Dublin

So here are my thoughts on Dublin. It is a city for the young. I enjoyed visiting Dublin much more in my 20's than I did in my mid 30's. I do think that my most recent visit to Dublin (October 2006), will be my last.
The city is charming and a must see if in Ireland for the first time, but I found my most recent visit too similar to other stops in a major metropolis. A highlight to be sure (at least for this traveled librarian), is Trinity College and the Long Room in the main chamber of the Old Library. The most spectacular library I have ever seen. This part of the library is included on your tour to see The Book of Kells. On my first trip to Ireland almost a decade ago, I truly enjoyed seeing the pages of The Book. However, in the time since my last visit, the "exhibit" is more like a Disney attraction, with a long line through the bookstore (for maximum sales effect), and a large room full of larger than life panels on the history of The Book. Fascinating to be sure, but not as magical as seeing it before it became the tourist trap it is now. However, it is worth the visit just for the access to the Long Room at the end of the tour.
Other highlights in Dublin, the churches. They are breathtaking especially my favorite, St. Patrick's Cathedral. Fascinating place and the resting place of the author of Gulliver's Travels, Jonathan Swift, he is buried next to his beloved Esther.Well worth a stop if you are on the tour buses or a short walk from Dame Street.
Don't miss fish and chips at Leo Burdock's on Werburgh Street, no longer served wrapped in newspaper, but still the best. And for a wonderful meal with the best service in Dublin, eat at Thornton's in the Fitzwilliam Hotel across from St. Stephan's Green. This is a dining experience not to be missed.