Week 17: Birthday and Belfast

 May 10th- Dingle Pennisula

Dunmore Head

This year I spent my birthday in Ireland, making 21 the most memorable milestone yet. Additionally, May 10th was the day travel restrictions were finally lifted, making inter-county travel officially legal for the first time all semester. Emily cooked crepes (her newfound specialty) and the roommates all joined for a late birthday breakfast before celebrating both events with a road trip to Dingle Peninsula. 

Birthday breakfast by Emily

At our first stop, Inch Beach, it started to rain sideways minutes after leaving the car- we finally made it back with soaked jeans and damped spirits. Thankfully, the sun emerged and the wind soon dried us, making the rest of the trip much more enjoyable. Among the sights were "Hurley" castle, stone beehive houses, dramatic oceanside views, and Dunmore Head (where Star Wars, Return of the Jedi was filmed). It was a gorgeous day and fitting final road trip with Noemie and Hugo. Sadly, Maria had to stay behind to finish a 24,000 word essay… but it also allowed her to clean and bake, two equally unexpected surprises!

"Hurley" Castle

In the evening, we returned to an immaculate, decorated living room and a delicious chocolate cake. A few friends from next door came over for dessert and gave me such thoughtful cards and gifts. Our roommates presented both Emily and I with new "adventure" hats (hers was mysteriously misplaced on St. Patrick's Day), artfully wrapped in towels. Being with my people here felt like spending time with family; it was easily the best birthday so far.

May 12-14th- Belfast

Leaning tower of Belfast

With inter-county travel becoming legal, we decided to venture to Belfast, located in northeast Ireland. Emily, Maria, and I were joined by three neighboring friends on the lengthy journey. We stayed at a lovely airbnb outside the city centre. Nonessential retail, restaurants, and pubs were finally open, allowing us to spend two evenings enjoying Irish food and outdoor seating.

Outdoor dining (and drinking)!

On the second day, half the group took a car to the coast and Giant's Causeway, while Emily, Maria, and I toured the city. We visited the Titanic Belfast Museum from the outside (the inside isn't open until May 27th) and stood where the historic ship was constructed.

Titanic Belfast

My highlight from the day was visiting the Botanic Gardens, where the afternoon sunshine created an idyllic ambiance reminiscent of spring break in front of UL's white house. The scene was set by an ice cream truck parked at the entrance and Irish lads making music behind us. People played games, threw frisbees, and drank cool beer or cider in circles. We slipped into a pleasantly subconscious and sun-kissed state, resting from a long day of walking. Once the group rejoined, we went to an Irish restaurant hidden in a walkway and enjoyed the final evening. 

Beautiful botany

The return trip was smooth and uneventful. Prior to departure, we visited St. George's Market and the city centre for some souvenir/gift shopping. Upon arrival, our roommates joyfully welcomed us back with questions about the trip (they are planning to go next week) and Noemie's final homemade lasagna. It was a fitting final family meal as we celebrated our last major venture and *almost* last night in Kilmurry 43. Only one more post to wrap things up in Ireland (coming soon)...