Ireland.
Dublin
How do you experience all that Dublin has to offer when each cobblestone street leads to a pint of Guinness?
The capital of Ireland was the starting point of our Rick Steves tour before we embarked for the famous landscapes and scenery in search of the "Irish experience".
Dublin had a casual elegance with a laid-back vibe and was easy to navigate. Even though it is walkable, nothing beats a hop-on hop-off bus tour. I love getting the layout before deciding what to do and see in a city. One surprise was all the wild deer in the park.
We had a half day to tour the city before meeting Stephen and the group for orientation and dinner. Unfortunately, most museums, Dublin Castle and Georgian House 29 were all closed. We ended up touring George's Street area, drinking in Temple Bar area, eating at a French bistro and a wee bit of shopping.
My first Guinness...Wow! I really thought I wouldn't like it, but bitter chocolate and coffee is doable. While I only endulged in Dublin; I must agree that the best draught was at the top of the Guinness Storehouse.
The Temple Bar may be a little touristy, but in the middle of the afternoon watching a tennis match with locals was somewhat relaxing.
Our full day in Dublin jumped to a start with a walking tour and history lesson with a city guide. We strolled the streets, including St. Stephens Green, then toured the Parliament House (Bank of Ireland), and ended at Trinity College for the famous Book of Kells. According to Stephen its a "bloody relic", not just a book. Needless to say, my brother wasn't eager to stand in a long line in the heat to look at a book. Stephen couldn't believe Mike's lack of enthusiasm.
Trinity College
The history of Arthur Guinness and the production processes of Guinness can be found at the Guinness Storehouse in the heart of Dublin. I have to say it was an educational and interesting experience. It was well laid it out over the floors and ended with a free pint on the top which included panoramic views of the city. It was breathtaking! We finished our day with a carriage ride back to the city center for another pub experience.
Guinness Storehouse
That evening Stephen took us on a stroll to the north side of the river for an excellant Irish meal and live music at the pub next door. It was a great way to end our few days in Dublin.
All the pubs we ventured into were warm and welcoming. Each with their own charm and character. I loved the live music and singing along, even if we couldn't get the words straight. Glenda thought Molly Malone was "Knuckles and Mussels". It got a few laughs when she requested it.
Next stop
In the morning we left Dublin we toured an unoccupied gaol which gave some insight into what it was like to have been confined there. Many participants of various rebellions were housed there and some leaders of the Easter Rising were executed in the yard. It was also common during the famine for many people to commit petty crimes to be arrested and access a basic diet.
Kilmainham Gaol
Some of my grandpa O'Grady's family attended Trinity College before leaving Ireland. I really enjoyed being able to see the campus and library.
