[dropcap]W[/dropcap]ondering what to do with those long summer evenings or those treasured days off work? Here are a few date ideas for you and your bae, or your bestie.
There is nothing prettier than Irish scenery when the sun is out, and what better a way to soak up those rays than on a day trip? Dún Laoghaire makes for a great day out that’s easy and cheap enough to reach from Tara station in Dublin. The walk along the pier is beautiful and super romantic. If you’re feeling up for it and it’s especially warm, bring your swimsuits and try pier jumping or dip into the water at Sandycove which is a ten-minute walk away.
Grab an Ice-cream from Teddy’s or Scrumdiddly’s while you take in the scenery and explore the town. A lovely way to end the evening is food or drinks at the Forty Foot. Cheap food and pints as well as being able to watch the sunset from the balcony seats make for a great end to this summer date. Other places that are great for a day trip without much travel are Glendalough, Newgrange and Greystones.
If it’s raining, never fear. The National Aquatic Centre has a waterpark as well a pool and gym. It’s called Aquazone and it’s easy to get to and have fun in with a romantic interest or a few friends. They have cool slides, a wave pool, a surfing machine and a lazy river. It’s also only a short bus journey from Glasnevin avenue near DCU on the 17A.
Another pretty cool indoor date is Jumpzone. They have two in Dublin, in Sandyford and Santry. This is basically a giant room full of trampolines. Case made.
If you only have the evening free and a bit more money to spend, a last simple idea is dinner, but with a twist. La Peniche is a restaurant on a barge in the Grand Canal with pretty good food and an interesting experience, to say the least.
Róise McGagh
Image Cred: Mark Carroll