First Days

It's been a full two days since my arrival to Dublin.  Before I delve into a full recap of the last 48 hours (maybe I'll tackle that tomorrow)   there are some things worth sharing immediately.

Unanticipated Observations: 

1. The Weather- It's WARM!!! Ireland is extremely mild compared to icy State College in January.  It has only rained once since I've arrived and it was what the locals call a "pleasant" or "happy" rain.  It mists a little but isn't a soaking rain. Today it's around 50F and sunny.  It's also extremely bright during the day, which surprised me. The only drawback- it gets dark around 5:30pm (half five)... the sunsets are breathtaking nonetheless.
2. People really are that nice- Examples: My taxi driver walked into the UCD office with me in order to make sure I was in the right place. My RA carried my bags up a huge staircase (100 pounds of bags mind you).  A nice woman gave Bianca and I detailed directions to Forever 21 in downtown Dublin.  Everyone here wants to chat and to hear your story- where you're from, how you like Ireland so far. It is unbelievable. 
3. Drive on the left, walk on the left- Kind of obvious right?  It's silly but it's something that I have to get used to. While walking down the street or in a supermarket, one  must always walk on the left.  I'm getting better, but I didn't realize I was being rude until I ran into someone... lesson learned.
4. Incentives- 15 cents for a packet of ketchup? one Euro to use a shopping cart? 22 cents for a plastic bag? Although these fees are negligible, it seems as though Ireland has figured out how to be less wasteful.  They are pesky, true, but it makes me ask myself if I really need a bag..if I really even need ketchup (gasp).  Using less isn't all that bad... and I plan on getting used to it. 

Arrival: 

Massive Staircase up to my room

Part of Campus- Blackrock was originally a convent

Entrance to my dorm

Residential area of Blackrock right outside campus limits

Once again, I find myself living in East Halls...

Exploring Dublin: Bianca and I had our own walking tour of the city.

St. Anne's in Dublin

They have a Nutella-Flavored Gelato- The Irish know how to do desserts

Stephen's Green Mall

Interior of the Mall

Dublin- this is how most of the city looks

Most of the city doesn't exceed 3 or 4 stories

Infamous Temple Bar! Bianca and I got interviewed by an Irish Radio station a few seconds after this was taken

View of the River Liffey from the bridge

First Night Out:

Penn State loves- Looking forward to the rest of the semester