The Boylans come from a town in Ireland called Skerries. I’ve heard about trips extended family members have taken to Ireland over the decades and always longed to have my own adventure there. This past June I was able to travel to Dublin, Skerries, Kilkenny, and Galway.

Dublin is such a lively city. For whatever reason I think I was anticipating a small town feel. But Dublin is bustling, with people of different ages, a variety of restaurants and bars, is incredibly queer friendly and affirming, and has so much art and color. My Airbnb was around the corner from my favorite coffee shop (where I had breakfast almost every day of my trip there). I was able to walk to most places, but the bus system was convenient and available as well. The sun wouldn’t set until 10:30pm, so I knew I could go home and rest for a few hours before heading out to find drinks and dinner. I felt very safe walking around the city as a solo traveler.