1.Ireland
3 Days in Dublin
*For highlights and tips about each destination you can jump to them by clicking here or scrolling to the bottom of each page under The Run Down.
Our adventure began in Dublin Ireland. We stayed at My Place Dublin, which was smelly and featured drunk girls stumbling in our 12 person room at all hours of the night, but after more travelling it seems that’s just the hostel life, and it’s not for everyone.
Our first stop was Galway Brewery’s: The Brew Dock where we were greeted with smiles from the most friendly bartender. There’s a large variety of local beer/ciders and tons of tasty gluten free options for my fellow people with allergies//intolerances.
Wicklow (day 2): The Hunt for Gerard Butler
Our spirits were high on the train to Wicklow as we saw the postcard-picturesque side of Ireland. We went to Wicklow National Park, (pro tip: the stop is GLENDALOUGH not WICKLOW so don’t get off early like we did) which is a beautiful site for hiking and featured in the iconic Gerard Butler rom com- Ps. I Love You. We spent 3 hours hiking amongst the gorgeous autumnal trees seeking out our very own Gerard Butler, but mostly enjoying the view:
I can’t even begin to describe how beautiful this place is… We trekked through the forest listening to Steve Earl’s ‘Galway Girl’ and came out to a clearing with two mountain peaks hugging the lake. I couldn’t stop smiling.. It’s that warm fall feeling you have when pumpkin spice lattes are out and flannel shirts are protocol. This is just 40 mins from Dublin so I STRONGLY recommend a visit. After hours of hiking we ate at the Wicklow Heather, just a short walk from the national park. It’s a family run restaurant and the food /service was great.
Dublin Take 2
On our last day in Dublin we visited all the ‘must see’ spots. First, Trinity College to explore the historic buildings, but not before stopping at the Brick Alley Cafe for Dublin’s best hot chocolate. It was wonderfully creamy and delicious on a cool fall day (ps. they have fun flavours, I got salted caramel). We continued on to Whelan’s Pub (the bar where Gerard Butler meets Holly in Ps. I love you) because we love ps. I love you (if you haven’t caught on). Although we didn’t have time to party there, it hosts tons of awesome performers so I would check it out if you have the time. Plus the street art on the way is pretty great, my personal fav was this Straight outta Compton revision.
Finally the other tourist staples of the Guinness Brewery and The Brazen Head, the oldest pub in Ireland.
The Run Down.
Where to stay: My Place Dublin (not the cleanest, but one of the cheapest if you’re on a budget
Where to eat: Galway Brewery, The Brazen Head, The Heather Wicklow (half hour from Dublin)
Best Place to grab a quick bite/Coffee: Brick Alley Cafe (BEST HOT CHOCOLATE)
Nightlife: Whelan’s Pub, Temple Bar
Sights and Excursions: WICKLOW NATIONAL PARK, Guinness Brewery, Trinity College, Dublin Castle
What are your favourite Dublin Spots!? Let me know in the comments below:)
xx Kailee