BY Raheema Khan
This edition we are exploring the fascinating land of the Irish – Dublin. After all, this year marks the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising, a crucial step towards Irish independence a few years later.
With lots of commemorative events taking place across Ireland, Dublin is definitely the place to visit these next few months.
Some of the major events taking place this year include a major exhibition in Dublin’s National Museum of Ireland called ‘Proclaiming a Republic: The 1916 Rising’. The exhibition, which was opened by Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny on 2nd March, explores the events of Easter 1916 when republican rebels seized key buildings in the Irish 
capital and declared independence from Britain at the height of the First World War.
Many objects are being publicly displayed for the first time to tell the stories of the civilians, combatants and survivors caught up in the Easter Rising. Displays of personal belongings and memorabilia aim to give visitors the ‘unique experience of physical proximity to the people and events’. A crucifix perforated by a stray bullet is among one of many objects illustrating the stories of civilians caught up in the crossfire.
The stories also tell of those who died, or were imprisoned and interned for their part in the Easter Rising, notably through the last letters of the leaders who were sentenced to death. More details are available at www.museum.ie.
Other events taking place to commemorate the anniversary include a day of celebration with music, theatre and
dance on 28th March and lectures and discussions at Liberty Hall on 26 April. Historic events come to life on a 1916 Rebellion Walking Tour, which visits landmarks including Dublin Castle, Trinity College and Kilmainham Gaol. Afterwards, visit the new Teeling Whiskey Distillery, the first distillery to open in Dublin in 125 years: tours include several tastings of the golden liquor, of course! If you’re peckish, try Dublin Klaw for some of the freshest seafood in town.
If you need a break from all of this culture and art, then don’t worry as for those who just want to relax and unwind, Dublin’s Portrane Beach is the perfect spot. This dual blue flag awarded Beach is located in North County Dublin and
is a 2km stretch of sandy beach lined by sand dunes.
There is no vehicle access to this beach, however parking is provided at the pedestrian entrance. There is a National Heritage Area (NHA) to the north of the beach, a site of local importance as it is home to a large colony of migrating birds during winter.
For the shopaholics amongst us, don’t worry as Dublin really does have it all. From department stores, to arts and crafts stores, to the most exquisite jewellery stores, you’re bound to find something, so take plenty of pocket money!
The main city centre shopping areas are Grafton St and Henry St. Both are located roughly the same distance from O’Connell Bridge, with Grafton St. to the South, and Henry St. to the North. They are about ten to fifteen minutes on foot from one another so you can easily cover both in one afternoon.
Traditionally Grafton St and the surrounding area was considered a high class area, with designer boutiques and
exclusive stores, while Henry St was more accessible to everyone’s budget. This distinction has largely been blurred these days as the shopping areas fill up with large UK chain stores, franchise coffee shops, and mobile phone shops, making Irish shopping areas resemble similar areas in the UK and USA. However, there are still small boutiques in the streets around Grafton St, and it is recommended in particular to visit the St. Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre, the Westbury Mall and the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre. Off Henry Street, beside the ILAC shopping center, lies Moore Street with many stalls selling flowers and vegetables, and hawkers calling out in a distinctive Dublin accent and a wide range of ethnic food shops.
Above all, Dublin is a friendly, cultural and happening city – most certainly a great place to visit for a short break.
Dublin Dictionary
If you’re going to Dublin, chances are you’re going to hear some phrases that are unique to this magnificent city. Well fear not, as we have our ‘Dublin Dictionary’ of the most popular phrases to help you on during your travels…
1. ‘Story?
Hello, how are you?
2. The state of yer one
She does not look very well.
3. Deadly
Excellent.
4. Keep sketch
Please make sure no-one sees what I am doing.
5. G’way outta that
I don’t believe you.
6. Scarlet for ya
I am embarrassed on your behalf.
7. Relax the cacks
Please calm down.
8. Nice one
Excellent.
9. Stall it for a jar?
Would you like to come for a drink?
