Being based in Belfast, Northern Ireland, when I first heard that ICANN54 would take place in Dublin, my initial reaction was relief at not having to squeeze an almost-winter weather wardrobe into an airline restricted weight limit (apologies to those who did, you have my admiration). Since then, I have spent the last few weeks as the default Dublin tour guide extraordinaire for my fellow staff, providing restaurant and event recommendations.
While I know everyone will be far too busy to venture outside the Convention Centre, I thought I would put together my top recommendations for those who would like a mid-week or post-meeting adventure.
My Top Irish Adventures for ICANN54, Dublin:
Checking off the Dublin Tourist Trail
Want to say "I've been there, done that?"
- Head to The Guinness Storehouse for a sup of the black stuff, then walk back into town and stop by Burdock's on Werburgh Street for classic fish and chips.
- For whiskey fans (note the important Irish "e" in that word!) take a trip to The Old Jameson Distillery.
- History buffs will love The Little Museum of Dublin, nestled between Trinity College (where you can view the famous Book of Kells) and St Stephen's Green public park.
- For those with junior ICANNers, the Viking Splash tours are a lot of fun, engaging and informative (and yes, the splash means water, and not just the rain!)
Jump on the Luas
In-between ICANN54 session shopping sprees.
- The Luas (pronounced Lewis) is a light tram that runs across parts of the city. It can take you to some great areas including Abbey Street and Jervis for quick shopping trips to buy last minute gifts for those at home. Pay at the tram stop in advance and you are good to go!
Caffeine Stop
Need caffeine and a calm moment away from the conference?
- Unable to fit a Eurotour on this trip? Pretend you are in Paris at Café en Seine, also great for last minute cocktail socials.
- Have a bit longer to spare? My favorite museum/library and one of the best in Europe according to Lonely Planet, is the Chester Beatty Library with a collection of artifacts and scripts from across the world, including a beautiful collection of papyrus and religious texts. The café on the ground floor serves delicious Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. The library is nestled in the grounds of Dublin Castle, another tick off your Dublin tourist list.
- For book-worms who need their caffeine fix, The Winding Stair serves Irish produce with a view of the Ha'penny Bridge and gives you an opportunity to browse part of Ireland's literary scene.
Night Caps and Night's Out
Looking for the perfect tipple? Look no further.
- Try a traditional Irish whiskey or one of the amazing cocktails at the Creative Quarter around Fade Sand Drury Streets (some gems include Fade St Social, No Name Bar, The Long Hall).
- If you want the classic tourist night out, the Temple Bar area is your go-to.
- For music lovers, check out The Cobblestone for a fantastic and truly Irish trad (Irish traditional music) night out.
Further Afield
A little extra time on your hands and want to see more of the island?
- Whether renting a car or jumping on a bus or train, there is plenty to see on the Emerald Isle. Some top picks are Cork, Connemarra, Donegal, the Ring of Kerry and the Cliffs of Moher.
- As a Belfast-native, I would be in trouble for not urging a trip to Northern Ireland for those with a valid U.K. travel visa. You can visit the last place the Titanic touched dry ground, visit scenic locations where Game of Thrones was filmed, take a tour of The Old Bushmills Distillery or see the iconic basalt columns of The Giant's Causeway.
Enjoy your stay in Dublin, ICANN!
*In the spirit of collaboration, some of these were crowdsourced to ensure you receive the best Irish adventures. Thanks to all those Dublin insiders for the extra tips!