Tag: Abbey

  • When in Dublin… | Abbey Road Programs

    When in Dublin… | Abbey Road Programs

    Dublin is a unique, quirky city which is very walkable and full of interesting buildings and architecture. Here are my top five things to do in Dublin (although there are a lot more!).

     

     

    Dublin Castle

    Located in the heart of Dublin, the Castle is believed to have originally been an early Gaelic Ring Fort. Although the Castle is now used for State functions and presidential inaugurations, visitors can explore much of the Castle, including parts of the original 13th-century fortress. The rich history of the Castle gives a lot of insight into Dublin, and the grounds are absolutely gorgeous.

     

     

    Cliffs of Moher

    Lying outside Dublin’s walls, The Cliffs of Moher are a must-see and were a major highlight of my semester aboard. The Cliffs span for five miles, and the views are incredible. This natural attraction is a popular tourist destination but is one that should not be missed. I recommend using a tour guide company to visit the Cliffs (like “Paddywagon Tours”), as the prices are very reasonable and you get to see some cool stops along the way. The wind can be a bit chilling so make sure to bring a jacket and, of course, a camera to take pictures of the breathtaking landscape.

     

     

    St. Patrick’s Cathedral  

    St. Patrick’s Cathedral has a rich history that dates back over 800 years. One of the few buildings remaining from medieval Dublin, the Cathedral has a gorgeous interior and the many burial sites including that of Jonathan Swift, author of “Gulliver’s Travels”. After visiting the Cathedral, make your way to St. Stephens Green and take a stroll through the public park, which houses the Yeats Memorial Garden as well as many festivals throughout the year.

     

     

    Trinity College

    Visiting Trinity College while in Dublin is a must! Walk on the cobblestone paths through the grounds, buildings and dining areas to see what a selective college looks like abroad. Afterward, make sure to drop by the Book of Kells Exhibit to walk through the Old Library and other works from the 18th century, including the Book of Kells.

     

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jolie Blair is a rising senior at Emory University from Sun Valley, Idaho. She is double majoring in Theater Studies and Public Health and has a passion for the arts, writing, and traveling. She studied abroad for the 2016 fall semester in Rome, Italy and had an experience of a lifetime, which she loves to share with those who want to listen (and even those who don’t like her 140lb Great Dane!).

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  • Top Five Things to Do in Rome |Abbey Road Programs

    Top Five Things to Do in Rome |Abbey Road Programs

    When In Rome…

    While studying abroad in Rome, I not only experienced the super touristy spots, but I also had the opportunity to live like a local and explore the hidden gems of Rome. Here are my top five things to do in Rome (although there are a lot more!).

     

    Source: https://tinyurl.com/y7837cce

    Explore The Monuments

    A trip to Rome isn’t complete without visiting all of the historical Roman landmarks, no matter how touristy – and crowded – they can get. From the Pantheon to the Colosseum, the Roman Forums, and the Spanish steps, there is an abundance of sights to see in Rome, and it never gets old experiencing ancient, Roman history. Make sure to watch your belongings carefully, however, as pickpockets are abundant in crowded, touristy areas.

     

    Source: https://tinyurl.com/ydf2jb6t

    Bike Around Villa Borghese

    A hidden, Roman gem I learned about – although it is still a bit touristy – is biking in Villa Borghese. You can bike around the gardens, stop for a picnic lunch in the grass, and walking through numerous museums and buildings. It is also close to many of the other monuments in Rome, making it easily accessible.

     

    Source: https://tinyurl.com/yd6l273b

    Visit Trastevere

    One of my favorite places in Rome is the neighborhood of Trastevere. From the cute little shops to the amazing restaurants, this area of a Rome is a must. Although there are many cool, and hidden, neighborhoods in Rome, I am biased as I lived in Trastevere and fell in love. I would highly recommend starting in la Piazza di Santa Maria – which is located right by the famous Santa Maria church – and walk around the area from there. This is a place you don’t want to miss!

     

    Market

    Source: https://tinyurl.com/kwrwqbb

    Travel around the Street Markets

    Another highlight of Rome is the street markets. Food, produce, gifts, and other goods are sold during weekday mornings and on the weekends. One of the most popular tourist markets is in Campo dei Fiori, which has food, any kind of pasta you could think of, and local, fresh produce. It is open every morning except on Sundays. Another amazing market – for fresh veggies, fruit, fish, and meat – is the Piazza San Cosimato market, which is open every morning except on Sundays. My personal market favorite, however, is the flea market located around the Via Portuense area in Trastevere. This market has EVERYTHING you could ever need at great prices! Clothing, toiletries, sunglasses, and other goods are sold here every Sunday morning-afternoon. Again, make sure to keep your belongings close at the markets, as the high volume of people brings out the pickpockets and other petty thieves.

     

    Spaghetti

    Source: https://tinyurl.com/ya85rk5k

    EAT, EAT AND EAT!!

    Of course, when in Rome you must eat! Here is a – very condensed – list of my favorite restaurants in Rome:

    • La Gelateria Frigidarium – a touristy, but AMAZING, gelato place (near Campo dei Fiori)
    • Dar Poeta – the BEST pizza I have ever had and I still dream about it (located in Trastevere)
    • Pimms – a great place for cheap salads and good risotto (in Trastevere)
    • Donkey Punch – a casual sandwich joint for a quick bite (in Trastevere)
    • Capa Toast – slightly touristy panini place (located in Trastevere)
    • Ristorante Maccheroni – a casual dinner place with some of the best pasta at great prices (in the Piazza delle Coppelle near the Pantheon)

     

    ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jolie Blair is a rising senior at Emory University from Sun Valley, Idaho. She is double majoring in Theater Studies and Public Health and has a passion for the arts, writing, and traveling. She studied abroad for the 2016 fall semester in Rome, Italy and had an experience of a lifetime, which she loves to share with those who want to listen (and even those who don’t like her 140lb Great Dane!).

     

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