Dublin is the largest city and the capital of The Republic of Ireland. In the past, the Emerald Isle was a huge drawcard for visitors from The States, exploring their Irish family heritage and ancestry. The Macs, The Flynns, The Murphys are still more than welcome, but there’s a new crowd in town.
Thanks to the economic upsurge of past decade, Dublin has grown into one of the coolest destinations to shop, sightsee and stroll. No longer the land of potatoes and beer, its designer names, world-class bands and iconic style have made it the place to be seen.
Today, young visitors flock from all over Europe keen to explore this great city, its arts and vibrant culture. Dublin also has one of the youngest populations of any of Europe’s major cities, a fact reflected in its energy and buzz. Fashionable boutiques, ethnic cuisines and bustling street markets have all contributed to its newfound trendy status.
Places to stay
Dublin is spread over the valley of the River Liffey, with the Wicklow Hills sheltering it on the south. The city is an architectural delight with a rich heritage of 18th century buildings. Fine Georgian mansions and terrace houses, many of them with historical association, lend an elegant air to the city's boulevards and spacious squares.
Accommodation-wise, you’ll find plenty of choice in Dublin. There are international luxury hotels, mid-size motels and plenty of smaller establishments, priced to suit your travel budget.
Where’s the craic?
You’ll hear the word “craic” a lot. (No, it’s completely legal.) Craic is the Gaelic word for fun and enjoyment, especially when there’s a song, a pint of Guinness and a pub involved. Live music is also huge feature of Dublin’s nightlife – from street busking to mainstream concerts and traditional live music in “the singing pubs.” With more than 900 pubs dotted around the city, you’ll never go thirsty or be far from a great “craic.” (It is said that "God created alcohol to prevent the Irish from taking over the Earth"!)
Temple Bar
Temple Bar is in the heart of the City. The hub for shopping, dining and entertainment. At night, it’s filled with crowds enjoying some of Dublin's hottest spots and sounds, dotted through the narrow, cobbled streets running between the Bank of Ireland and Christ Church Cathedral. It’s top of the list for a great night that can easily last until the next day, ending with latte and a full Irish breakfast.
Europe’s unique arts centre for children. The Ark.
If you’re travelling with children, Temple Bar is also home to The Ark, the unique cultural centre. It made headlines as Europe's first custom-designed arts centre for 3-14 year olds and has been a magnet for visitors since opening in September 1995. Each year some 20,000 children and 5,000 adults take time out to participate in the programmes. Exciting, engaging, enthralling – The Ark is the place that excites young minds with a meaningful Irish arts experience.
Walk through the past
Dublin’s turbulent past can be greatly enjoyed on foot. There are castles and museums, grand houses and stately buildings. While there are plenty of commercial-type walking tours, but why not plan one for yourself. Retrace the steps of the flamboyant Oscar Wilde or James Joyce, visit their houses, their hang outs and of course, where they enjoyed a drink.
On a historical note, why not explore the streets and landmarks where the1916 Rebellion took place. The Easter Uprising was an attempt by militant Irish republicans to win independence from Britain by force of arms. It helped create the foundation of the Irish State in the early 20th century. In many ways, Dublin’s past is very accessible, even if you’re on a short visit.
The Book of Kells at Trinity College
Ireland’s most famous college, founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I. Former alumni include playwrights Oliver Goldsmith and Samuel Beckett . Trinity's lush lawns and cobbled quads provide a peaceful haven in the heart of this dynamic city. Make time for a visit, especially to see the spectacular Book of Kells, housed in the Old Library. The Book of Kells is an ornately illustrated manuscript, produced by Celtic monks around AD 800. It is one of the more lavishly illuminated manuscripts to survive from the Middle Ages and is considered the zenith of Western calligraphy and illumination.
Cheers. The Guinness®Storehouse
A trip to Dublin is not complete without a visit to the Guinness® Storehouse. Here you can discover every drop of information about the world’s most famous dark beer. The Storehouse was originally built in 1904 to house the fermentation process. In November 2000, a spectacular new addition opened its doors.
The core of the new Storehouse building is modelled on a huge pint glass, stretching up from reception on the ground floor to The Gravity Bar in the sky. If filled, this huge space would hold approximately 14.3 million pints of yes, you guessed it, Guinness.
Souvenirs? Let’s go shopping
Dublin can offer some wonderful retail therapy and window shopping. On the Southside of the city, Grafton Street, between Trinity College and St Stephen's Green is the smarter shopping area with fashionable stores and designer boutiques featuring local and international names. On the Northside, Henry Street has more department stores and popular shops. On Moore Street, you’ll find the well-known outdoor food market, a place that’s always worth a visit for bargains.
In general, stores are open from 9am and 6pm Monday – Saturday. Late night shopping in the city is on Thursday until 8pm, while the suburban shopping centres usually open late on Friday. More of the larger chain stores now open on Sunday from 12.00 noon to 6pm.
Ireland enjoys a well deserved reputation as a warm and welcoming country, a place that’s as generous with hospitality as it is with its national drink! I’ll leave the last word to the Irish and this saying. “May you live as long as you want and never want as long as you live.” A visit to the new Dublin is one thing you’ll want to do, more than once. To be sure.
Matthew Lawson heads up http://www.Hotel.com.au in Australia and is an avid traveler. For great hotel ideas and deals, go to http://www.hotel.com.au/Dublin/default.asp“>http://www.hotel.com.au/Dublin