Travel A-Z: Dublin, Dubrovnik and Darjeeling

Our blog series “Travel A-Z” gives Where I’ve Been’s fabulous travel community control over what cities you’d like to see featured each week. This week, the tribe has spoken and we’ll be featuring three beautiful cities that start with the letter D: Dublin, Dubrovnik and Darjeeling.


Dublin, Ireland

Brazen Head Pub | Courtesy of Fisherbray

Dublin, Ireland is the largest city in Ireland and the capital city of the Republic of Ireland. The name Dublin is derived from the Irish name “Dubh Linn”, which means "black pool". In modern Irish, the Dublin is known as “Baile Átha Cliath”, meaning "town of the hurdled ford". Although commonly associated with pubs and pints, Dublin is truly a world-class city filled with culture and history.

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks for Dublin

Dublin | Courtesy of Jim61733

Take a Walking Tour
One of the best ways to experience Dublin is to take one of the city’s many walking tours - one of our favorite is Historical Walking Tours of Dublin, whose tours are conducted by history graduates from the Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin. Walking tours of Dublin are a wonderful way to immerse yourself into the history and feel of the city – all while getting in some great photo ops.

An Evening of Food, Folklore and Fairies
A dinner-theater of sorts, “An Evening of Food, Folklore and Fairies” allows visitors to experience first-hand tales of Irish folklore, storytelling and music while enjoying a traditional Irish dinner within Dublin’s oldest pub, The Brazen Head.

Kilmainham Gaol Historical Museum
For those interested in the social and political history of Ireland, the Kilmainham Gaol Historical Museum is a can’t-miss stop. This former prison became notorious for its harsh treatment of political prisoners. The tour guides at Kilmainham Gaol are extremely informative and passionate and provide visitors with chilling insight into the history of Ireland.

Temple Bar District
Face it – one cannot visit Dublin without at least visiting a pub or two. The Temple Bar area is Dublin’s most vibrant nightlife district. The Temple Bar Pub itself is arguably the most popular pub in Dublin and is a can’t-miss stop while in the area.


Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik | Courtesy of Txanny

When Dubrovnik comes to mind, one can’t help but think of sunshine, sand, and the glorious sea. Dubbed “the pearl of the Adriatic” by Lord Byron, Dubrovnik is one of Europe’s most popular seaside cities.

Dubrovnik | Courtesy of Txanny

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks in Dubrovnik

Walk the City Walls
One of the best ways to see Dubrovnik is to walk the walls that surround the city. With some parts aging back to the 13th century, the city walls allow visitors unparalleled views of the city and sea.

Lopud Island
A short trip from Dubrovnik by boat, Lopud Island (part of the Elaphiti Islands) is one of the most picturesque beaches in the area. As one of the more developed islands in the area, Lopud is the perfect choice for families. If Lopud Island isn’t your cup of tea, note that there are a handful of other beautiful islands easily accessible from Dubrovnik.

Rector’s Palace
Also known as Dubrovnik Museum, Rector’s Palace is one of the most beautiful – and notable – historic buildings in Dubrovnik. Although the museum’s offerings are great, the real showstopper at this museum is the building itself.

Lapad Bay
One can’t help but feel as if they’re in an episode of “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous” when walking along Lapad Bay’s promenade. Not only does this area make for a great vantage point of the sea, but it is also the perfect place to enjoy a drink alfresco at one of the many seaside cafes.


Darjeeling, India

Darjeeling | Couresy of Siva Vasanth

Famously known as “The Queen of the Hills”, the beautiful town of Darjeeling has long been a summer retreat for British expats in India. Visitors to Darjeeling can look forward to a town filled with colonial charm, breath-taking views, beautiful tea gardens and bustling markets.

Overlooking Darjeeling | Courtesy of Indiyah

Where I’ve Been’s Top Picks for Darjeeling

Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a must-see when visiting Darjeeling. The steam railway was created in 1881 and remains relatively unchanged; thus, a ride on these tracks is sure to take you back in time.

Tiger Hill
Located at the summit of Ghoom, Tiger Hill is the highest railway station on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Overlooking the Himalayas (with Mount Everest visible in the horizon), Tiger Hill is one of the most majestic places to take in a sunrise within the area.

Glenburn Tea Estate
Darjeeling is known around the world for its namesake tea – thus a visit to Darjeeling wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a tea garden. Glenburn Tea Estate is both a hotel and a working tea estate. The views at Glenburn are breathtaking, making it a wonderful place to unwind.

Have you visited or lived in one of these cities and have tips you’d like to share? Comment below – and don’t forget to share your photographs with us! Don’t forget – we’ll be voting on which cities to feature next week so join us on Facebook and cast your vote!