Why There’s Nothing Quite Like Living in Dublin.
February 3, 2022
The great thing about living and working here is that you’re under no pressure to pack all that Dublin has to offer into a short break or holiday. Which is just as well as we’re not sure that’s possible. As a new resident, you can discover its hidden gems in your own time and come to love it like a local.
Getting along and getting around.
Dublin is small and that’s its beauty. Everything is within easy reach – and that includes friends. Exploring the city on foot or by bike is simple. Register with Dublin City Bikes for short hops around the town. Or if cycling is your passion, local cycling clubs can help you discover some amazingly scenic routes through the Dublin mountains or further afield to nearby Wicklow, the garden of Ireland.
The city’s size makes socialising easy too. So you’ll find after work drinks or impromptu meals happen quite naturally. If you’ve just moved here, it’s a good way to get to know your new colleagues and make new friends. And it’s all part of keeping that work/life balance that attracts so many people to the Irish way of life.
Finding your feet in Silicon Docks.
It’s possible your tech career will mean you’re based in Dublin’s (affectionately known) Silicon Docks area. It’s a spot that’s buzzing with cafés, bars and restaurants serving up food, inspired by the world’s cuisines. The Bord Gais Energy Theatre, designed by Daniel Libeskind, is here too. A venue that hosts everything from international musicals and ballets to local music and comedy acts.
Café Culture – Dublin Style
Not too far away you’ll find Bewleys Café, an old Dublin favourite. Head to the top floor and enjoy a coffee, overlooking Dublin’s premier shopping street – through beautiful stained-glass windows.
A whistle-stop city tour.
Hop on a bus. This is one to help you get your bearings in your new city. Check out the many bus tours that take in all the sights and give you a quick head’s up on the local geography. Find one that lets you hop on and off if you see something you fancy. It’s the best way to discover your very own top spots in the city.
Parks and Recreation
Dublin’s well-kept city parks are commented on by many newcomers. Well, we do have a natural fondness for green. St. Stephen’s Green is right in the city centre and a popular spot on our sunny summer days. (Yes, we occasionally have them here.) St. Anne’s Park on Dublin’s Northside is another favourite and, of course, Phoenix Park where you’ll also find Dublin Zoo and Áras an Uachtaráin – home to the President of Ireland. You may even encounter some roaming deer.
People watching.
Now, we’re the first to admit this is not just a Dublin preoccupation. But, in recent years, our growing international workforce, our many visitors and new start-up businesses have made watching the coming and goings around our city even more rewarding. Try it and see.
After work, play.
Dublin is unique. But then we would say that, wouldn’t we? Here, you can you experience all the energy of a high-powered, well-connected international capital and yet be halfway up a mountain or down on the seafront in no time at all. With a coastline stretching all the way from Dalkey to Howth, just pick your favourite spot. Or take a boat trip into the bay for a whole new perspective on the city.
Take up a new sport.
There’s a lot of skill involved in this one. So perhaps start as a spectator with a trip to Croke Park stadium. Hurling, the fastest field sport in the world, is Ireland’s national game. Each year, teams from every county compete to be crowned All-Ireland champions. Hurling is played at every level though and it’s all about community. So, if you make the move to Ireland with family in tow, getting involved could be a great way for your kids to make new friends too.
The Dublin Pub.
Dublin is renowned for its pub culture. From old-style locals with tucked away snugs for a quiet pint to sophisticated cocktail bars, there’s something for everyone. If you really want to step back in time, try the Brazen Head. Dublin’s oldest pub, it dates back to 1198. Doheny & Nesbitt’s and The Long Hall are old favourites too. For a real taste of tradition, check out live music nights. Or if it’s more city-chic you’re looking for, try Café en Seine, No Name or Fade Street.
Get chatting.
Dublin people are friendly and always curious. So it’s not uncommon to strike up a conversation while waiting at a bus stop or in a queue. Sometimes you might get their life story. Or sometimes just a simple nod. Either way it’s about making a connection – something we do like to do here.
Well, there’s a whole lot more we could tell you but that, as they say, is for another day. If you’re thinking of a move to Dublin, we hope it’s piqued your interest. And if you’re already here, a hundred thousand welcomes. (As we say in Dublin and beyond.)