5 Things I learned in Dublin

Here is just a short list of things I've learned or observed during my time in Dublin. Consider it like insider information so you know what's up when you get here.

5) Trackies are everywhere. These are the guys (and girls) sporting full tracksuits and trainers and frequently the euro-mullet. They’re apparently the rowdy youth here and act like a bunch of hard asses but they look harmless. There are even a couple places around town with signs out front prohibiting trackies from entering. You’re bound to see them strolling around town so don’t try to laugh too hard when you do.

4) Rain can come at any moment. Dublin has a way of throwing rain at you when you least suspect it. It can a bright and sunny day and all of a sudden it will begin to pour. The rain doesn’t always last long but just know that it is unpredictable so it is nice to have some kind of rain reflecting device on your person at all times. Don’t be put off by the frequency of rain though; it is usually no more than a mist so you won’t get soaked through.

3) If you tell anyone you are from the United States, they will assume you are from New York and recant how it is the greatest city in the world. You would think being in Ireland, they would at least assume you are from Boston but nope; it’s always New York. If you have ever been to New York, I am sure you can have a long discussion about the city with them but unfortunately for me, no one has heard of Vermont.

2) Dublin is nothing like the rest of Ireland. The first time we got out of the city, I was amazed at how different the country is. There is a smaller youth population, people are friendlier, and there are usually more tourists than natives. I guess it is about the same for every city but for Ireland, Dublin is the only real proper city in the country. I really enjoyed my time in the surrounding countryside and the small villages so I can’t recommend it enough.

1) Don’t drink your Guinness before it settles. It is sort of an unwritten rule and you will catch flack from someone, including the Champlain staff, if you take a sip of the black stuff before it settles. I know it looks tasty and you can’t possibly fathom having to wait to enjoy it, but let it settle and look like a pro. Then you’ll feel all cocky when you watch the other tourists dive right in and you can let them have it.