Ireland is truly one of the most beautiful places in the world and we can't wait to visit again. While in Dublin be sure to stroll through St Stephen's Green, have afternoon tea at the Shelbourne Hotel, go shopping on Grafton Street and visit Ireland's iconic department store Brown Thomas. We stayed at Number 31 which is a boutique hotel in Georgian Dublin City Centre and is in close proximity to central Dublin. It feels like a country escape with its beautiful garden and cozy fireplace.

Dublin

Dublin Shopping

Just over ten miles outside Dublin is the beautiful coastal town of Malahide where the air smells so fresh and clean. Spend a lazy afternoon taking a long walk along the shore and then stop into one of the cozy pubs for fish and chips. Peruse the Malahide antiques shop and then watch the sun set.

I didn't realize how close Belfast and Ireland are to one another. You can easily travel up north and enjoy the beauty of Belfast after a few days in Dublin. The ride to Belfast has views of country fields with farms and sheep and is just so lovely. I stayed at the Fitzwilliam Hotel and highly recommend it due to the excellent service, the breakfast and location. The city itself has rolling hills and many beautiful homes. The one place you can not miss during a visit to Belfast is the Belfast Castle. Enjoy a lovely dinner and then walk around the grounds for an incredible and memorable view of the city. The Catholic churches in Belfast are among the most beautiful in the world and I suggest visiting the Clonard Monastery. To truly experience the history of Belfast you could visit the Crumlin Road Prison where members of the IRA as well as loyalists were held. A visit to Milltown Cemetery where the members of the IRA are buried will also provide an education on the history of Belfast. It is such a beautiful city and am looking forward to the next visit.

View from Belfast Castle

 Crumlin Road Courthouse

A Belfast Church