An Unforgettable Journey to Dublin with iBestTravel

I’m writing this dispatch from a plane returning to New York City after a whirlwind three days in Dublin.

JetBlue’s inaugural flight 841 to Ireland took off from JFK International Airport on March 13, celebrating the rich Viking history of Dublin with much festivity. The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured JetBlue’s CEO, several executives and ground crew, representatives from Tourism Ireland, young Irish dancers, live musicians, and a former US Representative.

Mint Condition on JetBlue

After all that excitement, it was time to board JetBlue’s A321Neo aircraft. Seated in the business class cabin, Mint, I was immersed in a plush and comfortable space. With ample room to spread out, convenient storage, and easy-to-use in-flight entertainment, the experience was indeed enjoyable. Moreover, the complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the flight was a fantastic bonus.

I must admit, the Mint experience has set a new standard for air travel. On my return flight in 12C, while it was a comfortable coach experience, I couldn’t shake the memories of the luxurious Mint cabin. Flight attendant Angel welcomed me with a glass of champagne and introduced a unique “Mint Condition” cocktail after takeoff.

Following a fast dinner service, which included delicious salad, burrata, and spinach lasagna, I settled into the lie-flat position. A couple of hours later, I was greeted with a cappuccino and a warm croissant. It’s safe to say that I was pleasantly surprised and somewhat reluctant to land!

Exploring Dublin: Arrival at Anantara The Marker Hotel

Upon arrival in Dublin, we headed to Anantara The Marker Hotel located in the vibrant Docklands area. After checking in, I enjoyed a lovely breakfast at the hotel’s main dining room, savoring smoked salmon, poached eggs, and plenty of coffee to kickstart the day.

Later, I indulged in a revitalizing massage at the hotel spa, which features an indoor pool, sauna, and steam room – the perfect remedy for jet lag.

My room was luxurious, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, a king bed, and a Nespresso machine that quickly became my best friend.

Dining Experience with Chef Gareth Mullins

The next day, the group gathered for breakfast before heading to Forbes Street, the hotel’s acclaimed restaurant, for a culinary demonstration by head chef Gareth Mullins. He introduced us to classic Irish seafood, including fresh Galway oysters and smoked salmon.

We proceeded to enjoy a whiskey tasting featuring samples from three renowned Irish distilleries, which was complemented by a memorable tea service meticulously crafted by the pastry chef.

Day Trip to Kildare

The final day was dedicated to a fascinating trip to County Kildare, where I experienced breathtaking landscapes, equestrian adventures, and local culinary delights. After a journey to the Curragh, home to renowned jockey Johnny Murtagh, I enjoyed freshly baked scones and sausages, setting the tone for an unforgettable day.

We hopped in 4WDs to visit thoroughbreds during their training exercises, showcasing the beautiful horses and sharing in the local equestrian culture. Our guide shared insights into the breeding practices at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, where we learned the intricate details of horse care.

Our afternoon included tea at Kildare Village shopping area, featuring unique shops showcasing Irish designers. We wrapped up the evening at a lively pub, enjoying the local rugby match with cheering crowds and celebratory spirits.

Indeed, my trip to Dublin with iBestTravel has been filled with unforgettable moments and rich experiences that truly encompass the essence of Irish culture.