Dublin, Ireland

       Dublin has always been a place I envisioned myself visiting from the time I became involved in Irish dance as a kid and began to recognize my culture. From my last name to the fact that my dad is a bagpiper, it has always been very obvious that I am Irish. The Irish culture of my family has influenced many of my relatives to explore further into not only the country itself, but also the history behind it. Much of my family has visited Ireland, mostly Dublin.

    Dublin is the capital of Ireland, and is also the most populated city in the country. When visiting Dublin you will notice the vast greenery and the old stone buildings. Remnants from Stone Age are an obvious part of Ireland's countryside. 

     In Ireland it is said that kissing the Blarney Stone, which is located in the Blarney Castle will bring you good luck. This is a tradition for many tourists and is one of the largest attractions in Ireland; it was also one of my sister's favorite experiences from her trip. The Blarney Stone is especially significant to my family because it was apparently given to Dublin from Robert the Bruce of Scotland, who was researched to be my 21st great grandfather.  Here is a video of it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zbv6hliU8CM

      St. Patrick's Cathedral is also another very well known site in Ireland. It is still the largest cathedral in Ireland, and was built between 1220 and 1260. The old beautiful architecture of the church is something many people admire. When visiting the church, tour guides provide you with the interesting history of the church. 

      Along with many other attractions in Dublin, you are able to experience the Irish culture in restaurants, pubs, and even just walking down the street (or driving on the opposite side of the car). A typical meal in Dublin includes some type of meat, potatoes, and vegetables. 

      Visiting Dublin is certainly on my bucket list. I would love to experience all of the great aspects of the country my family got to enjoy.  



   

                                                              Kissing the Blarney Stone

                                                             St. Patrick's Cathedral


     

St. Augustine Beach, Florida

 

      Many of my summer vacations have been spent in St. Augustine Beach, Florida, also known as the oldest city in the nation. From the beaches to the historical attractions, and countless places to shop, this city surely doesn't lack entertainment!

       Once you reach the island by crossing the Bridge of Lions, you immediately get a sense of the old Spanish style that the downtown area continues to preserve. The shops, galleries, and restaurants often have their own unique style and architectural structure. While visiting downtown, you can tour the city on the trolley, enjoy the view from the top of the 219 step lighthouse, explore the Fountain of Youth, and even tour one of the old Spanish forts (Castillo de San Marcos).
 
       As you would expect, many tourists are drawn to the nearby beaches. Countless ocean themed restaurants cover the shore and truly offer the paradise experience you would want when visiting one of Florida's many beaches. Crowds are often brought to the beach for surf contests, pier fishing, and of course relaxing in the sun and sand.

       After a long day at the beach, we often visit a family favorite, Sunset Grille. The top deck allows you to experience the breeze straight from the ocean, while enjoying fresh seafood. The mahi mahi, fried shrimp, scallops, and calamari are hard to pass up, especially when the southern service is so nice. Here is a link to their menu. Sunset Grille Menu

      Although I have been to St. Augustine probably over 10 times, each experience is new and exciting. The Florida sunshine and view of palm trees is something I will always look forward to.

Trolley Tour Station

Shopping

Lighthouse Stairs

Beach