Ireland Travel
Over time, the Republic of Ireland has found a way to preserve its famed lush greenery, inimitable landscape, and emblems of the old country, while also emerging a model of economic growth and success.
Named the “Celtic Tiger,” Ireland is one of the most prosperous countries in the European Union today.
Those who travel to Ireland will be treated to a rich history, captivating cities, and some of the loveliest sights in Europe.
Indeed, in Ireland, you can travel to an ancient castle one day, a coastal garden the next, and a historic, literary pub that same evening.
All of this and more are waiting to meet your travel dreams. In a word, Ireland possesses a charm, one that is unique to Ireland alone and one that millions travel from distances both near and far to experience.
Travel into Ireland is usually achieved by plane and train, but bus, ferry, and car travel aren’t uncommon.
Once inside the borders of Ireland however, train travel is your best bet, with trains leaving Ireland’s city center of Dublin for various cities and points of interest on the hour.
Renting a car is also widely used by tourists, with car-hire companies available at the airport and for a better rate, in-town.
When you travel to Ireland, you’ll want to be able to say you’ve been to certain sights, such as the Blarney Castle – home of the legendary “Blarney Stone,” Brú na Boinne, the Giant’s Causeway, and the Hill of Tara, where the Ancient Kings of Ireland once ruled.
If history is your calling, you may wish to purchase an OPW Heritage Card when you arrive.
With this card, you can visit any of the Heritage Sites funded by the Office of Public Works for free, from castles to old churches.
For those interested in literary pursuits, Ireland overflows with contributions.
From James Joyce to William Butler Yeats, the country’s stamp on world literature is indelible.
Trinity College in Dublin is a definite travel must-see. Cities in Ireland to check off a travel list include the capital of Dublin, Cork for its pubs and good food, Galway for its festivals, Limerick for its rugby, and Waterford for its history.
When you travel in the country, be mindful that the locals of Ireland are friendly, polite, and humble.
The famed Irish charm will be evident upon your first arrival.
Use it as a cue for your own travel manners and you should do fine. As for the language of Ireland, the official one is Irish, but most everyone speaks English.
It wouldn’t hurt however to jot down a few local colloquial terms in your travel book, as the pubs are sure to be filled with chatter and you wouldn’t want to feel left out.
It’s true, pubs are part of any true travel experience to Ireland.
At a pub, you can sample Ireland’s stout – a dark, dry beer, along with some local specialties, such as authentic Irish soda bread.
What’s more, you’ll find many pubs in Ireland are also carveries, making them more like restaurants where you can order up dinner before turning in for the night.
As for where to stay in Ireland, you’ll find a mix of travel accommodations, including hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and hostels to choose from.
If you’re used to staying in a comfy, luxury suite when you travel, then look to the bigger cities.
In the more rural towns, you’ll find that a bed-and-breakfast is your travel choice and just one more delight of Ireland, as the hospitality is sure to enhance your trip.
The currency of Ireland is the Euro (€), unlike Northern Ireland which uses the pound sterling, so if you travel from the UK to Ireland, make sure to note the conversion rate. Remember to travel with your debit cards, as about 90% of merchants accept them.
There are also ATMs everywhere to make getting travel cash a snap.
Accepted cards are MasterCard, Visa, and Maestro.