My Heart is Dublin for Ireland!

The Irish Life Experience spent Tuesday in Dublin. Students had the option of doing various tours throughout the day, such as the Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, Jameson Distillery, the Guinness Brewery, the National Art Museum, and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Many spent their time wisely, exploring the historical sites of Dublin first, before shopping for Irish souvenirs. Half of them began with a tour of the Guinness Brewery. This is one of the most popular visits in town and is a beer lover's Disneyland-a multimedia bells-and-whistles homage to the country's most famous export and the city's most enduring symbol. The massive 26-hectare St. Jame's Gate Brewery is a suitable cathedral in which to worship the black gold; shaped like a giant pint of Guinness. It rises seven impressive stories high around a stunning central atrium. At the top is the head-represented by the Gravity Bar-with a panoramic view of Dublin. Students were able to walk through the extravaganza-involving an array of audiovisual and interactive displays that cover pretty much all aspects of the brewery's history and the process. We decided to let the three 18 year olds-Alyssa, Molly, and Sallie-"Pour the Perfect Pint" when they reached the top. They received a certificate of approval and were even able to have a small taste of Guinness at the end. Just a wee sip. After shopping for Guinness souvenirs, it was off to the city center. Jenny, Kelly, and Kelsey decided to visit the Book of Kells as Trinity's top show-stopper. The Book of Kells is an illuminated manuscript, dating from AD 800 and therefore one of the oldest books in the world. It was probably produced by monks at St. Colmcille's Monastery on the remote island of Iona-off the western coast of Scotland. Repeated looting by marauding Vikings forced the monks to flee to the temporary safety of Kells, County Meath, in AD 806, along with their masterpiece. The Book of Kells contains the four Gospels of the New Testament, as well as prefaces, summaries, and other text. The extensive and amazingly complex illustrations make it unique. The superbly decorated opening initials are only part of the story-for the book has smaller illustrations between the lines. "Even though there were only two pages shown, it was so impressive," Kelsey said! Before we knew it, it was time to go back to King's Hospital. Everyone seemed to really enjoy their time in the city and many want to return very soon. Tom said that the architecture in Dublin was deadly. Olivia agreed and said she thought the buildings were ornate and loved the history. “I simply just loved the overall vibe Bro,” Ryan said. "I loved all of the trendy styles," said Skoot. Sallie said that her favorite shop was Knobs and Knockers. Molly Fitz also added that Monsoon and Top Shop were fantastic for good sales on fashionable clothes. Alyssa, ODawg, and Zoe told us they went to Bewely's and had an incredible lunch. Fiona discovered Lemon and exclaimed they had the best crepes-simply deelish! Connor let us know that he went to Burger King and got a cool crown that he wore for the rest of the day. What a silly guy! We love you Con Man. Evo said that Dublin might be his new favorite city in fact. What a great day we had in Ireland's capital. In fact, the day was so good-that many students decided to go to Riverdance at the Gaiety later that evening. Riverdance is a famous theatrical show consisting of traditional Irish stepdancing, notable for its rapid leg movements while body and arms are kept largely stationary. It originated as an interval performance during the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, a moment that is still considered a significant watershed in Irish culture. Riverdance is, in essence, the story of the Irish culture and of the Irish immigration to America. For Irish dancers, Kelly and Raizel, Riverdance was extremely special. Not to mention to see it in Ireland. Kelly said that she was moved to tears by the performance, while Raizel said it was magical.

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