Dublin
Dublin Castle
On our last day of the Rick Steves' Tour, we met for a walking tour of Dublin. The only thing dry on this tour was our local guide's wit, as wind and rain welcomed us throughout our time in Dublin.
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As part of our walking tour we visited Dublin Castle. The throne pictured to the right was built for a king of England. Even though it was built to his specifications, the king took its large size as an insult!
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The interiors were lavish with a theme of red velvet and gold furniture with intricate crystal chandeliers.
Trinity College
Our walking tour continued to the Trinity College campus and library where we got to view an ancient religious manuscript, The Book of Kells. We were struck by the ornate decorations that have a level of intricacy and craftsmanship that must be seen to be believed. These meticulous, gilded illustrations hold deep layers of symbolism. The Book of Kells experience ended in the hall of the Trinity Library which was equally breathtaking, with floor to ceiling wooden bookshelves. Many of the books were put away for restoration, but it did not detract from the overall experience.
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The Bank restaurant and bar was our next stop for lunch and libations. Irish coffees warmed us up after walking in the rain. We had the rest of the afternoon to shop and explore Dublin. Aran Woolen Mills was around the corner, so we headed there, not caring if we had to sit on our baggage to make all our woolen souvenirs fit... nor if we had a single euro left in our moneybelts.​​
The Rick Steves' Tour concluded with a farewell dinner. The dinner was bittersweet as we had had the most lovely travel companions and made lifelong memories. It was time to say goodbye.
