Terrafirma Travels

Travelling home day. No 16 bus (of course) to airport. Nothing eventful in airport, security quick and efficient though they scanned N's tray twice, no idea why. Just a lot of waiting around  - it's usually about now we think how nice it would have been to drive. The plane was a twin prop - not been in one of those for a long time. Only thing of note seen out of the window was the Severn Bridge. Bristol also straightforward, with NO passport check!! So Ireland checks from UK but UK doesn't.  In summary we could have spent a week in and around Dublin and perhaps we will next time. The ideal might be an AirBnB near the end of a tram line.

Last night was VERY noisy, fireworks all evening and people partying until 3am - Halloween! Other than that noise level has been ok. Started with charity shops near hotel - they are legion, but low quality & high price. No. 16 into centre. Coffee at Simon's - decaf from bean, v good. L went to many vintage clothes shops. Almost bought earrings, silk scarf and Ghost top but stopped herself. Much joy looking. N went walkabout over Ha'penny Bridge, North of Liffey has more modern, less quirky vibe. Back over Millennium Bridge and along Temple Bar. Turned the need for a pee into an advantage and had a Paddy's whiskey in the Auld Dubliner. On west to circle Christ Church Cathedral then back to meet L at Simon's for lunch. The basement is peaceful and the toasties are tasty. No 16 (what else?!) south to Rathfarnham Castle, got there early, had a wander round the building and a chat with the v friendly custodians. The poetry event launching The Storms Journal V was v pro...