Tropical force

Andrea Horan is the owner of Tropical Popical, the Dublin nail bar she opened on South William St with her sister Michelle in 2012. She is also the founder of The Hunreal Issues, the not-for-profit venture that aims to encourage women to become more interested in political issues

What's your earliest memory?

I used to get a blow-dry every Saturday with my granny in Dickie’s in Inchicore in Dublin, and I remember crying desperately because I thought they were teasing me when they told me that my hair was so thick! Little did I know back then how blessed I was.

What was your first job?

My very fi rst job was in a newsagents, but what I actually consider to be my very fi rst job was when I got to work in Warehouse in town when I was 15. Then I thought I ruled the world. I was such a little townie, and always wanted to be at the centre of the action. I’ve loved the city ever since I can remember.

Best thing about lockdown?

I honestly fi nd it really difficult to fi nd anything positive about being in lockdown. Anything good that I can think of that has come out of it, such as slowing down for example, I can choose to do. In terms of the bigger picture, it’s good to see streets being used for people, and cycle lanes being added – but all of this should have happened anyway, because it makes sense. I suppose the best thing about lockdown is that things that should have happened are starting to happen.

Worst thing about lockdown?

Everything! I absolutely hate it. I hate the impact it’s been having on older people, and those who are at risk; their quality of life is being affected so much. We’re all losing out on so many special moments – occasions and milestones, such as graduations, weddings, baby showers, 40th birthdays, debs, and sixth year holidays. These can’t be relived.

Ideal holiday destination?

I have many favourite places and countries for the different types of holidays I like to take. I love going to Berlin to bop in Berghain; Italy for the food and all the beautiful men; Miami for Art Basel and Scope art fairs; Mykonos for my 40th (which was recently and I couldn't go); and Cambodia for a long-haul adventure.

Favourite food?

Fake cherry-fl avoured things, and the eggs benny in Daddy’s Cafe in Rialto, Dublin 8.

Favourite drink?

Cherry White Claw with amaretto.

‘I work really hard to surround myself with people who are fun, who help me to shine, and who make me a better person’

Cats or dogs?

Dogs. I’ve two absolute brats that I adore.

How do you relax?

I have two extremes; I party all night to let go, or I stay in bed all day to recharge.

Dream dinner party guest/guests (alive or dead)?

My dream dinner party guests would be my friends. I work really hard to surround myself with people who are fun, who help me to shine, and who make me a better person. I’d also invite my mom, dad and sister because we’d have the craic, along with Edina Monsoon from Absolutely Fabulous, Roisin Murphy, and Ruth Bader Ginsberg.

Best piece of advice you've ever received?

Create the life you want to live.

Best piece of advice you've ever given?

Oh I’m fl at out doling out the ‘create the life you want to live’ advice non-stop!

Favourite thing about yourself?

The refl ection of myself in my friends.

What's the one beauty product you can't live without?

Barechic Skin Blue Flower Face Serum.

What, if anything, would you now tell your 16-year-old self?

You’re dead right; life is so transient, continue to make the most of it, and do what makes you happy.

How would you like to be remembered?

I’d like everyone to remember me for adding joy to people’s lives.