A recent business trip provided me with my first taste of Ireland. But it was a very short trip and I had only a little time to explore the capital city of Dublin. My challenge was to find a good mix of activities and experiences that would leave me with a rich cultural recollection despite the short time frame.
While museum visits and tours of the countryside would have no doubt played prominently in a longer stay, I concentrated my limited time on exploring the urban center of this fascinating city. I knew I couldn’t see it all, but traveling exclusively on foot, I discovered wonderfully warm people, charming neighborhoods and interesting sights, steeped in history.
Temple Bar: Running along the south bank of the Liffey (river) in the central part of Dublin feels like stepping back in time. Narrow cobblestone streets are lined with tiny shops and eateries. It’s decidedly bohemian flavor combines with historic structures, and a dose of urban grunge, to create a unique artistic feel. A highlight for me was the Wall of Fame; a giant photo gallery of Ireland’s top musical artists covering the exterior wall of the Temple Bar Music Centre on Temple Lane. Overall, this cultural center of Dublin is popular with tourists. The living-dublin website has more good info about Temple Bar.
Irish Film Institute: I was fortunate to have my brief work in Dublin take place at the Film Institute and nearby center for filmmakersFilmbase. Both located in Temple Bar, their presence makes this area a magnet for media arts practitioners and aficionados. Check out the daily screenings of at the institute or browse the library.
