Hello all,
I’m looking to my RB friends for a little help. My daughter, niece and cousin are all going to Ireland in March and we’re looking for any hints or suggestions.
They really want to experience the culture, get to know the people, in the short time they have there.
They’ve been told that one of the best places to go to do that is the pubs. Lots of stories and good food. I can understand that but I do have some concerns. Anyone want to tell me how safe that is? They’re young yet and probably a bit naive so I am extra concerned. My cousin is a big guy but he’s only one guy with two girls.
So any warnings for them? Any best places to go – scenic, culture, food, lodging, etc.?
Anything you can give us would be much appreciated!!
I’ve always loved how on RB, we get glimpses of other parts of the world, now I could use more than just glimpses.
Thank you RB friends!
Ann
Update – A few more specifics:
They are flying into Dublin and are renting a car. They will have only about a week so not a lot of time.
Mark Tull
Forget Ireland, tell them to come to London, I’ll look after them ;-))
Appel:
I’m sure you would!! Unfortunately, they have their heart set on Ireland plus the tickets are already bought. ;-)
Country Pursuits
No offence, but you need to be more specific in your location etc, as Ireland is a big place.
Where are they flying to?
Northern Ireland or Eire (Southern Ireland)?
How long is their visit?
Are they hiring a car?
If you could provide those answers, then you should get lots of people willing to help with the information that you desire.
Hope this helps you.
Appel:
Thank-you, I’ve added a few more details. I don’t know Ireland at all and the only information we’re getting is from books. Everyone knows the best way to see an area is to talk with the locals. We just have to find a way for them to interact with the locals and not just other tourists.
Jack McCabe
I traveled Ireland alone and never felt unsafe at anytime there.
I don’t think you will find a place with more friendly people no matter where you go. Although I have to say that my side trip to London allowed for more actual variety of places, museums, etc. to visit. I did limit myself somewhat by not renting a car in Ireland.
There are so many great places to visit it is hard to pin down a few. If they have time it would be great to visit Dublin for a city feel. Perhaps take the train to the west coast and visit Galway Bay.
Pubs are everywhere, this is how the Irish congregate other than at church and sporting events as most homes are not designed for entertaining in the way many American homes are designed.
Things not to do in Ireland
10 Things to do when before you die in Ireland
Appel:
They are renting a car so they should be able to see a few more things but they have kept their itinerary completely open. Other than the car and the airplane tickets they have no reservations. Thank-you for telling me about your experience, it’s reassuring! Pubs there sound like they’re completely different than bars/taverns here. I’m assuming you have to be a certain age to go into the pubs?
Jack McCabe
When in Dublin see the Book of Kells at Trinity College.
Visit the Guinness Brewery, St James Gate, Dublin 8
Others in the top 5 to see in Dublin
Greater Ireland
I believe it is age 18 to drink in the pubs.
Enjoy the trip!
retsilla
I’ve been to Ireland a few times and hung out there a bit. Sounds like you’ve got some pretty knowledgable people bubbing above me too so heaps of input.
People talk about the pubs for getting to know people, but that hasn’t been my experience in the main. Certainly for the music and liveliness (esp. Dublin), but many pubs can be quite quiet and reserved. Talking to the bartender is the way to go and you’ll get less blarney.
The pubs of Dublin around Temple bar are classic. As for the food, well you’ll certainly be right for a good feed of chips, and I reckon the meat in Ireland tends to be of good quality too. Out of the city you may struggle to find good international cuisines if that is what you are used to but personnaly I’d rather have the local dishes cooked the local way.
The locals would be fine safey wise, its the tourists I’d watch out for! If “yer man” is with them I don’t think there would be any bother.
All of Ireland is scenic, expcept perhaps Temple bar at 3am. It oozes culture and a fascinating history, punching well above it’s weight for historical significance in Europe IMO but accept I may be biased.
I’d go the Burren if possible, Cork and Kerry. Glendalough, a few hours south of Dublin would make a nice day trip. Up the west coast is very nice Galway (and Sligo) is very preety too. But I hear God takes his holidays in Donegal…..