A Different Currency Is Used In Northern Ireland
Most people who are interested in visiting Ireland already know that it is divided into two countries, although they may not have considered the practicalities. If you’re traveling across the border, keep in mind that Northern Ireland uses pounds sterling rather than the euro. Because international bank cards will work just fine at ATMs and chip and pin terminals on both sides, it won’t make a difference one way or another, but it’s still worth knowing if you’re planning to shop – even before Brexit. Grocery shopping bills in Northern Ireland were around 15% cheaper than in the republic before Brexit.
Non-EU citizens can shop tax-free.
In addition, foreign tourists may use their Fexco Horizon card to shop tax-free in Ireland. Registering and swiping your card in any authorized location throughout the country (including Avoca Handweavers, the Guinness Storehouse, Dublin Zoo, and many other locations), before claiming back sales tax on those goods at the airport on your way home, is possible with this service. The firm also unveiled a tax-free shopping app that lets you place orders and register your card; find affiliated businesses; and track purchases.
Rent A (Small) Car
Renting a car is usually worth considering if you want to get to those remarkable sites off the main route. If you’re planning on renting one, keep in mind that drivers in Ireland drive on the left and pass on the right, as opposed to Americans. It’s ideal to rent a tiny automobile for touring rural areas of Ireland, because country roads are notoriously narrow and twisting.
Check Your Baggage Restrictions
If you are flying with Ryanair or Aer Lingus, two popular Irish budget airlines, be aware of the severe cabin baggage restrictions. You are allowed to bring only one small bag and one larger bag that must meet certain weight and dimension requirements. If you have any luggage that does not fit these criteria, large fees will be charged at the airport when you check it in.
Learn The Tipping Guidelines
Although tipping is not as common in Ireland as it is in other nations, certain services are frequently tipped for. Tipping between 10 and 12 percent is customary at restaurants with table service. If a restaurant adds a service charge to the bill itself, especially if there are many people dining together, then you should check this first. Taxi drivers and hairstylists or other personal service providers who provide exceptional service may be tipped up to 10% if you wish, but this is entirely optional.
Adjust Your Expectations Of The Céad Míle Fáilte
Although the Irish have a global reputation for extending cead míle fáilte, or “a hundred thousand welcomes,” friendliness in Ireland may be somewhat more hidden than visitors would expect. When compared to American customer service, where customers are greeted as soon as they walk into a store or restaurant, Irish service providers appear to be rather reserved. In general, people in Ireland are pleasant when spoken to and love chatting once they get started, but they aren’t always as sociable as they’re made out to be.
Wear Layers
The weather in Ireland is widely recognized as unpredictable. The country’s temperate oceanic climate causes it to receive buckets of rain, particularly on the western coast, yet it also means that one day’s forecast can quickly alter. It lacks significant extremes, so the best approach to be ready for the Irish weather is to bring a lot of light layers and waterproof shoes while hoping for the best.
Pre-book Trains
Although public transport in Ireland is expensive, trains are still a tempting option because they offer free wifi, electrical outlets, and bathrooms. If you buy your tickets ahead of time, Irish Rail regularly offers significant online booking discounts.
Flag Down Your Bus
Even if you flag down a Dublin city bus at a designated stop, it will not stop unless you signal it down. When your bus approaches, stick your arm out to notify the driver that you wish to board. It’s also typical on Irish buses to thank the driver when you get off.
Winter Days Are Short
Winter days in Ireland are much shorter than most people realize. If you’re planning a trip here, be aware that the sun rises around 8am and sets at 4pm in December. That means your time for outdoor exploring will be limited. But don’t worry – the reverse is true during summer months when the sun doesn’t set until 10pm on some nights.
Sunday Is A Day Of Rest (Some Places)
Many businesses in Ireland’s major cities and villages are open on Sundays, but many of them operate only limited hours. Many shops, restaurants, attractions, and cafés do not open until 2 p.m. on Sundays if they are open at all. Check ahead of time for your favorite spot. Bank Holiday Mondays are another story altogether!
Get A Heritage Card
It’s possible to get a Heritage Card from the Office of Public Works if you want to see a lot of Irish cultural sites. For just €25, it provides free access to all fee-paying state-managed heritage locations in Ireland for one year, including castles, national parks, and war memorial gardens.
Bonus Tip: Irish People Use A Lot Of Slang
It’s important to note that although the great majority of Ireland is English-speaking, locals in the west (in Irish-speaking regions called Gaeltacht) use a lot of slang and idiomatic expressions which, together with their strong accent, can make it challenging to understand them. Culture Trip has put together a helpful guide to common Irish slang terms if you need some assistance. And by the way, Irish people swear a lot.
