If the Irish accent isn’t reason enough to force you to book a trip to Dublin (but really, why wouldn’t it be?!) then let me tempt you with a few tales from over the Irish Sea! Perfect for a weekend get-away, Dublin satisfies your cultural cravings with its traditional Irish pubs, vibrant night life, architecture from the middle ages, and its rich history.
The River Liffey flows through the city, dividing it into the North-side and the South-side, with rows of pretty stone and iron bridges becoming the stepping stones for the locals and tourists to cross. River cruises float by, past the onlookers on the stoned edges, filled with merry travellers, dancing to the lively folk music.
This exciting city never leaves you lost for things to do! The famous Temple Bar calls you to explore the many pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants, spoiling you for choice. An area saturated with culture, this place won’t disappoint if you’re up for a crazy night!
However, if the party life style isn’t for you, take a trip down some of the quaint, narrow, cobbled streets, where you’ll uncover hidden treasures of old and worldly traditional pubs. Inside, there’s a warm ambience as a man plucks the strings of his wooden guitar and sings the all-time favourite tunes. The people are either tucked away in little booths having an intimate chat, or swaying in unison on the bar benches, all raising the Black stuff, Ireland’s favourite – Guinness!
Of course, a trip to Dublin wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the Guinness Storehouse, situated in St. James’ Gate Brewery. Starting at the bottom of the world’s biggest pint glass, you travel up the seven levels enriching yourself with the brewing process of this Irish heritage. The ‘Taste Experience’ allows you to learn to appreciate the unique flavours, whilst trying different types of Guinness from around the world broadens your cultural understanding of taste for this smooth beverage. Finally, you choose between becoming a master of the fine Irish craft, by pouring your very own pint of Guinness, or heading up to the world famous Gravity Bar which, with its 360 degree view, overlooks the entire city. Undoubtedly an exciting, unique experience which gives a real taste of Irish culture.
But enough about Guinness (though, after the first one, it’s hard to call last orders!), Dublin has a history waiting to be uncovered. Visit the Kilmainham Gaol, which previously imprisoned and executed some of the most famous Irish revolutionaries, such as the leaders from the Easter 1916 Uprising. Educate yourself on this political Irish history and understand Ireland’s fascinating roots. After enriching yourself with Ireland’s history, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Appreciate the mediaeval church that casts its shadow over St. Patrick’s Park, and then enter into the church for a cultural experience of religion and aesthetic architecture.
Finally, don’t leave Dublin without indulging in some traditional Irish stew. This hearty meal will leave you full and satisfied, and will be the final ingredient to make you fall in love with Dublin!