We See The Sea
March 24, 2015
“Top of the morning to ya!” and “Tally-ho!” Despite some of our pre-trip expectations, these are NOT phrases we have heard while in Ireland. However, phrases I have heard many times have been, “Welcome,” and “We’re happy to have you.” Our host country has indeed been exceedingly gracious, friendly, and the people are always willing to have a good chat. Even the convenience store clerks that looked at me like I was crazy for asking to buy 19 LEAP Cards (the equivalent to MetroCards) were pretty nice; it ended up being a 20-30 minute process that kind of shut down the store.
After a busy Sunday, we skipped our morning walk/wander around Dublin. No problem, as this meant more time to enjoy the hotel’s full Irish Breakfast, or as I like to call it, The Ron Swanson (four types of meat and all the eggs you can eat!). Our group then set off for Sandycove, about a thirty minute train ride outside of Dublin. While I have enjoyed exploring the different areas of Dublin, I was excited to see the famous Irish countryside. Our trip did not disappoint as our train ride offered beautiful views and we arrived at a beach area overlooking the clear Irish sea. I was able to take in the scenery as the students worked filming different scenes. As we were leaving the beach we came across what I can only assume is the Irish equivalent to California’s famous Muscle Beach. The area consisted of about eight pieces of cardio equipment that appeared to come directly from a 1990s infomercial. However, the view that accompanied those machines made up for the embarrassment I felt using one.
We then made a pit stop at the James Joyce Tower Museum before trekking to Dalkey (home to Bono and other Irish luminaries) where we had a great lunch. Afterwards the group hopped back on the train to the hotel for some much needed rest.
Refreshed from our afternoon naps, we put on our fancy clothes and headed to a lovely beach town, Bray. After a walk on the beach and site work, the students took some prom-style photos overlooking the sea while battling with the heavy Irish winds. We took refuge in The Tower Bistro (shoutout to Ms. Cowhey). After another amazing meal, featuring our introduction to banoffee, the staff told us to, “Enjoy your stay in Ireland!” I have no doubt that we will continue to do just that.
Cheers,
Mr. Lesser
