We followed the rainbow and found where Black Gold was made

Our last stop on our whirlwind trip was Dublin. Now many in Ireland don't respect Dublin much, they feel that its not truly indicative of their country, as it is too fake, commercial and touristy. I'd have to say after seeing the parts of Ireland that we had up to this point, I have to agree with them.

The main redeeming quality that the city had was the old medieval part called Dublinia, where there was a beautiful cathedral and some pedestrian streets and old bridges over the river. We managed to catch a picture of a John Deere tractor on the main street in front of the national gallery - how do you like that Larry? ;o)
Syd got his 'irish look' on with his hat (purchased in London Camden Market btw).

The second redeeming quality was the Guinness Brewhouse. Yes, it was touristy as well, but it was done in a modern fun way that you can't help but enjoy it. Once you get past the tourist groups with their headsets, you get to experience interactive exhibits and videos by the 'brewmaster' who walks you through the stout-making process.
They have been brewing Guinness for 246 years (since 1759) at that location and the original owner of the company signed a 9000 year agreement to lease the land in Dublin to be able to brew that much more! The black colour of Guinness comes from the length of time that they roast the barley before the brewing process. A unique mix of nitrogen and carbon dioxide helps create GUINNESS Draught's liquid swirl that tumbles, surges and gradually separates into a black body and smooth creamy head. The head is the best part - hands down - there's nothing else like it. Especially when they form a shamrock in the top of it.
There was an entire floor attributed to the Guinness brand and its years of advertising. An interesting fact is that the Guinness book of world records was formed when a member of the Guinness family was in a pub with his mates and they were debating the size of the largest game bird. This kind of conversation came up so frequently that the family decided to invest in a 'coffee table' type interest book that sought to answer these questions for good. Its now one of the most successful serial books of all time!
The inside of the brewhouse was shaped like a beer glass - it really was, and had a chance for tourists to leave messages for others.
We enjoyed our 'free pint' at the top of the brewhouse with a great view of Dublin, and recalled our fond memories of Ireland.