Tips for a Terrific First Trip to Ireland
You've put off visiting the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney National Park, and Blarney Castle long enough. It's finally time to take that trip to Ireland! We applaud that decision, but before you book that brewery tour or get too excited about visiting Dublin's Grafton Street, here are a few tips to make for a more enjoyable trip.
Know What to Expect When Visiting an Irish Pub
You simply cannot visit Ireland without at least one stop at an Irish Pub. Considered the social universe of Ireland, it is much more than just a drinking place. In Ireland, almost every occasion is marked with a visit to the pub. From births to deaths, christenings and sports, and often the meeting place of many couples, a stop at the pub is far more than a quick jaunt to the local watering hole, it is culture.
As a tourist, it is best to be versed in local pub etiquette before going. Here are a few tips to save you from embarrassment.:
Rounds - If you are joining a group of locals, drinks will be bought in rounds. No one goes to the bar to get just one drink…they buy a round for the table. Being on the receiving end of a round is great, but it rests on the condition that you will return the favour and buy a round too. No one will tell you. No one will remind you. They will just talk about how stingy you are later if you forget to get your round in.
When you are a couple, this means both of you need to get a round.
Tipping - Tipping is good etiquette for table service, and 10-12% is the norm, but if you are getting your round at the bar, it’s not expected.
Public Drunkenness - In Ireland it is an offense to be tipsey in public, so it is a good idea to stay within your limits.
Lock-ins - Sometimes pubs will invite some of the regulars to stay after closing. The doors are locked and windows shuttered and no one else can come in. The pub is now considered a private property, but if you are lucky enough to be invited to a lock-in, you will probably still be expected to pay for your drinks. it is always best to come prepared as in this scenario, cash is often expected.
Consider Car Travel
The best sites in the Emerald Isle are seen via public transportation or tour buses, but renting a car is not a bad idea to get to those obscure sites. However, it may be a bit different that what you are accustomed to.
The Irish drive on the left side of the road and pass on the right. Keeping with this, entering a round-about or rotary, you enter to the left.
Be sure the vehicle you rent is a small one, as rural roads in Ireland are narrow. If you are not quite comfortable with a manual transmission, spring for the automatic. It will be worth every penny when already contending with the left hand drive, meaning right hand stick shift.
Allow extra time. You will surely take more time than google tells you. Bring a map and spare change in the local currency for tolls.
Tax-Free Shopping!
All those goodies you'll find to buy on Grafton Street are tax-free!
That's right, travelers who live outside the European Union can shop tax-free in Ireland. Make sure to apply for a Fexco Horizon Card prior to your trip so you can register and swipe it in affiliated stores in the country and claim sales tax back on the purchases. There are FEXCO Tax Refund Kiosks at Dublin, Shannon & Cork Airports, where you can quickly process your refund and claim your tax back. It is super fast and easy!
Differing Currencies
And while we're on the topic of shopping, it's important to note that, as part of the United Kingdom, Northern Ireland uses pound sterling rather than the euro.
Dress Appropriately
Irish weather is not extreme, but the country does get a lot of rain, particularly along its west coast. And if you're traveling to Ireland during winter, know that the season's days are short.
The sun rises at about 8 a.m. and sets at about 4 p.m., which means you have to cram a lot of sightseeing into a few hours. But during summer, the sunsets as late as 10 p.m.
Be mindful of these seasonal changes, pack light layers of clothing and a pair of rain boots or waterproof shoes, and you should be just fine.
Public Transportation Pointers
The trains in Ireland carry you in comfort, but they are pricey. So if you intend to travel on one during your trip, make sure to book it in advance to take advantage of online discounts that the Irish Rail offers.
While bussing it is the more cost efficient option it is important to note that many buses will most likely not take you everywhere you want to go. Stops may be limited and slow to get to, and often once you reach an accessiblel town, getting to heritage sites and ancient ruins may not be possible or within walking distance. If you choose to travel by bus, be aware that you must flag the bus to get it to stop.
Heritage Cards Are Helpful
If you plan to visit the country's many cultural attractions, picking up a Heritage Card from the Office of Public Works is a great idea. This card entitles you to free admission to all heritage sites managed by the state for an entire year. These sites include castles and national parks.
Don’t forget to take extra portable battery packs for your phone or camera as the scenery is exceptional.
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