Dublin, Ireland

INTRODUCTION

View of Dublin from the Guinness Storehouse

The heart of the Celtic Tiger is located in Dublin, the cultural, educational, and governmental capital, and largest city in the Republic of Ireland. The city is located near the midpoint of Ireland's east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey and the center of the Dublin Region.

Dublin is considered the friendliest city in Europe and one of the best places to live. For the tourist it offers more than Ireland's main airport, boasting both historical and contemporary delights for all age groups.

HISTORY

During the 9th century Vikings that controlled the island lived in the area of present day Dublin, then called Dyflin. Dublin's Irish name is Baile Átha Cliath, meaning "town of the hurdled ford". Dublin became the seat of English power on the island after the Normans took control of the region during the 12th century. Dublin in the area known as the Pale was settled by many English and Welsh settlers who were constantly attacked by Irish clans The General Post Office outside of the city. This continued as mistreatment of the Irish by the English became worse throughout the next several centuries, especially after the Protestant Reformation in England. From 1916-1923 Dublin was the center of much fighting and antagonism that destroyed many of the city's historical buildings but ended with Irish independence in 1922. Ireland went through some trying economic times after its independence, but emerged as an important technological center during the Celtic Boom of the 1990's. Dublin is now a modern city with over 500,000 residents. The city's restaurants reflect its cultural diversity.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Climate: Expect mild winters and cool summers. Be prepared for a lot of rain and wind from late October-April and peak summer temperatures of around 20'c.

Currency: Euro

Languages: Irish and English

Power: 230 V, 50 Hz

Time Zone: GMT (DST +0100 UTC)

Dublin's downtown is not made for driving, but it's easy to walk around. Bus routes are confusing, so be sure to get a map if you plan to use them.

Ireland has two official languages: English and Irish. Consequently, street signs are posted in both language, but English is much more common and everyone speaks it fluently. Irish people grow up learning both languages, most commonly Irish in school and English at home. Most people's primary language is English, but there are some rural areas of the country, called Gaeltachts, where residents speak primarily Irish.

ATTRACTIONS

Trinity College

Dublin Castle

Chester Beatty Library

RESTAURANTS AND PUBS

LODGING

Dublin’s city center has several hostels for travelers on a budget. Marlborough Hostel is a clean, fun place with a video and game room, while the Kinlay House places its guests amidst the lively energy of Temple Bar. Check www.hostels.com for a complete listing and reviews of Dublin hostels.

C G Hotel

Charleville Lodge

PERSONAL STORIES

A Little Light Sight-seeing

Destinations

Destinations

Other

Dublin, Ireland