These first two weeks have flown by! The first few days definitely took some getting used to, but everyone in Ireland has been really nice and friendly. During the first week, I took the bus to Dublin. It was much different from what I thought it was going to be. Yes it’s a bustling city, but it’s filled with history and culture. I went to the National Gallery of Ireland, which is home to artists such as Monet, Picasso, and van Gogh. I could have spent an entire day looking at the art! I also walked down Grafton Street (great shopping location) and toured the grounds of Trinity College.
There are so many beautiful paths and areas to walk around in Maynooth. The other morning I walked to the Carton House, an old estate dating back to the 1700s, which has been converted into a hotel and golf course. The grounds were lovely to walk around. I have also really enjoyed visiting the small cafes in town. There are quite a few choices but my favorite has been the Coffee Mill. They make the BEST scones!
Although I have had a great time so far, there are many things here that are different. But I am looking at it all as a learning experience. Now is the time to take all the differences in stride. I can’t wait to see what the rest of my semester holds!