October 24, 2009

Dooblin is Garjass (Dublin is Gorgeous)

Dublin was far more interesting than I expected – a lot to see and do within a 5km radius, including street entertainment, museums, bus tours, historical sites and scenic parks. I stayed at the Westin, just 5 minutes from Grafton street (the main shopping strip). I maneuvered through the crowds, stopping only to watch a busker or two:



The funny thing was, I had a loose sort of plan of the things I wanted to see, including Dublin Castle, St Patrick’s Cathedral and Trinity College, and even though I did see them briefly, I actually enjoyed what the local streets had to offer a lot more. Interruptions which I had the luxury of allowing because I was travelling solo.




Cow’s Lane was a quick (but interesting) distraction. Sort of like a street market, there were stalls selling vintage clothes, jewellery and ‘Robotronics’



And of course, the buses couldn't go unmentioned!



The most interesting part by far was the Medieval district. This is where you’ll find a gothic Church, Dublin Castle and St Patrick's Cathedral. On the way I stopped at Wood Quay to listen to some traditional Irish storytelling and watch a battle re-enactment from Medieval times.




As you can see I’m a big fan of Viking history. En guard! More videos and pics here



Christchurch Cathedral/Church: one of two Protestant cathedrals in Dublin (the other being St Patrick’s Cathedral). Founded in 1038 (as a basic wooden structure) but then rebuilt in the 1870s.

More info here

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St Patrick’s Cathedral: founded in 1191 and is the largest church in Ireland.

More info here

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Dublin Castle: couldn’t actually get to tour the inside, apparently you have to turn up early to get a ticket (and pre bookings aren’t accepted). So I wondered around the walls and gardens and took some great shots.


The Record Tower is the last intact medieval tower in Dublin. It was used as a high security prison and held native Irish hostages and priests in Tudor times.

More info here

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St Patrick’s Park

More info here

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So if you are a history buff and have a day or two up your sleeve, then Dublin is the perfect spot for you. Most of the attractions are free (unless you want to tour the inside) and within walking distance of each other. Accommodation and food however are still pretty pricey, so take that into consideration if your currency isn't Euro.

4 comments:

  1. You are hilarious. My favourite is the picture of you wearing the viking helmet. You could almost pass for an actual viking. Almost. Bring on the London entry! :)

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  3. Love the pics of you dressed up - always entertaining photos Shadster!

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