Posts by author Jessica Colley
Which New York neighborhood is right for your trip? It depends... Photo: Unsplash
Neighborhoods matter in New York. When choosing a place to stay, don’t ignore neighborhood for the sake of price. It is a vastly different Manhattan from the Upper West Side to the East Village, so look to strike a balance between price and location. Be (somewhat) close to where you want to visit, and the » Read more
Take in free entertainment in Dublin's pubs, including Gogarty's, above. Photo: Elizabeth Burnett
Dublin is known as a wildly expensive city where hotels and eating out can cost you a small fortune if you’re not careful. Although that reputation is well deserved, Cheapos shouldn’t just cross it off their list of places to visit. In fact, there are several ways to save money in the Irish capital. If you’re » Read more
Research your ancestry at the National Library of Ireland. Photo: Nico Kaiser.
Visiting on a rainy day in Dublin? Or maybe you just want to save a few euros so you have more money for an extra pint? A Cheapo looking to wait out the storm indoors can explore one of the free museums in the city center. Whether you’re interested in art, literature or natural history, there » Read more
Dublin's Temple Bar Market offers delicious cheap eats on Saturdays. Photo: Infomatique
Dining in Dublin can put a dent in your budget. While this city is full of opportunities to spend big on food, you can utilize a few simple strategies to keep prices down. Plan ahead and you will taste the best of the local dining scene without emptying your wallet. So book one of our » Read more
Isaacs Hostel in Dublin boasts one unusual perk for a hostel: a sauna. Photos: Booking.com
In recent years, Dublin has shed some of its expensive reputation. Since the Celtic Tiger crash, prices have become more reasonable and there are deals to be found throughout the city. Dublin is also cheapo-friendly because it is very compact (walking everywhere is simple, no transportation required) and also because there are several affordable places » Read more
The Capital Comedy Club takes place in the upstairs of the Ha'Penny Bridge Inn. Photo: Jeffc5000
Comedy clubs can serve as a great introduction to the humor, accents, and gripes of a new city. The one problem is that there is often a substantial price tag attached to tickets. If you’re traveling to Dublin on a budget, here are some suggestions for enjoying Dublin comedy clubs on the cheap. 1. International » Read more
Taking the kids to the zoo is never a baaaaaaad idea. Photo: Sean MacEntee
A lot of Dublin coverage focuses on fun for adults, such as pints of Guinness or the local theater scene. Yet the Irish capital is also full of kid-friendly activities — if you know where to look. From encountering wild animals to climbing to the top of the city’s biggest stadium, here are some ideas » Read more
Dubliner's drink to Arthur's Day even in the rain. Photo: Nerosunero
There’s one day of year when the spotlight in Dublin is completely on Guinness: Arthur’s Day. This holiday celebrates the man, Arthur Guinness, who gave the city its quintessential drink. On Thursday September 27, 2012 Dubliners have an extra excuse to head to their local for a pint. Some will celebrate by simply raising a » Read more
Although Dublin is generally safe, be smart about walking around at night. Photo: Andrew H.
There are far more dangerous places for a solo female traveler than Dublin, but still, it’s important to be prepared. During my time living in the city I learned a few tips that I hope my fellow females will find useful during a trip to the Irish capital. 1. Always keep a close eye on » Read more
Sunset over Sandymount Strand. Barry
Perfect pints and traditional music, sure—but beaches? In Dublin? While Ireland isn’t known beyond its borders for beaches, the country is actually home to lovely stretches of sand and world-class surfing spots. While the best surfing is found on the west coast of Ireland, there are several beaches near Dublin that are ideal for a » Read more
Get to know the locals over a beer in Dublin. Photo: Holla Backpack
Few cities have civic initiatives with the purpose of demonstrating the warmth of its citizens. In Dublin, hospitality is part of the national character, and one program is helping visitors to see it: the City of a Thousand Welcomes. The program connects first-time visitors to Dublin with hospitable locals: 1,000 of them to be exact. » Read more
Picnicking on sunny St. Stephens Green. Photo: Steve-h.
By Jessica Colley— Picnics are a Cheapo’s best friend. Stocking up in a market, grocery store, café or takeaway saves cash on tips and overpriced entrees, leaving more room in the budget for delicious picnic supplies. Spending an afternoon eating outdoors is also a great excuse to explore new neighborhoods. Here are some of my » Read more
A peaceful stroll in Iveagh Gardens. Photo: Ana Rey
There are many beloved sights in central Dublin: Bewley’s Café on Grafton Street, St Stephen’s Green, Trinity College, the National Gallery… All of these are must-visit icons, but equally enticing are some of the lesser known spots right in their midst. They may be tucked away off side streets or missing a large sign to announce them, but they » Read more
Lion around at the Dublin Zoo. Photo: Tambako
You might not expect to see elephants, penguins, or giraffes during a trip to the Irish capital—but as it turns out, the zoo is one of Dublin’s most visited attractions. First opened in 1831, Dublin Zoo is one of the world’s oldest zoos and today is home to over 600 animals, many of which are » Read more
Champagne Art Tea at the Merrion. Photo by Jessica Colley
Part of the fun of cheapo travel is saving enough on your daily expenses to be able to afford breaking free once in a while for a big splurge. For some travelers it might be a special boutique hotel, for others it might be an unforgettable lunch. Read on to discover some of my favorite » Read more
In 2007, an Irish film, simply titled “Once” stormed onto the film scene. The story of two untitled character (“guy” and “girl”)—who meet by chance in the streets of Dublin and share a love of music — resonated immediately with audiences around the world. While the Irish (and music fans) recognized Glen Hansard from the » Read more
A pint of Guinness. Jana Reifegerste
The craft beer craze hasn’t caught on in Ireland. At pubs in Dublin, it’s all about the classics. If you ask the barman for a pint, you will get a pint of Guinness. Beyond the black stuff, there are a couple other Irish beers of note, and a few hot drinks that are the perfect » Read more
Warm yourself up in a pub. Above: Gogarty's Pub, in Temple Bar. Photo: Elizabeth Burnett
Winter is one of the best seasons for Cheapos to visit Dublin. Not only are airfares and hotel rates at their cheapest for the year, but the cold temperatures offer a great excuse to get snug in the pub and order up an Irish coffee. From shopping to sports to comedy, there is plenty to » Read more
€6 for coffee and cake (on mismatched plates) at Cafe Cake in Dublin. Photo: Lalui
Only have €10 in your pocket? There are still many ways to spend a day in Dublin. Whether you’re craving some fresh air, want to indulge in culinary pleasures, or even do a little shopping, here are 10 activities in Dublin that will set you back less than €10. 1. Kilmainham Gaol – €6 Every » Read more
The Irish Museum of Modern Art is worth the trip out to Dublin 8. Photo: Infomatique
Of all Dublin’s renowned art genres – literature, music, theater – visual arts usually takes a back seat. Yet beyond famous theaters, bookstores, and traditional music sessions, there is also a great art scene to be found in Dublin. From the Irish masters to more contemporary galleries, art aficionados will find plenty to explore. Here » Read more
Swing by the Dublin Galleryof Photography after breakfast. Photo: Uggboy
A single €20 note can be stretched pretty far in Dublin. Unlike other European cities where transport can be a drain on your budget, Dublin is a compact, walkable city. As long as you have an umbrella for those impromptu showers, it is easy to spend an entire day in Dublin without using public transport. » Read more
Christmas shopping along Grafton Street. Photo: TeamAskins
Don’t worry about the cold – Christmas is the perfect time of year to travel to Europe, as the holiday season brings out old traditions, favorite songs, outdoor markets, and a variety of strategies for warming up. Dublin is no exception. This compact, walkable city is ideal for budget travelers looking to experience the holiday » Read more
A midsummer's rain in Dublin. Photo: Laura Smart
Expect rain in Dublin. A trip that lasts a day or longer will inevitably include a little rain, a short shower, or as the Irish say, a “soft day” of persistent mist that isn’t quite strong enough to warrant the opening of an umbrella. Locals are thankful for any sunny days that they can get. » Read more
The lengthy line for the Book of Kells. Photo: Ewen Roberts
Tourist traps are the same everywhere: Prices are higher than they should be and they’re packed with tourists instead of locals. In some cities – like Dublin – certain tourist traps change by day and by night. It isn’t enough to avoid entire areas, you need to know when to avoid them. Here is some » Read more
Drinking at the counter? Put the change in your pocket. Photo: Elisa Caula
Cheapos can rejoice when it comes to tipping in Dublin. While etiquette varies according to the situation, generally locals believe in keeping their money, and tips aren’t expected like they would be in other countries (especially the United States). For example, approach a bar in Dublin and order a drink. The total will most likely » Read more
