Dear Ireland, That was some good craic, like!
Dublin is my new favorite destination. Located on the Republic of Ireland’s east coast and at the mouth of the River Liffey, this super-friendly capital city gives rise to hours of exploration through the must-see historical sections and the many hip pubs around Grafton Street and the Temple Bar area.
Dublin, with its rich literary associations to Oscar Wilde and James Joyce, received the prestigious title of UNESCO City of Literature in 2010. This recognition was bestowed upon the city for its literary heritage and the acclaim it has received for the works of its writers across various genres.
As you enter the grand entrance of Dublin's Trinity College, you are greeted by the charm of its cobbled stone campus. This picturesque setting not only accommodates the attending students but also attracts tourists from all over the world.
Long Room in the Trinity College
The impossibly tall oak bookcases contain 200,000 of the Library’s oldest books. The rotation to clean these books and maintain the shelving is continuous.
One of the main attractions for these visitors is the opportunity to view a volume of the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript and Celtic Gospel book dating back as far as c. 800 AD. This ancient masterpiece is showcased within a temperature and light controlled glass display, adding to its allure and preserving its delicate beauty. It's a captivating journey through history and art, allowing you to immerse yourself in the ancient world of Celtic culture and craftsmanship. The intricate details and vibrant colors of the illustrations are a testament to the skill and dedication of the monks who created this extraordinary work of art.
A collection of 14 marble busts of the great philosophers and writers of the western world line the Long Room.
To complete a satisfying day of walking or biking in Dublin, a visit to the Guinness Storehouse is an absolute must. Situated on St. James' Gate, this captivating tour offers a 90-minute experience that delves into the history and evolution of the iconic brewery. Visitors will gain a deep appreciation for master brewer Arthur Guinness and his visionary decision to sign a remarkable 9,000-year lease, ensuring that his legacy and brand would endure for generations to come.
After immersing yourself in the fascinating story of Guinness, make your way up to the Gravity Bar on the fifth level for snacks, endless pints of Guinness, and to soak up the sweeping panoramic views of the cityscape.
Postcard-perfect Northern Ireland does not disappoint. Even with the rain hanging in the air and the clouds overhead an ominous steel grey, every open and close of the umbrella is worth the memorable castle viewings and walks arounds luscious estates.
On the north coast of Northern Ireland, and about three miles northeast of the town of Bushmills, is a breathtaking landscape called The Giant’s Causeway. One of Earth’s many beautiful natural wonders, it is an area of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns and is the result of an ancient volcanic fissure eruption.
Giant’s Causeway
According to Irish folklore, Halloween can be traced back to the ancient Celtic tradition of Samhain.
Until we meet again …
XO Elle