This was an absolute joy.

The band was very entertaining. The lady – who had an impressive voice – was playing a percussion instrument that I had never seen in my life – a bodhrán (pronounced “bow-rahn”).

Need to try it out some time!

It says “Ladies and Exit”. For a man, it is bound to make you think twice…

We began our exploration of the much-vaunted Irish pub scene with a fairly famous one, established in 1798.

To put that in perspective, the United States had only just elected its second President, Philadelphia was still the capital, and the world had yet to be introduced to trains, automobiles, electric lights, telephones, or cameras.

But there was beer to be had here!

It is a good thing they have English written everywhere. Otherwise, there was not a chance in God’s green earth that I could have read the Irish and figured it out.

I think the Irish line is saying “One hundred thousand welcome!” It reminds me of that Indian Punjabi character in “Mind Your Language”, Ranjeet Singh, I believe, who would always have his hands folded and go – “A thousand apologies.”

The real reason we are in Dublin: Celebrating Sunil’s 60th birthday! The two Roy families have grown up together in Dallas for more than a decade. Too many memories since 1997, none more remarkable than how I first met them. (You can read it here)

Should be a good few days. We will raise a few pints to welcome Sunil to this side of the 60s. I, for myself, have been waiting for 6 months for him to get to my side!! My first question to him this evening: “What took you so long?” 🙂