Galway: A Culture Capital

Growing up outside of Galway City, actually getting to go into the city was seen as a treat because you'd always come home with something new and nice. And growing up outside of the city, a greater appreciation for the metropolitan and busy lifestyle was developed as you would see people going about their business. 
I've spent a lot of time in Galway growing up, going to many places, seeing different events and divulging in the true rustically modern atmosphere of the

city which I'm sure crafts the people of Galway and all it's inhabitants to be the hospitable, warm and friendly people that they are.

But for those who have never been to or experienced Galway or know what Galway even is, let me tell you all about it.

Galway is a city that is enriched in culture, history, food and all round banter. Guaranteed that if you come to Galway, you won't be disappointed. There may not seem like much to do, but the more time you spend in the city the more you'll find to do. Museums, waterways, beaches, shopping, scenery and access to the most amazing and unique landscapes in not just Ireland, but in the world, in my opinion. 
Getting to Galway is quite an easy task. For those travelling to Ireland or travelling domestically, most towns and cities will have bus links to and from Galway. There is a coach station in Galway that links Galway to Dublin Airport via CityLink and GoBus, two of the more popular bus companies. Not only is there a bus link to and from Galway but there is a train link through Ceannt Station which serves Dublin, Athlone and other stops.
Galway is currently in the bidding race to become the Culture Capital of 2020 and personally, seeing the effort being made throughout the city shows a sense of pride in the culture being exerted by businesses, the people of Galway and the community of the West of Ireland as a whole to gain a name for Galway as a rightful cultural capital.

But what makes Galway City a good candidate to be a cultural capital and what makes it a unique part of Ireland?

• Food Culture: One thing that is unique about Galway and manages to draw people is the unique food that Galway has to offer. Being an Atlantic coastal city and on Galway Bay, seafood is a very big staple to the food culture in the Tribes County, Oysters especially. So much so that there is an annual Oyster festival held in Galway (http://galwayoysterfestival.com/) which, for those who enjoy good seafood, should visit. This year the Oyster Festival is being held from the 23rd to the 25th of September. All across the main areas of Galway City
  
  (Eyre Square/Shop Street/Latin Quarter/Spanish Arch), the smell of food is prominent. The variety of restaurants and eateries in is broad and wherever you eat, expect your expectations to be met. Some of the places I like to go for lunch/Coffee/Dinner in Galway are:
• Cafe Temple (https://www.facebook.com/cafetemple/#)
• McDonaghs Fish and Chip Bar (http://mcdonaghs.net/)
• The Seafood Bar, Kirwan Lane (http://kirwanslane.com/)
• The Kings Head (http://www.thekingshead.ie/)
• Il Vicolo (http://ilvicolo.ie/)
• Elles Cafe, Shop Street
• Historic Culture: The History in Galway is unique. From it's historical structures (Spanish Arch, Galway Cathedral) to it's notable people who hale from the country (President Michael D. Higgins, Lady Gregory). The "rustically modern" vibe I mentioned earlier, comes from the preservation and integration of the historic culture of Galway into the present day is incredibly commendable, for example. The St. Nicholas Collegiate Cathedral, one of the largest medieval churches to still be in use, is surrounded regularly by the St. Nicholas Street Market. Other things l
  
  ike people chilling around the Spanish Arch is a great example of present day, historic cultural submergence. 
• Atmosphere: The atmosphere in Galway is next to none. You walk down the main street of Galway and you hear the sounds of street performers, you see amazing displays of art and feel the vibe that can only be described as "Galway". The events that happen in Galway and things that make Galway memorable are what adds to the vibe and creates lasting impressions on tourists and inhabitants alike. For students, NUI Galway, GMIT and other learning institutes are situated here. The nightlife of Galway is next to none with live music, excellent bars and again, amazing atmosphere.

These three points are just a small pick of a large selection of reasons as to how to explain the culture of Galway but words can only express so much, The Tribe City is one that needs to be experienced for yourselves, and I would highly recommend it!