Wanderlust: Day 8

Coffee and scones at the hotel then we set out on the new “Green” Hop On Hop Off bus. 16 euros for three days – bargain! We went through the whole circuit and then ‘hopped off’ at the Guiness Storeroom for the tour. Very interesting and well done and it included a pint of Guiness at the end! I had a few sips of mine but not really a beer/ale/stout drinker. We are back on the bus to visit the local jail but can’t get in till a late tour so back on board we decide to do the Jameson’s Whiskey tour instead. Again, the tour runs too late, so opt for an Irish whiskey instead J After all, we decide if you’ve done one ‘whiskey’ tour, you’ve done them all.

Dublin is steeped in a violent history - from the invasion of the Vikings right through to the 1916 uprising between the colonies and, of course, the discord that existed up until 1998 .... not to mention having to deal with typhus and leprosy. Many literary giants called Dublin home ... Oscar Wilde was born in the house on the corner of our street, Joyce, George Bernard Shaw, Bram Stoker .... the list goes on. Many majestic churches, the oldest university, Trinity College established in 1592... there is an overload of history.

Back home we head to O’Donoghue’s around the corner. This is where the “Dubliners” were first discovered. Apparently bands come to play at this pub and in return are paid in half price drinks. We are told, on good authority, that Bruce Springsteen stays at the Merrion when visiting Dublin and has actually played at O’Donoghue’s! We leave our mark on the currency board … the first Australian note there!

Dinner at Hugo’s, which is just around the corner. This was recommended (and it is very close) but while some meals looked quite nice, I was underwhelmed with mine L