Ireland

Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett, James Joyce, Bernard Shaw, Jonathan Swift are just a few of the great writers who were inspired by the unique atmosphere of this young, cosmopolitan Irish capital. Dublin comes across as a relaxed yet dynamic place with a provincial feel to it. The city itself is split in two by the Liffey, with a number of bridges connecting the two sides, the most famous of which is undoubtedly Halfpenny Bridge. Don't be fooled though; the city has a heritage many could only dream of, though little trace remains of the Vikings who settled here over 1,000 years ago. You will find the odd relic of the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries though, as you wander the neat little streets of the city, elegantly and nobly lined with Georgian and even occasionally, though rarely, Victorian or Edwardian houses. You will also notice that the fans you see above the doors, made with varying degrees of intricacy, and their busy colours make for a pleasant contrast with the red brick and dark stone of the houses. The city is also known for its very central cathedrals of St. Patrick and Christ Church, each beautiful in their own way and relatively close to each other, whilst the huge and very well-known Trinity College, right at the heart of the city, is home to the famous library and the true literary gem that is the superb Book of Kells, with its incredibly sharp writing. On the outskirts of the city, however, you will find the stylish and modern Guinness Storehouse which is totally devoted to the hop. Indeed, as is the case throughout the country, getting together, sometimes even playing traditional music, is a way of life here, so if you want to enjoy a truly Irish experience, take a stroll round the paved streets of the famous Temple Bar district, stop off at one of the many pubs, each with its own history (some are even several centuries old!), and order the inevitable pint of Guinness, an amber beer with an inimitable taste, or another beer if you'd rather, watch a match and just enjoy the inimitably welcoming atmosphere. A lively city if ever there was one, by day or by night, the hustle and bustle of Dublin never stops!