Adjusting to Move-In and Enjoying the Scenery of the Neighborhood

Just over two weeks ago, I moved into my study abroad accommodation in Dublin. The day before moving in, my family and I were exploring the Dublin 8 area. Unaware that the same street would be the one I would inhabit for the next four months, my mother expressed her concern about the quaint area. “This area seems a bit sketchy,” she said nervously.

But as we inched further down the alleyway, melodies of horses trotting, bickering conversations, and car horns filled the air. It seemed there was more of a story to the area than we had assumed.

The stained-glass windows I admire in St. Patrick’s Cathedral

The spotty gray skyline was visible through staggered red brick buildings and green and gold doors of pubs. Though the bustling city life was a major change from the tranquil grassy hills and pastel townhomes we’d already experienced in western Ireland, the Victorian architecture and gray stone cathedrals offered a unique beauty.

I’ve now grown used to walking past a horse and carriage on my daily walk to class, as there are stables right across the street from my apartment. Young men in tracksuits driving quick carriages share the road with cars. Hooves clacking on stone streets and the gong of church bells have become my nighttime melody.

Our neighborhood at night (everyone is at the pub which is why it is empty)

Errands Run a Little Differently Than in America

There are a few cultural changes to note about living in the United States versus Ireland. If you choose to study abroad in Dublin, you should throw out the idea that going to a single grocery store and buying three weeks’ worth of food is the norm. Our housing tour guide, James, conveniently combined our tour with his need to run errands.

As we shuffled down Meath Street, crowding in and out of tiny shops, it became clear grocery shopping is a task I would need to perform every day. Beyond that, a twenty-minute trip to get two ingredients can turn into a two-hour affair due to the amount of conversation.

I quickly learned that getting to know the local shopkeepers could also help my wallet, as they have your best interests in mind. Michael, the owner of the produce store, always checks in on my roommates and me, offering the most colorful vegetables. “I only buy duck eggs from Michael because ducks lay eggs when they’re happy,” James explained, emphasizing the importance of buying locally instead of at the supermarket.

Nestled on the other side of the vegetable store are multiple butcher shops. Almost like a grown-up candy store, it has become fun to admire all the fresh cuts and decide what to make for dinner based on what looks good. The owner of my favorite meat shop often jokes, asking me to call her when dinner is ready after hearing what I’m preparing.

My daily oat milk cappuccino

If you need a break from the constant chitchat of storefronts, stepping into the courtyard of St. Catherine’s Church reveals a serene grotto. I could stare for hours at the stained-glass windows and arched ceilings.

Maybe grabbing a cappuccino and croissant to refuel at a café is more your speed, which can also be enjoyed for hours. Being a regular at a coffee shop, especially Boom Coffee, which I frequent, means more than just knowing your order. I get greeted with a friendly smile and constantly receive new suggestions of what to do around Dublin from the young (and handsome) barista I’ve befriended.

The Outdoor Culture

Another part of Dublin that has surprised me is the appreciation for whatever weather you get. To Irish people, sixty-four degrees Fahrenheit and sunny means a perfect day to swim in the Irish Sea. The coast of Dun Laoghaire, just a twenty-minute train ride from Dublin, is the perfect coastal weekend escape. A winding pathway along the beach is ideal for a morning stroll, and there is no shortage of coffee shops and even a new sauna house for when it gets too chilly.

If I’m looking for a more challenging hike on my days off from class, another quick train ride north to Howth is an easy escape. The cliff walk around the peninsula boasts views reminiscent of a rugged Greek coastline (if only it were warmer) and a steady incline for a workout. The trail continues about a mile down to the Baily Lighthouse.

The frigid water may shock you at first, but it is tradition for many Trinity College students to jump into Forty Foot at the beginning and end of every term.

Living in a city like Dublin means you get used to walking everywhere. Around lunchtime, many people stroll through the city or walk in the parks. Phoenix Park is my current favorite place to walk, as it is one of Europe’s largest city parks. My views include wild deer that live in the park, countless breeds of cute dogs, and the occasional rugby game.

A very green afternoon walk through Phoenix Park

Dublin has taught me to assume nothing about a new city, however “sketchy” it may seem at first glance. If you’re having a bad day, shop owners and strangers on the train are happy to have a quick chat with you. Most of all, you can tell the Liberties are a strong community-oriented area, with a constant sense of mutual support at its core.