Ireland 2016

[Drunk Monk]

Found a cheap power converter at the pharmacy, then walked Camden street on the recommendation of the pharmacist for a quieter pub.  Wound up at a place called the Bleeding Horse, just before the rush.  I scored a window seat and had some wonderful pub food and drink.  I'm really getting into the seafood chowder & brown bread - it's very warming and filling, and the seafood is in huge chunks and fresh.  I may just eat this for the rest of the trip. The shower was challenging because it's one of those wall heater style showers so the hot water comes in waves with lukewarm water.  But it's serviceable.  I just took some sleeping pills, and after the walks, dinner and drinks, I hope to get a good night's sleep tonight.  Don't have to wake up early tomorrow.  but it's not doing a thing for me. Turns out my Kilronan room is really noisy.  I can hear every conversation at the desk and anytime anyone comes or goes, I can hear them climb the stairs. But I'm going to try to sleep again soon.  As tempting as Friday night out was looking, I really need some rest

It's been a while since I've traveled in a foreign country alone and I'm remembering how much I stand out.  No males have hair my length, plus my klingon facial hair and my attire - I'm definitely getting 'strange tourist' treatment.  It makes me a bit paranoid, so I'm making an effort to be extra polite.  Thankfully the Irish are such genuine people that they reciprocate. The pubs are still really fun, but it's more of a social place and I'm not quite up to bar talk, at least not today.  They all ask me if I want ice with my whisky in a bit of a condescending tone, and when i fire back 'no, neat' with a slightly offended tone, they respect that and treat me better.  I tried Dublin Liberties - could NOT resist that name.  It reminded me of a higher grade Jameson, with a salty middle, a decent kick, and a surprisingly smooth finish - quite warming.  If I can find it in the US for a reasonable price, I'd get some for my Jameson friends.

Of course, the food is still fantastic.  I've been monitoring my blood sugar and it's been very good with the daily Guinness allotment, low even - i just came in at 68 but I ate like 3 hours ago. I think its the whisky because I've read where that can decrease blood sugar.  Obviously this need much more research.  I'm really getting into seafood chowder and of course, brown bread and butter.  The shopping areas are in full xmas swing so they are extremely crowded, but i'm starting to figure some ways to get off the beaten paths. I've got a big city walking tour for myself planned tomorrow, into regions we didn't explore.  

I saw a shop sign that made me laugh out loud and think of Greg. I took a pic and will post that on my fb upon my return.