Dublin - An Introduction

Dublin is both the capital and largest city in Ireland with 1.7 million people either living in Dublin, or in the greater Dublin area. The river sits on the banks of the Liffey and developed from its origins as a centre of Viking slave trade to its current status as a European capital city with all that entails.

Dublin is in the middle of an incredible economic boom. The ‘Celtic Tiger’ as it has become know as, has transformed Dublin form a historic city in disrepair into a historic city in revival. The city is divided by the Liffey into the South Side and the North Side. Rivalry between the North and South side in Dublin is generally friendly and aimed at the stereotypes of each side of the Liffey, the South side being wealthy and posh and the North side being working class. 

The two main shopping areas in Dublin City Center are Henry Street (where the traditional Dubliner shops) and Grafton Street which is much more upmarket, and priced as such. Grafton Street is one of the great pedestrian only streets in Europe. The two sides of the Dublin CBD are joined by O’Connell Bridge which also serves as an extension of O’Connell Street. The bridge is the only bride in Europe that is wider than it is long.

There is a lot to see and do in Dublin. The city centre is spread out, but is easily navigable by foot. Temple Bar is the Mecca for tourists visiting Dublin City. The area is medieval in design and nearly fully pedestrian only. Temple Bar offers excellent restaurants and bars in one small area, combined with a party atmosphere one the streets.

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