Dublin, Ireland
Dublin Ireland has been on a buck list for me for over 10 years now. When I found a superior deal on Delta airfare I had to jump on it and book the trip right away. My red-eye journey from SFO to Dublin on KLM proved to be the perfect way to maximize my short getaway. Landing in Dublin's crisp morning air, I was immediately struck by the warmth of Irish hospitality—starting with my exceptional taxi driver who transformed what could have been a mundane airport transfer into an impromptu city tour. His passionate storytelling about Dublin's rich history and insider recommendations for my four-day stay set the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.
Upon arriving at the Holiday Inn Express Dublin City Centre, I encountered a minor hiccup during check-in when computer issues prevented my reservation from appearing in their system. However, the staff handled the situation gracefully, and I found myself appreciating the silver lining—their lobby restaurant and bar provided the perfect opportunity to fuel up with fresh juice and a satisfying breakfast while they resolved the technical difficulties.
Once settled in my well-appointed room—compact yet thoughtfully designed as expected in Dublin's bustling city center—I wasted no time freshening up before diving headfirst into exploring this captivating city. The anticipation of discovering Dublin's cobblestone streets, historic pubs, and vibrant culture was exactly the energy boost I needed after the long journey.
Cliffs of Moher - Ireland's most iconic attraction, these dramatic 700-foot cliffs offer breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views and appear in countless films.
Giant's Causeway - Northern Ireland's UNESCO World Heritage site features 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity.
Dublin - Explore Temple Bar's lively pubs, tour the Guinness Storehouse, visit Trinity College's Book of Kells, and stroll through Phoenix Park.
Galway - Known for traditional music, colorful streets, and vibrant arts scene.