Cycle to Sandymount Strand
Last month I wrote a post about what I got up to during April in Quarantine in Dublin ( which was more than I thought I did). I found it a good way to reflect and document what I actually did during this strange time. Days seem to blur into one another at the moment as time drifts on by. So I thought it would be good to keep the momentum up and write another monthly report to share with others and to keep myself somewhat accountable.
I normally write about my travel, but just like you, I wasn’t able to travel this month. Due to the governmental restrictions that have been enforced since March 27th here in Ireland, I have not been able to travel further than 2km from my home. For people over the age of 70, living in Ireland it is even more strict as they cannot leave their homes whatsoever. For many, this has been a very traumatic event. Many of my own friends and family are really struggling to get through this. It’s a weird time to be alive. However, personally I’ve actually been dealing with the quarantine reasonably well. I was trying to figure out wondering why? I wanted to get my head around it by writing this article. So I thought I would write down and document my experiences of being in Dublin during the Covid19 pandemic and what I’ve been getting up to while stuck indoors.
Girly Weekend Getaway in Belfast
Every couple of years a group of my friends go on a girly weekend getaway together. Last time it was Berlin this time we decided on a city trip to Belfast. I caught an early flight with Easyjet from Amsterdam and the others traveled from various parts of Ireland by train & car to meet up. Continue reading
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On a whim, we decided to spend 2 days in Dungarvan, Co Waterford while visiting the parents in Kilkenny. The weather was fantastic, especially for Irish standards. We took full advantage with a nice little family road trip to Dungarvan complete with “Dúbh” the dog included.
11 Best Things to do in Kilkenny on a short break
Kilkenny is often overlooked on the tourist trail. Many blast their way past. Some skip it entirely by heading straight to Connemara. However, there are tons of things to do in Kilkenny. I hadn’t visited in ages (as we are temporarily living in Amsterdam ). So we decided to reconnect with the city and play at being a tourist while catching up with my parents who live there.
The population of this medieval “city” has a population of just under 30,000. For its size, it punches well above its weight. It oozes culture, exudes atmosphere and is exceedingly quaint. It is difficult to visit without some festival or conference going on such as The Cat Laughs Comedy Festival, Kilkenny Arts Festival, Kilkenomics or Rhythm & Roots adding to the buzz. The bar and restaurant selection are excellent and quite varied. You will find lots of things to do and it is perfect for a short break while in Ireland. Continue reading
On the hottest day of the year, we decided to climb the third highest summit in the province to see a glimpse of the heart shaped lake. Let me put this into context. It is Ireland, so the temperature hit 20c for the first time this year and the entire country went a little wild. The city centre was like a ghost town while everyone escaped it to enjoy a few precious rays. (See bottom of post for route details) Continue reading
Conquering new heights at Connemara National Park
Connemara National Park never lets you down. It consistently provides stunning landscapes, hiking trails, a playground for both big kids and little ones, a selection of Connemara pony’s and most importantly epic photo opportunities for friends and family. In spring, we brought Alex’s parents who were over from Amsterdam for a visit. Continue reading
Kilkenny Cat at the Butler House Gardens
To the back of the ivy covered Butler House building there were walled gardens that belonged in a fairy tale and a Kilkenny cat. He stole the show. Silky black and still, his beady eyes focused on the carp fish in the pond. His patience was endless, waiting for just the right moment to go fishing. He creeped forward slowly towards the waters edge. With a swift swipe of the paw he went for it. The fish evaded his attempt and the cat was left damp and disappointed. (The “Kilkenny Cats” are also a nickname for the local hurling team. They were the defending champions who also were left defeated at last years All Ireland Hurling Championship by the Clare team. )
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Athlone Cathedral & Luan Gallery
The weather forecast gave warnings of heavy rainfall just before we were about to leave Dublin. One of my friends even said ‘I feel sorry for you’ heading down to Athlone tonight. Others asked “what the hell are you going to do there?” Turns out there is plenty of things to do in Athlone even when it’s raining. Continue reading
The Green Door Market
Four poster bed Tinakilly House Hotel
Image courtesy of dublinwithfoodallergies.blogspot.ie
Since I am now based in Dublin and not currently travelling. I thought it would be an interesting idea to bring my sense of adventure and exploration to my own city. I want to recreate that sense of openess and curiosity that I bring with me while travelling. I want to discover new places, new people, create new memories, push the bounderies a little by doing things I would not do normally, to really experience this city. Continue reading
The Black Sheep Beer Menu - Capel Street, Dublin
Since we’ve been away there has been a big increase in Irish microbreweries and pubs that stock their produce. I visited Against the Grain on Aungier Street with some mates from The Netherlands and decided to check out their sister pub on Capel Street The Black Sheep.
Airbnb Guinness Guestroom
The good thing about returning home after extensive travelling and not having a 9-5 job is that you have lots of free time to explore your own city. A lot has changed in the 2 years I’ve been away from Dublin and I’m enjoying getting to know her again. Continue reading
