It’s been a great week, there are so many great attractions in Dublin, a week is not nearly long enough. To say I’ve been impressed is an understatement, but I’ll say it anyway.
I’ve walked through the streets, visited cathedrals, museums and pubs. I’ve met a lot of people and made a lot of friends. But it’s the welcome you get here that leaves the greatest impression. Ireland’s hospitality is steeped in a tradition of a genuine, welcoming spirit. When next you come to Ireland you’ll see a lot things, see a lot of green and see and lot of people.
What you’ll remember most though are the people.
A quick summary of a few thoughts fall into three categories –The Good, The Bad and the Irish.
The good
Smoking bans in pubs. Ireland led the world with this initiative and it’s been a real winner.
Irish hospitality. There is no welcome like an Irish welcome.
Literary Pub Crawl. A great way to spend a Saturday night in Dublin
Self guided walking tours of Dublin. No better way to see the city
The Aran Islands and Irelands green scenery. As green and spectacular as any postcard has ever suggested.
The bad
Irish food. The evolution of Irish food stopped when Adam picked that apple for Eve.
The Irish
Opening times. Government run institutions such as museums and the National Gallery don’t open on Mondays (so on a public holiday like to day, you can’t go). Dublin Castle is open 9 to 5 on weekdays but only open from 2 to 4.45 on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays when people actually want to see them. Pay the penalty rates guys, you look a bit silly.
But if that’s all I’ve got to complain about, it’s a good thing.
A report by Kevin Moloney in Ireland
