Studying Abroad in Dublin (home, college, live)

[lebran2]

Hi everyone! I'm a 21 yr old female college student studying abroad in Dublin for 6 weeks this summer. I'm studying at the American College Dublin. I'm just looking for any good tips, not to miss places, places to avoid, etc. in the city and also great places to experience around the country. While I'm definitely looking forward to Dublin, I also can't wait to get outside the city and see what Ireland is really all about. So ANY comments, concerns, suggestions, whatever would be appreciated!

Also, is it somewhat easy to travel throughout the United Kingdom? I've heard it is and can be relatively cheap. Just wondered if anyone had any info!

Last thing, I am an avid horseback rider and can absolutely not stay in Ireland without getting on the back of a horse at some point. So this might be a shot in the dark, but if anyone has any suggestions about horseback riding in Ireland please let me know.

Thank you for any and all help!

[BrianH]

My favourite place in Ireland has to be Galway, Galway City is great.
In Dublin the best most touristy area is in Temple Bar, there I would say my fave bar is Eamon Dorans. They have two floors, downstairs is a little darker with live music then a DJ most nites. It is right on the square. There are a bunch of good restaurants there.

www.malahidecastle.ie (broken link) is a must in Dublin too. It is just a beautiful area. The castle and the grounds itself is very impressive.

Obviously the Guinness factory is a must too. Even if you dont drink there is allot of history with Arthur Guinness and the Guinness family in Dublin.

When there why not go see a football (soccer) game ? The best stadium in Dublin is Tolka Park, home of 1st Division team Shelbourne FC Shelbourne F.C. Official Website

If you can, go north to Antrim for the Giants Causeway, its just spectacular.

I would use Board Failte's website and take your pic Discover Ireland - Failte Ireland's Official site for Home Holidays in Ireland There is plenty to keep you busy

[Pigeon1916]

Hi, There is a real Buzz about Dublin City all year round. You will be studying in a great location. The whole city is very easy to walk from the American Collage. As Brian Mentions, The Temple Bar Area is great Craic. Lot's of Beer or some good food. Whatever you are into.
When you are there, be sure to visit all the Museums. Entry is Free which is not the case in most european city's. Museums to Visit in Dublin

Also remember Dublin like all city's full of tourist's has pick pockets. So just be aware of your surroundings.

Brian mentioned Malahide. It is a lovely suburb outside the city about a 20min Train journey. Also worth a visit is the National Botanic Gardens.
HOME PAGE National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin

If you are into sport. Unlike Brian. I would advise you to go and see some Football or Hurling in Croke Park with 80,000 people cheering on there respective counties. Croke Park Stadium. Welcome to Croke Park
Less then 200 people would be at a soccer game in Tolka park.

As you say. The real Ireland is outside Dublin and for me the best places to visit would be Kerry and West Cork. In Kerry you have places like Kilarney,Dingle and Tralee. In West Cork you have places like Clonakility, Skibberean and Barleycove. They are all small towns with a good atmosphere.

Horse Riding
Irish Horse Riding Holidays Equestrian Holidays Ireland Irish horseriding holiday ireland
Horse Riding Holidays & Day Treks In Ireland - Home
http://www.discoverireland.ie/di/res...y=0&thisPage=1

As for travelling Outside the Rep of Ireland and Into the UK. You just get a Bus across the border.

I hope you enjoy it.

[jalla]

Best is, you read about Dublin on www.awaycity.com/wiki/Dublin

has some great insights and you can add information to the wiki. how was the stay?