Ireland is filled with lush green landscapes, castles, bustling pubs, coastlines, quaint villages, and more. Visitors to the “Emerald Isle” comment on its mysterious draw that awakens the senses and sticks with you long after you return home. With some of the friendliest people around, you’ll feel right at home pulling a seat up at the local pub. Ireland is also an excellent destination for first-time international travelers, with English spoken everywhere and a culture that is unique yet familiar. If Ireland is on your to-do list, these are 10 of the top tips from the experts.
The Republic of Ireland vs. Northern Ireland. The Republic of Ireland is what most travelers think of when referring to Ireland, but the northern counties are actually part of the United Kingdom and therefore not in the EU. As such, the Euro is used in Ireland but Northern Ireland utilizes the British Pound. Distances are also different between the two; in Ireland, kilometers are frequently used while miles are the standard in the north.
Getting to Ireland. There are several airports with direct flights to the U.S. While Dublin has the most flights, Shannon airport in the west also has many flights to major U.S. hubs. When planning your itinerary, it might make sense to start in Dublin and end at Shannon or vice versa. Land tour companies are well-versed in navigating both airports for a seamless trip.
What to pack. Don’t let a sunny morning fool you, it’s always a good idea to pack rain gear and dress in layers with comfortable walking shoes anywhere you go in Ireland. After all, the rain is why Ireland is so green and lush! It’s important to take the weather in stride and expect it to shift throughout the day. While it rarely gets extremely cold with snow, staying dry and warm is key to a pleasant trip.
When to visit. No matter when you choose to travel, there is plenty to see and do. July and August are typically the busiest months when everything will be open, but that comes with crowds and elevated prices. “Shoulder season” is in the fall and spring when the attractions are a bit less crowded, and the winter months are when you can experience Ireland as the locals do, though some rural attractions might be closed for the season.
Must-see attractions. A tour will ensure you see the top sites – they are popular for a reason! The Cliffs of Moher are not to be missed, reaching over 700 feet high over the scenic Atlantic coast. The famous Waterford Crystal Factory is a main highlight of any visit to the southern coast, and a trip to Ireland wouldn’t be complete without a stop at one of the country’s many, many castles – the Blarney Castle and Malahide Castle are widely popular for photo opportunities and to soak in the ancient history.
You don’t need a car. Contrary to what some people suggest, you do not need to rent a car in Ireland, and we usually don’t recommend it. Cars in Ireland are usually manual transmission, the Irish drive on the left side, and country roads can be extremely narrow. There are many options for land tours that can take you anywhere you desire in the country without having the stress and responsibility of your own vehicle.
Enjoy the “craic”. The term craic represents Ireland’s social culture. Whether at a pub or over a cup of tea, soak in the Irish culture by putting your smartphone away and getting to know the friendly locals! Visitors emphasize that the people are what makes Ireland an especially memorable place.
Experience the Gaelic language. English is widely and by default the spoken language throughout most of the country, making Ireland an excellent choice for first-time international travelers or those with families. Under the Irish Constitution, Gaelic is also an official language, so don’t be surprised to see both English and Gaelic on signs and menus. If you’re really up for an adventure, take a 45-minute ferry ride from Galway to the Aran Islands where Gaelic is predominantly spoken by the locals.
Tipping culture. While tipping isn’t as widespread as the U.S., it’s customary to leave 10-15% at a pub or restaurant. Tips are not expected for taxis, though rounding up is always appreciated. Credit cards are accepted throughout Ireland, but it doesn’t hurt to have some Euros with you for tips and other incidentals.
Plan for a week to see Ireland. Seven days is usually enough time to soak in the Emerald Isle. Dublin is a charming city with busy pubs and charming architecture, but a few days is usually enough. Experience the countryside to get the most out of your trip. If you have family heritage in Ireland, consider a genealogy tour as well, which might include stops at a rural church or cemetery.
Ireland is known for the beauty of its people and landscapes. If you’re inspired to visit the Emerald Isle, give Denise a call to start planning!
My goal is to simplify travel-planning through an equal exchange process where I acquire your ideas and expectations for your trip relieving you of the worry, hassle, stress and time that accompanies Do-It-Yourself planning.