Photo: Anna Church | Unsplash
Hello from Colorado, where we finally got a much-needed hit of fresh snow after an incredibly dry winter. Not so much in Denver, unfortunately — I fled to the mountains this week to get my fix.
I’m also thinking further ahead to warmer weather this summer and the upcoming FIFA World Cup games across North America. The Matador team has been thinking about the games for months, including tapping contributors and pulling from our experiences to create guides to the best bars to watch the games in each host city, can’t-miss attractions and fan experiences, and the top hotels and Airbnbs for those traveling for the events.
Where to eat, play, and stay:
The June start for the games may feel far off, though it’s not too early to start solidifying your plans.
Cheers,
Nickolaus Hines, editorial content director
T O - D O
Destination: Dublin
Dublin brings a certain image to mind, even if you’ve never been: buskers around Temple Bar, a third straight Irish breakfast that fills you ‘til sundown, and (of course) Guinness. The city has a special place in my heart for many reasons. My mom ran tours here for a couple of years. The food is better than what stereotypes suggest, the drinks are plentiful and delightful, and the Irish know how to make every day feel like an occasion no matter the weather.
Photo: Nickolaus Hines
Eat
You’ll find many chippers across the city when fish and chips cravings hit. You get what you come for at most of them, but break out into other traditional Irish dishes too — especially if you make mealtime a pub stop at the Brazen Head. For something a bit different, head to Market Bar for Spanish-style tapas. It’s in a lively, historic part of the city and serves as more than just a bite between drinks. Stick to the fish section (and some croquettes) and you won’t be disappointed.
Photo: Nickolaus Hines
Drink
I strongly believe there’s no bad place to drink in Dublin. But limit your pints at the more heavily touristed spots and save them for the real-deal spots. The Long Hall has a traditional 1800s Victorian vibe with an unstuffy modern energy. At Fallon’s, sip whiskey in the snug for a taste of history dating back to the 1600s. The top of my list is out of city center at the no-frills John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, run by the same family since 1833. Get a Guinness, and a whiskey, and a Murphy’s. Maybe a special roast if it’s Sunday. Once satiated, stroll the adjoining Glasnevin Cemetery.
Photo: Vicki Denig
Stay
The Shelbourne has two centuries of history behind it, but doesn’t feel dated. It’s luxurious, located on St. Stephen’s Green, and has four restaurants and bars on the premises. That includes a guest-exclusive cocktail lounge, 1824 Bar. For a night that won’t eat up as much of your travel budget but still has convenience and comfort, Stauntons on the Green has been around for 250 years. Relax in the gardens and terrace for a breather between bouts of exploring the city. Staff can set up a picnic in the private garden, adjacent to the Iveagh Gardens.
Photo: Nickolaus Hines
Do
You could spend days in Dublin on historic walks and museum stops. Don’t miss getting out of the city limits to see more. Grab your swimsuit, take the train 20 minutes from city center to Sandycove, and walk straight to the Forty Foot. James Joyce included the spot in Ulysses, and stayed in the close by Martello Tower in 1904 (it’s now a museum). Take a deep breath and swim in the Irish Sea alongside the locals who come year-round for a bracing refresher in the sub-50°F water. Change and warm up in the town of Dún Laoghaire after.
F L Y
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Photo: Tim Wenger
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E A T
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F E A T U R E
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Photo: Ian Poh Jin Tze
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Travel Well
The Matador Editorial Team