St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner so Dublin has been on my mind recently. Ireland is an ideal country to visit year-round but visiting the famous Guinness Factory is a must for any avant-garde traveler.
Here are 5 Reasons to Visit the Guinness Factory:
1) This is the Real Deal
The first time I tasted a Guinness was back in college and my initial reactions were not positive. However, when I was in Dublin in 2008, I actually enjoyed the taste of Guinness. Whether you are at the factory or at a local pub, you won’t have to worry about bad-tasting brew. Guinness drinking means serious business to Dubliners.
From AaronPhelps’ Photo Stream
2) Learn the Perfect Pour
Whether you are a beer fan or not, by the time you leave the factory, you will be well-versed in the art of Guinness brewing. Take advantage of the educational aspects of the tour and learn the art of the perfect pour. Just don’t be surprised when you see your local bartender back home pouring Guinness incorrectly.
With Guinness Brew Master, Fergal Murray last year.
3) The View is Free and Fabulous
If you are looking for the best view of Dublin, the view from the top level bar comes pretty close to perfect. The circular bar is lined with windows, giving you a 360 degree view of Ireland’s capital city.
4) It’s the Perfect Pre-game
If you are on a bohemian traveler budget, the Guinness Factory is the perfect pre-game. There are a few samples given out on your way to the top level and when you to reach the top, you are rewarded with a free full-sized beer. It’s also a great spot to meet other travelers.
5) Order Another the Right Way
Once you have a good Guinness you will want another. Go straight to a nearby pub and order Ireland’s best selling drink like a true Dubliner by using the local slang: “Arthur G”, “Arthur Scargill”, “Pint of black stuff” or “Pint of plain”.
Planning a future trip to Ireland? There are several hotels in Dublin that you can easily book and that are centrally located to the city center.
*This post was made posible by Octobus.
Megan Eileen McDonough is writer, blogger and social media specialist based in New York City. She also runs Bohemian Trails, a lifestyle blog designed for the savvy and stylish traveler. Bohemian Trails aims to feature must-see places around the world, covering everything from revamped neighborhoods and vibrant street art to innovative tech hubs and everything in between. Her cultural escapades have taken her to Latin America, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
Megan is also a freelance writer and social media specialist based in New York City. She contributes to various online and print publications in the travel and fashion industries and is an international correspondent for both Jetsetter and Northstar Travel Media.