Ireland Day 1
Jet lag, Joyrides & Juicy Little Dainties
After an easy flight into Dublin and a surprisingly smooth rental car pickup, I promptly forgot which side of the car I belonged on—and then which side of the road to drive on. You’d think that after growing up driving this way for the first seven years of my life, it would feel natural. But no. It took a few white-knuckled kilometers (and some stern pep talks) before my confidence returned.
Running purely on fumes and half a caffeine molecule, I pointed my car west and made my way to the colourful little city of Galway.
With its charming Latin Quarter, the historic Spanish Arch, and streets that hum with music and cobblestone character, it was a dreamy welcome. I wandered around, admired the famed Claddagh rings, and even popped into the tiny Claddagh Museum before grabbing some of the best-rated pizza in town at Dough Bros—because nothing says “Irish getaway” like a good slice.
Still hours before check-in and on the brink of a jet-lag spiral, I took a windy walk along the Salthill Promenade, breathing in the Atlantic air before braving another drive—this time an hour south, toward Kinvara.
The roads? Think Amalfi Coast meets Irish countryside: narrow single lanes, tour buses hurtling toward you at 100km/hr, and a surprising number of sheep judging you from the roadside.
Eventually, I arrived at my Airbnb—a quaint little house nestled in the green folds of the countryside. After a blissful power nap, I ventured 15 minutes into County Clare for a seafood feast at Linnane’s Lobster Bar, a local gem with awards to prove it. The oysters (or as the Irish adorably call them, the little dainties) were divine, the seafood chowder was pure comfort, and the Irish soda bread? Out. Of. This. World.
I tried to be brave and pair it all with a Guinness… but alas, it just wasn’t my pint. Considering there’s a global Guinness shortage, I thought it best not to waste a drop. I’ll find my Guinness groove later—I promise, Ireland.
Key Takeaways & Travel Tips from Dublin to Galway & Kinvara
Brace for the left side: Driving in Ireland (especially post-flight) can be disorienting. Be gentle with yourself, stay alert, and maybe skip the espresso until after the first leg.
Let Galway woo you: The Latin Quarter, Spanish Arch, and bustling cobblestone streets are the perfect antidote to jet lag. Don’t miss Dough Bros for a surprising slice of Irish pizza heaven.
Walk it off in Salthill: A windy stroll along the Salthill Promenade offers fresh Atlantic air and an instant energy boost when your body wants to nap in the middle of the day.
Get off the main roads: Driving through Kinvara and County Clare is not for the faint of heart, but the narrow country lanes and roadside sheep offer classic Irish character.
Eat like a local: Linnane’s Lobster Bar is a standout. Order the oysters, chowder, and Irish soda bread. Bonus points for being brave with Guinness, even if you don’t finish it.
Don’t over-plan Day One: Leave space for wandering, naps, and spontaneous detours—jet lag + magic moments = the best kind of arrival.
