Essential Tips for Your First Trip to Ireland
Planning your first trip to Ireland? Here’s what you need to know.
For some, Ireland is a peaceful isle of rolling hills and lilting music. While this is true, it’s also a place of charming quirks and odd habits, full of irreverent people and frustrating transport systems. It will take longer than this article to understand Ireland, but you’ll be off to a good start with this handy list of dos and don’ts.
Don’t Rush Your Trip
Many visitors to Ireland hope to cram the entire island’s highlights into one weekend. Yes, we’re small, but do you really want to spend your entire holiday stuck in a car, navigating unfamiliar roads? Instead, take your time and soak in the experience to truly enjoy all that Ireland has to offer.
Do Rent a Car
If you want to explore beyond the main cities and into the countryside, renting your own transportation is the best option. Rural public transport is often slow, expensive, and runs on a sporadic timetable. By car, you’ll discover more of the stunning landscapes and stumble upon wonderfully unexpected sights. Moreover, don’t worry about getting lost; if your navigation system fails, just ask the next person you see for directions.
However, if you’re unfamiliar with the roads, consider that it may take longer to travel distances than anticipated. Don’t feel obliged to rush; rural roads can be twisting and narrow, making high-speed driving hazardous. If you’ve never encountered roundabouts before, be sure to familiarize yourself with the rules—always give way to the right.
Don’t Take Everything Seriously
Ireland has a unique sense of humor, and as Brendan Behan said, we possess a “wonderful lack of respect for everything and everybody.” If you start chatting with the locals, be prepared for some good-natured teasing, but embrace the fun—you’ll likely make a friend for the evening.
Do Get Your Round In
Participating in a ’round’ where everyone buys drinks for the group in turn is a common custom, but don’t feel pressured to do so if it’s overwhelming. If someone buys you a drink, ensure you return the favor later. While it’s okay to refuse a drink, once it’s your turn, going to the bar is expected—failure to do so might lead to whispers after you leave.
Don’t Be Offended by the Swearing
In general, Irish people are known for their colorful language. Rather than taking offense, consider it a verbal quirk—an element that adds vibrancy to communication. Remember, we’re not swearing at you; it’s just how we express ourselves!
Do Bring an Outfit for Every Type of Weather
The unpredictable nature of Irish weather means you should dress appropriately. Always be prepared with a range of layers, including a rain jacket—essential even on sunny days. If you plan to spend time outdoors, waterproof shoes are also a wise choice.
Don’t Attempt Our Accent
Unless you’ve spent significant time in Ireland or have a knack for accents, attempting an Irish accent may not yield the desired results. While ribbing and banter are welcome, don’t assume that asking about distant ancestors is the best conversation starter. Instead, engage respectfully with locals who are often willing to discuss contemporary topics.
Do Experience Local Food
While Ireland may not boast a globally renowned culinary reputation, it is home to amazing restaurants using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Quality dairy products like cheese and butter are unrivaled, and not countering a tip of about 10% is customary but not mandatory. Seek out local dishes for a true taste of Ireland.
No matter what, your adventure in Ireland is sure to be filled with unforgettable experiences and vibrant culture. Explore with an open heart and mind, and you’ll create memories that will last a lifetime.
This article was originally published on July 10, 2019, and updated on March 14, 2022.
