I feel so much at home in Dublin. So much seems familiar, but plenty is different too. They drive on the left, for example, but use kilometres.
At some point towards the end of June 2025 I had a strong urge to escape from home (and Scotland) briefly. Some quick research offered up a few reasonable deals for an overnight to Dublin.
A flew with Aer Lingus – just needing a carry on bag made it very attractive for the price, plus the Aer Lingus experience is like flying premium economy compared to the immersive scratch-card one on Ryanair. Aer Lingus did not let me down. Mind you, as usual the Edinburgh Airport services (departure and arrival) were frustrating and disappointing.
I stuck my neck out when choosing accommodation and opted for the student residence at Ardee Street in The Liberties part of town. I think it was 1973 when I last stayed in student digs. It was a revelation. Great value for money. Excellent staff. Clean as a whistle, and quiet too.
On the Friday evening I went to a football match. No imagination. I know. I had never been to a match in Ireland before and the Dublin derby between St Patrick’s Athletic and Bohemians drew me in. My ticket – reduced for my age – cost just €10. Ok, I was standing, but a seat would not have been much more.
It was an easy 15 minute journey on the bus, and after investing in a Leap visitor card, very cheap too. The card cost €8 for 24 hours and I used it 6 or 7 times.
Saturday morning brought my first Parkrun in Ireland, at Brickfields Park in the city’s western suburbs.
It too was easy to reach by bus. I felt sorry for the lady I sat next to on the bus back. I was sweaty. She did sniff a couple of times, but did not lose consciousness.
I ate very well. Cedar Tree in St Andrews Street served me a sublime Lebanese lunch on the Friday.
I ventured into Leo Burdock’s in Werburgh Street for takeaway cod and chips. Rumi on Francis Street gave me a great 7am breakfast before Parkrun.
Honest to Goodness on Carman’s Hall served me a wonderful brunch a few hours later. I had fika in the cafe at Teeling Distillery.
As for drinking… Fallon’s at The Coombe was the only time I lapsed and gave way to temptation. It was wonderful.
ⓒ iain taylor, 2025
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