Ireland has for many years invited travellers from all over the world and even more so in the past few years. The word of people, energy and hospitality of this land has not been forgotten, by travellers, who spread the good word.
When we think of Ireland, we think of green grass and right after that whisky, beer and the merry and friendly people. Sometimes we also think of leprechauns, who are known throughout the world and bring us happiness and wealth. We all know the difficult history of Ireland, that has been ever changing, but the people still retained their love for their land and above all for their music. Irish music is very special and the Irish are very proud of it, for it can be heard in every bar, souvenir shop or even grocery market. We also call Ireland the land of scholars and saints, for it is the birthplace of many writers and poets. Traveling to Ireland was my first independent journey, which also meant much worry, for I did not know “how” to travel. But it turned out, my worry was too much. The people are hospitable and ready to help you. They have got to be the most hospitable people I’ve met.
Irish history
Ireland has a bit over 4 million people, with 1.2 living in Dublin, the capital and the surrounding, that I’ve visited. The city has a long history, for the archaeological remains show people have lived here almost 10 millennia ago. Later on they were settled by Celts, Vikings and then the battle of the conquest begun. In Dublin the first parliament was built and also the first collage was founded, but afterwards the city was hit by plague. The town has fully recovered in the 18th century, when most of the buildings were erected that today give the soul of the city – the parliament, Merrion Square and the most important for many visitors the Guinness building.
Arriving to Dublin
We all thought the green grass was just a cliché, but already from the plane (which was as green as the grass) we could see the grass, which really is greener on their side. By reaching the airport my anticipation grew and I finally touched the green ground of Ireland. Leaving the airport the hour long – almost free – bus ride took me to downtown Dublin, where after finding the hostel I’ve arrived to my destination. Off course it cannot go without problems and the first one was that the people do not have marked streets. At least there’s no street house numbers. But there are people that help you, along the way. We can find tourist centres on each step – to help lost tourists – with free maps of the city and staff that can take you on the right path. The choice of the hostel is essential and if you chose the right one, you can explore the city on foot. Also, most of budget friendly hostels offer breakfast as well – an all you can eat buffet, so you’ll spend less money on food and more on the things you want to see around the city or get a few more souvenirs. The centre of Doublin is small. The O'Connell Street is the main street on which we can find main shops and restaurants. The street is also marked by »The Spike«, the silver tower, visible from almost any place in the city you can use it as a reference point and can almost never get lost. From here you can also see many bridges that lead across the Liffey river.
Trinity College
Among the sights you should definitely see the Trinity College. It was established by Elisabeth in 1592 with the purpose to save the Irish from poverty and bad habits they’ve gained in France and Italy. In it is also the famous Book of Kells from the year 800. With its Celtic illustrations and decorations it still remains one of the most complex and unusual works. We also find the Oscar Wild center at the college. We can buy souvenirs reminding us of this famous Irish writer every step along the way. Many famous writers and poets – among them also Samuel Beckett, Bram Stoker and Jonathan Swift – have visited the Trinity College. There are many statutes of artists and others who have studied here. We are charmed by the mighty architecture and in it there is a small park. I have to admit that after visiting the college I visited their website and tried to find out students from my university can get to study at Trinity College through the Erasmus programme. We have no such luck, yet this still shouldn’t discourage you to visit it..
