Dublin

Dublin doesn't quite fit the mold of most other European cities.  However, what it lacks in grand historical architecture and royal circumstance, it makes up for with its welcoming atmosphere and pub culture.  There's no Eiffel Tower or Colosseum but you will feel right at home the minute you step off the plane and into one of Dublin's many traditional pubs.  Its therefore no mystery why some of the main attractions in Dublin are the breweries. The most popular being the Guinness Brewery, which is a mecca for many people visiting Dublin.  I took a tour of the old Guinness Storehouse and it was quite impressive.  The highlight is the "Gravity Bar" which is a circular glass bar on the 9th floor with 360 degree views of Dublin. The view is great, and the free Guinness is even better. 

I also took a tour of the old Jameson distillery which lacked the great view of the Guinness Brewery, but still involved free alcohol.  And they basically use the whole tour to tell you how much better Jameson is than Jack Daniels.

I ate dinner one night in one of the most unique bars I have ever found, as it was formerly a church.  Aptly named "The Church" it is probably the best representation of what the Irish love: Catholicism and Alcohol.  Although usually not at the same time.  The main sanctuary holds the bar, the choir loft is an upscale restaurant, the basement is a night club, and the courtyard is a cafe.  You can eat your dinner and enjoy a drink underneath the large stained glass window, and sit in some of the old wooden pews. 

I flew out of Dublin on Sunday July 3rd and found it hilarious that a huge banner surrounded by streamers and balloons in the Dublin Airport read "Happy Birthday America!" At least I got a taste of fourth of july... in Dublin. 

The famous gate to the Guinness Brewery.

 

The Gravity Bar on top of the Guinness Brewery.

Its alive inside.

The Jameson Distillery.