Guinness Storehouse – 15.5.2010

We walked long ways from our hostel to the Guinness Storehouse for a tour. It is in a different area of town obvious by the vibe it gave off. Not high class shops not as well kept a much more lived in area sure. We spotted the first sign and the excitement began to build. But the sign was only one of many taking us on a maze it seemed like to get us to the actually storehouse. After going through the normal kind of lobby and buying ticket routine we traveled up an escalator to the bottom of the Guinness glass in the center of the building. That is where the self guided tour began. The lights were low only highlighting certain elements in the exhibit. The sound of rushing water pulled us through the exhibit which was there to represent the pure and fresh water used to brew Guinness. Each of the five levels was different. We learned what it is made of how it made, how it began, how it has changed over the years in symbolism and advertising and so much more. When we reached the fifth floor it was midday and time for some food. We ate at the restaurant over looking the whole complex and Dublin. We could see the spire and multiple Cathedral bell towers in the distance from the window at the end of our table. The food was delicious and perfect to prepare our stomachs before we had our complimentary pint of Guinness. We checked out the gravity bar at the top where there is a 360 degree view of Dublin. As the doors of the elevator parted human noise exploded in our ears. Soon the reason for the noise was visible. People of all ages were everywhere almost packed like sardines in chairs and standing around you could barely see the window let alone look out of it. We did not stay long due to that and because we were ready to pour the perfect pint of Guinness and drink it a couple of levels down. We waited in line with so many internationals watching people before us pour their Guinness. Then it was our turn. A small group of seven of us lined up behind the bar and listened to the instructions the bartender told us. Taking turns in groups of two or three we poured the perfect Guinness. Our reward was a certificate and the pint of Guinness to drink. We spent a good chunk of our day there and later that night after a few last minute souvenir stopping, packing and fast dinner we walked to the Arlington Hotel and Restaurant for some live Irish music and dancing. We walked in toward the bar looking for the stage. This place was busy and so packed people were to standing. Luckily enough there were three bar chairs facing the stage. The only problem with these seats was there was a primary circulation path and cows of tables between us and the stage. When the dancers came out we could barely see them past all the heads and column. The disappointing factor for me was not being able to see their feet. I was happy though because I remembered I had wanted to have an Irish coffee in Ireland and this was my last opportunity. It was warm with an inch thick layer of white cream on top, strong but delicious. It was the perfect treat to end the day and my time in Ireland.