A Guide through Maynooth
Coming to a new city can be challenging, as you don’t know where to get the best coffee, where you can go for a walk or a run, or where to meet your new friends. But before you know it, you will have new favourite places and here are mine.
1. The University
I’m not getting paid to say this, but I really like the University! As I am an intern in the International Office, I get to come to the University every day. The International Office is located on the beautiful South campus, and I really enjoy spending my lunch breaks on campus, going on walks in the park behind St. Patrick’s House or just spending some time on St. Joseph’s Square.
2. The Canal
The canal is another great spot for a little walk, when it is sunny, but beware of the swans! As I don’t have a garden or balcony in my accommodation, I really enjoy sitting on one of the benches and read there.
3. The library
As an international student you won’t be able to bring a lot of books with you. I am not a big fan of eBooks, so I was really struggling to find books in my first weeks here, because I didn’t know about the library. The registration for the library is really easy and completely free of charge. They have a big collection of fiction and non-fiction books, as well as newspapers, audiobooks, and movies.
4. Carton Avenue
Carton Avenue is the road that leads up to Carton House. It is a lovely path for a walk, to have a picnic with your friends and just get outside for a bit.
5. Beetroot
As a vegetarian it can be challenging to find a good restaurant sometimes. But my favourite vegetarian restaurant in Ireland is definitely Beetroot in Maynooth. The staff is always super friendly, and the food is really good and affordable.
6. Brady’s
When you walk through Maynooth you can’t miss the Brady’s. It is a typical Irish pub to meet your friends in the evenings or on the weekends. When it is warm enough you can even sit on the terrace to enjoy your food and drinks.
Those were my favourite places during my first months in Maynooth and I’m sure you will find your favourite places within a few weeks. Give these a try and tell us about your favourite places!