While we’ve been trying to keep our residents and students busy and entertained with fun activities they can do during lockdown, we also want to look forward to the future! We know this crisis has been tough on everyone, so we think it’s important to share some positivity in this blog and remind you of what to look forward to when things get back to normal. Here are 10 things we can't wait to do in Dublin post-lockdown.

1. Picnics in Phoenix Park

While many living in the area were able to use the Phoenix Park for exercise, it was unfortunately just outside the 2km exercise restriction for residents of Point Campus. Phoenix Park is one of the largest parks in Europe, and there’s nothing quite like setting up for a picnic while watching the native deer graze and go about their life. 

2. Jump into the sea at the 40 foot

Jumping into the Irish Sea at the 40 foot in Dún Laoghaire is a rite of passage for anyone living in Dublin. Colder than any ice bath or plunge pool you’ve ever been in, it’s one of the joys of summers in the capital! We can’t wait for the post-dip Teddy’s ice cream cone as well.

3. Brunch!

Ah...sometimes it’s the simple things we miss the most. While we have no doubt you have all been brushing up on your cooking skills while indoors, treating yourself to a delicious brunch will be a welcome return to normalcy. Where’s your favourite brunch spot in Dublin?

4. The next Point Campus outing

Making new friends and experiencing Dublin for all it offers are two great benefits you’ll get from living at Point Campus. Before the lockdown, there was nothing we enjoyed more than organising events and activities for residents of Point Campus to partake in. From hikes up the Dublin Mountains to paddleboarding in Grand Canal Dock, we’re open to all ideas. We can’t wait for our next outing with you guys!

5. Concerts at the 3Arena

The 3Arena is Ireland’s premiere concert venue with massive bands and global superstars performing there every weekend. Did you know that it’s only a 2 minute walk from Point Campus? It’s hard to match the atmosphere of a great gig with your friends, and we’re keeping a close eye on the arena’s listings to see when gigs will begin taking place again.

6. Seeing our friends again

The lockdown has tested everyone’s mental wellbeing, and one of the things we’re looking forward to the most is seeing, chatting to and hugging our friends again. We’ll never take these simple things for granted again, and we know you all feel the same.

7. Another epic party at Point Campus

If you’ve lived in Point Campus for a while now, you’ll no doubt remember some of our memorable parties like our Bingo Loco inspired bash to open the year with. The safety of our residents is our number one priority at this moment in time, but as soon as it’s safe to do so, you better believe we’re going to throw a huge party to celebrate!

8. Ordering your favourite drink at your favourite pub/bar/café

A pint of Guinness, a refreshing G&T, a flat white...whatever your favourite drink is, can you picture how good the first one back is going to be?! Catching up with a friend over a pint or a coffee is something we’ve really missed these past few weeks, and we’re counting down the days until we can do it again.

9. Hiking up to Howth Head

While our residents have been enjoying runs and walks down the Liffey, going further afield for a weekend hike is an activity a lot of our residents have said they can’t wait to do again. To get to Howth, walk to Connolly DART Station (20 mins) and hop on one of the trains heading to Howth (not Malahide). The 2-hour hike is a great way to spend a Saturday or Sunday afternoon and we can almost smell the sea air.

10. Sunny days on Dollymount Strand

There aren’t many capital cities that are located so close to stunning beaches. Luckily for us, Dublin is one of them. The largest beach in Dublin is just a bus journey (take the 130) or a 20-minute cycle away. Whether you’re one to brave the ocean or simply want to bring a picnic basket to chill out with friends, Dollymount might have to be your first stop when the lockdown ends and the sun is out!