When I first got to Dublin, I thought I’d spend my weekends checking off the “must-see” spots.
But the truth is, I realized pretty quickly that the big tourist attractions not only are super packed
with slow walkers and tourists with little spatial awareness, but are usually not the most
interesting. What I do love, though, is finding those little corners of a city that feel like mine. The
hidden gems and places that make you feel like you belong there, even if you’re only there for 8
weeks.

Jazz at O’Regan’s & Monday Nights at Kelly & Coopers
One of our favorite built traditions is heading to jazz Thursdays at O’Regan’s, where everyone’s
focus is on the music (or silent movies being played on a projector screen in the back). The vibe
is calm and sophisticated, perfect for an enjoyable, tourist-free night out. Similarly, there’s
Monday live music at Kelly & Coopers in Blackrock. It’s always filled with locals (have we
become locals at this point?) from the town who we’ve come to recognize from our time here on
Monday and Friday.

The Dance Studio at the Village Gym
Another little haven of mine specifically is the dance studio at the Village Gym. Having no home
studio in Williamsburg, it’s been a true gem to be able to use the dance studio a couple of steps
away from my dorm here in Dublin. I’ve been able to work on new show pieces and come up
with new choreography after classes. Plus it’s the only place in the village with air conditioning!

The Goat Restaurant: Because Yes, There Are Real Goats
Not every place I love is hidden away. The Goat Restaurant is a perfect example—quirky,
laid-back, and yes, there are actual goats outside. But what keeps me going back isn’t just the
novelty; it’s the good food, the easy atmosphere, and the way it feels like a spot everyone in the
area just knows.

Running Around the Lake on Campus
Whenever I need a reset, I lace up my sneakers and head towards the lake on campus. It’s
quiet, has swans and ducks, and feels like a deep breath away from the city noise and stress of
finance.

Lazy Days Breakfast in Blackrock
Lazy Days has become our go-to breakfast spot on Fridays, partly because the food is cheap
and the outdoor seating leads to lots of dog spotting, but also because it feels so distinctly local.
Most of the crowd are Blackrock regulars, and there’s something about that everyday familiarity
that makes me feel right at home.

Why Being a “Local” Feels Like Home
These little routines and favorite places have shaped my time here more than any guidebook
landmark ever could. Living abroad, I’ve realized, isn’t about how many famous sites you see.
It’s about the moments where a place starts to feel like yours