The Day we Farewelled Ireland

 The best taxi drivers, we have found through extensive research,  not only like people, but are genuinely interested in people; care about where you came from and where you are going; want to engage; find common bonds (‘I have a brother in Australia; I was out there last year! What part are you from?’); and want to share their knowledge of the area, ensuring the traveller learns about the ‘not to be missed locations’. 

This said, we have had a mix of good and bad during our stay in Ireland. One sprayed his taxi with air freshener as soon as we got in, and we weren’t sure if it was a comment on us, or the state of his taxi. Another shouted at Wallsy for being too rough putting his bag in the boot, and then at Julie for not having got her seat belt done up before he started moving. But then there was Brian, and a few others like him, who restored our faith in taxi drivers because they cared and were happy to help. 

Bus drivers however,  were a different breed altogether. I could count on one hand the number who engaged, shared a joke or were helpful. Most, in our experience, were downright grumpy and disinterested. 

We spent the morning cleaning the apartment and washing bedding etc, walked to Perch, the cafe on the river for lunch. On our return we said goodbye to our lovely neighbour, Maggie, who has been very helpful during our stay, and waited for our taxi to the airport, as today was the day we were leaving the Emerald Isle. 



Our Aer Lingus flight left a little late at 18:45, but we were in Bristol by 20:00. Much to our surprise, Border control was non-existent, as we were arriving in the UK from the Republic of Ireland. Collecting our luggage was quick, and  before we knew it we were on the shuttle bus to the hire car facility. 

All went well, despite them trying to convince us that our allocated car may not be large enough for all our luggage; an attempt to upgrade us to a larger car for a larger cost!  Turns out the VW Caddy has ample space. 

Under the expert navigation of Mark, Wallsy delivered us safely to our new abode for the night. Despite any concerns about resident only, permit parking, the fact that we arrived after 9pm, meant we didn’t need a permit, as long as we leave by 9am, and we found a park outside the front gate. 

It is a very nice 2 bedroom apartment within walking distance of the Clifton Suspension Bridge. An early excursion is planned for the morning! 


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