DUBLIN – A FUN PLACE TO GO!
The name Dublin is derived from the Irish name Dubh Linn (meaning “black pool”). The common name for the city in Modern Irish is Baile Atha Cliath (meaning “town of the hurdled ford”). Why name it after a black pool? Good question because when you arrive you are likely to see beautiful green landscapes and experience a colorful and joyous atmosphere. There is nothing black about Ireland in my opinion.
Unlike some of its European counterparts, Dublin remains a relatively compact city that can easily be negotiated on foot. Whether your interests are historical, literary or cultural, or you simply want to relax, Dublin offers a variety of interesting activities in an increasingly cosmopolitan environment. Some may think the social life revolves around the pub, but if you are staying within the immediate city centre, you will find plenty of alternatives to nursing a pint of Guinness.
While Dublin is a small city, there is an impressive range of galleries and museums. A visit to the National Museum, located on three sites, is highly recommended for those interested in the history of Ireland. The location on Kildare Street which opened in 1890, displays examples of Celtic and medieval metalwork including the famous Ardagh Chalice, Tara Brooch and the Derrynaflan Hoard, as well as prehistoric ornaments from the Bronze Age. The museum also houses a great exhibit featuring the turbulent 1916-1921 period of Irish history, which led to Ireland’s independence.
The Collins Barracks site, formerly the oldest continuously occupied barracks in the world now houses Ireland’s museum of arts and military history.
A short walk from the city centre is the Irish Museum of Modern Art and is well worth a visit. It is located in the stylishly refurbished Kilmainham hospital featuring permanent exhibits of both Irish and international art. The museum has hosted successful pieces created by Andy Warhol and Joseph Beuys, among others.
The Chester Beatty Library houses a collection of Early Christian, Islamic and East Asian manuscripts, painting, prints and books. Those interested in genealogical information should pay a visit to the National Library which offers a research facility that is second to none.
Dublin offers a wealth of attractions for both the young and the young at heart. The Dublin Zoo is a popular stop for an enjoyable educational afternoon.
An area known as Temple Bar has preserved narrow medieval cobblestone streets. It is promoted as "Dublin's cultural quarter" and has a lively nightlife. The Ark in Temple Bar is designed for children, regularly hosting exhibitions, theatre performances and workshops.
Sporting activities are hugely popular in Ireland and for many it is more than a matter of national pride, it is a way of life. The Republic of Ireland qualified for the World Cup in Soccer in 1990 and 1994, and have asked the FIFA president to list Ireland as an extra team for the 2010 World Cup.
Golf is also extremely popular in Ireland and Dublin has approximately 55 different links, most of which are located in suburban areas including well known Portmarnock Golf Course, which has hosted many major championships including the Irish Open held annually in July.
As to music, Dublin’s smaller pubs are where all the action takes place. Whelan’s on Wexfort Street is probably one of the best music venues in the city with great acoustics, friendly and loyal crowds and a spectacular balcony view of its tiny but perfectly adequate stage. Whelan’s is a great place to catch up-and coming Dublin bands and emerging international acts, usually featuring rock, folk or alternative music, and the cover charge is reasonable.
If you prefer traditional Irish music, there are numerous choices. Some of Dublin’s most authentic pubs include Cobblestone, the Harcourt Hotel, O’Sheas and O’ Donoghues where every night’s performance is a lively and unique experience.
A Dublin Pass will provide free entry to over 27 attractions within the city. Not only is the pass a great value it also allows visitors to receive fast-track treatment avoiding queues at major attractions and includes an informative guide book. A Dublin Pass in durations of two, three, four or six days and may be purchased at Tourist Information Centers located around the city. The cost is between 35 and 95 euros with discounts available for children.
Irish writers are famed around the world, boasting no less than four Nobel Prize winners. Any literary excursion to Dublin should include a visit to Trinity College established in 1592 and home to the famed medieval manuscript, the Books of Kells. Meririon Square is steeped in literary heritage with an impressive central garden and memorial to Oscar Wilde.
Not to be missed is the spectacular St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Marsh’s Library, both are associated with satirist Jonathan Swift. Fans of Playwright George Bernard Shaw can visit his birthplace in a restored Victorian house located at 22 Synge Street, just a few steps away.
The DART Line (Dublin Area Rapid Transport) is an electrified light-rail system which stretches 25 miles from the picturesque village of Howth south to Bray. This stress-free journey takes in some of the city’s charming suburban villages and with a pass you can hop on and off the train as you please. Boarding the DART can be at either Connolly or Tara Street Stations, both are walking distance of O’Connel Street. Killiney is a stop on the line and is comically known as the Irish “Bay of Naples,” as its pebbly beach is much loved by Dubliners in search of the sun.
One of the richest gifts your receive during a visit to Dublin or any community in Ireland is the welcoming and warm spirit of the people. The Irish experience each day and they wish to share their zest for life with everyone. If you need directions, a person on the street will likely walk you to wherever you need to go. When a visitor walks into a restaurant or pub they will surely leave feeling like a member of the family. The Irish love to sing, share jokes, tell lengthy tales and enjoy their Guinness. After visiting you are sure to return with some trace of Irish blood flowing through your veins and a great enthusiasm for life.
