Kaley

Designed for wanderers and dreamers, Kaley created Kindred Compass to offer travel inspiration, planning tips, and destination guides for curious souls. From luxury escapes to off-the-beaten-path adventures, this blog helps you navigate the world with passion and purpose.

The stunning Long Room at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland, showcases the city’s deep literary roots, making it a must-visit destination for book lovers exploring the best bookstores and literary spots in Dublin.

Dublin Bookshops Every Literary Lover Should Visit

Are you a book lover bound for Dublin? As the UNESCO City of Literature and a land known for its saints and scholars, this city is a treasure trove of literary history. Whether you’re a fan of rare books, modern reads, or cozy corners to lose yourself in a novel, Dublin’s bookshops are sure to delight. And really, what better souvenir to bring home from your trip than a book or two from Ireland, a country famous for literary giants like James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett?

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The Cliffs of Moher, towering over the Atlantic Ocean on Ireland's west coast, showcase breathtaking natural beauty with their steep, rugged cliffs and verdant green tops. Visitors can be seen walking along the cliffs, highlighting this popular travel destination in Ireland. The image captures the essence of Ireland’s iconic landscapes, perfect for travelers exploring what to read, watch, and listen to before visiting Ireland.

What to Read, Watch, and Listen to Before Visiting Ireland

Ireland is a country rich in history, culture, and stories, yet its profound impact on the world is often overlooked. From ancient folklore to its fight for independence, Ireland has a depth that’s both fascinating and humbling. For travelers planning a trip to the Emerald Isle, diving into its history, literature, and culture beforehand can make your experience that much more enriching. By immersing yourself in these recommendations, you’ll gain a new appreciation for Ireland’s complex past and vibrant present, helping you connect more deeply with the places and people you’ll encounter. Whether you’re intrigued by tales of rebellion or captivated by its folklore, understanding Ireland’s story will enhance your travel experience in ways you didn’t expect. Much like America’s history, Ireland’s fight for independence is a tale of resilience and strength—a story worth knowing before you embark on your Irish journey.

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The vibrant and lively streets of the temple bar district in Dublin, a wonderful place for first time visitors to experience on their first trip to Dublin, Ireland.

Best Locations to Stay in Dublin, Ireland: A Neighborhood Guide for Your Next Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Dublin and are wondering what the best locations and areas are to stay in, you’ve come to the right place. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned traveler, finding the perfect spot to stay can make all the difference in your experience. Having spent considerable time in Dublin myself, including living here for a summer during college, I’ve had the opportunity to explore the city extensively. In this guide, I’ll help you navigate Dublin’s best neighborhoods, from the bustling streets of the city center to the quieter, more residential areas, ensuring you find a location that suits your style.

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Visitors admiring paintings and sculptures inside the National Gallery of Ireland in Dublin, with a large skylight and elegant interior design.

The Best Free Museums in Dublin for Art and Culture Lovers

Dublin is a city brimming with culture, and one of the best things about it is that many of its world-class museums are completely free to visit. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a history buff, or simply curious, these museums offer a wide range of fascinating exhibits that give you a deep insight into Ireland’s rich past and its place in the world today. Below is my roundup of the best free museums in Dublin, based on my personal experiences and extensive research. Trust me, these are some of the most enriching and thought-provoking places to visit in the city!

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Sitting on a hilltop overlooking a serene lake surrounded by green mountains in Wicklow, Ireland, one of the most popular day trips to take from Dublin.

Top 8 Day Trip Ideas from Dublin, Ireland for an Unforgettable City Escape

When it comes to exploring the beauty of Ireland, Dublin is the perfect starting point for some incredible day trips. After spending a considerable amount of time living in, traveling around, and visiting Dublin, I’ve had the chance to do all of these trips myself. So, when I recommend these day trips, know that they are tried and tested—I wouldn’t suggest anything I haven’t personally experienced! In this blog, I’ll be sharing the top day trips from Dublin, whether you’re looking for the ease of a guided tour, the flexibility of driving yourself, or the convenience of taking public transportation like the train or bus.

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Exterior of a Guinness pub in Dublin, featuring colorful stained glass and floral decor

How to Spend 2 Days in Dublin, Ireland: The Perfect Itinerary

Dublin is a city I know well. Having lived there for two months during a college internship, it holds a lot of memories for me. But returning this summer was different—(this time, I wasn’t a broke college student). I had more freedom to truly experience the city in ways I hadn’t been able to before. With my husband by my side, visiting Dublin became both a trip down memory lane and a fresh adventure. While our main focus was exploring Ireland’s wild, beautiful countryside, we carved out roughly 36 hours to rediscover Dublin’s rich history, literary legacy, and, yes, its vibrant pub culture.

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A stunning view of yachts anchored in clear blue waters along the white sandy beach of Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands, featuring lush green hills and a peaceful tropical atmosphere. A popular spot for visitors to the Soggy Dollar Bar.

Ultimate Girls’ Getaway Guide to St. Thomas: Beaches, Bars, and Unforgettable Adventures

When my friend announced her bachelorette trip would be in St. Thomas, I knew we were in for something special. This tropical escape gave us the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and bonding time. With its stunning beaches and lively bars, the trip was not just about celebrating her upcoming wedding but also about making memories that would last a lifetime. Whether you’re planning a bachelorette or simply a girls’ getaway, St. Thomas delivers a perfect experience and is the ultimate destination for a girls’ trip!

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View of the Window Trail at Big Bend National Park with rugged desert mountains and valley

Big Bend National Park: Exploring Texas’ Desert Oasis

Big Bend National Park holds a special place in my heart. It was the first national park I ever visited, and it changed the way I see my home state of Texas. Growing up here, I thought I knew what Texas had to offer, but Big Bend was a revelation. It’s a landscape that feels untouched by time—a place where the desert stretches out in every direction, and the sky feels impossibly wide. The stillness, the quiet, and the beauty of this place stir something deep inside you. It’s where you go to reconnect, not just with nature, but with yourself. Below are things to do and see inside the park as well as beyond.

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