Dublin is a lovely city. There's a mix of old and new architecture, cobblestone streets and paved motorways. The city is divided north and south by the river Liffey. My hostel (Browns Hostel) is one of the cheapest here at $11 EUR/nightly (if you purchase in advance, otherwise $20 EUR) and is about five minutes north of the river and five east of O'Connel street, which is one of Dublin's main thoroughfares.


Just south of the river is the area around St. Stephen's Green which has my favorite bars and nightclubs thusfar. Nearby is the Temple Bar area that hosts most of the small live music shows.

As a refreshing change from Charlotte, Dublin has mostly pedestrian traffic, and the vehicles show a greater variety and economy than is typical of the US:


One thing that's surprised me is the amount of panhandlers here. Apparently Ireland just saw a great economic boom that is now being followed by a quick recession where many skilled immigrants are returning to their homes, leaving a smaller demand for unskilled workers and putting some on the streets (this is all from locals). I've been impressed with some who find ingenious ways of self-employment and expression.