Dublin: September 2017
Starting the morning at Trinity College for their famous library, which has the Book of Kells and the Long Room. Both live up to their name, in particular the Long Room, although keep in mind you're in Ireland-- things here aren't nearly as grand as some other parts of the world.
A tasty Irish breakfast after at Beanhive, then off to Guiness Storehouse to see how Guinness is made, and of course, to have a pint in the very best place for a Guinness! The tour was a bit impersonal but was still fairly informative, and the crowds mobbing Gravity Bar are there not only for the beer, but for the view from one of the highest vantage points in Dublin.
Walked across the river to Jameson Distillery afterwards. A much more personal experience explaining the history and process by which whisky is made, including a nice tasting session between Johnnie Walker Black Label, Jameson, and Jack Daniels. Very enjoyable, as were the tastings available afterwards. Jameson, like a few others, is getting more experimental... not sure how I feel about the IPA cask aged whisky, but it was definitely worth a try. They also had several varieties of Green Spot, Yellow Spot, and Redbreast-- most tended towards smoother with hints of vanilla. Not a bad thing if that's what you like!
Temple Market was underwhelming. Several tasty looking vendors, but it was much smaller than expected, and the lamb and venison skewers were just okay. Ditto for the fish and chips a block away at Beshoff Bros.; we realized later that afternoon that Beshoff and Beshoff Bros. are not the same, and fixed that that night by going to Beshoff for a much better meal of fish and chips!
Other sights today included An Post (the historic post office) and the nearby Spire of Dublin. Wish we had more time!