Ireland is one of my favorite countries in the entire planet because it’s so rich in history. Not only is it home to some of the most stunning countryside’s but the people here are amazing. Ireland has been through wars and oppression and still the Irish Pride is strong! One important thing to understand though is Ireland is split in to two and depending on who you ask that’s a whole different and hotly debated topic on why. For information reasons you have the Republic of Ireland which is the Southern half (5/6 of the country) and Northern Ireland (1/6 of the country) which is a part of the UK and still under English rule.
The official language is Irish but everyone also speaks English.
Dia duit (Hello)
Slán (Goodbye)
Sláinte (Cheers)
Le do thoil (Please)
Go raibh maith agat (Thank you)
A little on the more budget friendly side but still an amazing accommodation. This hotel focuses on wellness and peace of mind. They have an onsite spa and a view of the Paps Mountains which is absolutely breathtaking. It’s a great choice to relax and unwind on a tighter budget.
Average cost starts at €150 a night.
Another beautiful and historic location that is worth a couple of days to stay at. You are getting so much more than a hotel room it’s a full-on experience! To give some context it’s the #5 hotel in the whole world…yeah, its freaking amazing! It’s also home to a Michelin star restaurant and a diverse range of activities.
Average cost starts at €400 a night.
If you are lucky enough to have the budget you need to plan at least two nights at Ashford Castle! Situated on 350 acres this castle is like no other and is renowned worldwide. With activities such as falconry, clay shooting, horseback riding and so much more. The rooms are one of a kind and they have one of the best fine dining restaurants around. It’s also been used as a set for shows and movies such as Reign.
The average cost starts at €675 a night.
He is one of my favorite historical figures from Ireland. He is famous for his poetry and playwrights. His most famous work is The Picture of Dorian Gray which is the only novel he wrote. An interesting fact is that he actually spent time in jail for being homosexual. Though it was a well-known secret, his father left him a card that read “Oscar Wilde: Posing Somdomite.” Outraged and embarrassed he sued his father for libel which unfortunately ruined his life. He was convicted of gross indecency and spent two years in prison. He later was exiled to France and never recovered from the ordeal.
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Ireland is famous for its Fish and Chips and a pint of beer. While in town you have to hit a pub get a pint and a basket of some good ole fish and chips.
Now this is a cool eatery located in Kerry. Its casual dining and the menu is written on a chalkboard and changes daily. They serve fresh caught fish, so the catch of the day is literally what they serve the same day. It’s a great place if you are a lover of seafood and want a more relaxed meal!
The average cost starts around €20.
A trip to Ireland is not complete if you don’t go to a local pub. O’Neill’s was founded over three hundred years ago and was built on top of an old Viking parliament! The offer traditional pub food and even serve a full Irish Breakfast.
The average cost starts around €40.
This restaurant is situated right on the ocean! Located in Waterford you can enjoy locally sourced and grown food that is Michelin star rated. They specialize in quality ingredients and offer tasting courses and a la carte.
The average cost starts around €80.
Similar to most of Europe Ireland is on the standard three-pronged G socket. It is a standard voltage of 230V and standard frequency is 50Hz. To avoid issues, you will need an adapter AND convertor! I would recommend BESTEK Universal it works in multiple destinations and has USB ports. I have been using it for a while and love it! Now all my ladies out there you will need a DIFFERENT adapter for your curling irons and straighteners. I know its extra money but trust me! I have blown out a few curling irons, it’s worth the extra money and luggage space. Conair has the best adapter for pretty much every country. Check it out here.
That Ireland is one country and that is actually incorrect. Ireland is split into two which is not popular with most Irish locals. Tip here don't speak on that topic with locals as they will feel passionately about. If you aren't from there its not something you can fully grasp so be respectful. Now with Northern Ireland that is apart of the UK meaning you need pounds. If you want to cross into the Republic of Ireland it is considered a different country so you can't drive a rental across and you do have to show your passport on the train. Once in the Republic of Ireland you will be on the Euro.
Ireland ranks high in terms of one of the safest countries to visit. Be cautious at night in pub areas especially near the universities. Most people are fine but you can see people get overly rowdy. If alone make sure to not drink too much and head back at a reasonable hour and call a car if needed. For more information click here.
If you visit during June to early September the days are extended meaning you have sun longer to stay outside and explore. The weather also tends to be much better during this time meaning less rain but more people.
Dress in layers, the saying four seasons in a day is so true in Ireland! It would go from cold to hot, then wet from the rain and then dry again. Layers are a life saver in this type of climate.
Northern Ireland is a part of the uk meaning they accept the pound. The republic of ireland official currency is the euro. some merchants will take both but that is not a guarantee.
If you are in the big cities walking and public transportation is a great option. However outside of the cities you will need a car. Part of the fun in exploring Ireland is doing it by driving!
Wifi is available at most locations for free but it will be limited. Depending on the length of your trip either add international to your plan or invest in a portable wifi. A company I use often is SkyRoam, they have very affordable rates!
Driving the countryside is something everyone should do once. The landscape is amazing, and you will run across so many beautiful places. Driving gives you the ability to stop and take it all in and not be rushed if you want to get that picture for the gram!
I have made tons of travel mistakes that were easily avoidable. Forgetting convertors, not packing properly, the list goes on. To make sure you avoid the same mistakes I have made I have complied a list of travel must haves.
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