[dropcap]For[/dropcap] a lot of broke students, going abroad for the summer isn’t a feasible option. Increasing rent prices and unavoidable hours in work can lead to FOMO when the interrailing Snapchat stories begin. Luckily for us, there is an abundance of activities in our own homeland that make for an exciting weekend away without the hefty flight price.
Surfing in Bundoran– A trip to Donegal is one to remember. Renowned for its good surfing conditions, Bundoran is the perfect town to visit for a coastal trip away. Bundoran Surf Co offer surfing lessons as well as having their own lodge, meaning you can surf and stay in the one place. The staff are approachable and the town itself is easy to get around. Prices start at €50 for one night’s B&B and one surf lesson. Taking into account the bus up and back, as well as food and optional drinks, it’s around €100 quid for the weekend away, which is a great deal. Sea Sessions music festival also takes place there on June 23rd, with The Coronas and Primal Scream headlining, so if festivals are your thing, this one is worth checking out.
A city break to Galway– One of Ireland’s most loved cities, Galway is the place to go if you want to do a bit of everything. The streets of Galway are a shopping lover’s heaven, and the student nightlife options are endless. Róisín Dubh is great for casual pints and traditional Irish music, while Karma is the Dicey’s of the West. For cheap accommodation, Bunk Boutique Hostel has rave reviews online. It’s cheap, comfortable and its prime location off Eyre Square means that everything is within walking distance. Take a scenic drive through Connemara to escape the city, or watch the sun set at Galway Bay for amazing Instagram snaps.
Music festivals– Festivals in Ireland are getting bigger and better every year and the best part is that one ticket includes your accommodation as well as the live music. With Electric Picnic tickets flying out the door, take the opportunity to check out a smaller one. Body & Soul (June 23rd-25th) is a music and visual arts festival, with acts like Metronomy and Austra headlining this year. Meanwhile, Castlepalooza (August 4th-6th) takes place in Tullamore on the grounds of the magical Charleville Castle. Longitude and Forbidden Fruit are great picks for those who don’t like camping too.
Rachel Farrell
Image Credit: Rachel Farrell