Eight Dublin Discoveries

Facade of the Royal City of Dublin Hospital

December is a busy month. Shopping for gifts. Planning trips to visit family and friends. Decking the halls. You get the idea. In the midst of all this busyness I went out into the world, and discovered Dublin, Ireland. There is much to love about Dublin - friendly people, lively music, great beer.  Here are some of my favorite discoveries in Ireland's capital city.

Red brick buildings

Red brick contrasts with Dublin's ever-changing skies. Wonderful patterns add texture.

Along Baggot Street

Red brick patterns

Colorful doors

Dubliners love to paint their doors bright colors. Some say they do it to find their way home after a long evening in the pub!

On Pembroke Road

Red doors at sunset

Double-decker public buses

Tall blue and yellow buses run along the thoroughfares of Dublin.

Dublin city bus

Afternoon tea

Dubliners love their tea, much more than coffee. Afternoon tea at the Shelbourne Hotel is a particular treat!

Get out from the cold and have a cup of tea!

Treats from the Lord Mayor’s Lounge

Street music

Live music is everywhere in Dublin - at the pub, in cafes and restaurants, and on the streets. I found jazz, rock, soul, and traditional Irish sounds on the avenues.

A band on Grafton Street

Pubs

Pubs are everywhere too. Ireland may be in a recession, but the pubs are full, and you'll find at least a couple on every block!

O'Donoghue's on Merrion Row

Guinness

And in the pubs there is Guinness - dark, rich, and oh so smooth.

Guinness everywhere!

I have no photo for the best discovery of all - the Irish people. If you get the chance, I encourage you to visit Dublin.

Now back to wrapping gifts... Happy Holidays!