For years I’ve been wanting to go to Ireland with my family. Part of it was on our own, and part was through JB’s company.  I had fun planning some of the excursions, and it was nice having some that was planned by JB’s company!   

I am writing this on the flight to Spain.  I find that if I don’t write about our trip right after, I never end up doing it.  I haven’t caught up from some of last summers trips!  Plus, it’s great to get it all out when it’s fresh in my mind.  

For us Dublin was a stop over on the way to and from our main destinations.   My kids are 9 and 11, and I have learned the hard way that sometimes its better to just go with the flow and not plan a ton… especially on travel days.  Things were busy in Dublin, as Taylor Swift had just played there the night before,  

Where we stayed:  The Intercontinental.  It’s tough finding hotels for families of four in Europe.  But this one was great for our quick stop overs.  We enjoyed the pool and the big breakfasts each morning.  If you want to treat yourself – The Shellbourne is a beautiful storied property right in the center of town.  The Intercontinental was not right in the heart of downtown, so something to note!  

Where we ate: 

Matt the Threasher – delicious spot!  I loved our mussels.  

Pickle – After our ten days in Ireland we were itching for something more than fish and chips and were hankering for something different.  This Indian restaurant is SO good.  I’ll be dreaming of it for a long time!  

The Shellbourne – for excellent hot chocolates!

What we did:

Saint Stephens Green – it’s a beautiful park where the boys ran around, played soccer, played on their playground, etc.  

Wish we did, but didn’t have enough steam due to jet lag coming in, and being toured out on the end:

Book of Kells – this library would be beautiful to tour

The Little Museum – I have heard great things about this!  

Viking Duck Tour – I’ve heard this is a great way to see the city with kids!

The Temple Bar – we did walk by here, but would be fun to do a tour!