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!
Twas the night before Christmas, somewhere there was a kid secretly opening their presents without the adults knowing. When I was a toddler, that kid opening presents early was me. The Christmas spirit filled me with so much nostalgia. At one point in my life, it was my favorite time of the year.
Madrid’s most famous Christmas tree photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Seeing families with their children running home put a smile on my face. Everybody looked happy and relaxed. The Puerta Del Sol was packed with people. All eyes fixed on the neon lighted Christmas tree. I was in lost for words. This tree lived up to the hype.
Famous statue del puerta del sol photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The texture and patterns of the lights were so interesting. It felt like Times Square when the ball drop for new year’s. The Spanish public square was completely packed. Everywhere you turned, there was a person with a camera. Had to get out the main part of Puerta Del Sol to take a photo. It was almost impossible to get close to the tree.
The entrance to Puerta del sol photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Still with all these people, I was loving the moment. People were all together celebrating something positive. Not sure, why that stood out to me. Maybe because I feared someone or something would make a negative out this celebration. Luckily, everything was relaxed. You didn’t even see police with guns imposing like you do in the USA. There was no sense of intensity here. Just smilingly faces with joyful expressions.
Christmas lights Madrid photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Started walking back to my Airbnb apartment. The thought about of my family came to my mind. I wonder how they were doing. I spoke with my parents and everything was fine. What made me pounder, were my cousins. We used to be so close. Yearly, I used to celebrate Christmas with them. Around this time as kids, my brother and I used to travel to New York City to visit. Sadly as you get older, sometimes family bonds fade away. Who you considered your love ones, don’t always want to show you love back. Please, treasure the good moments with your love ones. You never know what the future has in store! Regradless of how I was feeling, loved my time in Madrid.
Hey everyone we got nominated for the sunshine award!!
I Want to say thank you to chocoviv. She is someone who is always positive! I really recommend reading her blog! Here is the link! Even when everything is not going her way, she alway looks at the bright side of things. Her blog is for people who love positivity. Truly honoured that she reads my blog post 🙂
The Sunshine Blogger Award Rules :
Thank the blogger (s) who nominated you and provide a link back to their blog.
List the rules and display an award logo on your blog.
Answer the 11 questions the blogger (s) asked you.
Nominate 11 other bloggers to receive the award and notify them by commenting on any of their posts.
Ask the nominees 11 new questions.
Questions
1) Do you celebrate Christmas? If not, do you celebrate any special day in December?
Yes, I celebrate Christmas. However, the way My family and I celebrate it is different than the main stream. It’s more about eating food than exchanging presents. Our meals are the presents.
2) What book are you reading right now?
Currently reading the 48 laws of power.
3) Netflix or YouTube?
Youtube all the way. Since most of it is free.
4) Favourite movie?
The movie Hugo. It’s crazy how it has my name as the movie’s title and I could relate it to struggle of the main character.
5) Favourite artist?
Don’t really have a favorite. For some reason Bob Marley is the first to come to mind.
6) Dream vacation location?
Antarctica! Currently planning on going there soon!
7) When did you start blogging?
About 4 years ago
8) Why did you start blogging?
My friend recommended me to start blogging. Sadly he just wanted to use me.
9) Do you like using gift bags or are you a wrap-expert?
We don’t do normal gifts. Our meals are the gifts. So i guess plastic bags.
10) Favourite childhood toy?
A teddy bear i called Pacheco. I losted it somewhere.
11) Go to friend’s house or host the party at your own place?
Probably go to a friend’s house. I hate when people are at my home. Things tend to go missing.
Alright! Time for my questions!!
1) what are your plans for next year?
2) How are you going to make sure those goals are accomplished for next year?
3) What is the favorite place you traveled to?
4) Do you like to travel alone or with friends?
5) what is the funniest travel story you experienced?
6) Does it snow this time of the year where you live?
7) When did you start blogging?
8) Do you enjoying blogging?
9) What is the best thing that has happened to you this year?
There’s something special about revisiting a place. From landmarks you didn’t see to overlooking the small street corners, experiencing a destination should be done more than once. You get to appericate the location more.
The Arno river running through Florence photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
As my friends and I started walking/exploring, we eventually stumble across this river. Although I saw this river in my last trip here, I did not realize the name of it. Nor, did I noticed this is Florence main artery. It’s pipeline to the sea. Just imagine the boats that sailed here during the Middle ages in Florence’s prime. The sight must had been amazing. Picture the colors of the sails and caragos that merchants were bringing from Pisa. Sometimes I wish I had a time machine, that would be some next level of sightseeing.
The dome of Florence photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
After some time, we got to the Florence dome. Probably my favorite landmark in all of Italy. The appearance just attracts me. The patterns and colors always makes my imagination run wild. Everytime I see this, I keep thinking of the Renaissance. Again, I truly wish there was a time machine somewhere. Maybe I could borrow it for some time (Yes, that was a horribly executed pun).
Random rooftops in Florence photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Being here with just adults is liberating. You do not have to be constantly looking to see where the child ran off to. There’s a level of stress that is gone. I can see why old couples tend to travel the world together. There’s a higher level of being in the moment you get without having to overlook someone else. I usually travel alone or with friends, so this is the only place I really had to babysit while traveling. The comparison of the two is good to know before jumping into parenthood. I know I will still travel; however, it would be more for educating my children about the world.
The side tower of dome photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Once again, Florence is a place I really enjoyed. Being reintroduced to Florence has made me appericate the beauty of this city. There’s so much history here. It’s hard not to get lost in the historic sites. Truly a destination for people who love history.
Thank you for reading! Stay safe and much love! Happy holidays everyone!!
With this city’s over the top strive to be the best. There is a lot of differences compared to Western public transportation. I could not roll my eyes even more after finding out they have the only five star subway station. Although, Dubai’s metro system seem to be the world’s best. There are rules one must follow, if you want a smooth time.
A subway station photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
For starters, you don’t see people asking for money. That is something this country really tries hard not to have. The government pays the homeless to go back to their country. As harsh as that sounds, it’s better than just leaving them out to die in the rough desert environment. Especially, when summer comes around with the sand storms.
The top level of the “five star subway station” photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Another tip is to not eat in subway carts. Yes, that is illegal and could cause you a fine. Of course, I saw the sign while I was eating donuts. Luckily for me, there wasn’t any cops nearby. The fine is about 100 AED, which is about 30 us dollars.
The second Level of the “five star subway station” photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Dubai’s metro is very clean. There is no litter on the subway carts. Dropping or forgetting something on a subway cart could lead you to a 200 AED fee. Which is about 70 USD. Keep that in mind because the more fines you get, the more unwated attention you attract to yourself. Which is never good in a foreign country. Also, Sleeping in waiting areas can result to fines as well. Same amount as of 200 AED. I wish they had these rules in New York City.
The five start trophy photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Another rule is carrying alcohol while on a public vehicle can result in charges or fees, if you are found out. If you are carrying beers or wine bottles in your bag, please make sure they do not make much noise. Remember this is a Muslim majority country after all. Being found with alcohol in non-approved areas can lead into some serious trouble. It all depends which type of cop you run into. I heard stories online of people being found with alcohol and being sent to jail. Which caused them to lose their flight.
The stations mark where the women’s section will be photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Lastly there is a woman’s section on the subway trains. They are usually a lot nicer and less crowded. From what I saw, there are usually empty seats. Only women are allowed to go with the exception of little kids. Of course, Me being me. I ended up walking into and taking a seat in this section. Took me a minute to find out why it was so empty. Saw a lot of pink on the floor and the word women was written everywhere. Luckily, there was no police around. So, I did not get in trouble.
Hey everyone! This post is not to scare you. It’s just to keep you aware. I do suggest reading Dubai metro rules. Here is the link to keep you informed. Dubai is awesome and there is no reason as to why some culture differences should ruin your time here.
To escape the heat, I decided to go and see what the Dubai museum was about. Took the metro to get there. It was a little bit of a walk away from the nearest station. So much for escaping the heat.
Dubai Museum on the left photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
When I got there, I was surprised to see the price of the tickets. It was about 3 USA dollars to go around. I’m not much of a museum person. However over my travels, I’m slowly becoming one. Plus my local friend kept telling me to come here.
Al Fahidi Fort photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The entrance to the museum is very interesting. It’s made like a 1500’s fort. The entrance of the museum truly made me felt that I was in the Arabian Peninsula. I never seen this type of structure before in person. The fort is made out of coral rock. In fact, besides the Spanish forts in Florida and California. I never seen an actually fort before. Especially, not one made out of coral! Also, the fort is believed to be the oldest building in Dubai still active. The fort is called Al Fahidi.
Outside views of the Arish photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Once inside the museum, you get to see the old fashion homes. They are called Arish and are made out of palm fronds. The homes are actually very small. Only really containing a place to sit, a kitchen and a bedroom. It’s crazy to think that the emiratis once lived so humbly. The large amounts of money a country gains, can really change its people’s culture.
Old fashion helmets and weaponry photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Got to see an armoury right past the entrance. I heard the armours and weapons were collected from all over the world. I could only imagine how hot it would had been wearing mental armour in the Middle East during summer. I would rather choose 2nd degree burns over cuts caused by swords and arrows any day.
The collection of swords photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Funny thing about the homes, you get to see the old fashioned “air conditioning.” They were called wind towers. It was a gap in the ceiling of the Arish, as seen in the picture below. It was brutal for me to even walk around in this structure. The heat was still slightly unbearable. I couldn’t picture living in a place with no artificially-made cold air. Where the average temperatures in the summer is about 106 degrees to 86 degrees. For those who live outside of the usa, 41.1 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius. Not to mention the 70 percent humidity.
The wind tower photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
The further I got into the museum, I found a door that lead me inside a walkway. That walkway would eventually take me to the main attraction of the museum. I was about to learn how Dubai was before the discovery of oil. Couldn’t wait to see what was in store me.
My whole childhood I wanted to do this. Today, I would be going to the top of the world’s tallest building. I was filled with so much excitement. My palms were sweaty and my body kept shaking. Had to conquer a big fear today.
A hologram of the Burj Khalifa photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Went to the entrance of The Burj khalifa at the Dubai Mall. There’s been a lot hype about this building. All my friends back home told me that I had to see the view from the top. You get to see the sun set twice. Too bad I forgot, I was scared of heights.
A view of Dubai from the top photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
On the elevator up, they give you a history about Dubai and the making of this mountainous building. My ears popped several time. Didn’t even want to think how high we were. Just kept thinking about my ears. The pressure was strong. Eventually, my ears drums stopped hurting. Now I was hoping, I don’t end up with a nosebleed.
Me taking a selfie photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
We got out of the elevator and into a viewer deck. The whole time, my hands were numb and my gut kept giving me that butterfly feeling. Taking that selfie was like walking on hot coals. For some reason, my mind kept picturing me falling off the edge. Even with all this protective glass, that fear of falling consumed me.
A better view of Dubai from the top photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
Fighting through my fears, I went closer to the edge. I wanted take a photo for you all to see. It was gut-numbing work. My fear of heights was difficult to overcome. Defeating it made this moment that much memorable. This was my childhood dream. Funny how I found out that Dubai is in the middle of constructing an even taller building.
At the “five star” pizza hut photo courtesy of Hugo Morel
After my trip to the top was done, had to go back to the ground level. Exited out into the Dubai mall. Saw a pizza hut and decided to chow down on some pizza. My eyes couldn’t roll harder. There was waiters at this pizza hut. Im sure, there was probably a five star rating somewhere. Just felt weird to be eating at a fast food place that gave me the five star treatment. Tend to forget, American brands sometimes have more value outside of the United States. Either way, I enjoyed my day. Couldn’t wait what tomorrow had in store.
