It’s always a little nerve-racking when traveling with a new travel companion. It’s true that the best way to get to know someone is by going on a trip with that person. Nothing tests a person’s adaptability quite like a 21 hour layover, or a last minute decision to wake up after an hour of sleep to go whale watching.
Edwin is a friend of my sister Allie, and we had met each other multiple times, but we really only knew of each other through stories from Allie. We hadn’t even been out for a drink with one another and we were about to travel 28 hours together then spend a week in South Africa (joined by Allie), then travel back another 35 hours!
To put it lightly, we both had our own inhibitions about the travel plans. However it didn’t take long for all of our worries to subside. After an 8 hour flight from Chicago to Dublin we took shots of Irish espresso and were ready to make the most out of our 13 hour layover.
KEY NOTES
-The Book of Kells was turned to a page with the passage, Luke 13.23-33, translated into English stating, “Strive to enter by the narrow gate.” You know those moments where life just sort of hits you, and you’re reminded that inspiration is everywhere? Yea, that was this moment. I felt like that passage was meant for me, and so I scribbled it down in my pocket notebook and we were off to find some Irish food.
-Guinness Factory Tour costs 20 euros, but you get a big draft Guinness at the end of the tour. Be sure to hit the sky bar to enjoy a view of Dublin while enjoying your beer.
-There are plenty of vintage shops to look around in right around the River Liffey canal.
-Eat at Temple Bar, 47-48 Temple Bar, Dublin 2, Ireland.
-Bus transportation from the airport to the city costs 10 euro roundtrip, and was extremely easy to use.