Travel Guide: Ireland
By Molly Dalton
If you’re like me, you’re constantly thinking of the next travel destination you want to cross off your bucket list. Something that’s helped me stay positive during this quarantine is to think of all the amazing places I can’t wait to visit once it’s safe to do so. I’ve also been reminiscing about some of my favorite trips, like when I went to Ireland to visit one of my best friends over fall break. It’s easy to get caught up in all that we’re missing. Although there is so much out of our control right now, it’s always special to have things to look forward to. I wrote a guide of all my favorite things I did in Ireland to provide as a reference to anyone who wants to start dreaming of their future travels!
Dublin
Guinness Storehouse followed by dinner at Arthur’s
At the Storehouse, pour yourself “the perfect pint” and enjoy it at the Gravity Bar, which has 360-degree views of the incredible city. Afterwards, enjoy a big shepherd’s pie after your long day of travel at Arthur’s, which is less than a 5-minute walk from Guinness factory.
Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast at the Metro Cafe, then explore Grafton Street
Get an early start to the day and fill up at the Metro Cafe, where you can order a traditional Irish breakfast of bacon, sausage, eggs, and beans. Shop to your heart's content on Grafton Street and take a moment to listen to all the talented performers singing and playing their instruments.
Experience Irish Nightlife
Although overpriced, you have to visit the famous Temple Bar. While you’re there, hop around to the different bars in the Temple district, one of Dublin’s prime going out areas. Harcourt Street is another prominent nightlife scene. I recommend going to Dicey’s (a more casual beer garden) then spending the rest of the night at Coppers right next door. I also stumbled upon an old church that was converted into a bar, now called The Church. The interior was beautiful with the bar in the middle, stained glass windows, and a beautiful organ still perched near the ceiling.
Go back in time at Dublin Castle and Trinity Library
Learn about Irish history at Dublin Castle, the site where Irish presidents are still inaugurated every seven years. The Trinity Library also will truly take your breath away, and fellow book nerds will be in heaven. Make sure to ask for the student discount to get a few euros off!
Visit the Kilmainham Gaol
This is something that I wasn’t able to do, but it was high on my list. Kilmainham Gaol is a famous jail in Ireland which housed many prominent historical figures throughout times in history like the Great Famine, the Irish Civil War, and the Restoration. Make sure to get tickets well in advance, as they do sell out months ahead of time.
Galway
Have the best pancakes of your life at Paschals
Order the banana and peanut butter pancakes. You will not regret it.
Get lost walking the quaint downtown
I had some time alone here while my friends were in class, and I was able to stroll down the beautiful streets while looking for some gifts for my friends and family. Order a piping hot English breakfast tea in one of the cute cafes and enjoy it while you explore the windy streets.
In and Around Ireland
Jackie Lennox restaurant in Cork
You can’t leave Ireland without some fish and chips, and this is your place to go.
Kiss the Blarney Stone
Legend says that if you kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle you will inherit “the gift of gab,” meaning you will speak only eloquent words for the rest of your days. Something we all use more of!
Visit the Cliffs of Moher (but don’t fall off the edge!)
This was my favorite activity from my whole trip, and you’ll understand why if you ever see the view. At the Cliffs of Moher, you can walk along the cliffs and see the beautiful view of where the cliffs meet the ocean. This was a wonderful way to see Ireland’s natural beauty and to reflect on a wonderful trip!
