On Christmas day, my girlfriend and I went to Dun Laoghaire, to witness what is apparently a very popular Irish tradition (perhaps a Dubliner’s tradition is more accurate). It was a gorgeous sunny day, around 6 degrees Celsius - which for Ireland its almost as cold as it gets! Irish men and women of all ages were steeling their health by jumping in the chilly Irish sea, at the place called 40 foot, just a bit south of the Dun Laoghaire Harbour.
Even Santa seemed happy to take part in the event! (or was it just a guy hired by a newspaper?
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Anyway, everybody seemed to enjoy the day, bystanders and participants alike. We did not have our bathing suits or towels with us, nor did we feel like dipping in one of the most radioactive seas in the world - we nevertheless admired those who did! I must say the name 40 foot is a bit misleading, I was actually expecting a 40 feet high rock (about 12 meters), when in fact the jump was more like 2, maximum 3 meters. Still, an unusual Christmas activity, which I’m glad I took the time to experience look at ![]()

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