Dublin is the capital of Ireland, the country that England could not conquer entirely. They are famous for luck, alcohol and throwing punches in pubs. Ok, this is mean, the above traits describe mostly every country, maybe not the luck. Thing is, it’s a beautiful country with great people you don’t want to get into fights with. If you drink you’re their friend and so was I. If you don’t drink alcohol you cannot be my friend either. And the Irish are all about quality drinking, I like that.

Weather

     The temperatures in Ireland can be even worse than London’s, with even more rain. During summer the temperatures can range between 10ºC-20ºC, with some exceptions, and a lot of rain. During my stay we barely encountered any rain, but it was cold. I went there in January and it was going towards the freezing threshold. Still way warmer than Europe, but the humidity really goes into your bones. Pack thick clothes.

Transport

     When you land there you have a feeling like you went back in time a bit, like in the late nineties.  Don’t just jump and buy the expensive tickets from the transport operators begging you outside of the airport. There are regular buses from the city that do airport as well. Find the bus stop outside of the airport, check the times, wait a bit and but a very cheap ticket from the driver. Instead of paying €15 to go to Dublin, take the regular bus for €2.5. That’s quite a difference isn’t it? Dublin is not that big, you can walk the best part of it. You have buses and trams that can take you from A to B but be aware that the bus drivers don’t give change, in case you decide to pay as you go. If they owe you they’ll issue the ticket with the amount they owe you and at the end of your stay you’d have to go to their transport headquarters and cash in the change. We could not believe it and just imagine the hassle they force you to go through just for getting back what you are owed. Alternatively, you can buy a pass.

Culture

     Irish people are the kind you can really party with. They are very different that the British, in more than one way. First of all, they don’t like aggressive politics and you can easily find common points with them, especially if you don’t agree with England’s perspective. Everywhere you look there’s a leprechaun on a sheep, shamrock (disappointingly with three leaves) and pubs. You would think they invented them, which might actually be true. I felt really welcomed and I thank them for that.

Attractions

     If it’s your first time in Dublin you have to visit the Guinness Brewery. It is impressive and delicious. Although, when you buy the stout they give you a discount only for one pint. All others that follow are at regular pub price. That was disappointing, but rest assured, you won’t be able to down too many. Only one pint has over 500 kcal! Book tickets here.

     I’m going to share with you the cherry from the top of the cake of your visit in Dublin. If you like whiskey, you’re in for a treat. Teeling whiskey distillery is a must and actually the first place you should go to, even before Guinness brewery. Book a tour of the distillery and let go of any worries in whiskey paradise. I booked the first tier of whiskey tasting, the cheaper version, and later found out I chose right. No need to upgrade the tasting to a more expensive one, you’ll fall in love with the three types of golden liquid included in the package. After going into an alcoholic coma in the ER, circa 2008, when drinking a whole bottle of J&B whiskey in less than an hour during a rave and at 35ºC, I swore I’d never drink whiskey again. After 7 years Teeling distillery made me drink this liquor again. Their small batch is the whiskey I drink everywhere I am on this planet. Also, their Poitin at 50% proof is amazing and a cure for everything. Visit this new distillery and come out a different man. Ask them about the fire they had before reconstruction, it’s and impressive story.

Nightlife

     If you ask everyone there they will tell you, mate, go to The Temple Bar. That is the main attraction in central Dublin (old town), but don’t be deceived, there are plenty other party locations. Though, they might not be open till late. Price of a pint in The Temple Bar? €7!!! Good luck! I’ll update this section after my next Irish adventure.

Shopping

     In central Dublin they have a high street same as Oxford street in London. You’ll find all the brands you need right there. Enjoy!

Food

     I could not wait to reach this section and tell you about the best fish and chips place on the planet. The Hollywood stars eat there as well and for good reason. Go to Leo Burdock and order the smoked haddock or cod. For about €10 you’ll get a portion you won’t be able to eat. You’ll fall in love with it and I can tell you that the UK do not have a better fish and chips anywhere. I highly recommend the place and apparently a lot of celebrities eat there too.

     Other than that I didn’t visit any restaurants, but will update on my next visit. Explore and enjoy a beautiful city.

Oh, yeah, you’ve got to try the TAYTOs! Taaayytooos! It’s their national crisps and they go well with Irish whiskey.

Accommodation

     I stayed in the former The Regency Hotel, now Bonnington Hotel & Leisure Centre, roughly 4 miles from The Temple Bar. It wasn’t a posh accommodation, but decent and they also have a spa. In January I really enjoyed it. The bus stop is nearby, so access to the city centre is as easy as it gets for the price of the hotel. If you’re looking for a bargain, that’s a sure win.

Travel yourself to life!

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