Little Belle's Mama

In the summer of 2018, I found myself in the heart of Dublin, Ireland, on a two-month business trip that seamlessly blended professional responsibilities with personal celebrations. July and August became a transformative period for me, not just in assisting colleagues through a crucial transition but also in exploring the vibrant landscapes and rich culture of this enchanting country. What began as a routine work assignment soon evolved into a journey of personal and professional growth, filled with unexpected adventures and cherished memories.

Setting foot in Ireland, a place that had never been on my solo travel radar, I embarked on an adventure that was both exciting and unfamiliar. Dublin welcomed me with its lively energy, historic charm, and warm hospitality. My initial accommodation at the Radisson Blu set the tone for a comfortable and enriching stay. It was my first time experiencing a five-star hotel, and I was fascinated by the luxury and attention to detail. Everything about the place felt special—the elegant decor, the friendly staff, and the overall ambiance that made my stay truly enjoyable.

One of my favorite parts of staying at the Radisson Blu was breakfast. Each morning, I would head down to the beautifully set dining area and be greeted by a lavish spread. The selection was incredible—freshly baked pastries, a variety of cheeses, perfectly cooked eggs, and an assortment of fresh fruit. Although I don’t drink coffee, I found comfort in a warm cup of tea, savoring the quiet moments before the start of a busy workday.

After long hours at work, I often opted to have dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, rather than venturing out. The convenience of being able to enjoy delicious meals in such a sophisticated setting was something I truly appreciated. The area surrounding the Radisson Blu was another thing I loved. It was peaceful yet well-connected, allowing me to explore the city when time permitted. A part of me wished my husband could have been there to experience it with me, but unfortunately, it wasn’t possible for him to stay. At that time, hybrid work was not common, and he needed to stay back as our house was just beginning construction. Still, we made the best of the situation, and he was able to visit me twice during my stay, making those moments together even more special.

July was not just about professional responsibilities—it was also a month of personal milestones. My husband’s birthday and our wedding anniversary fell within days of each other, making this trip an opportunity to celebrate amidst the beauty of Ireland. Taking a break from work, we embarked on a journey to the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most breathtaking places I have ever seen. The rugged cliffs, standing tall against the crashing waves, painted a scene of raw, untamed beauty. As we journeyed through the Irish countryside aboard a travel bus, I marveled at the rolling green fields, charming villages, and winding roads that led us to this iconic landmark. The experience was unforgettable, blending nature’s grandeur with the joy of celebrating special moments together.

Returning to Dublin, we immersed ourselves in the city’s vibrant spirit. The streets buzzed with energy, offering a mix of history, culture, and modernity. We sipped on Ireland’s renowned beer—or at least my husband did—while I stuck to my usual tea. A visit to the Dublin Guinness Brewery provided a fascinating insight into the history of Ireland’s most iconic beverage, adding depth to our appreciation of the city’s heritage.

One thing that fascinated me about the Irish was their way of greeting people. Almost everywhere I went, I would hear, “Hi, how are you?” The first few times, I paused, actually considering what to say, only to realize mid-reply that they had already moved on. It took me a while to understand that they weren’t expecting an actual response—it was simply their way of greeting people, a friendly but automatic phrase that didn’t require an answer. It was an amusing cultural difference, one of many little things that made Dublin such an interesting place to experience.

One of the most special parts of my trip was meeting another Filipina in Dublin. She was one of the colleagues I was assisting and training, and from the start, she was incredibly nice and accommodating. We instantly clicked, and I found myself laughing often because she was also very funny. She invited me to her home, where we spent time together making and sharing lunch. It felt comforting to have that sense of familiarity and connection while being in a foreign country. In her, I found a friend, making my stay in Dublin even more meaningful.

As my work required me to be closer to the office, I eventually moved to The Beacon Hotel for the remainder of my stay. Though different from the Radisson Blu, the Beacon had its own charm, offering a modern and stylish ambiance. It provided the convenience I needed, allowing me to manage my work commitments efficiently while still enjoying my evenings exploring Dublin.

Balancing work and exploration required careful planning, but it was a challenge I embraced wholeheartedly. My days were filled with assisting colleagues with their new tasks, answering any questions. Yet, as evening approached, Dublin’s charm called me to step outside and explore. The city offered an ever-changing landscape of experiences—one evening, I would find myself in a cozy pub with colleagues, enjoying live music and watching the locals busy having conversations with their mates; the next, I might be wandering through historic landmarks, tracing the footsteps of literary greats like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde.

Dublin’s architecture fascinated me, blending the past and present seamlessly. The cobblestone streets, grand cathedrals, and Georgian-style buildings told tales of history and resilience, while the modern cafes, art galleries, and tech hubs reflected the city’s dynamic and progressive spirit. This juxtaposition added depth to my understanding of Ireland, making me appreciate not just its beauty but also its rich cultural heritage.

As my time in Dublin came to an end, my colleagues surprised me with a thoughtful farewell gesture. They gifted me jewelry and postcards with their personal messages written on them. It was a small but deeply meaningful act, and I truly appreciated the effort and kindness they showed me. Before my flight back to Germany, we had a send-off dinner at a Japanese restaurant, which was followed by a fun night at a pub, drinking, chatting, and simply enjoying each other’s company. It was a great way to end my time in Dublin, and I felt incredibly grateful for the friendships I had made.

A special shoutout to Bernadine and Patricia—two people I will never forget from my time in Dublin. Their warmth, humor, and kindness made a lasting impression on me, and I will always remember how they made my stay even more special.

As August came to an end, so did my business stint in Dublin. What started as a work obligation transformed into an experience that reshaped my perspective. The trip not only facilitated a smooth transition for my colleagues but also enriched my life in ways I hadn’t anticipated. I arrived in Dublin with a purpose, but I left with memories that would stay with me forever.

Dublin became more than just a destination for business; it became a place of connection, discovery, and growth. The city’s cobblestone streets, friendly faces, and vibrant energy painted a picture of warmth and welcome. Each moment, whether spent working, celebrating, or simply wandering, contributed to a tapestry of experiences that I would cherish for years to come.

Reflecting on those two months, I realize that the true magic of travel lies not just in the places we visit but in the moments we create along the way. Dublin offered me a perfect blend of work, adventure, and celebration—a reminder that even the most unexpected journeys can turn into the most unforgettable ones.