Monday, 24 June 2013
Out and About
For “class” on Friday, a group from ACD went south to Bray to climb Bray Head. The Dart ride itself was great. The rail goes right along the coast, and the views are amazing. We were accompanied by a group of school children on the Dart for part of the trip, and it was funny to watch them interact. Kids are kids, and silly no matter where they’re from. Bray is a neat little town and Rory told us some of the history of Bray and how it became a hot spot for ocean bathing in the 1860’s. Then we began out assent up Bray Head. It was somewhat of a strenuous hike to the top, but an absolutely stunning view of the sea and the town of Bray below. Hiking down was such a welcomed treat after the hike up. It was a perfect day, sun shining, and I got to meet some of the American students who are studying at ACD this month.
Saturday, some of us went north to Howth for another hike. It was great to see both areas that surround Dublin to the north and south (that are both easily accessible by the Dart). The hike around Howth was much less strenuous, but just as great a view. The trail runs along a ridge at the top of some cliffs directly over the sea, so it was treacherous at times (with a few signs warning of dangerous cliffs). After the hike we headed to Malahide for lunch, proper fish & chips by the sea, and visited Malahide Castle. A fairly small castle, but very well maintained with amazing grounds and gardens.
Friday was also national music day in Ireland and I was fortunate enough to claim a ticket to a very special event held in Christ Church Cathedral. It was quite an impressive venue for some interesting music: singer/songwriter Richie Egan (frontman of Irish electronic-rock band Jape), White Collar Boy (a two-man electronic-garage group), and Come On Live Long (electronic-rock) who were probably my favorite of the night.
If you enjoy live music, Dublin is the place to be. There is usually someone playing in any pub you walk into, and there are a number of street performers along Grafton Street, Henry Street, and throughout the Temple Bar area.
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