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With the world back to “normalcy,” I embarked on an exciting journey to Dublin, Ireland, accompanied by my adventurous fiancé and the Cutco family. Despite the unexpected snowfall, our spirits remained high, and we had an unforgettable time exploring Ireland.

Planning & Travel

As a first-time international traveler, I wanted to ensure a smooth journey, so I turned to YouTube for guidance… of course lol. I watched numerous videos on TSA and Global Entry guidelines, eager to ease any anxieties that might arise from traveling abroad. After a couple of youtube videos and a visit to TSA’s website, I felt more confident and prepared for the adventures that awaited us.

Unlike the typical traveler, our trip to Ireland was a unique blend of spontaneity and social events put together by the company as a thanks to their employees. Thanks to my fiancé’s job, a significant portion of our itinerary was planned on the go, leaving us with a thrilling sense of anticipation for each new adventure.

Accommodation at the Conrad, Dublin

Our stay in Dublin was nothing short of extraordinary, thanks to the Conrad, Dublin—a remarkable hotel that exceeded our expectations. From the moment we stepped foot into its elegant lobby, we knew we were in for a treat. The warm ambiance and impeccable service immediately made us feel at home.

One particular highlight was in the hotel’s restaurant, The Coburg, where we spent many memorable evenings drinking a “jimmy ginger” also known as Jameson and Ginger ale. The bartenders, with their friendly and welcoming nature, created an inviting atmosphere that made us feel like locals. Whether we were sipping on traditional Irish whiskey or trying unique craft beers, the Coburg became our go-to spot for unwinding after a day of exploration and fun.

And let’s not forget about the late-night food at the Conrad, Dublin. After a night out and a few drinks in, our hunger would kick in, and we were pleasantly surprised by the room service. Each night, the mouthwatering dishes they served us were a perfect match for our slightly intoxicated state. To be fair, while the options were mainly limited to pizza and fries, the food SMACKED!

Exploring Dublin

With our stay at the Conrad, Dublin, we were in a prime spot to explore the vibrant city that is Dublin. With the snowfall, the city’s charm and beauty shone through even more as this was a unique and picturesque atmosphere. I mean, on average, it snows like once every seven years in Dublin so it was a once in a lifetime experience for sure!

We wandered through the enchanting streets, marveling at the architecture that seamlessly blended old-world charm with modern elegance. The iconic landmarks, such as Trinity College and Dublin Castle, left us in awe of the rich history and cultural heritage that Dublin has to offer.

One of the highlights of our trip was experiencing the lively pub culture for which Ireland is renowned for. We ventured into traditional pubs, where lively music filled the air, and locals warmly welcomed us. It was an incredible opportunity to immerse ourselves in the authentic Irish spirit, enjoying traditional music, lively conversations, and, of course, a pint or two of Guinness. Thanks to CUTCO, We even got to tour the Guinness factory and party it up in their luxurious Gravity Bar.

Exploring Beyond Dublin

While Dublin captivated us, our eagerness to explore the natural beauty of Ireland led us to venture beyond the city. Initially planning to visit both the stunning Cliffs of Moher and the charming town of Galway, our plans took an unexpected turn due to heavy snowfall. The accumulation of snow led to road closures, making it impossible for us to reach Galway. It was a disappointment, but we embraced the spontaneity of our journey.

However, our day was far from ruined, thanks to the incredible tour crew, Owen and Anthony. Despite the challenging conditions, they went above and beyond to ensure we had an unforgettable experience. Fearlessly driving through the snow, they took us to the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher. As we stood on the edge of the cliffs, the wind pelted us with ice particles, creating a thrilling and slightly chilly adventure. I must admit, I was initially scared to go all the way up, but with my fiance’s courageousness and wanting to get us “killed” in the snow mentality, I conquered my fears and reached the breathtaking top of the cliff. The sight of the snowy cliffs meeting the beautiful shores was truly mesmerizing.

Our enthusiasm for exploration, coupled with the unpredictable weather, led us to get quite wet during our venture to the Cliffs of Moher. Determined to make the best of the situation, we found a random thrift store after our bus ride to the nearest town, Ennis, where we purchased dry clothes to warm up. Once we were comfortable, we headed to a nearby pub to raise our spirits. With each sip, laughter filled the air, and we celebrated the unexpected turns of the day along with some fish and chips, of course.

Looking back, it was an extraordinary and once-in-a-lifetime experience. While our plans didn’t go exactly as intended, the adventure, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of our tour guides made it all the more memorable.

As we returned to the comfort of the Conrad, Dublin, we couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s events. It was a reminder that even in the face of unforeseen circumstances, life has a way of surprising us with unforgettable moments. So, cheers to the spontaneity, the wet clothes, the laughter, and the resilient spirits that made this day an adventure we will never forget. Thank you, Owen and Anthony, for turning a challenging situation into a remarkable experience that will be etched in our memories forever.

Conclusion

Our trip to Ireland was a remarkable journey filled with unforgettable moments and cherished memories. From the spontaneous planning to the delightful experiences at the Conrad, Dublin, and the enchanting exploration of Dublin’s vibrant streets and the stunning Cliffs of Moher, we fell in love with the country’s culture, history, and warm-hearted people.