Does the Guinness Really Taste Better in Dublin?

By: Andrew Regan
Submitted: 2007-01-17 16:42:59
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On your next holiday, why not raise a Guinness glass - or two - in the city that's famous for brewing it; Dublin, one of Europe's most exciting cultural centres, plays host to countless tourists each year, and with good reason. With everything the city has to offer, from remarkable theatres and intriguing museums to a thrilling night life, what's not to be drawn to?

Dublin is not just popular with tourists either; in 2006, the World-Wide Quality of Living Survey rated Dublin as the 24th best city to live in. What's more, it's particularly popular with young people; while a quarter of the population of Ireland lives in its capital city, an estimated 50% of Dublin's residents are under the age of 26. That being said, Dublin bustles with diversity, culture and life.

Dublin's countless attractions are sure to delight any visitor. For the art enthusiast, the city boasts an array of intriguing museums, including the Irish Museum of Modern Art, the National Gallery and the National Museum of Ireland. The National Print Museum of Ireland displays printing machinery from the 'hot metal' era of printing - something worth seeing in a city so well known for its literary tradition. Indeed, Dublin is also famous for being home to a number of prominent historical and literary figures, such as Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Bram Stoker and William Butler Yeats. Many tourists even take literary tours around the city in order to track momentous locations from such works as Dubliners and Ulysses, both set in Dublin.

If you're an avid shopper, head to the high-street shops along Grafton Street or Henry Street; and if you'd simply like to enjoy the lively atmosphere without all the spending, grab a coffee at Butler's and stroll along the River Liffey. No matter where you are in the city, you're also sure to get a glimpse of the famous Spire of Dublin - the world's tallest sculpture - though it's certainly worth getting an up-close view from O'Connell Street, the widest and most famous street in Ireland.

Alternatively, if you're after a bit of peace and quiet in the city, head over to St. Stephen's Green; you can lounge on the grass, feed the ducks or have lunch by one of the small lakes. Other must-see attractions in the city include the Guinness Brewery, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Dublin City Hall and Trinity College - where visitors can feast their eyes on the Book of Kells.

What's more, Dublin is just a short train ride from other charming Irish cities, such as Galway and Cork. So, if you're looking to get out of the city setting, a serene bike ride in the countryside or a seaside escape is not far off.

Dublin has even more to show by night; Temple Bar district is undoubtedly the most popular area for nightlife, as it is almost entirely lined with pubs, clubs and bars. Temple Bar was originally redeveloped as Dublin's cultural quarter, and it certainly retains this spirit in the form of intimate music venues and street performers. Great Dame Street is also popular with party-goers, with various bars and clubs strewn along its edges.

For those who are seeking other types of cultural night-time activity, Dublin boasts a fantastic theatre scene. The largest theatres are the Abbey Theatre, the Olympia Theatre and the Gaiety Theatre - all of which are within the city centre.

If you're thinking about taking a trip to Dublin, getting there is no problem; you'll find countless domestic flights to Dublin to and from the city every day - so what are you waiting for? Whether you're seeking culture, excitement or a just a bit of Irish craic, you're sure to have the time of your life in Dublin. What's more, you'll see what they mean when they say that the Guinness in Dublin always tastes just a little bit better.

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