by Ron Stern, Travel Photojournalist
If you’ve never been to Ireland, now is the perfect time for a visit. With daily route from San Francisco and other cities on Aer Lingus, you can conveniently pop over for a visit to Dublin and get a slice of the Irish life in under a week.
Here are some of the best things to see and do:
Start at Saint Stephen’s Green and stroll around its lovely manicured grounds and fountains. You’ll find that the Irish are friendly and engaging and don’t be surprised if you hear the common phrase céad míle fáilte (a hundred thousand welcomes).
The ninth century Book of Kells located in the Library of Trinity College is one of the oldest books in the world and is a major tourist draw. A short walk from there will also take you to the Christchurch Cathedral and the parish church of St. Patrick.
Grafton Street is a beehive of activity with street musicians (some of whom are quite good) entertaining passersby, loads of retail shops as well as pubs and restaurants. One of the notable landmarks is a life-sized bronze statue of Molly Malone, reputed to be a fish monger by day and lady of the night in the evening, pulling her cart along the Dublin streets.
The Temple Bar is famous for its bright red façade and cool pints of Guinness. It was originally owned by Lord Temple and was where merchants offloaded their ships by the River Liffey.
The Guinness Storehouse® is one of the most popular sites in Dublin. With seven stories of history, the storehouse is a must-see. The Gravity® Bar on the top floor with spectacular views of Dublin is the perfect spot to enjoy a pint of what is arguably one of the most famous brews in the world.