that friendly Midwestern state.
- How to: Think of a really big county in your state. Double it. That's kind of like Ireland.
FAQ: How to Travel Between Ireland and Pennsylvania?
- How to: Planes are your best bet. Unless you have a really big boat (and a passport, because, you know, international waters and all).
FAQ: How to Decide Where to Visit?
- How to: Love history and cheesesteaks? Pennsylvania! Craving stunning scenery and Guinness? Ireland! Can't decide? Flip a coin, or better yet, book a trip to both!