Erasmus Experience in Dublin, Ireland by Ana

Why did you choose to go to Dublin, Ireland?

Because it is a vibrant, young and smallish city.

What is the student lifestyle like in Dublin?

Dublin is a young and vibrant capital with many things to do and visit. From Temple Bar to Botanic Gardens, from Howth and Malahide to Wicklow Mountains.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Dublin to other students?

Big time!

What is the food like?

I would recommend the Irish Stew, the Seafood Chodwer and all kind of soups with homemade soda bread.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Dublin?

Yes, it can be a nightmare to find a good place in Dublin.
Daft.ie and myhome.ie are two good sites to look for an accommodation.

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

There are thousands of English school around town. The cheapest they are, the most Spanish students they will have.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Dublin from your city?

I am originally from Alicante (Spain) so it is handy with AerLingus and Ryanair direct flights.

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Dublin?

I wouldn´t go to Temple Bar, I would visit small traditional Irish pubs.

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Dublin?

One good spot for sandwiches and soups is Fallon & Byrne.
For Italian cuisine I would go to Ciao Bella Roma.
Traditional Irish food in Porterhouse Temple Bar.

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

One of the most interesting visits is the Kilmainham Gaol.
I also recommend the National Botanic Gardens, The National Gallery, Trinity College and Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains.

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Dublin in the future?

I would recommend them to stay away from students with the same nationality and meet people from all over the world.