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No matter if you plan on visiting Ireland alone, with your significant other, or with a group of friends, here is a comprehensive guide of dos and don’ts for first-time travelers to Ireland to ensure that you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.
First-Time Travelers to Ireland
Ireland is known for a lot of things: beautiful landscapes, rich history and culture, welcoming people, delicious beer, and fun festivities. Like any other country, the Emerald Isle has its fair share of cultural norms and things that make it different from other nations, and knowing them will help you make the most of your trip.
DO: Be Friendly and Polite
One of the most well-known traits of the Irish people is their friendliness, and locals are generally warm, chatty, and happy to help visitors. If someone strikes up a conversation with you in a pub or on the street, don’t be surprised, it’s just part of Irish hospitality! You don’t need to engage in deep conversations with every stranger, and a simple “How are you?” and a bit of small talk is more than enough. Being polite and friendly will take you a long way and help you make connections, so don’t ignore people who greet you even if you don’t know them, since it is considered rude.
DON’T: Expect Perfect Weather
Ireland is known for its unpredictable weather, so it’s best to come prepared. It doesn’t really matter if you’re visiting it during the warmer or colder time of the year – you need to pack your luggage pretty much the same. Bring a lot of layers and a waterproof jacket, because even if it’s sunny in the morning, there’s no guarantee that it won’t rain later in the afternoon and you don’t want the weather to ruin your trip.
If you want to look more like a local, pack an Irish cap as well. Irish caps have a classic, traditional design with sleek lines and they are made of tweed, so they will protect you from any unexpected rain and won’t take up any space in your suitcase. And lastly, don’t let the bad weather ruin your trip, as Ireland’s beauty shines the most in the misty and rainy atmosphere.
DO: Explore Beyond Dublin
Dublin is a fantastic city, but Ireland has so much more to offer, and the true beauty of the country is hidden well beyond the borders of its capital city. Places like the Ring of Kerry, Connemara, and the Cliffs of Moher are what make Ireland truly special and show its rugged nature. You can rent a car and take a drive along the coastal roads or buy a bus tour to experience these scenic places. Not only that, but smaller towns and villages are also well worth your time, and if you plan on taking a longer vacation, make sure to include Galway, Kilkenny, and Kinsale on your “to-visit” list.
DON’T: Rely Solely on Credit Cards
Card payments are widely accepted in Ireland, but don’t assume that every place takes them. Carrying around some cash will prove to be very useful in some situations, for example when you’re in a small town, a market, or a rural pub. Keep in mind that the euro is the national currency of Ireland, so make sure to exchange your American dollars upon arrival. Also, even though you can still use your card, remember to check if it works internationally since some cards can charge giant foreign transaction fees.
DO: Respect Pub Etiquette
Pubs are at the heart of Irish social life, and if you’ve visited Ireland but didn’t go to a pub, consider that your trip never happened. Ireland has a wild nightlife and pub culture, and there are many unspoken rules that you need to know to have a great experience. First of all, it’s common for one person to buy drinks for the group, and then others take turns buying the next round, so remember this when drinking with the locals. Then, the Guinness: even if you’re not a beer lover, you need to try this national drink if you want to experience Irish culture, but don’t rush your pint – Guinness is meant to be savored.