IRELAND

Ireland has a mild, temperate climate year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your plans:

• April–June (Spring): Best for blooming landscapes, longer daylight, and fewer crowds.
• July–August (Summer & Peak Season): Ideal for warm weather, festivals, and vibrant cities.
• September–October (Fall): Great for fewer tourists, autumn foliage, and pleasant weather.
• November–March (Winter & Off-Season): Best for cozy pub nights, lower prices, and festive Christmas markets.

• Cliffs of Moher (County Clare) – Ireland’s most famous natural wonder, offering stunning ocean views.
• Dublin’s Temple Bar & Guinness Storehouse – The heart of Ireland’s nightlife and beer culture.
• Ring of Kerry – A scenic drive through mountains, coastal villages, and breathtaking landscapes.
• Blarney Castle & The Blarney Stone – Kiss the stone and gain the gift of eloquence.
• Giant’s Causeway (Northern Ireland) – A UNESCO-listed natural wonder with hexagonal rock formations.
• Trinity College & The Book of Kells (Dublin) – Home to one of the world’s most famous illuminated manuscripts.
• Kylemore Abbey (Connemara) – A stunning lakeside castle and monastery.
• Galway City – A lively cultural hub with traditional Irish music, colorful streets, and fresh seafood.
• Rock of Cashel (Tipperary) – An ancient fortress with medieval chapels and Celtic history.
• Wild Atlantic Way – A breathtaking coastal route stretching from Donegal to Cork.

• Irish Stew – A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions.
• Boxty – A traditional potato pancake, crispy on the outside and soft inside.
• Full Irish Breakfast – Includes eggs, sausage, black & white pudding, bacon, and soda bread.
• Seafood Chowder – A creamy, flavorful soup filled with fresh seafood.
• Colcannon – A delicious mix of mashed potatoes, cabbage, and butter.
• Soda Bread – A dense, slightly sweet bread served with Irish butter.
• Guinness Pie – A rich beef and vegetable pie slow-cooked with Guinness beer.
• Coddle – A Dublin specialty made with sausage, bacon, onions, and potatoes.
• Baileys Irish Cream – A sweet, creamy liqueur often added to coffee or enjoyed straight.
• Irish Coffee – A perfect blend of whiskey, coffee, sugar, and cream.

• Flights: Arrive at Dublin Airport (DUB), Shannon Airport (SNN), or Cork Airport (ORK).
• Trains: Ireland has a reliable rail system, but some scenic areas are better explored by car.
• Car Rentals: Ideal for driving scenic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way and the Ring of Kerry.
• Buses: A budget-friendly way to travel between cities and smaller towns.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps: Available in major cities, but rural areas have limited options.
• Ferries: Travel between Ireland and the UK or explore the Aran Islands by boat.

• For U.S. travelers: No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
• For international travelers: Check Ireland’s visa requirements based on nationality.
• EU Travelers: Can enter freely with a valid national ID or passport.

• Currency: Euro (€ EUR) in the Republic of Ireland, but Pound Sterling (£ GBP) in Northern Ireland.
• Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful for rural areas and small pubs.
• ATMs are available throughout the country, offering good exchange rates.
• Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and city centers.

• English is the primary language.
• Irish (Gaelic) is also spoken, especially in Gaeltacht regions, but English is widely understood.
• Common Irish phrases to know:
  • Dia duit (Hello)
  • Go raibh maith agat (Thank you)
  • Sláinte! (Cheers!)

• Pubs are social hubs – Don’t be shy about chatting with locals!
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory – 10% is common in restaurants.
• Greet people with a handshake and a smile – Irish people are very friendly.
• Driving is on the left side of the road – Be mindful if renting a car.
• Respect historic sites and nature – Many places have deep cultural and historical significance.
• Pub etiquette – It’s customary to take turns buying rounds of drinks in a group.

• Restaurants: 10% tip is appreciated, but not always expected.
• Bars & Pubs: No need to tip, but rounding up the bill is a kind gesture.
• Hotels: €1–2 per bag for bellhops, €2–5 per night for housekeeping.
• Taxis: Tipping is not required, but rounding up is polite.
• Tour Guides & Excursions: €5–10 per person for excellent service.

• For peak season (June–September & March for St. Patrick’s Day): Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
• For off-season travel (October–April): Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
• For major events like St. Patrick’s Day & Galway Races: Book as early as possible.

• No COVID-19 test is required for entry, but check for updates before traveling.
• Some castles and heritage sites require advance booking—check online before visiting.
• Weather changes quickly—always pack a raincoat, even in summer!

Contact us at 281-229-0862 or admin@pointmetoparadise.com