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20th December 2016
12:10am GMT
While the mechanics of Irish dating tend to pivot around drinks and more drinks, the opportunity to experience someone’s company in both sobriety and sunlight has its perks. What to do in alcohol’s absence, however, is the ultimate quandary.
That’s why we’ll be bringing you the best alternative first dates in Dublin – and this week we’ve decided to channel Miley Cyrus (or Joe McElderry, if you’re so inclined) by taking on The Climb at Dublin’s various climbing walls.
So whether you’re based north or south, the city has your climbing needs covered with The Wall (Sandyford), Gravity (Inchicore) and Awesome Walls (Finglas).
If you’ve never been climbing and feel you’re especially awkward and have a debilitating fear of heights then, yeah, you might want to sit this one out. Make sure you assess your date’s attitude to all of the above too – especially if you plan on surprising them.
Equally, if climbing is your favourite hobby, be careful not to scare off a novice climber (and your date, remember) by shinnying at top speed in a way that suggests you’ve jet motors in your feet. Or that you want to get as far away from them as possible.
Scaling walls like a squirrel comes with its own set of perils, but whether you’re a novice, shaky or a dab hand, staff is on hand to keep an eye out and help you in a tricky situation.
Both The Wall and Gravity are especially good for first-time climbers (both use boulders; no rope), while Awesome Walls is great for getting up high – just probably not advised for first time climbers unless accompanied by a member of staff
Climbing walls tend to be busy, so while there are opportunities to talk to others (in the event your date isn’t going as planned), you can chat to one another without incurring sideways glances from strangers that suggest ‘we know you only met fifteen minutes ago’.
Grab a coffee; The Wall does especially good coffee while nearby transport allows you to head back to the city centre for, well, another coffee. Or a pint. You've earned it in fairness.
None whatsoever, just be mindful to dress appropriately and recognise if you or your accomplice feel especially nervous or apprehensive. If you really want to show off, you could read through this Wikipedia article on rock-climbing equipment, you know, so you gots all the lingo.
Tracksuit bottoms and leggings are suggested although jeans aren’t out of the equation. You can grab a pair of shoes when you reach the climbing wall (it’s included in the cost), or you can wear your own runners. Comfort is key in this case.
Normally €8.50, with most places offering student discounts. That's a steal by any standards.
You’ll fall into each other’s arms figuratively.
You’ll fall into each other’s arms literally.
