From Sorrento with Love

After a slight panic trying to get a taxi to the airport, we arrived with loads of time to spare. Taxi ended up being free due to a promotion. We made it seemlessly through security, and got few bits for plane, as neither us were really hungry because it was way too early to eat. We were unlucky not to sleep beside each other. Liam nodded off for a bit,  however, I was unlucky to be stuck beside, the most annoying two-faced, self-centered shrew I ever met. I was never so glad to get off a flight in my life. Until, we met the travel agent at the airport who was unhelpful and rude but we got sorted in the end with our 3 day tourist travel pass. What is ironic, Liam sub-consciously told the agent I was 25,forgetting I had turned 26, so was entitled  to a young person pass, which was 7€ cheaper. With a sprint, we finally made the ALBIUS bus from the airport into the centre of Naples. 

We attempted to try find a pizzeria that was recommended on trip advisor, after a detour or two,finally found it, however it was closed, which was surprising, as it was lunchtime on a Saturday. As I have never seen Liam so nervous or anxious, as we strolled around the city, we made a beeline for the train station, to catch the circ.. to Sorrento. As everyone packed on the train, we were very lucky to get seats, as it was getting pretty full. On the journey, one of the passenger across from me, opened a water bottle, which sprayed everywhere, spraying me in particular, which was a welcome relief and was something of a conversation starter. Somewhere on the way, traditional Italian type musicans boarded the train, and began playing stereotypical Italian music. Once we arrived finally into Sorrento, after what seemed like an eternity, with our 2 new friends in toe, we departed the station and attempted to find the Foreiger's Club hotel, which was recommended in the Rick Steves' guide book, something Liam and our new friend Anna, had been reading, with Liam leading the way, following the directions laid out in the book, which were spot on, and we all got to the information point with ease, collecting all the required info. After this, we finally made it to our hotel, where we parted company with our new acquaintances. We quickly checked-in, unpacked and went off exploring the town, the view from the rooftop of our hotel, was breathtaking of the mountains in the distance,which we soon learned was nothing to the view from the marina. As we climbed down the steps from Piazza Tasso towards the port, which was some trek, but was a fun experience, we saw the Sorrento city train and gave us idea that we must do that and both agreed, glad we did it even if it was tiring.

We explored the marina, port and surrounding beaches, before attempting the scary but beautiful climb back up to the town, which seemed to last for ever. Ironically, if we had brought our travel passes out with us, could've got the bus back for free.  We found the first place that looked decent for food, as at this stage, we both were famished. Soon after the meal, unsurprisingly we found the obligatory Irish Bar, Chaplin's. Not long after this, as it'd been quite a long day we were wrecked, and had an early start the next day, so off to bed we went. On the stroll back to the hotel, approx. 9.30pm we noticed the evening rush hour traffic, which we both laughed and joked about.

After an early start the following morning, we headed to the train station, having consumed the complimentary breakfast. We got the train to the Pompei Scavi stop, collected our tickets at the Porta Marina using our tourist passes. Once we got into the site itself, we began using Rick Steves' audio tour and map, which directed and guided us around the ruins, which we found invaluable at times, as it's quite easy to get lost and confused due to the vast size of the ruins. This audio tour, highlighted 18 key ruins which showcased the site perfectly, especially the house of the faun, house of the vetti, brothel (or Lupanare with such erotic art drawings on the walls) and the theatre. After this audio tour finished, we trekked to the other end of the site to the Villa dei Misteri which luckily enough was worth the walk. Before we knew it, we had spent almost 4.5 hours at Pompei, nearly an hour over the time, we originally planned. The walk from Villa dei Misteri back to the station, was nearly more strenuous on us then the 4.5 hours within the site. 

  

Once we finally got the station, the next train that was due was cancelled, which gave us time to recover before our next outing in Ercolano, to visit the site of Herculaneum. What is quite ironic, on the walk to the site, seems we took a wrong turn, and ended up in the wrong end of Ercolano for almost an hour, we nearly gave up trying to find Herculaneum when out of no where, we walked passed it. We both nearly cried with laughter and relief at finding the site finally! During our time at Herculanum, Liam was almost in tears when his home button on his phone became lost. He was such a grouch for the rest of our time at the site. The site is more intact in parts. Then Pompei, preferred certain aspects of this site, mainly less crowded, had the women's baths as well as the men's (Pompei only got the men's), however the baths in Pompei were more extravent then Herculanum. The statues were amazingly intact and so ornate. The trip back to the station was so much quicker and less eventful then getting to the site. On the train, Liam finally saw the funny side of it, as he joked about leaving a part of his phone at a Roman ruin. 

When we got back to Sorrento, the fun didn't stop as we jumped onto the City Train Sorrento. Which gave us a scenic audio guided road train trip around Sorrento. The first time we sat down and chilled all day was over a drink at what seemed to turn into our local, Chaplains. We finally managed to get something to eat, at a place we noticed the previous night, La Fenice, despite the quite slow service, the food itself was perfect. To complete the perfect day, we went to a gelatari Bougainvillea, that was recommended by Hotels.com iPhone app as we booked a hotel in Sorrento. 

Last minute change of plans, afforded us the ability to spend the day, travelling along the Amalfi Coast. Our day started off with pure luck, as we got the last 2 seats on the bus leaving Sorrento towards the coast, as we didn't want to stand the hour journey to our first spot, Positano. We soon learned, we got off at the wrong bus stop, after a detour or two, finally started the descend towards the beach, Spiaggia Grande, where the cathedral Chez Black, despite the long trek down, the beauty of the duomo made the effort all the more special. The shorter trek up the hill to the bus stop, was timed perfect as we made it as the bus pull up and we hopped on towards Amalfi. The cathedral of Amalfi, dedicated to St Andrew the Apolstle was a particular highlight of our visit, with this complex housing the Cloister of Paradise built in the Arabian style holding ancient sarcophagus, mosiacs and in the middle of the northern side of the cloister gave the perfect glimpse of the cathedral's bell tower, in the crypt the preserved remains of the apostle are hidden under the altar covered by heavy slab of marble and cathedral itself to the right of transept is the chapel of the relics housing relics of saints brought with the body of St. Andrew. At the bus terminus, we had to wait awhile to get a bus to Ravello because of the queues. When we finally got there, we took in the breath taking views of the surrounding areas from the hills above Amalfi. As the village of Ravello is such a small town, it's explored by foot. After a well earned coffee break in the Piazza Duoma, we dediced to just visit the Villa Rufulo due to time restraints. We were able to get the group admission rate due to our Artecard card into the estate, which gave us outstanding views of the Bay of Salerno. The panic of people boarding the bus, meant we had to wait for the next one, where again pure luck we were able to get seats for the journey back to Amalfi. Nearing Amalfi, with the roads so small our bus driver has to reverse for what felt  like an eternity, but everyone on the bus gave him a round of applause as it was no mean feat. The crowds waiting for the connecting bus to Sorrento were outrageous, when the bus finally arrived, pure chance we were able to get onto the bus, however we ended up standing until we got to Positano as crowds on the bus were jammed packed. After getting back to Sorrento we went straight for food, as were fanished where were we serenaded  by a female singer, and Liam had both limencello which I think went straight to his head. After our nightly visit to the irish bar and Bougainvillea, we gave into tempetation  and try the Queen Amsterdam chips as there was always a queue on the walk home. That was until we heard and saw a real life Italian tenor, singing in the private courtyard of a residence club, in the Piazza Tasso singing Nessa Dorma, which had Liam emotional as he always loved that song. 

With our last full day in Sorrento, we decided to go visit the island of Capri, we bought our tickets at the marina, like with everything else, the queues were unbelievable and disordered. The hydrofoil took just over 25 mins to the island, and had our tickets for the 9.45 am tour around the island and to the Blue Grotto which cost 30 euro each with 13 of that paid directly to the grotto. The tour leads to the White Grotto, Arco Naturale, Faraglioni rocks, Green Grotto before stopping and giving us to option to visit Blue Grotto and see the magic of the water from within before returning back to port. From here trying to follow the recommended intinery by attempting to catch the bus to Anacapri after 3 buses and 45 mins queuing, we jumped on the next available one to Capri and get a connecting one from there. Although the queues were as bad, the frequency of buses was a lot more frequent, that we were on buses with seats even, quite quickly. Once departing the bus at Anacapri, we got on the chairlift to Monte Solare, purchasing return fares. Liam told me at the top, and his finger nearly got caught on the bar as he entered the chairlift. Although the views from the summit were amazing, my vertigo had kicked in, on the journey up and wished to walk the descend instead. Over half way down, the ironic thing happened, I slipped and fell on my backside. Liam was at first, not quite sure what happened, before he realised to help me up. The journey down was properly more dangerous, twice as long and more painful on the feet than the chairlift would have been but we finally reached the bottom and brought us right to the Villa San Michele our next stop. That was until we saw the price of admission, and thought wasn't worth the money because all we wanted was the panoramic view. Then to our surprise, we saw the viewpoint which was free and the view was outstanding. We decided to tough it out and stroll back to Capri which took roughly 35 mins. In Capri we got a cannolo, al baba and lemon slushi, before joining the que for the funicolare railway, back to the port. At the port, after getting the ticket for boat back, maneuvering through the crowds waiting for the Napoli ferry, was near impossible and riots nearly occurred, only for crew did any of the passengers for the Sorrento ferry make it through. Despite the ups and downs of our visit to the island it was worth the effort. 

To finish off our trip in Sorrento, next morning we went to visit the church of St. Anthony, whose the patron saint of Sorrento, before boarding the train for Napoli. In Napoli, while waiting for our connecting train to Roma. We tried to see if da Michele the pizzeria was opened this time, but was closed due to vacation. So tried another one nearby, after waiting 30 mins to order, another 40 mins for food before we decided to walk out as we had our train to catch. Ironic thing was when we got to Napoli Centrale station, our train was delayed bout 40 mins before we departed for Rome. 

Any Dream Will Do!

After a tiring weekend working over the August bank holiday weekend, was great to have a well earned me day. Began the day with a short visit to the Irish Sand Sculpture 2014 at Dublin Castle, with a particular highlight being the sand sculpture of Albert Einstein. After putting it off for years, decided to finally  give Odessa a try for lunch. The one time I go, I had the whole restaurant to myself for the  entire time, which was funny but was nice. The food was what I expected which was perfect.

 While I was relaxing after my meal, ended up tweeting 37 Dawson about their red velvet cake, as I've being having dreams about it, asking them if there was any left. The conversation between me and the bar's twitter account was hilarious about the cake. As you can imagine, I gave into temptation and went to get the last slice of this mouth watering cake. It was better than I even remembered. The following day met up with +Niamh for some lunch at Bewleys Cafe, which we both agreed was nicer than we thought it would be and both loved the Guinness soda bread. After lunch we decided to enjoy the summer sun, strolling around town. I brought Niamh to the sand sculpture event in Dublin castle.

After work on the Thursday, met with Niamh for some pre theatre dinner at Herbstreet in Grand Canal dock, we both were a tad disappointed as it wasn't up to their usual standard. After the food, we strolled across to the Bord Gáis theatre for Avenue Q. From the onset, the cast had the audience in stitches with laughter. I've not laughed so much or so hard in such a long time. Can't recommend this musical highly enough. I had tweeted members of the cast and they all replied which was very nice of them.

Monday morning I kept hearing a vibrating next to me, and was wondering what was the noise, so checked my phone to discover 8 messages before 9 am. So no lie in for me, ended up in town before work for a lunch at Captain Americas followed by tour of Leinster House. On the bus journey into town, got a phone call from Bord Gáis about my enquiry for discounted tickets for, Joseph and the Amazing  Technicolour Dreamcoat. So ended booking 2 tickets for the Wednesday evening show for 20 euro each and no booking fee which was even better. As the tour over ran, I had to literally run to make work on time, which lucky I did. Despite the weather ruining my day off, particular highlight was when I got my haircut, I got a free beer, umbrella, beard trimming and hot refreshing face towel, I didn't wanna leave. To cheer myself up, I treated myself to a Bewley's coffee and scone, before having to rush home, to attempt to dry my uniform, which had been out on the line throughout the downpour.

       

After a quick change in work, met Niamh at Brasserie 66 on the Wednesday 13th for our dinner booking, which we made as we got a 25 euro voucher on Facebook, which the restaurant had running during the Garth Brooks debacle. We both jumped at the opportunity to finally try this restaurant, after hearing so much about it over the years. The food was what we both expected, after which we strolled towards to Bord Gáis theatre to see the musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. We collected our tickets from box office, followed by a drink at the bar. It was surreal to finally hear all the songs from the musical on the stage. After the show we strolled across to the Marker hotel for a drink at the rooftop bar and enjoying the beautiful view of the city lit up at night, wrapped up in the complimentary blankets provided, also the ambiance around us.

To round off the week before the holidays, decided on a recommendation from Niamh, to go and see the musical, Title of Show, on in the New Theatre in Temple Bar, which had our friend +Mark T Cox playing Larry the pianist in the show. The show was pure genius, it had everyone in stitches, I'm sure I nearly wet myself with laughter. After show, went for a quick bite to eat as was starved, however I missed the bus by a minute, so had to wait for the next one 30 mins later in the cold. 

Becoming a Socialite

We began July with a touch of history and culture, with the Kilmainham Gaol Museum tour, which was free, thanks to the free Wednesdays events, that are run in conjunction with the Office of Public Works. Initially, we had to queue, to collect our tour time, due to high season and free admission. We were lucky enough that our tour was just an hour later. This gave  us plenty of time, to explore the collections of artefacts on the three flours in the museum beforehand. Our Tour guide Fiona, straight from the off, had the whole tour group in stitches laughing, over the next hour, she highlighted and explained the history of the Gaol and some of the most famous inhabitants and even what movies were shot in the prison. Although both Niamh and myself, had previously done the tour before, we felt the tour guide this time, made the experience all that more enjoyable. Its something everyone should and must go visit, as it well worth the effort.

 The following Friday, I met Niamh after work, for some pre-drink and food in O'Neill's , before we headed to an Independence 4th of July event, that she had won in VIP magazine. The event itself was being hosted in the library area of Lillies Bordello in conjunction with Sunway, VIP and Sutter Home wines. Right from the beginning of the event, there was a lack of organisation and deliverance on the side of the PR company. The White Zinfandel that on was offer, itself was quite tasty however the finger food was questionable to say the least. At least at the event, we meet some lovely people, and had more fun together, after the event itself was over. A few of us went down to the main bar of Lillies and talked and drank the night away. A particular highlight was when a random stranger began singing, which got everyone going.

  Continuing on our Sunday Brunch catch up, it was time to revisit an old favourite, the Gotham Cafe, which never fails to please. After which we strolled through Merrion Square, checking out the Street Performance World Championships. As Niamh over brunch, was telling all about it, as she had spent the previous day, enjoying all the acts with a particular highlight being, the Australian duo Dream State Circus.

 We left the City Spectacular, and strolled towards the Living Room Bar, to get comfy and watch the Limerick vs Cork Hurling Munster Final. We decided to stay put for the World Cup Final, Germany vs Argentina. Luckily we did, as pretty much soon after, a queue began to form outside the bar and were charging 6 euro in. Well before the 8 pm kick off, the bar was packed and they had stopped letting people in. We were surrounded by Germans, who were a great laugh. When Germany won the whole place went berserk and the bar played 99 luftballons, which was funny watching all the Germans singing it. After all that excitement, we both dash for our respective buses.
Wednesday 16th, thanks to the RTE Guide, we both won tickets to see a preview screening of Rise of the Planet of the Apes. We both brought our mates, Niamh mate ran a tad late, so they didnt manage to get into the screening, as they had over subscribed for the screen. So in compensation, Niamh somehow managed to get 2 tickets for a different movie that night and a gift card for 2 tickets to use another time. All I managed to get was a free issue of the RTE Guide and a bag of popcorn. Niamh has all the luck.
July 18th, just as I was giving out, that I needed a night out on my way to work with Niamh on the phone, what does she go and win, free entry and cocktails on Facebook for Krystle Nightclub. However as I didnt have clothes with me, the poor girl had to dash to Liffey Valley and buy me a nice top, handy enough it was on sale. Niamh, myself and our friend Micheal, met up in the Odeon for a drink, before heading into the club at about 23.45. We were seated to our reserved area, and ordered our free cocktails, including Niamh Mocktail which she loved. The club itself was quiet enough that night, although Niamh and I still ended up in the late bar until we decided to leave about 3.30.

 Somehow the following lunch, I managed to meet up with Niamh at the reinstated Molly Malone Statue, at her new temporary location on Suffolk St. Then went for a bite to eat, before ending up in the Turks Head, to watch the Waterford-Wexford game, while keeping an eye on the Clare-Kildare through social media and somehow on top of these, book trains tickets for different legs of our Italy adventure.

 To keep our Sunday tradition going, we met up for our regular Brunch, this time trying somewhere new, NO 37 Dawson Street. Our waiter throughout our meal, had not only us but everyone there in stitches laughing. The food was a meal and a half and highlight came at the end, as dessert, their Red Velvet Cake. It was a slice of heaven.

As I was working 8 days straight, we meet up on the Wednesday, as I had to give Niamh, a photo of her and our father, at a Clare game in Cusack Park in Ennis. It gave us a chance to enjoy the sun and a tasty lunch in the Bamboo Garden area of Yamamori.

  When Saturday came around I thought what kinda hell am I in, when I had to get out of bed for work at 5.45am.  However I was more surprised to see Niamh turn up in Dundrum and come see me and how she  looked after her 5 km Colour Dash in the Phoenix Park.

  

Pride on the Cobbles

After a late shift change for +Niamh, she was able to get the train home with me, on the Saturday morning 21st for one of our quickest ever visits home. The journey home itself was quite funny and interesting with our chat with an american about american politics, sitting with us. After our initial confusion over mishap over the seats, the journey was enjoyable. Our dad collected us at the station in Ennis, where we then visited our mum and some essential drink shopping. Later that evening, we met our mum, in the Poets Corner, in the Old Ground for dinner, the hotel I previously worked for on a number of occasions. It was great to catch up with the folks that night, as it had been a few months, since we all were home together. After the crisis with the printer ink was sorted, after a panicked drive into Ennis to find a store still open to buy the inks, the flight tickets could finally be printed. The following lunch time, we had Sunday dinner, some times you just can't beat, a good home cooked meal prepared by your mum. Before our train journey back up, we both got to visit and see our granny for a few hours, who actually came with us to the station, to see us off. The journey back up was not as eventful, as the one down, which at that time of day was quite nice for a change. When we finally arrived in the door at Niamh's, we sorted our packing and relaxed before bed. With a 6.30 am start, we prepped ourselves, and made the stroll to the Airport Hopper pick up stop for 7.30. At least this time around, there was no issue going through security, unlike the last time with the issue over our iPads, I did however had to bin a tube of hair product. Going through duty free, we went aftershave shopping, at one stage I was nearly covered in different types of aftershave, before I actually decided which to buy. We had a surprisingly tasty breakfast over near our gate 103. We both made the joke about our plane, that Ryanair must be renting planes as our plane was an Air Explorer one. The journey it self  over to Manchester from Dublin was uneventful, short and smooth. We arrived on time 11.30 am and managed even to be on the 11.55 am train into Piccadilly. The cost of the ticket was 4.10 pound which included use of the Metrolink trams within the City zone.
      
 After getting off at Piccadilly Gardens, and wandering around for a while, including getting lost for about an hour, we finally got on our tourist way, with our first stop being the Central Library, located at the St. Peter's Square, which had one of the most high tech interactive study desks and decorated ceilings and stained glass windows. Strolling around the corner of the construction next to the library for the Metrolink extension, was the Victorian, Neo-gothic municipal Town Hall, which was an architectural delight. As the tourist office located in the area, was closed due to the construction, we attempted to find the Urbis building on our own. Luckily enough we came upon a tourist information guide, who directed in the right way and a detailed map of the city, which ended up been a life saver on a numerous occasions over our stay. On route to the Urbis building, we passed and had a quick peek inside of the Cathedral, before making it finally to the Urbis building which houses the National Football Museum. This museum spread over 4 floors gave the evolution of the sport, with several sections covering the game itself, managers, stadium, use of media in the sport and section dedicated to world football which houses memorabilia from the first ever World Cup Final to even Maradonna's famous "Hand of God" shirt. The current temporary exhibition on floor 3 is Game Changers, depicting the 125 year history of the football league. At the end of the exhibition, there was a fun element where they wanted you to tweet a selfie with a sculpture, which was so funny taking to take it, having both myself and Niamh in it. After our visit, we made our way to the free Metroshuttle bus stop, which brought us near to our next stop, the Coronation Street Tour.

 After getting off at the stop, making our way to Granada studios, we got lost, luckily enough we hopped into the MOSI (Museum of Science and Industry), and got directions, we were closer than we thought. We got our tickets at the box office after slight confusion, luckily had the credit card I paid the tickets with, on me. The tour itself commenced at 3.20 pm, right on time with a group of about 30 people. The tour doesn't allow photography within the interior of the studios itself, but you are allowed to take as many as one likes, on the exterior or on the cobbles. The interior section of the tour, showcased several essential aspects of the set, from hair/make-up and wardrobe, to the living room sets of some of the residents on the street, such as the Platts, the Duckworths, the inside of underworld and of course and most importantly the interior of the Rovers Return, which felt surreal to be sitting in the rovers. During the walk through the sets, we saw various costumes/props such as Carla Connor's Wedding dress, the classic Deirdre Barlow glasses, to the recent casket used to bury Harley. The highlight of the tour, which it always was gonna be, was the ability to walk on the cobbles. It was mad to see the exteriors of all the houses, the Kabin, Rovers Return, and underworld. We were free to roam around the cobbles for as long as we wanted. Before we knew it, we had been for over 45 mins. We both were delighted with the tour and glad we did it. From the studios, we got the metro shuttle and then the connecting one back to Piccadilly Gardens and finally check in.

      

Travelodge couldn't have been located any more central, and as we learned later, was only opened a few months, which showed. Once we got settled, the first fight of the trip happened, over what to do for the night. After the tiff was finally sorted, we strolled the 10 min walk to the Printworks entertainment venue. After what seemed an eternity, we somehow picked somewhere to eat, Peachy Keens, an all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant. Something we didn't know was Monday was voucher night, but thanks to Niamh's student card got a discount that way. We both were stuffed after that, and had to go for stroll to walk it off. We ended up on Canal Street, which is the Gay Village, and in a bar call Via Fossa, where there was Karaoke night on. It was closing time before we knew it 1am, the time flew by with the entertainment, with the usual tone deaf singers there was a few diamonds in the rough. Both agreed was a great laugh and fun in the end. We were back in the hotel before we knew it.

 We were up, out and off the tram just after 11 am, as we had got on a different route, than I had originally planned, we somehow managed to pass by the Lancashire County Cricket Club with a game in play, on route to Old Trafford, the stadium for Manchester United. After a quick stop off at the membership building, I managed to get a membership priced for the stadium tour and museum, thanks to a friend and student one for Niamh for the next available one at midday. As we had some time free prior, we explored around some of the museum beforehand. The tour of the stadium took approx. 90 mins, bringing us into the stands, the side line, directors box, dressing rooms and to the oldest part of the stadium 110 years old. The tour guide, even joked how like any tour, it finishes in the gift shop, which got a giggle from everyone. In the gift shop, you get to collect a souvenir cert of your visit to the stadium. We decided to go finish off the museum before relaxing over a coffee in the Red Cafe. The tour was worth the money and we both had a blast.

 

 On advice from someone, we decided to give the Imperial War Museum a visit, we didn't know what to expect. The museum free entry and it explores the impact of modern conflicts on people and society. Worth a visit  and don't forget to take the lift, up the 55 m high air shard to the viewing balcony above the city skyline. We then got the tram from Media City to Deansgate to go visit the MOSI, however we managed it, we took a wrong turn and got totally lost, luckily we arrived 15 mins before closing. We managed to get a quick flying stroll around various different elements of the museum, which highlights development of Science and Industry, in particular Manchester achievements in these fields. We somehow got about 30 mins within the museum, which wasn't too shabby. From here, we went on the search for the roman fort remains  known as Manucium.  The tram at this stop was closed, however the route back this time was better signposted to Deansgate stop. Once at the stop waiting for our tram, we saw where we went wrong, both started laughing. Once back at the hotel, we changed and got ready for our night out while watching the World Cup. When I noticed a 10 pound voucher off at Frankie and Bennys only for that night. Over the meal which was gorgeous, we finalised plans to meet up with Giulia and Mikey later, 2 we met on a kiwi tour in New Zealand almost 2 years ago, how time flies by.

 After our meal, we strolled towards Canal Street via the unknown, almost getting lost but noticed a familiar building, which saved the day. We relaxed waiting for the lads in a bar called the Molly House, a quirky old school type bar. It was great to meet and catch up, before we knew it, it was gone past midnight, the lads had to head home, being a school night and all. Whereas we decided to make a night of it, I was surprised how far the remainder of cash went during our pub crawl with particular highlights being the vibe in G-A-Y and almost squealing at the sight of a TARDIS cloakroom in a bar called Kiki. It was almost 4 am before we got back to the hotel. We were both wrecked after the jam packed day and night we had. After check out the next morning, we got some last minute sightseeing done, we attempted to get to the Manchester Museum, half way there, it was just not feasible because of transport and time. However got to see the late-Victorian neo-gothic John Rylands Library, Chinese Arch and Cenotaph. We finally managed to get the tram to Piccadilly station, where we got the express train to the airport for same price. We decided to head straight for security, so we could get through and relax, with the exception of a bottle of water which I drank. We passed through with no issue. Now with time on side, we got food in the Italian in food court, waiting on our boarding gate to be called. Despite the flight itself leaving a tad late, we still arrived on time. The visit to Manchester was fantastic, one will have to organise a re-visit sometime soon.

 Typical the second we disembark off the plane, its pouring out, after lovely few days prior. When we got back into the city, we were in time for the premiere of Mrs Brown Boys D'Movie. As the premiere got into full swing, the whole cast arrived, with the biggest cheers for Brendan O' Carroll and Rory Cowan. There was a great atmosphere at the premiere despite the rain. We both needed a drink with that weather, so soon as the premiere was over, we strolled to Panti bar for a drink. Which ended up being a few, after a Mate joined us, we just about made the last bus.

 The following morning, since in touristy mood, we trekked out to Glasnevin Cemetery, somewhere we both for years said we must visit. I had a groupon voucher for Glasnevin, 2 for 1. We had time before the 1 pm tour to visit the City of the Dead museum downstairs and the Cumann na  mBan temporary exhibition upstairs, where the tour was to commence. Our guide was Bridget, who throughout the tour was very funny and informative. Because of convenience, she had to alter her tour, so our final grave to visit was that of Daniel O'Connell, the founder of Glasnevin. The O'Connell round tower and his vault itself were quite impressive to see. Our guide informed us, that rubbing the coffin is meant to bring one good luck, so fingers crossed so. The tour finished just in time, to witness the re-enactment of Padraig Pearse's Oration at the graveside of O'Donovan Rossa at 2.30pm. After which we went exploring around the cemetery after a coffee in the cafe, located next to the grave of Michael Collins. Before we knew it, we'd been in the cemetery nearly 5 hours and it was closing time, so we dashed for the bus.

 

 As it as free entry in to the Little Museum on a Thursday evening, we decided to get the Mrs Brown Boys D'exhibition, which showed the influences for the character of Mrs Brown and the show. After our visit to the museum, it was time for dinner at Captain Americas, where I had a voucher for 2 for 1. Dinner was followed by drinks in the Front Lounge to see how the table quiz was going and see Slap and Tickle perform they're usual comedic duets. It was a fun night and seems a good bit of money was raised for GCN. We had to literally run for the bus, I managed to hop on the bus before the door closed, thinking Niamh was behind me, poor Niamh missed it but got the bus driver to stop to let her on luckily.

Friday Morning, another early start, for another day tour, this time to Glendalough and Powerscourt gardens. After a last minute panic of me forgetting my keys at Niamh's, I ran back to get them and we walked to the next bus stop and waited. I went ahead to collect the tickets for the tour at Dublin Bus, when I realised the Living Social vouchers were both the same, ran looking for Niamh and showed her the problem. After a chat with the clerk and his manager, it got sorted, we ran onto the bus before they changed their minds. From the onset, our driver and guide Michael, was hilarious with his personal antidotes about the city along the way. Once outside the city, we passed Sandymount beach where Leopold Bloom kissed Molly in James Joyce's Ulysses, along the coast through Dun Laoighre, Sandycove where the James Joyce Museum can be found in the Martello Tower and Dalkey where we had a quick pit stop to stock up on supplies. The first main stop of the day was in Glendalough, although we were here recently, we had a plan to see the waterfall and such. However because of the 1 hour time restraints, it meant  we had to literally sprint at a fast pace to Poulanass waterfall, to make it back in time. On the route down, took a wrong turn, got tad lost, so meant had to do slight downhill hill walking to get back on track. Once we got back down safely, without some how falling or repeating my last visit ripping my chinos, we were able to enjoy a gradually slower walk back until the very end, when we had to sprint. Once back on the bus, and on our way, we made the 45 mins journey up through the Wicklow mountains with panoramic views along the way, we arrived in to beautiful village of Enniskerry, which ironically enough was also the bus driver home town. Enniskerry is where the Powerscourt Estate and Gardens are located. The tour ticket included the 8.50 entrance fee into the gardens. The walk around the 7 different areas of the gardens at a pleasant stroll like pace took about an hour, with particular highlights being the Japanese Gardens, Triton Lake and Tower Valley. The Pet Cemetery is believed to be the largest pet cemetery in Ireland. After completing this pleasant stroll, we went for lunch in the Avoca gardens, over looking the gardens below and Sugarloaf Mountain in the distance, which was just end to the visit. On the way back to the bus as we still had time, we got a large 99 ice cream cone each as the sun had just come out to play. Niamh joked to me, as our tour guide gave our a brief history of the estate which was interesting, that I was struggling to finish mine. The tour guide said to me after the talk, that he noticed my tweet about the tour and he actually had retweeted it, as did Dublin Bus and Powerscourt, which was nice. The journey back to the city was infused with music, and local antidotes which completed the tour off nicely. We both had such fun on the tour and couldn't recommend it highly enough. After almost nearly a week, I finally got back home to mine.

 The following morning, with finally a slight sleep in, meet Niamh in town before meeting people at the spire, for food and drink before the pride parade. After refueling, with a cool refreshing pint, the tone of the day to come had been set. We found our spot on O Connell street to watch the parade. Approx over 40,000 people took part in the parade which started at the Garden of Remembrance and finished at Merrion Square. We followed the route, to make our way to the square. We stayed around for a while before exiting to find the nearest pub for drinks. We got food at a BBQ place called Pitt Bros on South Georges St, although I only had Fries, Niamh said it was tasty. Once everyone was finished, we made our way to the street parties over on Capel St. Niamh at this stage, made her journey home, a wise choice I think as the remainder of the day and night got drunker. Despite my drunken state, the day was a great success, everyone seemed to have a fantastic time. Thanks to Niamh's keen eye on Facebook, I managed to get a 5€ promo code for Hailo that they were offering exclusive for Pride, which helped with my taxi home.

 Woke with a hangover or maybe was just thoughts of going back to work after a week off. Think pure luck, that it wasn't crazy busy. After work mate collected me, and we got supplies for our trip to the powerscourt  waterfall. Not sure how but between us, we somehow nearly got ourselves lost. Luckily enough I remembered how to get to the powerscourt estate from my trip there that Friday. As the sun finally came out for a while, we were able to enjoy a picnic as planned by the waterfall. The waterfall itself which Is Ireland's highest, was a beautiful sight. It was nice place to walk around and to relax by. After our peaceful trip to powers court, we went up to Johnny Fox's which is highest pub in Ireland, for a bite to eat. The food was tasty especially the dessert, Irish whiskey cake. It was up here in the overflow car park, my mate attempted to teach me to drive, after trying to in powerscourt earlier. It was quite funny and could have done disastrously wrong. I managed to move the car few feet without causing any damage. From here drove to  the viewpoint in Killakee which has an amazing view of the city below and where we could hear the Marley concert in the distance below. A great end to an amazing week.

Birthday & Marathon Shenanigans

The excitement for the Flora Women Mini Marathon, all started when Clodagh came up on the Saturday afternoon, we spent the rest of the day and night, shopping and catching up on all the gossip. It was really when +Liam met us in town after work, when things got fun, as we all had to trek out on the bus, to the RDS to collect race numbers and goodies and sample the food on offer. After all that, decided to check out the Dublin Port Riverfest, in the docklands. All 3 of us, were a tad disappointed, how badly it was organised and lack of excitement about the place. Despite this lacklustre event, we strolled happily back into town for some grub, before the big arrival of my mother. We collected her off the coach, before making our way to the George, for the show and bingo. Somehow we aren't still sure how, but my mother managed to get a chair off the barman. Despite the place being packed due to the Bank Holiday. It was Clodagh's first time to the George and playing bingo. The show was hilarious especially as Aengus Mac Grianna, the RTÉ News presenter, was having his stag do there. The drag queens poked fun at him including showing the infamous blooper clip.
Myself and Clodagh left and got the last bus home, as we were tired and needed our sleep for the 10 km the next day. Liam and my mother stayed on until after the show and got home after 2 am, Liam told me. It seems I missed, one of the drag queen's Victoria Secret, fell on stage and sprained her ankle.

     

The following morning, myself and Clodagh met up with Liam and my mother in town for some breakfast. We ended up in brewleys at about 11.30, where they were offering all participants free hot beverage with their food. Once we were all refueled, we trekked out towards the Conrad hotel, cutting through St. Stephen Green, for  the Heart Children Ireland reception and bag drop, where we left our belongings except our phones, which Liam minded for us. It was time then to go to the starting area around Merrion Square. There was in excess of 40,000 women and men in drag. Liam told us after, that it took over 48 minutes to get everyone through the start line, by the time he got to the finish line, the elite runners had already began crossing the line, with the first one doing so in under 35 mins.  I crossed the line in 1hr39 mins which was thrilled with. We were all waiting for Liam back at the Conrad, who had all the phones. We were wondering where he was, when I phoned him from the hotel, telling we being there for 30/40 mins, he ran to meet us there. Where he told us, that he had been waiting for us at the finish line but couldn't see us and after waiting for so long decided to walk back the route towards Baggot street and back when I phoned. Once we were all together again, we crawled back to Grafton street, with medals in toe, where we bumped into my Godmother Anne-Marie outside BT. My mother managed to get a lift back on the bus with all girls to Ennis. Before saying goodbye to Clodagh the next day, Clodagh, Liam and myself, went for lunch at Luigi Malone'.

As shift on Saturday got cancelled, I decided to keep my fitness up and do the 5km parkrun in Griffeen Valley Park and my time was 43.57 mins. The following Sunday, I met up with Liam as usual after work for Brunch, which started off my Birthday celebration in Gotham Cafe followed by dessert in KC Peaches. This gotta us thinking maybe it was time for some cold beverages, so a small stroll over the river to Panti Bar, was in order. After relaxing for a small while with our drinks, we departed for our reserved front row in the George. Everyone got served a lot quicker at the bar, which was a great start. I got presents and cards from everyone which was really nice and sweet. Even the DJ, Karen took a photo of the group of us, which was great of her. From the onset of the show, Shirley Temple Bar commented about my birthday, saying that we'd be back to me later, which had me a tad worried.

 It was Martha and Sara first times, both to the G and playing Bingo. Although the jackpot itself wasn't won, everyone had a blast playing it, I came so close waiting on just one number, oh well. After bingo and few more drag numbers including Liam getting soaked with a water gun by Veda. It was time for the moment, Shirley referred to earlier, I was dragged on to stage and put on  a box, while everyone sang Happy Birthday and I gotta to blow out candles on a birthday cake too. I was given the cake to have and a bottle of Prosecco. Liam joked that he could have got them cheaper with his staff discount, recognizing the cake. Being M&S the cake was scrumptious of course, wouldn't except anything less. Towards the end of the night, Liam and me headed back to his. Everyone I was glad to hear and see had a fun and enjoyable night. It was  one of the best birthday's in a long time. The morning after, we both up and left for Dundrum, and had a bite to eat in Jamie's Kitchen before Liam started work. The highlight of the whole meal, was the homemade ice-cream and warm chocolate brownie, which I can still picture and taste, divine.

 

 For my birthday itself on Wednesday the 11th, Liam brought me on a food trail beginning with Worscht World and finishing at a little quaint bakery, before we decided to go to Dublinia, somewhere we been putting off for years. Luckily for Liam, managed to get 2 students prices for the tickets. As a group had just arrived before us, we had the remainder of the birthday cake, then climbed the steps up towards St. Michael's Tower, which had great views of the city. After our descend, seemed we timed it well, as we were in just in time for the 2.30 tour of the Viking area on the ground level. We were both pleasantly surprised how much, we enjoyed our visit and can't believe why we put it off for so long. After our visit to the medieval period, we continued on with this theme, and strolled the 2 mins to St. Audeons church, a place Liam had been to before, and told me I should visit. The church itself is the only remaining medieval parish church in Dublin still in use. It was peaceful visit, especially after the noises from the nearby street and was free. After our visit, we deserved a cold beverage, so ended up in Panti Bar, which it seems is turning into my local. Once we had cooled down, we got some food in a falafel Kebab place in Temple bar, before heading for our respective buses. I got my bus, still don't know why checked my bag, couldn't find my ipad, I rang Liam in a panic, who lucky hadn't got his bus, as it was running late, he hurried back to the previous places, we been to. While I waited to hear from him, I made a plea to the Saint of lost causes, St Anthony himself, whose Novena was on. Which I only knew from passing the Church of Adam and Eve. By pure luck, when Liam went back to Panti bar and asked the barman, someone had handed it in and it was there waiting for him. He jokingly tweeted me back with a pic of the rescued iPad, saying that I owed St. Anthony that money. It was a big relief.  

For my day off, I went into the Woolshed, to watch the Munster semi final Clare vs Cork game, despite a lacklustre game and bad result, I had fun time. After the game, went into Dame Street area to enjoy some of the YouBloom festival events, which is a free music festival. A particular highlight were the +The Hot Sprockets who were playing in the Mercantile. After a deserved sleep in, I met up with Liam after he finished work, and we walked in the gorgerous sun to the Grand Canal, for some pre-theater food. We had our meal in Herb Street restaurant, whilst sitting outside enjoying the sun. As we had some time to kill after collecting the tickets for show, we got ice cream due to the ideal weather for them. Once we entered the Bord Gais, Liam got a pint and ordered one for the interval. While waiting for the door to open,  we noticed a few celebrities about including Gay Byrne, Chris de Burgh and Rosanna Davison, as it was the press night for Let It Be. First impression of the seats were, thanks mam for winning them. Both Liam and myself couldnt be happier, and the whole stage had a pure 1960's feeling. Right from the onset of the show, the band got the whole audience involved and on several occasions had everyone on the feet dancing and singing along. Throughout the show, everything from the set, costumes, vocal and mannerisms of the Beatles were just perfect. During the 40 songs set list, the use of live camera and visual clips, added to the overall concert type feel. Everyone left the show, humming or singing the songs, myself included. Let It Be is possible one of the best tribute act type show I've ever seen.