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October 16, 2013

Falling in Love with Dublin, Ireland

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My excitement over my recent visit to Ireland seemed to have overflowed while going through immigration at the airport. Not really a place someone would enjoy, except that two things happened.

I was standing in line waiting for passport check when a foreign couple approached the line confused and apologetic to have gone through the wrong queue beforehand.

“Oh, no need to be sorry! You’re alright here now. Take a deep breath, no need to stress yourself out, not here. Not with us,” said the immigration representative directing everyone where they belonged.

I couldn’t help but think of how  differently that would have gone at my home based airport in NYC.

My turn comes up and I walk up to the window.

Check. Flip page. Look. Check. Flip page. Check. Look.

“What are your reasons for traveling to Ireland?” said the immigration inspector.

“I am here for a conference,” I responded.

“What kind of conference,” he replied.

“A travel bloggers conference,” I responded, not really sure that would explain much.

“Oh!” his smiled widening, “There are so many of you arriving! How nice! I hope you enjoy our country and that you write some nice things about us!”

Stamp!

I walked away with a loss for words. What was this place? Where had I just arrived to?

It was raining and a bit chilly. My curly hair seemed to have found new life and was slowly taking over the surface of my head. But I couldn’t stop smiling. I took the bus(es) from the airport to the Double Tree Hotel (formerly The Burlington), and it took everything I had to not breakout into song.Dublin vacations Dublin Vacations

The TBEX Dublin conference was a thrill. A grown up version of what it once was. A rewarding experience in diversity of bloggers and topics. Tourism representatives for Ireland were on hand from the minute I got off the plane till the very last day of the conference and then still online. It was a great time. I loved seeing my friends and meeting new ones.

TBEX DublinTBEX Dublin

But the second Travis, my husband, met me there I felt myself come alive even more. I couldn’t wait to explore it all with him.

Dublin Vacations

Some of the highlights of our visits include the tours we took. We had originally thought we would rent a car and venture across the island. But with time being so limited, we decided instead to take advantage of the tours being offered through partners with TBEX. We took two tours. Two tours which were wonderful and offered two completely different Dublin experiences.

The Dawn2Dusk Tours offers several tours, we decided on the photography tour around Dublin. The incredible thing about this day was that it was the first sunny day since I had arrived. For all the talk about rain in Ireland, I believe it can all be forgiving on a sunny day there. All the green, lush surroundings against the blue waters and clear skies are enough to make you never, ever, want to leave. On weekends the villages are busy with locals and tourists alike. Families come out in numbers on their bikes, for picnics and strolls. Incredibly romantic and family friendly all at the same time. We felt so at ease and comfortable here. Like home. The photos I was able to capture still take my breath away. In person, the experience is awe-inspiring. I loved, loved, loved our tour guides. So laid back and easy-going, and so much of that super friendly Irish charm.Dawn2Dusk Tours Dublin Dawn2Dusk Tours Dublin Dawn2Dusk Tours Dublin Dawn2Dusk Tours DublinWild Wicklow Tour took us a little further away, to Sandycove, Dun Laoghaire, the Wicklow mountains, and the ruins of Glendalough. On this particular day the weather was typically Irish. Being in the countryside of Ireland is so enchanting and so magical that we could have cared less. Starry-eyed and feeling like two kids madly in love with each other, Travis and I couldn’t stop kissing, holding hands, and smiling. We were giddy to say the least, and this was long before our wonderful and super funny guide, Niall, offered us all a shot of whiskey. Even before we came upon singer Pat Connery performing her entrancing ballads. I don’t remember when exactly it happened, but Ireland had us falling even more in love with each other, just as we felt ourselves falling in love with Ireland.Dublin Vacations dublin vacations

Dublin VacationsHad we not left our kids at home, had we not had to return, had Travis asked me to stay there with him forever right by that “P.S. I Love You” bridge, standing in the misty rain and under the cloudy skies, I would’ve said yes, without hesitation.Dublin Vacations Dublin Vacations Dublin Vacations Dublin VacationsAbove photo by Sarahlynn Pablo (one of the fabu bloggers we met at TBEX for the first time!)

We also had really great food experiences while in Dublin. Irish food hasn’t ever been something that I would say is on the top of the culinary scene and though there is no doubt that culturally the cooking styles and flavors are different, especially from a Latino perspective, the food is not bad. Some places were better than others, so here are our highlights:

L. Mulligan Grocer in the neighborhood of Smithfield, also known as Stoneybatter (a former meat-packing district) is a local favorite. The night we went the place was full of Irish locals talking and laughing over drinks. Our waitress had the gift of storytelling, which is a gift many Irish have and one of the things I love the most about them. She had us laughing each time she approached us. The food here is generous and so, so delicious. My mouth waters when I think of it. The menu is super helpful, as they recommend the perfect drink to pair it with. Not just wine, but also beer or cider. I followed the recommendations and to date it was one of the best Irish meals I have ever had.Mulligans Stoneybar Dublin

Mulligans Stoneybar Dublin Mulligans Stoneybar Dublin  Mulligans Stoneybar Dublin

We stopped into the Pygmalion Cafe for a latte and dessert one night and absolutely loved the scene, which was a world away from the touristy and loud bar scene going on right outside of it. The cafe is one a few eateries inside of Powerscourt Center, formerly the city home of Lord and Lady Powerscourt (who also had a country estate that you can tour and visit in Wicklow). I would suggest taking a tour of what is now an upscale shopping and arts center. The original architecture, even amidst all the contemporary add-ons, is gorgeous and worthy of further exploration.

Dublin vacationsDublin Vacations

B Bar, the restaurant and bar at the Double Tree, where TBEX was hosted, was surprisingly really good. One wouldn’t often expect a hotel bar and restaurant to offer such great service and food, but I had a wonderful meal with friends here. A really convenient spot, especially because the hotel itself is a bit of a short drive or commute from the center of town where most of the eateries and bars are.

Dublin Vacations

The Irish House Party Dinner and Show was were we spent our last evening in Dublin and the musicians there really made it a special night for us, so though I will admit that the food wasn’t mind-blowing, it was still pretty good, the service was really friendly, and the entertainment is just one that we will never forget. I would say if you can make this the last thing you do in Dublin, then you are sure to be sent home with a  smile that will resurface over and over every time you think of your trip.

dublin vacations

When the conference was over, we left the Double Tree hotel and searched for something a bit more intimate and romantic. We found the perfect retreat at the Brooks Hotel. This contemporary boutique hotel had all the amenities we wanted, such as Internet access (not that I used it much) and an in-house restaurant and bar. It was right in the center of it all, but once in our room we felt silence and tranquility. And it had Colin, the hotel’s concierge, who greeted us, quickly befriended us and memorized our names, and provided us with all the information we could want about the area. We were within walking distance of everything you could want in Dublin City, so finding our way around was never a problem. Dublin Vacations Dublin Vacations Dublin vacations Dublin VacationsDublin VacationsThough our adventure to Ireland was only a few weeks ago, the whole experience feels like a dream.  Except that as a couple, we feel a deeper connection with having experienced a place that is such a part of my husband’s memories and heritage, and as travelers, we left feeling moved by the cultural pride and diversity, as well as warm welcome and friendship of the people of Ireland.

It’s hard to put into a post the very many things that we saw and felt and really think you should check out, specifically when in Dublin. Ideally, when you visit Ireland, you rent a car and travel beyond its capital city. However, unless you are there for a limitless amount of time, if you choose to venture out, you will have to miss something else in the process. The reasons to visit Ireland, in my mind, are endless. The discoveries I have yet to make there are just as many it seems, thus this tale is only the beginning of many more to come.

All photography is property of GirlGoneTravel.com and may not be reproduced or used without consent.

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Carol Cain

Brooklyn native Carol is happiest when on an adventure, whether close to home or farther away. She is a small business owner and travel writer. In addition to creating Girl Gone Travel, she is the Founder and Principal of Brave World Media, a social media marketing, communications, and branding agency. She's mom to three wonderful sons and wife to a handsome Irish/Scot. She lives, works, and plays in the beautiful Finger Lakes region of NY.

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10 Comments
  • Robvogt
    October 16, 2013

    Loved(!) this post! Thanks so much for sharing the step-by-step journey you and hubs enjoyed. And might I add? Your photography skills grow leaps and bounds with each and every post! keeps me enjoying (albeit vicariously) your great adventures. Send love to you and the fam, Car!

    Reply
    • caincarol
      Robvogt
      October 16, 2013

      Thank you!!

      Reply
  • Eoin
    October 17, 2013

    Hi,
    I’m living in Ireland and came across this blog by mistake looking for one on new York, glad to hear you enjoyed your stay. After reading your blog i tend to forget how lucky i am living in a country with so much on my own door step.

    Reply
    • caincarol
      Eoin
      October 17, 2013

      Hi Eoin,

      Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment : ) You are definitely very lucky! Ireland is amazing. I still have plenty of info on NYC here (as my hometown also has tons to offer), but it was certainly fun checking out your home too.

      Reply
  • Jacquie @ MFW
    October 17, 2013

    I'll be living in Dublin in a month now! I've been before but only stayed 2 days in Dublin before venturing to the rest of Ireland. Your post has me that much more excited to go now! & although I'm single I'm sure I'll be quite content just falling in love with Dublin itself 😉 x
    My recent post The County in Fall… (Photo Edition)

    Reply
    • caincarol
      Jacquie @ MFW
      October 17, 2013

      COOL Jacquie!! How great! Oh, you will have NO problem falling in love at all with Dublin, no matter what : )) So excited for you!

      Reply
  • Alyssa
    October 22, 2013

    This is awesome! I fell in love with Dublin too, I definitely want to go back and spend some time exploring Ireland. P.S. I'm really loving your writing & voice, Carol!
    My recent post Another Hackneyed ‘What I Learned at TBEX’ Post

    Reply
    • caincarol
      Alyssa
      October 22, 2013

      Thank you so much Alyssa! We definitely want to go back too. The trip was sooooo short! So much left unexplored.

      Reply
  • Hotels in Wicklow
    February 14, 2014

    Being Irish myself I think you have hit the nail on the head. We are a fairly easy going bunch 🙂

    Great to see you got to enjoy Dublin and that you made it out to Glendalough, a truly magical part of Ireland.
    Hopefully the next time you visit you will manage to make it out to places like Dingle in Kerry or the into the wilderness in Connemara where time stands still

    Thanks for sharing your piece on Ireland and delighted to see you had a good time

    Reply
    • caincarol
      Hotels in Wicklow
      February 29, 2016

      Thank you! I finally made it back! Though not to Connemara I\’m afraid. Another reason to return : ) Read about it here: https://girlgonetravel.com/2015/11/18/ireland-luxu…

      Reply

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About me

Hi! I'm Carol! I am an award-winning travel blogger, a keynote speaker, and the Principal and owner of Brave World Media, a social media marketing, communications, and branding agency. I a wife to a handsome Irish/Scot and a mom to 3 sons and 2 puppies. Welcome to my blog where I share stories of my travels and professional public relations insights and advice. Thank you for reading and for your support!

Carol Cain

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If you are a foodie traveler, Madison, WI is a des If you are a foodie traveler, Madison, WI is a destination for you. This list of good eats were all within close proximity to each other and spots we made time for during our short weekend visit. So definitely note that this doesn’t even begin to cover the tip of the iceberg, but makes a good starter list!

📍@ShortStackEats in the heart of Downtown Madison is clearly a UW favorite. Loved their pancakes! We thought it was a pricey for breakfast, and only offered drip coffee, but the scene was fun, food was good, and service was friendly.
📍@SardineMadison is a waterfront French bistro that has stood the test of time (we’ve been coming here since we lived in Madison!). It can feel very corporate some nights, but their Happy Hour and brunch are definite highlights and it’s a really nice dining experience overall.
📍@EatattheAudrey impressed us! It’s not your usual “hotel restaurant” and I would say it easily stands alone as an eatery worth checking out in Madison. Great breakfast options, cozy vibes, nice bar, and good service!
📍@RamenStation1124 good, affordable ramen.
📍BlindShotSocialClub We really loved this spot for brunch (sorry, was enjoying the company and totally spaced out on capturing food images!). Golf fans will love hitting the putt here (you can reserve a private room too), and what I though was most cool was the delicious and wide selection of non-alcoholic cocktails to choose from. This place is a total vibe!
📍@StringsRamen is a chain, but I have to say it is some of the best ramen I have had in a long time. I especially loved how you can choose your ramen but heat level but also by Japanese region which allowed us to taste a couple of new flavors!
📍@Parthenongyros has been around awhile (hubby recalls coming here during his college years!) and was voted #1 take out in Madison! Though we indulged inside and away from the snow. A delicious, quick bite when strolling around State Street.

And again, this is just a starter list. There is so much more to eat and enjoy in this top foodie city! What other spots would you add to this list?

#madisonwi #foodiegram #foodiedestinations #goodeats @destinationmadison
I love to travel. It has always been important to I love to travel. It has always been important to my family. My parents got my first passport weeks after I was born. They couldn’t afford to travel like I do now, but they understood, as immigrants, the absolute privilege that comes attached to having that shiny blue American booklet and they wanted me to have it.

I was yet again reminded of my privilege when my travel back home on this last trip was delayed over 24 hours. I have a village in place to make sure my kids were ok. Having my own business meant I didn’t have to report in to anyone, and was still able to work remotely so none of my clients were inconvenienced by it. Though the airline covered our hotel and food, we never worried that we couldn’t do it ourselves otherwise. While we were annoyed, we weren’t stressed.

So while I love to travel, and I love sharing my travels with you, I acknowledge that being able to do so, and dealing with the consistent travel disruptions so prevalent today without worries is a privilege…one that started with a little blue booklet that gives me more access to the world than some others do.

And I want us all in this travel space to be reminded of this. Of how lucky we are. Of our privilege to access and time and money.

So let us travel with grace and awareness. Let us remain rooted in reality and perspective. Acknowledging that our escapism isn’t one so easily accessible to others. Understanding that this is also why local stories have as much value as those to exclusive destinations, if not more. And, never forgetting, especially in the travel influencer and media space, that were it not for hosted campaigns and paid-for travel opportunities, most of us wouldn’t be able to afford the lifestyle we so beautifully curate online.

It doesn’t matter how often you travel, or how far. Just that hopefully you will be able to gift yourself the experience of doing so and experiencing something new.

#travel #travelmedia #travelinfluencer #wheretonext
As I work on compiling all the good eats I experie As I work on compiling all the good eats I experienced in Madison, WI, I have to ask: what is your favorite meal of the day, and where did you experience a highlight of the same?

I am a huge fan of breakfast. This beauty was a blueberry pancake order from @shortstackeats. Pancakes are not a big thing for me, but these were pretty perfect. I am craving them still. 🥞♥️

#madisonwi #goodeats #travelingfoodie @destinationmadison
We got back on a plane! Here are scenes from a qui We got back on a plane! Here are scenes from a quick trip to Madison, WI - my first time back in 14 years! Though we were here for family matters, we did take a moment to explore a bit of what used to be a place we called home.

We couldn’t do anything else until we drove around Lake Monona, where we once had a home, and took in the wintery views (there is an epic 13.2-mile trail that loops around the lake that is worth exploring if you visit!). Though our time was limited, we were able to enjoy some of it along State Street exploring the shops, eateries, the FREE @mmocamadison, and the beautiful architecture of the WI State Capitol Building (the Dane County Farmers Market will soon pick up again - Saturdays, April 15 thru November 11, 2023 around the Capitol Building and it is one of the best farmers markets anywhere!). 

We booked a room at the @hiltonmadison Monona Terrace to be within walking distance of all the downtown fun (tip: for a room with a lake view make sure to book at the upper levels above 10th floor for an unobstructed view of Lake Monona). 

Madison, WI is a skip and a hop from the Finger Lakes so this short and sweet visit didn’t feel difficult at all. And we absolutely loved the winter scenery and seeing what has changed (a lot) since we lived here.

Stay tuned for my list of where we ate!

Have you ever been to Madison, WI?

#madisonwi #weekendgetaway #wisconsin @destinationmadison
The joy of that first sip of the day. #randommom The joy of that first sip of the day. 

#randommomentsarethebest
I think my husband enjoys it, but still can’t be I think my husband enjoys it, but still can’t believe how easily I’ve been waking up in the early mornings since our last trip. Not sure how to shake it, or if it’s temporary, but here it is: the rare sighting of me up and moving early in the day. Am I a morning person now? Has travel ever permanently changed any of your habits?

#morningperson #lifeinthecountry #newme <-😂

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