Wednesday 1/5: After we got back from Howth and dinner, we decided to play ping pong, mostly because I, with my big American mouth, said that I could kick Mohamed’s ass at it. So we, Hakim, Mohamed, Mathiew, and I, put together 3 of the dining room tables, a big bigger than a standard table but just as fun. We then obtained the necessary net, paddles and ball from the front desk. It was a battle of epic proportions. The 3 Frenchmen were all very good. Everyone beat everyone, with trash talking in both English and French, mostly in French. 2 hours later, after much laughter, we were sweaty and tired. I had a shower and went to bed, though the boys tried to convince me to go out to Temple bar with them.
Thursday 1/6: This morning I got up about 8:30, a little later than I wanted, but not bad considering I had gone to bed after midnight. Had a quick breakfast with Hakim, where he again encouraged me to come to visit them in Paris. I told him perhaps in December or January. He told me I was the most tolerant American he’s ever met. That is a high compliment from a Frenchman. I also said goodbye to Leo, Mohamed, Mathiew, and Marcilles. Hakim and Mohamed leave for France on Saturday, so I won’t see them again until I go to Paris. Leo, Marcilles, and Mathiew will still be there when I return to Dublin. I’ve met some amazing people already just a few days into my journey!
Walked to the bus station and took the 11am to Galway. It’s a 4 hour bus ride, but the monotony is broken by all the small villages the bus stops at to pick up passengers.
A few things I’ve noticed about Ireland since I landed that bear writing about. First, everything costs more, so I’ve stopped buying, such a hard American habit to break. Also, everyone is quite friendly; in fact they will go out of their way to help you. I have not met one ill tempered person yet.
If anyone decides to do the hostel route, there are a few key items to remember. The first is a towel. Hostels will provide one for a fee, much better to bring you own, there is no need to pay 4 dollars to rent a towel. Also, a lock is very necessary, and again, a hostel will rent or sell you one for an exorbitant overcharge. Bring sandals unless you want to be wearing your walking shoes inside the hostel, which can get uncomfortable. Hostels do provide free breakfast and it is a good idea to make use of it. It may be just toast and cereal, but it’s free.
Wi-Fi is a must. Most hostels provide free Wi-Fi, and I wouldn’t go to one that didn’t. Hostels are also a great place to meet people and a great place to find out where the best things in town are. The people behind the desk know the best tours for the money and can direct you to the best restaurants and local attractions.
So, that’s all for now from Galway, I’m thinking the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren Mountains tomorrow if it doesn’t rain…
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