Vacations in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland should be on everyone’s bucket list. There are many places I could visit in these countries. The United Kingdom and Ireland have similar cultures, but every city has its own traditions. In the summer of 2014, I decided to go see them firsthand. After researching, I decided to visit three attractions there. The summer of 2014 was the best time of my life.
Visiting Liverpool Football Club’s stadium changed my view of soccer for many reasons. I had the chance to walk on Anfield Road Street where I saw fans singing in rhythm. Although it was a long walk, it was worth it. I felt the atmosphere building up once the famous Bill Shankly’s red gate opened. Making my way to my seat, I couldn’t help but notice the three stories standing in front of me. Before the game started, all the fans in the stadium started singing loudly 'You Will Never Walk Alone'. Listing to that gave me goosebumps. I still can remember how the fans interacted angrily or happily with every play in the game. I stayed until the game finished and the floodlights turned off. Even with no one left in the stadium, I still could hear the cheers and boos ringing in my ears.
After I visited Liverpool, I boarded a ship to Dublin Ireland where my next destination was. There are many things I loved about Grafton Street. The 300 years old street is in the heart of Dublin. The first thing I noticed was that the entire street was built with old red bricks. Also, the shops were arranged in such a creative way. They were facing each other, and every shop had an entrance to the shop next to it. In addition, all the shops on the second floor had huge glass windows that reflect on the street. What was more impressive were the street performers. I came across a band that was singing with such a beautiful voice. A couple of yards away, there was a large crowd gathering around a man climbing a tall ladder in the middle of the street, juggling sharp swords, trying not to fall. The street came to life when night came. It was like a work of art how the lights were colorful and placed in the right places.
The last place I visited was a four hours trip from Dublin by train. I could not travel to Ireland without visiting the Cliffs of Moher. These breathtaking cliffs are facing the Atlantic Ocean in western Ireland. I was surprised at how high these cliffs were. At first glance, I realized why I had to come to see it. I walked the trail, hearing the loud waves crashing into the cliffs like thunder. Then, I stopped to breathe in the fresh ocean breeze on top of these green cliffs. I could see miles into the ocean from up there. I stayed there until sunset. I have never seen such beautiful scenery in my life until then. The sun met the ocean, turning its bright color to blood orange. The beauty of this place was incomparable.
Overall, there were a lot of places I could see in the United Kingdom and Ireland, but I enjoyed visiting these three attractions. During this summer vacation, I had the opportunity to see new cultures and friendly people. This trip made me appreciate how lucky I am to see these places. Also, when I remember it now makes me excited to revisit the United Kingdom. Although it was a long trip, it was unforgettable for good reasons.