Hey everyone, welcome back to my blog! Time seems to be flying by here, and I can’t believe it’s already been six months. Dundalk has been an amazing experience for me, and I’ve managed to make some great friends in the town and nearby areas like Westport. We try to hang out as much as possible, whether it’s hitting the gym together, enjoying a cup of tea, or simply taking a stroll. We even had a blast baking together recently.

This month, there was a rugby match in Galway that got everyone buzzing with excitement. Our school organized a bus for the 5th years, taking us there to support our team. Despite a valiant effort, we sadly didn’t clinch the victory, but the atmosphere was electric. Watching a rugby match live is an experience like no other, win or lose. The camaraderie among classmates and the thrill of cheering on your team make it all worthwhile.

But let me tell you, as exhilarating as the rugby match was, it pales in comparison to the festivities of St. Patrick’s Day and the parade here in Dundalk. My host sister Olga and I managed to persuade our host parents to let us hop on a train to Dublin to witness the spectacle firsthand. It was a spur-of-the-moment decision, but one that I’ll cherish forever. We caught the earliest train available, famished from the journey, and immediately sought out a cozy café for an Irish breakfast. Once fueled up, we joined the sea of people streaming towards the city center, mesmerized by the sea of green and the palpable excitement in the air. The anticipation for the parade was palpable, with security guards ensuring everything was in order for the grand event.

When the parade finally kicked off, the energy was infectious. From the vibrant costumes to the lively performances, it was a sight to behold. Words can’t quite capture the magic of that moment – you simply have to experience it for yourself. Trust me, no matter how charming your local parade might be, nothing quite compares to the spectacle in Dublin on St. Patrick’s Day.

After the parade had passed, Olga and I found ourselves on the hunt for a place to grab a bite to eat. With the entire crowd doing the same, we wandered around, taking a detour through the Disney shop before finally stumbling upon a restaurant with some free seats. Over a late lunch, we reminisced about the day’s highlights, with the pride group stealing the show and leaving us cheering louder than ever.

As we made our way back to the train station, we soaked in the sights of Dundalk adorned in green, with people sporting hats, oversized sunglasses, and even full suits in the festive color. The train ride back was filled with lively chatter as we reflected on our unforgettable day. No regrets whatsoever.

So, if you ever find yourself in Dundalk on St. Patrick’s Day, do yourself a favor and make the trip to Dublin. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.