How to Spend a Long Weekend in Dublin
Over recent years Dublin has increasingly become the destination of choice for large numbers of Brits, Europeans, and Americans seeking a long weekend break with a difference. So, besides the famous Guinness, what is it that attracts so many of us to enjoy a break in the capital of the Irish republic?
World Renowned Hospitality:
Ireland has always been a country where large numbers of the population, especially the young, have chosen to emigrate. The United States is the destination for many, but wherever you travel, you can be sure to find a substantial number of Irish immigrants, or those with Irish roots, partying and enjoying life as only the Irish can. The hospitality of the Irish, especially on home soil is legendary. Whatever the itinerary for your weekend break, friendly Irish hospitality will follow you wherever you go. And I mean, wherever you go, one thing’s for sure, in Dublin there’s something for everyone.
Take in the Capital Daytime:
There is plenty of accommodation in Dublin to suit all pockets. However, if you enjoy the nostalgia and intimacy of small, classically decorated hotels, seek out the likes of The Weston on Westmoreland Street – opposite Trinity College, and central for Grafton Street’s shopping area and the Abbey theater – all are just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel.
While people watching, and taking in the sights cost nothing, be warned. Should you step inside the Brown Thomas department store on Grafton Street, be prepared to get out the plastic, very few leave Thomas’s, without a loaded carrier bag.
Spread your Wings:
An ideal way to enjoy the sights is the Dublin Bus Tour. Purchase tickets, and the bus takes in all the city sights of interest. Hop off, do a bit of exploring, take a few photographs, then hop on the next one that comes along and off to the next place of interest such as the famous Kilmainham Jail.
Take a day to travel further afield. A 30 minute train ride will take you to the North Sea coast and a quaint little seaside village call Dalkey. Old cobbled streets and lovingly tended gardens will enhance the atmosphere as you enjoy lunch with the locals in the Queen’s, before hiking up Kiliney Hill. It’s quite a hike, but if you pick the right day you can often see the Welsh coast across the Irish Sea.
Visits to the Guinness Storehouse and Jameson’s Distillery should also be included, if you wish to sample some real Irish liquid hospitality.
Night-time Entertainment:
The night-life is why so many of the young set enjoy weekends in Dublin. Whether eating in one of the many excellent restaurants, or enjoying pub grub on Grafton Street, you can be sure of musical entertainment while you dine.
Ensure your travel insurance has no restrictions on enjoyment. Whether you prefer old Irish ballads, country music, or hard rock, there are bars and night venues for all tastes, styles, and ages. Don’t expect to just sit quietly with a drink, when the Irish party they expect everybody else to.
If you’ve never thought of Dublin for a weekend break think again. At just an hour’s flight from most UK airports, you can be there in less time than it takes to drive from Birmingham to London.
