First Day Highlights

So, I got in at about 9 this morning, that's 3 am in Minnesota. Ireland does this thing where they "randomly" make visiting students register and pay 150 Euro to be here. It's pretty much like a shakedown, or like paying protection money to the mob. From my comments, you can probably tell that I have to pay it. Well, can't complain to much about it now except bitch and moan.

We eventually (we being my girlfriend Jenna - who is traveling with me and leaving Sunday for her study abroad in Paris - and me) got to my apartment in Ranelagh, a Dublin neighborhood. The apartment is very spacious for Europe, or so I hear. The beds are single, not extra-longs, with 2 per room that is the size of an actual queen bed. There is little closet space. But, those are the downsides. We have a great terrace and amazing kitchen. The location is good, right near the Luas (the tram), and it is very quiet going by, like an air conditioner starting. Pictures tomorrow.

We went to Grafton St., the big shopping street with fancy places like United Colors of Bennetton and Vodaphone (tongue is in my cheek for the last one). We walked through Trinity College's campus and I thought, "Holy Shit! I'm actually going to this school, not just paying to tour it!" Over and over again.

We went and did some food and pubbing in Ranelagh, but I'm tired so I'll talk about that fun later.