The combined synergy of the skillset within the Latin Quarter committee is what makes the area such a vibrant part of Galway city, says Padraig Lally of Taaffe’s Bar.
“Ever since the Latin Quarter was formed, the hardworking committee had done wonders for the feel of the place, the lighting, the ambience and now more than ever that effort is reaping dividends for the thousands of punters who have frequented the area since restrictions were lifted last week.
But it is great to be back again, open, serving good food for longer in the day than we used to. We are however missing the music, the trad sessions. We used to have 14 trad gigs a week in normal times, all year round. It is very tough on the musicians who are out of work.
“Because of that it is a different pub, but there is still a lovely atmosphere inside and outside where the lights have given us all a great lift and created a real buzz around the place.”
The Latin Quarter is very photogenic because the lights attract in people who want to sample that unique atmosphere after what has been a difficult year for us all. So it is in all our interests to keep the Latin Quarter looking spick and span. It is good for us and it is good for Galway.”
“Galway is well placed to pick up rom this.During the staycation period, Galway was voted No 1 spot to go to. Because they are getting great service and hospitality here.
“Since we reopened, we cannot get over the great buzz that there is and the feedback from the customers is great. Fair play to the City Council for their shop local campaign because it is brining in the numbers for a safe and welcoming experience in the Latin Quarter.
The camaraderie of the businesses in the Latin Quarter is notable too. We see the staff from every place having their lunches and doing their shopping in the businesses here.
The time of year has helped create this good atmosphere as well. The chilly weather means there are lots of hot drinks going out to punters outside.
This year we also see the real value of the buskers. In lockdown time when nothing was happening in Galway, the buskers who have been under threat, kept the music flowing through the streets and the created a welcoming atmosphere. They desyvere all the support they can get, because they provided the sound of Galway when it was needed.
