Ireland is an iconic destination for its pubs, alcohol, landscapes and so much more. If you are searching for more information on the country, you’re on the right page! Here, you’ll find out everything there is to know about Ireland. I hope you will like this amazing country as much as I did!
- The people
- When you should go
- Money currency
- What to eat/drink
- How to use your phone / SIM card
- Some facts
- Insurance
- Different accommodation options
- Essential apps to have
The people
Irish people are very friendly. I had some personal issues while being in Ireland, and the Irish people I was with always found a way to help me. I found that they have a big heart and they are easy-going.
Since almost all the population speaks English, it’s very easy to communicate with them. However, it’s important to always be respectful and polite. If you don’t show respect, they can become mean instantly.
When you should go
I went to Ireland at the end of July. Summer is from June to August. Of course, this is the high season. There are more tourists than in the other seasons. Therefore, the accommodations and the activities are more expensive.
Even if I traveled during the sunny season, let’s just say I didn’t get a sunburn. I wore a small coat almost every day as it was very windy during the day. If you like to travel when it’s not too hot but still enjoyable, this is the perfect time for you.
I didn’t travel to Ireland during winter, autumn and spring. However, I can tell you they are the low seasons. This means fewer tourists and lower prices for the accommodations and the activities. They are also colder seasons. If you like to travel with a warm winter coat and enjoy hot chocolate, those are definitely the seasons for you.
Money currency
Ireland is one of the many countries in the eurozone. Therefore, their currency is the Euro (€). Unlike Canada, there is no tax. Every price you see is the final price. Also, tipping is not expected. It is never mandatory, but it is always nice to leave a tip if you feel like the person deserves it.
There is usually a big fee when getting money out of an ATM. You should always try to pay by card. Go get Euros at your local bank in your country before traveling. You will save a lot on ATM fees.
What to eat/drink
In Ireland, lunch is typically at 1 pm. Dinner is at 7:00 pm.
I hope I don’t surprise you when I say some of the typical dishes to try in Ireland are Irish stew, Fish and chips and Soda Bread.
For drinks, I highly recommend trying a Guinness (beer) and a Jameson (Irish whiskey). They are always winners in Ireland.
How to use your phone / SIM card
The most affordable and easy way to have access to your phone is to buy an E-card / pre-paid SIM card. You can buy them online, they are way cheaper than anything at the airport! I bought mine 2 days before I left and it was perfect. The company I used was Holafly and you have multiple options depending on what you want. For example, it’s €34 for 10 days or €47 for 15 days.
If you don’t want to pay for a SIM card, don’t worry, there’s Wi-Fi everywhere. Most of the time, when I go to Europe, I don’t pay for a SIM card. Instead, I download the maps before I go there (either on Maps.me or Google Maps). If I really need WI-FI, I stop at a McDonald’s, a grocery store or a mall.
Some facts
Here are some fun facts about Ireland:
- Is Halloween your favorite holiday? Lucky you, this special day originated in Ireland.
- Guinness (beer) and Jameson (Irish whiskey) are both from Ireland.
- Ireland’s National Day is March 17, Saint Patrick’s Day.
- Does a horcrux mean anything to you? In Harry Potter – The Half-Blood Prince, Harry and Dumbledore are searching for a horcrux in a cave. This scene was filmed in one of Ireland’s most beautiful places, The Cliffs of Moher.
- English is the primary spoken language in Ireland, with 98% of the population speaking it. + 40% of Irish claimed they can speak Gaelic.
Insurance
Searching for travel insurance can be a hard task. But, it’s also a very important one. Since there are so many options out there, here’s one that is easy to understand and well known : World Nomads.
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Different accommodation options
Villas/Apartments: Renting a villa/apartment is definitely the most eye-pleasing option. You can find some crazy original stays! Most of the time it is equipped like an apartment, so you will have a fridge and a cooking space. It will be pricier, but you can save on eating out if you cook at your villa. It is a good option for families or if you are a big group of people. You can split the price, and it can be more fun than being all separate in hotel rooms.
Hotels: Hotels are a classic. There are plenty of them with a huge price range. You will be well welcomed and have access to services you don’t get in a villa. Some hotels have spas, some have yoga classes and so much more. Your room will get cleaned every day, and you will have access to room service. If you are an anxious person, hotels are your best option. You will definitely feel more secure since there is always someone working nearby.
Hostels: If you are a backpacker, this is the cheapest option for you. It is less luxurious, less comfortable, less a lot of things. But it is an amazing experience to live while you are young. You will have one bed in a shared room with others. This is the best way to meet people if you are traveling solo. Some hostels have group activities to help with that. You are young, your back is not broken yet, and you can sleep in a less comfortable space in exchange for living an incredible experience.
Essential apps to have
Transport: Having access to transport in Ireland is so easy!
- Download Omio
Gives you the best & cheapest way to travel in Europe comparing the bus, car (shared rides), train, and plane. You can book everything directly on the app. I find the prices are always the same or sometimes cheaper than on the websites of the companies.
- Download Uber
You order your car knowing already the price it will cost. You know when your driver will be there, and you have the option of paying cash or directly with your card on the app. I always prefer to pay cash. This way I could always round up the amount and leave a tip. They deserve it! You can even order food on Uber Eat!
Places to stay:
- Booking: You will find all three types of accommodation.
- Airbnb: You will find amazing and original villas/apartments.
- Hostelworld: This is an app for hostels only. You will find the best ones with an amazing rating system to help you make your choice. There are also group chats on the app with the people who will be staying at the same place as you.
Others:
- Maps.me: You can download any maps and use them without Wi-Fi.
- WhatsApp: It’s a classic. Everyone in Europe uses WhatsApp to text and call.
- Too Good To Go: You can buy food from restaurants and stores for cheaper prices that would otherwise have been thrown away at the end of the day.
