Treat Yo' Self: Dublin, Ireland

 

Looking for the
right place to stay while visiting Dublin?

Treat Yo' Self to the Shelbourne Hotel!  This historic hotel was built in 1824 overlooking the beautiful St. Stephen's Green.  

Famous Suites like the Princess Grace Room and the Heritage Junior Suite have served as their home away from home for the 35th President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, and Current First Lady, Michaelle Obama, and her daughters.

The Horseshoe Bar is known as the number one meeting spot in all of Dublin.  Politicians, musicians, athletes and aristocrats frequent this bar to enjoy its comfortable atmosphere and friendly service.  A great way to experience the Irish craic!

The Saddle Room offers the finest steak and seafood dishes available in Dublin.  Gorgeous oak walls and comfortable leather banquettes fill the restaurant and give it an intimate feel for patrons to enjoy.  Splurge on a tasty meal, you won't be disappointed.

Spa & Amenities are available to satisfy your relaxation, fitness and health needs.  Services include body treatments, facials and massages, and only Ireland’s finest natural products are used.  An indoor pool and fitness classes are available to patrons during your visit at the Shelbourne Hotel.

The Shelbourne Hotel will enrich your Dublin experience.  Not only was the Irish Constitution drafted here in 1922, but it also has a long rich Irish history.  The hotel lobby has a beautiful staircase and more than 538 Irish pieces of art handing on the walls.  Sláinte!

Share with us your favorite places to splurge while staying in Dublin!

The Thrifty Traveler: Dublin Edition

Looking to have fun without burning a hole in your wallet? Well look no further, we have compiled a few adventures for you here in Dublin at little to no cost. Check  them out, and let us know what you think!

1.  Sandeman’s New Dublin Tour:

This is a free 3-hour walking tour of the city of Dublin. The tour departs everyday at 11am from Dame Street. "From the Celts to the Vikings, invaders have tried to tame this wild island, a place of legends, traditions, and folklore" New Dublin Tours Join the group and explore the Dublin Castle, Viking Remains, Dublin's medieval walls, the Leinster House, the National Library, among many other famous sites!

Read more here: Dublin Free Tour

 2.  Grafton Street:

A vibrant setting complete with historical buildings, this street is a perfect blend of culture and amusement. With plenty of shops to check out and a plethora of restaurants and cafes, this site is sure to have something for everyone!

3.  St. Stephen's Green:

St. Stephen's Green is a 22 acre public park.  The stunning grounds flaunt perfectly tamed gardens, fountains, several statues, a lake, and even a platform for musicians. A favorite spot to many, the park provides a peaceful haven amidst an otherwise bustling city.

4.  Phoenix Park:

Phoenix Park has much to offer in terms of activities. The park itself includes monuments, wildlife, gardens, and is home to the historic Farmleigh House. Many performers offer free concerts here, and if you happen to be visiting in the month of June be sure to check out the Bloom in the Park Festival!

5.  Trinity College:

Founded in 1592, Trinity College is one of the most prestigious universities in Europe. With beautiful grounds for a casual stroll, this location is both tranquil and remarkable. Between the historical architecture and widespread campus, there is much to d o and see here. The college offers many options for visitors as it is home to a zoological museum, science gallery, restaurants, library and bookstore. Take a look around Trinity's grounds, or have a cup of coffee at The Arts Cafe.

More on Trinity College here: Visitor's Welcome!

                                                          


 6.  Museums:

There are many free museums to explore in Dublin. The top ones we recommend are part of the National Museum of Ireland. Two are located right next to Trinity College. One showcases Natural History, while the other is on Archeology. Not too far from these is the Decorative Arts & History museum on Benburb St.

7.  Fascination of Light :

The Fascination of Light is a free event, that will be held "at the Dublin Institute of Technology (DIT festival) from April 1st 15th. "This highly successful exhibition has had tens of     thousands of visitors of all ages as it toured across Europe over the last twelve months "
(Check it out!)

Know of any other thrifty thrills in Dublin? 

We encourage you to share your suggestions with us below!

10 Things You Must Know: Dublin

The Temple Bar, Dublin | Photo by Julia McGuirk

Dublin, Ireland

1. Name of city in its Native Language: Baile Átha Cliath 
2. Official Language: Irish Gaelic, but all street signs and official buildings use both Gaelic and English
3. Currency: Euro €
4. Time Zone: Western European Time 
5. Closest Airport: Dublin Airport
6. Getting Around: Dublin Bus and walking are the easiest for getting around the city, but trams (LUAS) and trains (DART) are also available if you need to go farther
7. Climate: Cool winters, mild summers, and a lack of temperature extremes (more detail)
8. Tipping: Appreciated for restaurants (10-12.5% of your bill) and taxi drivers (round up to the nearest Euro). Not expected for bartenders, but nice if you have a large group requiring lots of service.
9. Neighborhoods: Frommer's tells you best
10. Culture Tip: Some drinking etiquette since we are highlighting St. Patrick's Day: 'Rounds culture' is important in Irish drinking etiquette, in which one person usually goes to the bar for everyone; that offer is on the unspoken condition that you return the favor.

What did we miss? What kind of essential information do you look up while planning a trip? Tell us in the comments!

Pic of the Week #1: Location Revealed!

Sphere Within Sphere | photo by Arnaldo Pomodoro

And the answer is: Dublin, Ireland! In celebration of St. Patrick's Day, we'll be spending the week sharing all of the best highlights and tips about Dublin.

This week's picture is of the sculpture Sphere Within Sphere (by Arnaldo Pomodoro), located at Trinity College.

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