Sorry I haven't updated you guys in a while- I had classes Monday-Wed, and we left for Dublin Wednesday afternoon. We took the bus from Galway from Dublin, which was just under 3 hours of travel- not bad at all! When we got to Dublin, I surprised at how massive the city was. There are not many high rises, but there are a tone of historical buildings, and the River Liffey runs right through the middles of the city, which is absolutely beautiful.
On Wednesday evening we checked into our hostel and then started walk downtown. We passed a pub called the Arlington Hotel, and decided to go in. It was really cool, it seemed almost like a library style pub. There was a traditional Irish band, and then river dancers, which were so fun to watch- I loved it! I'm beginning to realize that I know a lot of the songs they are playing since I have been in Ireland for a month now. I have also noticed that they LOVE Johnny Cash. Every band I have heard here has played atleast one Johnny Cash song.
On Thursday Brooke and I got up, and begin to explore Dublin City. We did a TON of walking, but I really enjoyed it. We have learned how to bundle up, since it is still winter here. Leggings under the jeans, two pairs of socks, two shirts, a pullover, jacket, scarf, mittens, and hat. That day we walked through Trinity College, which is in the heart of downtown, and established in 1598. We then walked over past city hall, and through Dublin Castle. Dublin Castle was not exactly what I expected, but it was still beautiful. It seemed more like a large parliment building rather than a castle. We then walked through St. Patrick's Cathedral park. There were artists everywhere sketching the Cathedral. About two blocks away was Christ's Church. It was an old stone church, that had a sky bridge structure arching over the road, which was really cool to see. Afterward we talked over to the other side of town to go to the National Museum of Ireland. It was an incredible museum, that was actually free to the public. I saw a lot of artifacts that had been discussed in my Castles class, and also was able to link artifacts from significant events that we have talked about in my 19th century history class as well.
On Thursday night, Brooke and I decided that we wanted to go to Whelans Pub, the pub in which P.S. I Love You was filmed. We went inside, and began to realize how much of a small world it was.... Phil Vassar, a U.S. country artist was playing! I have listened to him for years, and Brooke loves country music too, so we were both excited. We got to sit right upfront, and there were probably about 150 people in the pub so it wasn't too packed. It was a great show! Afterward we asked the guitarist if we could get a picture with him, and he politely did so, and then said "hey you girls should stick around, I would love to buy you a drink". Before we knew it, we were sitting down with the entire band, including Phil Vassar, and got to hang out with them for a few hours! It was so much fun. I even got a free copy of the new C.D., which is great by the way!
On Friday we went to the Guinness Factory, and the famous Temple Bar street. I couldn't believe how large the Guinness Factory was! It was definitely cool to see, and they designed it in a way that it would be an interesting self guided tour. Temple Bar street was really cool as well, but we got the vibe that it may be cooler in the evening. We went home and napped for a bit, and came back that evening. We met a group of British guy that were throwing a bachelor party, for their buddy. That was eventful to watch. If you ever come to Ireland- there is always some great people watching to do! The people we met bought Brooke and I each a traditional Irish drink... a "hot whiskey". I was a little skeptical, but tried it and was pleasantly surprised. It is supposedly made with whiskey, water, brown sugar, lemon, and cloves.
Saturday morning was a lazy morning. We both walked around the city and through the shops, and then boarded the bus to come back to Galway. As much as I loved Dublin, I was so happy to be back in Galway.
This next week is full of classes, as tutorials are about to begin. I do have kyaking class this week as well. I have found some cool running paths near my apartment, which has made working out fun, and I usually get to run about 4 days a week. With all the walking we do here- that seems to be plenty!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Cliffs of Moher
Today we went on a tour of the Cliffs of Moher, an abbey, 2 castles, the County Clare coastline, and a pub. We started out driving south of Galway and the first major stop was at the Concomore Abbey in the Burren. It was hidden up in the hillside and built in the 11th century! It was absolutely beautiful. We were able to walk through the graveyard in the front, and through the ruins of the old church. Our bus driver told us a story about a man with the name of Cromwell, who did not believe in religion. Back in the 12th century he attempted to kill every priest in Ireland, and in doing so he would approach the abbey or church, kill the priest, and ignite the thatched roof. Throughout many of the churches that we drove by today there were many that lacked roofs.
The next stop was a a grave site in the Burren. When farmers died it was said that they wanted to be buried so that they could watch over their land, so there are many famous sites of stone structures above ground, simulating this. (see picture below) After the gravesite we drove by the Leamanagh Castle, which seemed a bit run down but still was quite an impressive site. We continued driving through the countryside until we stopped at Fitzpattricks Bar in Lisdoonvarna. It was delicious! They served a traditional lunch, in which I had the best corn beef, cabage, and other vegetables. They also served a Guiness stew which looked delicious as well.
After lunch we headed up to the Cliffs of Moher. Apparently the Cliffs of Moher are the most popular tourist site in all of Ireland. They were absolutely breathtaking. It was a little windy and rainy there, but it didn't stop us. We hiked up to O'Briens tower at the top of one of the cliffs, and got some great pictures! I would love to go back when the spring time rolls around. Unfortunately there were too many deaths off of the cliffs so in the past 2 years they have built a fence so you are not able to go as far out, but that didn't obstruct the gorgeous views.
We drove back through a town called Doolin, where we were able to work on the limestone out to the rocky coastline for a few minutes. We then traveled up to the Dunguaire Castle that had some beautiful views as well. Overall, I thought it was a great tour, and we had a really fun bus driver. I have posted pictures below of all the sites from today!
The next stop was a a grave site in the Burren. When farmers died it was said that they wanted to be buried so that they could watch over their land, so there are many famous sites of stone structures above ground, simulating this. (see picture below) After the gravesite we drove by the Leamanagh Castle, which seemed a bit run down but still was quite an impressive site. We continued driving through the countryside until we stopped at Fitzpattricks Bar in Lisdoonvarna. It was delicious! They served a traditional lunch, in which I had the best corn beef, cabage, and other vegetables. They also served a Guiness stew which looked delicious as well.
After lunch we headed up to the Cliffs of Moher. Apparently the Cliffs of Moher are the most popular tourist site in all of Ireland. They were absolutely breathtaking. It was a little windy and rainy there, but it didn't stop us. We hiked up to O'Briens tower at the top of one of the cliffs, and got some great pictures! I would love to go back when the spring time rolls around. Unfortunately there were too many deaths off of the cliffs so in the past 2 years they have built a fence so you are not able to go as far out, but that didn't obstruct the gorgeous views.
We drove back through a town called Doolin, where we were able to work on the limestone out to the rocky coastline for a few minutes. We then traveled up to the Dunguaire Castle that had some beautiful views as well. Overall, I thought it was a great tour, and we had a really fun bus driver. I have posted pictures below of all the sites from today!
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Capsizing Kyaks
I woke up this morning to a beautiful blue sky day- the only problem was that it was 28 degrees out. I had my first kyaking session today, so I walked up to campus about 10:30 to meet up with the club. While putting on my semi-damp wet suit, booties, and life jacket, I realized that it might be a little cold today on the water.
We started down River Corrib learning specific strokes and skills, and even played freeze tag with kyaks! There were about 8 of us in the class this morning. We continued down the river, which was quite beautiful today. The river runs along stone walls and through downtown Galway- it's quite a site! When we reached the point where we were to turn around we played a little game. We made a circle with our kyaks. Then when the leader called two peoples names they had to get out or their kyak and run on top of the other kyaks to the open kyak faster than their opponent. Ironically the only person that fell in the river was our instructor. Oh- did I mention that this is the river that I took pictures of 2 weeks ago in which it was FROZEN!
We paddled back upstream and just when I thought we were done for the day when we were told we had to do a skills test. That meant we had to purposly flip our kyak and preform the proper release technique before surfacing. OH MY GOODNESS IT WAS COLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh- did I mention it was cold!? I came up with a look of shock on my face- but it's over with! The walk home was a little frigid but I've finally thawed out. I will try and take some pictures next time so you can see the shed, shoreline, and river. Despite purposely capsizing our kyaks I absolutely loved it. We have lessons up to 3 times a week, but you are only required to go one day. In four weeks we get to learn how to go off of a short waterfall- don't worry mom and dad we wear helmets :)
We started down River Corrib learning specific strokes and skills, and even played freeze tag with kyaks! There were about 8 of us in the class this morning. We continued down the river, which was quite beautiful today. The river runs along stone walls and through downtown Galway- it's quite a site! When we reached the point where we were to turn around we played a little game. We made a circle with our kyaks. Then when the leader called two peoples names they had to get out or their kyak and run on top of the other kyaks to the open kyak faster than their opponent. Ironically the only person that fell in the river was our instructor. Oh- did I mention that this is the river that I took pictures of 2 weeks ago in which it was FROZEN!
We paddled back upstream and just when I thought we were done for the day when we were told we had to do a skills test. That meant we had to purposly flip our kyak and preform the proper release technique before surfacing. OH MY GOODNESS IT WAS COLD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh- did I mention it was cold!? I came up with a look of shock on my face- but it's over with! The walk home was a little frigid but I've finally thawed out. I will try and take some pictures next time so you can see the shed, shoreline, and river. Despite purposely capsizing our kyaks I absolutely loved it. We have lessons up to 3 times a week, but you are only required to go one day. In four weeks we get to learn how to go off of a short waterfall- don't worry mom and dad we wear helmets :)
Thursday, January 21, 2010
How to cross a street
Traveling to Ireland anytime soon? Be prepared- the only way to come home alive is if you know how to cross a street. Instead of street signals here they have these GIANT roundabouts with stop lights- probably the most confusing thing I have ever seen, and on top of that they drive on the opposite of the road. Nobody stops, and I'm pretty sure they speed up if they see a pedestrian in the middle of the road.
To begin crossing the roundabout you have to predict what each and every car is going to do- it's pretty hard when you are not psychic. Then once you see the smallest opening you better run! No one stops for you. They are very impatient drivers so if they are frustrated in traffic they will just start backing up and then decide to go the wrong way down the road. It's eventful. Two lane roads are much easier- but still no one stops, and this country does not believe in cross walks. One of these days I will post pictures and the proper diagram on how to cross the street! No need to worry about my safety though- I'm getting really good at it! Maybe I will even become psychic!?
Other than my crossing the street adventures, I have had all my normal classes this week. I went to health psychology last night- weierdest class ever. He begins by telling us what the main essay is about, and assigning advisers to help us write out paper. The adviser is also supposed to provide us with the reading material for a topic. Then the next slide that he posted stated that this would be the one and only class session. So for 3 credits..... I have to write a 10 page paper for that class and that's it, no lectures, no nothing. I find this school system a little odd.... but no complaints about one paper for 3 credits!
Brooke and I booked a tour yesterday for Sunday for only 10 euro! It's her birthday on Tuesday, so we thought we would do something fun to celebrate it this weekend. We are going on a tour of the Cliffs of Mohr, 2 castles, an abbey, a cave, and a pub. Should be fun!
We had a kyaking meeting last night. We are really excited because we are the only American's in the club, which gives us a chance to really get to know some Irish students. We have our first instructor session on Saturday, and the weather is supposed to be fairly decent that day- thank goodness!
To begin crossing the roundabout you have to predict what each and every car is going to do- it's pretty hard when you are not psychic. Then once you see the smallest opening you better run! No one stops for you. They are very impatient drivers so if they are frustrated in traffic they will just start backing up and then decide to go the wrong way down the road. It's eventful. Two lane roads are much easier- but still no one stops, and this country does not believe in cross walks. One of these days I will post pictures and the proper diagram on how to cross the street! No need to worry about my safety though- I'm getting really good at it! Maybe I will even become psychic!?
Other than my crossing the street adventures, I have had all my normal classes this week. I went to health psychology last night- weierdest class ever. He begins by telling us what the main essay is about, and assigning advisers to help us write out paper. The adviser is also supposed to provide us with the reading material for a topic. Then the next slide that he posted stated that this would be the one and only class session. So for 3 credits..... I have to write a 10 page paper for that class and that's it, no lectures, no nothing. I find this school system a little odd.... but no complaints about one paper for 3 credits!
Brooke and I booked a tour yesterday for Sunday for only 10 euro! It's her birthday on Tuesday, so we thought we would do something fun to celebrate it this weekend. We are going on a tour of the Cliffs of Mohr, 2 castles, an abbey, a cave, and a pub. Should be fun!
We had a kyaking meeting last night. We are really excited because we are the only American's in the club, which gives us a chance to really get to know some Irish students. We have our first instructor session on Saturday, and the weather is supposed to be fairly decent that day- thank goodness!
Monday, January 18, 2010
The Burren
So when we originally signed up for our tour of the Burren we were told that we would be doing a short hike. I didn't realize that this trip was put on by the mountaineering club......apparently "short hike" in Irish means a 6 miles, and two peaks in 50 mph winds. Thank goodness I like hiking or this could have been a really long day!
We started from the hiking up the first peak. The peaks are made out of limestone. Back in the ice age, a glacier was attached to the sides of these peaks. As it slowly eroded over thousands of years it left evidence and a "stair like" pattern down the side of the peaks. I found it interesting that throughout the hike there were stone walls that marked off almost every square arce- even at elevation! Apparently these were created to divide land years and years ago. If you are caught destructing a wall in Ireland it is a 500 euro fine!
After hiking for about 2 hours we reached the spot in which we would have lunch. It was a circular fort built at the top of the hill. Apparently men used to heard their cattle up to similar sites and use such forts as hide outs at the top of these steep cliffs. After lunch we hiked up to the first peak- IT WAS SOOOO WINDY! There is a picture of us below leaning- and we are literally being held up by the wind. I look like a black marshmellow because the wind was inflating my clothing. After the first peak we hiked down a valley where we then started another incline up the second peak. The views were incredible! You could see all the way back to Galway. Thankfully, the sun was shining throughout the entire day. When coming off the mountain when went through the back valley and ended up seeing wild cattle? Is there such thing? There wasn't a farm insight. We finally reached a road that took us back to our original starting place. On the way I realize I was really in Ireland.... there was a heard of cows crossing the street, a flock of sheap, and about 30 men on horse back riding down the main National (highway) with about 20 hunting dogs. It was definitely a sight to see!
Afterward we went to a local pub in town called Monk. Although I have experienced good chowder in my life.... this was by far the best seafood chowder I have ever had. It was full of huge chunks of all types of fish and shell fish, as well as vegetables.
Below I have included pictures of the drive to the Burren in County Clare and views from the hike! Enjoy!
We started from the hiking up the first peak. The peaks are made out of limestone. Back in the ice age, a glacier was attached to the sides of these peaks. As it slowly eroded over thousands of years it left evidence and a "stair like" pattern down the side of the peaks. I found it interesting that throughout the hike there were stone walls that marked off almost every square arce- even at elevation! Apparently these were created to divide land years and years ago. If you are caught destructing a wall in Ireland it is a 500 euro fine!
After hiking for about 2 hours we reached the spot in which we would have lunch. It was a circular fort built at the top of the hill. Apparently men used to heard their cattle up to similar sites and use such forts as hide outs at the top of these steep cliffs. After lunch we hiked up to the first peak- IT WAS SOOOO WINDY! There is a picture of us below leaning- and we are literally being held up by the wind. I look like a black marshmellow because the wind was inflating my clothing. After the first peak we hiked down a valley where we then started another incline up the second peak. The views were incredible! You could see all the way back to Galway. Thankfully, the sun was shining throughout the entire day. When coming off the mountain when went through the back valley and ended up seeing wild cattle? Is there such thing? There wasn't a farm insight. We finally reached a road that took us back to our original starting place. On the way I realize I was really in Ireland.... there was a heard of cows crossing the street, a flock of sheap, and about 30 men on horse back riding down the main National (highway) with about 20 hunting dogs. It was definitely a sight to see!
Afterward we went to a local pub in town called Monk. Although I have experienced good chowder in my life.... this was by far the best seafood chowder I have ever had. It was full of huge chunks of all types of fish and shell fish, as well as vegetables.
Below I have included pictures of the drive to the Burren in County Clare and views from the hike! Enjoy!
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Sunny Saturday
This morning we woke up to blue skies! We headed out to get some good photos of campus. I have posted them below. The older looking building is the quadrangle, the oldest building on campus. The more modern looking buildings are where most my classes are held. We walked along the river, and ran into the main Cathedral in town. We wanted to go in, but it seemed as though there was a service in progress, so hopefully we will get some photos inside soon!
We walked along the river- it was absolutely beautiful with the sunlight. There is a cool cobblestone path that runs along the side of river, which is quite a site. We made it to shop street and stopped at a Crepe' shop for lunch. I was surprised at how cheap it was! It was only 3 euro, and coffee is much cheaper here as well. As Brooke and I walked up the street we saw a sign at a local Pub, Taefes, that was promoting their live band tonight- a traditional Irish band. We haven't really heard any traditional Irish music yet, so we came back to our flat for a bit to take a little nap, and are going to head up there later this evening.
I have posted pictures from our walk today. We went out with our roommates on Thursday night, so there are a few pictures of them as well. My roommates are Brooke, Stephanie, and Marissa. Brooke is one of my good friends from home, and Stephanie and Marissa both go to Duquesne University in Philadelphia.
We walked along the river- it was absolutely beautiful with the sunlight. There is a cool cobblestone path that runs along the side of river, which is quite a site. We made it to shop street and stopped at a Crepe' shop for lunch. I was surprised at how cheap it was! It was only 3 euro, and coffee is much cheaper here as well. As Brooke and I walked up the street we saw a sign at a local Pub, Taefes, that was promoting their live band tonight- a traditional Irish band. We haven't really heard any traditional Irish music yet, so we came back to our flat for a bit to take a little nap, and are going to head up there later this evening.
I have posted pictures from our walk today. We went out with our roommates on Thursday night, so there are a few pictures of them as well. My roommates are Brooke, Stephanie, and Marissa. Brooke is one of my good friends from home, and Stephanie and Marissa both go to Duquesne University in Philadelphia.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Thursdays will be nice for me this semester because I don't have class. I got up this morning and went grocery shopping and did my first round of over priced laundry- it's 6 euro a load = $9.00 USD. The washers are tiny so I squeezed as much as I could into the washer.
Once Brooke got home from class we decided to just start walking, and create an adventure. Our friend Katie came with us as well. We headed towards downtown, walked along the waterfront, and discovered many things in our path. I have posted pictures of everything below. It seemed as though there were stone walls everyone where we went. We ran into a Presbyterian church located at the end of a street. We were surprised when we walked into the Spanish arch- a monumental symbol in Galway, that was built in 1568 to symbolize the good trade relationship that the Irish had with Spain at the time. We walked toward the the coastline, and saw a series of swans, as well as a flock of seagals being fed by a man. It was madness, but quite cool to watch. As we ventured out further we entered a park with a random palm tree. You seem to see those quite a lot around here. Apparently it is because when the gulf of Mexico has bad storms, the tail ends will whip up north into places like Ireland.
After the park we headed back towards the downtown area and went inside St. Nicholas' church. The architecture was absolutely beautiful, as well as the stain glass. I have noticed that every stone building here seems to have a bright red door, including the church. I've taken many photos of this, as I do like the style. We headed back to our flat just before the rain and the winds started in....perfect timing. It's was a gorgeous day to get out!
I have one class tomorrow and then it's the weekend. We are headed to the Burren on Sunday in County Clare for a day trip- I can't wait! The weather is supposed to be quite mild as well, so I'm happy about that!
Once Brooke got home from class we decided to just start walking, and create an adventure. Our friend Katie came with us as well. We headed towards downtown, walked along the waterfront, and discovered many things in our path. I have posted pictures of everything below. It seemed as though there were stone walls everyone where we went. We ran into a Presbyterian church located at the end of a street. We were surprised when we walked into the Spanish arch- a monumental symbol in Galway, that was built in 1568 to symbolize the good trade relationship that the Irish had with Spain at the time. We walked toward the the coastline, and saw a series of swans, as well as a flock of seagals being fed by a man. It was madness, but quite cool to watch. As we ventured out further we entered a park with a random palm tree. You seem to see those quite a lot around here. Apparently it is because when the gulf of Mexico has bad storms, the tail ends will whip up north into places like Ireland.
After the park we headed back towards the downtown area and went inside St. Nicholas' church. The architecture was absolutely beautiful, as well as the stain glass. I have noticed that every stone building here seems to have a bright red door, including the church. I've taken many photos of this, as I do like the style. We headed back to our flat just before the rain and the winds started in....perfect timing. It's was a gorgeous day to get out!
I have one class tomorrow and then it's the weekend. We are headed to the Burren on Sunday in County Clare for a day trip- I can't wait! The weather is supposed to be quite mild as well, so I'm happy about that!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
