My time in the Irish capital has come to an end. I had to take a bus from Dublin to limerick then to Shannon. It was a weird time, I saw a bus crash in front of me while they tried to park. The back of the bus hit a street sign. I hope that wasn’t a foreshadow from the heavens.
waiting for the bus photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Eventually, my bus came and it was time to go. Ignoring the bad driving red flags, I got on the bus. The bust felt very spacious. It had WiFi and outlets, i’m sure you all know I was on Netflix. When going across Ireland, I really recommend bus Eireann. All jokes aside, they are a very reliable bus company. They have time tables and they are usually within 5 minutes of their schedule. It’s a great way to see the Irish country side while seating comfortably. They only crash when they are parking and not driving on the road 0.o. Last joke about crashing I promise!
The view of the front of the bus photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
While on the bus, all I could think about was the road and the green grass. Ireland is so clean. You can tell they put a lot of effort into roads and agriculture. The moment was perfect, all I needed was an Irish beer. I really felt integrated into the country. In terms of experiencing Ireland. Main reason, why I don’t like driving when I’m in another country. I would be too unfocused on looking at the background and the scenery than looking at that road.
The Irish countryside photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Hours passed, I was still enjoying the moment. That green grass really matches the color of the Irish flag. What is missing from this was a green leprechaun and a rainbow with a pot of gold at the end. The memories of Dublin kept following through my head. The awesome smiles and friendliness of that city were now behind me. I was just looking forward and not backwards. I couldn’t wait what new adventures waited for me in limerick. All I Knew, Limerick has stories and memories waiting for me to experiencing them.
A field photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Finally got to limerick, dazed and tired I got on a taxi. The calmness of the smaller city hit me. It was an unreal feel. Also, no crashes. Sorry, I couldn’t help myself.
Thank you all for reading. I wish you all health! In these uncertain times, keep your close ones safe. Stay at home and don’t leave your home for no reason, if possible. There are ways to order food online! Much Love and safe travels!
Much love and safe travels! Please keep clean everyone!! Wash your hands!!
We have partnered up with booking.com and working on TripAdvisor. Here are some links for each hope you all enjoy!Here are links to hotels and other deals.For Hotels, make sure to click here. For apartments make sure to click here. For Resorts click here. For villas click here. For bed and breakfast and for Guest houses, make sure to click the links!
I was walking around Dublin and this interesting set of benches caught my attention. The benches had a viking ship design. I knew about the Celtics being associated with Ireland. However, vikings never crossed my mind when I think about Ireland. So It made me asked, Who exactly were the Celtics and What is their relationship with the vikings?
Viking benches photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The word Celtic actually comes from the word Celts. I know big surprise. The Celts were ancient Europeans that were in the British isles before the Anglo Saxons and before the Normans. Where the Celts originally came from is up to debate. Most say central Europe (Austria) and some say Anatolia (modern day Turkey). Some historians believe the Celts made their way to British isles through the Mediterranean then out from the north tips of France. Genealogists and archaeologists believe they just spread out from central Europe and expanding their culture outwards. What is clear is that they had strong impact on Europe, which is still seen today.
Map of the Celts, the yellow is where they believe the Celts originated from
The Celts were diverse. They had many different people that went under the label of Celt. As seen on the map above, the Celtic language was far spread. Unfortunately, most Celtic languages and culture was lost due to roman invasion. The Celts were not homogeneous. A lot of Celts fought against each other. Irish Celts fought Scottish Celts regularly. Which brings up the question, Why are the British Isles are always associated with the Celtic culture? Well, that is because of the languages of the isles.
The British Isles languages still have strong influences from the Celtic language. Before the English empire took full control of the Isles, the languages were Celtic. Sadly, most of the native speakers are far and few between. I really love how Ireland, Wales and Scotland have been actively reinstalling their languages into the schools. There are other parts of the Celtic culture that still lives outside of the British Isles. In Brittany, a region in northwest France still has strong Celtic roots. Also, northern Spain called Galicia. Although, the Galician was heavily latinized. If you understand Spanish, Galician is extremely similar. You can understand almost 70% to what Galician is saying or writing without having prior knowledge of the language. The galicians are still proud to claim their Celtic roots. The Gaelic and galicians, if you look at the two words you can see their is a common root word somewhere. Lastly, there is a part of Canada that speaks Gaelic. It’s an area called Nova Scotia, Canada. It is Scottish Gaelic. The language was brought over through Scottish immigrants.
Now the Celtic and viking relationship is very interesting. The vikings kept invading the British Isles. There were wars for land and power between the two. Started from the very northern islands leading all the way down to Ireland. Eventually, the vikings kept settling in the Isles and mixing with the pollution. So contrary to the popular belief, a lot of vikings had red hair. The Nordic god Thor, actually had red hair. The vikings most likely left their red hair genes in the Irish genetic pool.
So this is just a very brief introductions to the Celtics. I love the mythologies and arts the Celtics have left the world. If you want to learn more of their culture, here are some links and YouTube videos that I got information from.
We have partnered up with booking.com and working on TripAdvisor. Here are some links for each hope you all enjoy!Here are links to hotels and other deals.For Hotels, make sure to click here. For apartments make sure to click here. For Resorts click here. For villas click here. For bed and breakfast and for Guest houses, make sure to click the links!
Something about sitting down while watching plants is very soothing. It is definitely great after eating some Mexican food. Sometimes, we need to learn how to relax. When a vacation becomes a stress factory, it’s no longer fun. Going to another tourist location in a rush can suck all the energy and possibly ruin your whole vacation. Traveling is a lot of fun but can also be stressful.
The entrance to the park photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
After leaving the Mexican restaurant, I had a stomach full of food and that feeling of fulfillment. Was feeling a little sluggish and it started to rain. I had no jacket nor an umbrella. Had to run from building to building trying to find cover from those raindrops. Getting sick would hold me back from doing anything productive. Still had more to explore of Ireland.
Eventually, the rain stopped. What I have come to learn about this part of Europe, it can rain at anytime. After a few minutes, the rain stops. It’s very on and off. Anyways, found this park right next to this church. What attracted me was seeing all the plants. Coming from California and living majority of my adult life in NYC, seeing green grass and trees kept nicely is not a common sight. It is something most people take for granted.
Pink flowers photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The smell of the pink flowers mixed with the sounds of the birds chirping in the background forced me to enjoy the moment. Lost in thoughts and my feelings of having a full stomach, it was hard to notice the light breeze. That wind kept me from being there physically and away mentality. It keep dragging me back to reality like waking up from a daydream. I really wanted to enjoy my time. Minutes start feeling like seconds, a half hour felt like 5 minutes. This was another way of fun having.
The park’s walkway photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Started walking slowly towards the church. I really enjoyed how the church almost looks like a castle. Makes you wonder what stories do those walls hold. If the bricks that support the church could talk, what would they say? Would they tell you how many people they saw grow old attending the weekly and daily services? How many marriages has this church been apart of? As crazy as this sound, at times I tend to wonder about everything that is around me. I love to observe my surroundings. It’s something I often overlook when I’m running from place to place. I try not to take everything for granted.
Stairway to the church photo of Hugo morel
Started walking down the steps hoping this church was opened. To my surprise, it was closed. Best to go with the flow on this and just enjoy being in another country. Ireland has so much to offer. I have enjoyed my stay so far. Thanks to all the friendly people with smiles on their faces.
Going back up and seeing the walkway photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
If you noticed, this week I wrote posts about relaxing and just enjoying your time. As I write, I recently experienced a burnout. For those who don’t know, a burnout is when you are mentally and physically exhausted. The last several weeks my work load has been taking over my life. Worked for almost 19 hours a day for the last several weeks. Nearly collapsed on last Tuesday. Been working so hard on my dreams, I almost forgot how to live. So please everyone, relax and be patient. Everything comes to you at the right time. Don’t risk your health for getting what you want faster! Stay safe everyone!
Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!
We have partnered up with booking.com and working on TripAdvisor. Here are some links for each hope you all enjoy!Here are links to hotels and other deals.For Hotels, make sure to click here. For apartments make sure to click here. For Resorts click here. For villas click here. For bed and breakfast and for Guest houses, make sure to click the links!
Ireland is know for it’s beer, bars, party and friendly people. Ireland is never associated with Mexico. Besides, the flags have a similar design minus the eagle and change the red with orange. Regardless, Mexican food in Ireland is not talked about. In the land of potatoes and beer, there is a Mexican gold mine waiting to enrich your taste buds.
The Boojum Mexican restaurant photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
On my way of seeing Dublin, I noticed my stomach was rumbling. I was so focused on seeing the city that I missed eating a real meal. Kept looking around and I stumbled across this restaurant/bar. I was so surprised to see Mexican food in Ireland?!?! For some reason seeing a Mexican restaurant in Dublin never crossed my mind. That feeling of nostalgia started pouring. All my childhood memories of growing up in California, hanging out with my friends at the local taqueria. For those who don’t know, taqueria translate to taco shop from Spanish to English. In the USA, you get a more authentic taste if you go to one. It’s a lot better than taco-bell. Also, no ugly taco dog.
Inside boojum photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
I when I went inside, I noticed the layout looks so similar to chipotle in the usa. You are greeted when it’s your turn in line to choose what you want in your burrito or salad. I chose to get the normal burrito. Meat enriched with all the Mexican flavors wrapped inside a tortilla. I sound so Californian now. Unfortunately, there were no vegan options. Although, they do only serve vegan food on world’s vegan day. Here is the link to this restaurant’s menu.
Where the people sit photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Ended up having a friendly talk with the staff. Learned that one of the workers was Mexican. Apparently, Dublin had a Latino community. They were mostly from Brazil and Mexico. Also learned that is this the Irish version of Chipotle from another staff worker. The american mega food chain has only been in Dublin for about 5 years. In my opinion, I always prefer local food stores than american. It doesn’t feel like I went anywhere, if I ate McDonald’s everywhere I go. It makes me feel like I’m helping out local businesses. No matter how small of a help I’m contributing.
My Burrito photo Courtesy of Hugo Morel
With my food at hand, found a place to sit down and eat. When I took the first bite, the taste was amazing! It had the Texmex flavor to it. As the flavors blasted my mouth I almost felt as, if I was eating at one of my cousins’ home in Houston. Yes, I got family members who are part Mexican. We used to stop by on holidays excited about the home cooking. Ironically, burritos aren’t really Mexican. They are Mexican American. Only burritos you will find in mexico are the small donkeys. Where exactly burritos were created in the USA is up to debate. I know the mission district in San Francisco claims to be the first. Also, San Diego and all the major cities in Texas have something to say as well. Regardless of exactly where in the usa this food was invented, it’s really good.
Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!
As time went by, nightfall occurred. The Dublin nightlife is world famous. I was so excited to be able to experience it in person. I went to temple bar because that is the place where to stay in Dublin. Temple Bar has everything and it’s really like the party area of Dublin. There always something going on in Temple Bar. Usually, this is the place people talk about when they say the Irish know how to party. While staying in Dublin, make sure to get a hotel or an apartment near this area. There are a lot of hotels near temple bar Dublin. You will not regret it!!
Main road in temple bar at night Photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Started walking around further into the temple bar district. I was expecting louder music; however, this was a Sunday night. Most people where probably getting ready for work the next day. It was still lively though! There were a lot college students and people of all ages. Since the drinking age in Dublin Ireland is 18. Some of the best clubs in Dublin are here. With the clubs and bars not closing until 2 am, there is plenty of time to party. Of course, I didn’t do any of this. My party days are over. Call me boring, I think partying until I drop is unhealthy. Ever dropped and fell on your face, it’s a not fun experience.
Temple bar trading company photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Walked by several gay clubs and bars. After traveling to so many places, I tend to forget how open-minded Europe can be. I can imagine how hard it is to be gay in the middle east. The fear they must face everyday. Never really notice gay clubs and bars on my travels because that is not my scene. What stood out to me was seeing middle-eastern men holding hands and kissing each other so openly. Somewhat blew my mind. I have traveled to several Muslim countries, seeing what I just saw in Dublin would not be okay in Oman or Yemen. I was happy for them, I’m sure they must had faced a lot of hardships. I’m a straight man, there is not a lot of things I have to worry about when I travel. Expect racism but, majority of the locals only see me as the color of money. Compared to gay travelers, I have it easy. Going with the theme of this city, I’m sure all the best gay clubs and bars in Dublin are in the temple bar neighborhood. So if you are into that, you will find a lot of options here.
Government building at night photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
A street at night in temple bar photo courtesy of Hugo morel
Dublin is so beautiful at night! Walking around without a purpose, you will find something to do. The small alleyways have restaurants or ice cream shops that might be overlooked. Temple bar at night is very safe. I never once felt at risk. Truly suggest you all to come here when you get the chance. It is worth the flight. The people at night even have smile on their faces. Very different compared to American cites!
Drinking a few glasses photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Found a bar with not a lot of people in it. Sat down and had a few drinks to myself. I love taking in and people watch. Everybody was just happy to be around others. No traditional Irish music here. This bar wasn’t made for tourists. It was made for the locals. There were no fights, no one wanting to be that person who got kicked out. Everybody was just enjoying themselves. No Irish stereotypes allowed. The atmosphere here was to release stress and have fun with friends. The night to me, couldn’t end any better. Got back and slept like a baby!
Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!
“Yes, this is that St. Patrick’s Cathedral,” said the security guard. I must had sounded so out of place when I asked, “If this is the famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral or is this a replica?” Well, I’m sure you all know that this is the world famous cathedral. When I was in Dublin, I thought this was just another church named after the saint. Kind of like the one in Midtown Manhattan. Funny fact, my friend was having an event at that the Manhattan St. Patrick’s Cathedral in the middle of summer once. It was about 94 degrees outside (34 Celsius), I just came back from a trip to Argentina. When I had my bags checked, the security guard saw my winter coat. He asked me,”Are you coming from the North Pole or are you one of those New York weirdos?” Two times when I seemed out of place, both ironically in the Cathedral named after the same guy.
In St Patrick’s cathedral photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
There is an entrance fee to get inside this church, I think it was about 10 usa dollars. The fee is used to maintain the place. It’s good to know that my money is going to good use. Once inside, you are engulfed by all the patterns on the floor and the colors of the windows. One thing about catholic churches, they are usually very beautiful. I was speechless at how much effort was put into building this visually appealing place.
Where mass is held at the cathedral photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The atmosphere just felt peaceful. Everybody was having a good time. It is somewhat easy to just spend hours in this place and lose track of time. With every turn, lays another beautifully painted glass window or arches that together look like a masterpiece. I had giant smile on my face.
Painted glass window explaining another part of the bible photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
This is where mass held at before. now, it’s no longer in use photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Every Glass window tells a different biblical story. Growing up catholic, you tend to take these things for granted. Been to Buddhist temples, mosques and Hindu temples. They all have their own standard/style of beauty. With mosques, the Persian and Berber/Moorish styles tend to have the most breathtaking patterns. Buddhist temples tend to have beautiful statues with incredible architecture. The Hindu temples are so colorful and otherworldly charming. However, none pull my heartstrings like the catholic churches. There is just so brings so much nostalgia. The way the windows are painted just remind me of my childhood. Even though, I was asleep most of time during Sunday mass as a kid. I was the kid that kept getting pinched at church for sleeping. Regardless of how I feel, you really have to appreciate how humanity shows their love towards their religion through art and architecture.
British flags in the cathedral to remind the world where St Patrick was born photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
So some of you are wondering, “Who was St Patrick?” “What was St Patrick known for?” “Where was St Patrick born?” “Was Saint Patrick real?” His story is very interesting. Where St. Patrick was actually born was somewhere in Roman Britain. Scholars are not too sure of exactly where. He was one day captured by Irish pirates. Forced into slavery and became a shepherd. During his years as a slave, the saint became a christian. He eventually heard a voice in his head saying he should run away. He followed that voice and escaped from his master. The saint eventually returned to his family. After some time, he saw a vision and went back to Ireland to spread Christianity. Which he eventually converted many Irish to believe in his faith. He later became a priest that lead the Christian community in Ireland. How did St Patrick died is actually something we all have to think twice about in our lives. He died of working too hard. He lived 40 years in poverty teaching and traveling to spread Christianity. The day Patrick died is actually when is St Patrick’s day is marked on everybody’s calendar. March 17 is when St Patrick passed away. Crazy thing is on St Patrick’s day 2019, I had no idea I would end up in Ireland several months later. You never truly know, what the future has in store for you.
Another beautiful painted glass window photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The further you go into the cathedral, the more it leaves you in awe. This truly charming cathedral with it’s classy arches and wonderful atmosphere. It is very hard to put in words how I really felt about this place. The St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin makes all the other replicas look like horrible imitations. Nothing beats the original. Something about the one in Dublin, really captures that special feeling. It’s as if, Ireland the country put it’s heart into creating this masterpiece. Knowing that this is the place where the saint became famous and did his work. That is something that the imitators can never copy. I truly suggest coming here on your trip to Dublin. I promise you will leave with a smile on your face and another level of respect for Mr. St Patty. He much more than just the drinking, partying and the St Patrick’s feast day. His legacy and what he did for Ireland is something worthy of having his own day. Truly makes you enjoy the color green in another way.
Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!
On the outside of the world famous cathedral, lays a very elegant park. One that might get over looked if you not careful. The St. Patrick’s Park has a charm that is hard to match. A sense of peace mixed with a classic atmosphere. No crazy person running around asking for hamburgers or something. It is truly a place for a quick breather from the urban Dublin.
Inside of the park photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
When you first come into the park, it’s hard not to get distracted by the cathedral being on the right hand side of the entrance. Luckily for me, I saw a beautiful display of nature and I had to take a look. If you have been reading this blog for a while, I’m sure you know that I love going with the flow. You notice things more that you might had overlooked because you were so focused on the destination. A wise man once said, ” It’s about the journey and not the destination.” That is something I believe more people should take to heart. In the short life I have lived, the more I was happy with the process or journey, the more I valued the people around me and enjoyed things most people often overlook. It’s better to live in the moment, than to live in the what could be. Just trusting the process let’s all the stress disappear. Even in hard times, gives you a reason to smile brightly. Which is the reason why I love going to parks.
The beautiful colors of nature and the reason why I visited the park photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The further I walked into St. Patrick’s park, the more I saw what I came here for. The way nature is displayed and placed, I almost forgot about any negative thoughts. The peace this park displayed made me jealous. I wish New York could have more peace in their parks. Sadly, there is constantly a white background noise that is a result of all the chaos going around. Can’t be mad at that, since that also gives New York City it’s charm. However, despite Dublin being one of the largest cities in the E.U (even with brexit, Dublin is a City in the E.U). This city’s doesn’t have a strong background noise presence. You hear birds chirping like at the time of sunrise. The noise of birds dominating the airways because most people are still asleep. The type of feeling you get in rural areas. For a minute, I forgot I was in the Irish capital.
St. Patrick’s cathedral photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The history of this park is very interesting. It is believed that this is the site where St. Patrick baptized the first Irish Christians. So, it’s the place where Christianity was believed to have started in Ireland. I had no idea about the importance of the place when I was there. I swear, I really need to research the places I go to. It would gave anybody a better level of appreciation of the place they travel to. Sometimes, I feel like I’m taking travel for granted.
The beautiful garden at the park photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
I sat on the bench and people watched. I was comparing the two cultures of the USA and Ireland. The Irish in Dublin are just more cheerful and easy going. I truly enjoy the atmosphere of Dublin. People here are so friendly. Couldn’t wait to see more of this city and of Ireland. Of course, St. Patrick’s cathedral was calling for me. Luckily, I was not too far away.
Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!
In the heart of Dublin lays a governmental building on dame street. The history that these walls have seen is astounding. Never been someone who likes monarchs; however, I was convinced to come here by a few local I met. Main reason why I came here is to see the Irish history in person.
Dublin castle sign photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
When you first come into the Dublin castle area, you will notice a few gift shops. Didn’t bother going in them because I’m sure the prices are on the tourist trap side. There is another gift inside the castle that you can visit. They sell generic touristic items like key-chains and magnets. The other store outside the castle sold crystals and fine china. Things that would cost me more money to bring them back home. Imagine bring a large crystal on a trip to the USA and being stopped by a security guard at the airport. They check your bags and they find this giant rock of a substance they are not sure of. I’m a Hispanic of African descent, it’s best not to let them think I’m smuggling some new type of drug. Besides a few small crystals on necklaces or bracelets, I’m not going to take that risk.
A knight in front of the crystal store photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The whole outside of the castle really gave me that old age feel. During the times knights, dragons and wizards were a part of everybody’s daily lives. You could almost hear the classic Irish music playing as you walk around. Makes you wonder how many people passed by here. Picture the battles that were fought to maintain these walls. I mentioned this before, I wish we could have a time machine to travel back into the past. Where you can see the events happen in real time. One could dream right?
Entrance of into the courtyard of the Dublin castle photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
I kept mentioning the history of the Dublin castle without actually explaining it. So, this castle was built when Ireland was on under the English rule. During the times of King John of England in 1204. Later being completed in 1230, this castle has been used as a governmental building. Even today, this is where the president of Ireland holds his meetings.
State dinning Room photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Once inside, you have to leave your bags and purses in a locker. You will have to pay to get in the castle. There are no videos allowed in the castle. You are allowed to take photos of course. Just remember to have the flash off.
The photo above is the state dining room, also know as the picture gallery. I’m guessing because people take a lot of photos here. This is actually the oldest part of castle. It was the only room to escape the many fires over the years. Also, it has never gotten any major modifications. Meaning, it has kept it’s original decorations. Truly, it’s like stepping in time.
State drawing room photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Now, the picture above is the State Drawing Room. I have no idea who the people in the picture were. I just knew they were important to the Irish history. Sadly, most of this room was destroyed by a fire in 1941. It was reconstructed in 1968, this room is probably one of the newest in the castle. Once a reception room for the king at the time, now foreign dignitaries use it.
throne at st. Patrick’s hall photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The throne room photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
What is a castle without a throne? An expensive mansion? The pictures above are the thrones I have found on my trip throughout the castle. I was expecting more to be honest. I guess movies have influenced my mental picture of what a throne should be. I was expecting a bigger chair with tons of gold on it. The one on the right is in the throne room. Apparently, this was built for King George IV’s visit to Ireland in 1821.
The throne on the left, I found in St. Patrick’s Hall. Which is the biggest room in the castle. It has a blue carpet on the floor. So, it’s hard to miss. I read this is the throne for the president of Ireland. Always cool to look at in person. When you are in Ireland, I definitely recommend taking a visit. It will be worth the money!
Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!
Ps. Got in contact with a few friends I met in Wuhan, China. Will explain it in Wednesday’s post!
After a long deserved sleep, I woke up with tons of energy. It was time for me to see what Dublin was really about. Got dressed and I was out the door. One of the staff, at the hostel I was staying, told me to visit Temple bar first. Since, the hostel was just a ten minute walk away.
One of the famous pubs in temple bar photo courtesy of Hugo morel
When I finally got to Temple bar, a big smile found it’s way on my face. This was the Ireland I pictured going to. The Irish music blasting from the nearby pubs mixed with sounds of the locals having a good time. Now this was Ireland and I wouldn’t traded for anything in the world. This moment was perfect. For those who don’t know, I always enjoyed the Irish people. I have an uncle who is Irish and Italian. I remember the stories he used to tell me about his family in Ireland. Everything around me at that moment reminded me of my childhood memories of him. He was really kind to me as a kid and all I did was caused him headaches. We all had that stage growing up. It was called the teenage years. I’m sure we can all look back at them and shake our heads in embarrassing. It’s crazy, I was never really excited about going to Ireland before this trip. I’m glad that my experiences in Ireland slowly changed my mind.
Directions signs for tourist in temple bar photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Started walking further into this touristic Dublin neighborhood, until I noticed that people were drinking. It was about 10:45 am at the time I started exploring. People here were already drinking this early. Dublin really gives that party atmosphere. If I was here back in my early 20’s, I’m sure I wouldn’t have left the pubs. They seem like the hangout spot for people here. Also, I really enjoyed how the signs were in English and Gaelic. Shows that the Irish are proud of their history. Which is something I want to share on a later post.
The temple bar scenery photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Going around Temple bar, you sense the relax and chill atmosphere. Completely different than limerick, Dublin just makes you feel at ease. Didn’t feel that threat of being jumped or attacked. This feeling is something you don’t feel in most American cities. Everybody here did not have that tense look on them. People here were focused but not in a rush to get their destination.
Temple bar at sunset photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
I know I just did a time skip with the photo above; however, I had to show you all a sneak peek of how temple looks at night. I can see why people really enjoyed the Irish capital. Next week, we will go to the Dublin castle!
Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!
After getting rested, it was time to explore. The sun was just about to set and the colors of the skies were in full bloom. I was surprised as to how beautiful Dublin is. I know every European city has a certain sophistication; However, something about Dublin is truly memorizing. The friendly atmosphere mixed with the upbeat smiles really made me enjoy my time in the Irish capital. It was a lot better being here than being in New York City. Comparing the two is somewhat interesting. New York’s I don’t care about you attitude verses Dublin’s friendly and upbeat attitude. If you have any self respect, I’m sure you know which one I would prefer.
A Dublin street photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
I started walking just to see what was around. No goals just taking in the moment. I had all of tomorrow to see the tourist attractions. Right now, it was only about getting to enjoy the environment. One of my biggest problems while traveling is not really appreciating the fact that you are in another country. Sometimes it just feels unreal. Doesn’t really process in my mind where I am at all the time. Yeah, I know took a flight to another part of the world but sometimes it doesn’t fully sink in. It’s clear that the language and culture is different; yet, it’s almost like you are not living in the present and only thinking about the future. I’m usually focused on getting to see all the touristic sites. So much to a point that I do not value being very far from home. I was not going to let that happen here. Luckily, it was hard not to be in the present while in Dublin.
The beauty of Dublin photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The Irish charm is hard to resist. Just look at the photos and I’m sure you can understand. Classic Irish music blasting from pubs (for us North Americans that means bars). It almost made me want to live here. Well at least, reconsidered living in New York City. Before coming to Dublin, I was never really interested in seeing this part of Europe. Well of course, all that changed during my small time exploring around. The turns of the small European style streets mixed with the looks of people not being stressed out and enjoying their lives is hard not to like. I lived in smaller america cities and been to small towns in Canada. Dublin has that small town feel with the big city lifestyle. People here act like there are from a small town. The smiles I kept getting when I asked random questions. All this made me smile and enjoy the present. No thinking about what I’m about to do and only thoughts about what is going on now.
The River liffey during sunset photo courtesy Of Hugo Morel
Ran back to see the river liffey before the sun went down. From the picture above, it is clear why I wanted to see the river. The pictures can only capture half of how beautiful it was in person. I truly recommend everyone to visit this place. I have been convinced Dublin is one of my favorite cities in Europe. Also, it comes close in beauty when compared to Paris. Can’t wait to see and explore more!
Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!
