Ireland Travel Guide
The Bare Bones: What you Need to Know
Population: 3.8 Million
Area: 76280km2
Religion: 91% Roman Catholic, 2.5% Protestant (Church of Ireland), 5.9% Other?
Currency The Euro
Visas Passports etc.
UK Citizens only need passports (or other photo ID) and for US citizens passports are required but no Visa for visits up to 90 days. Ensure that children have up to date paperwork and if travelling with someone else's children in the role of guardian make sure you have notification of your relationship to the child and permission for them to be with you.
Be Safe
Normal common sense rules apply in Ireland. The crime rate is generally low but beware of pickpockets and bagsnatchers. Take care with baggage and personal possessions. Be careful around ATM machines. Car crime is on the increase so always lock up and hide possessions from view. Carry copies of any ID you have but leave the real version safely locked away in your hotel. Report loss or theft of Passports to the police immediately and then contact the nearest embassy or consulate.
Stay Healthy
Ireland has a very modern system of healthcare.
UK citizens should in theory get emergency treatment free of charge on production of an E111 form. In practice however many places will charge so make sure you get receipts in order that you can claim back money spent from the NHS.
US citizens should ensure that they have ample medical insurance cover.
On the Road
Irish roads are generally good although the roads narrow once away from centres of population.
Drive on the left. Don't use mobile phones whilst driving. Always wear seat belts and obey the speed limits. In the cities beware of bicycles and pedestrians. Breaking traffic laws can carry heavy fines.
Drugs and the Law
Drug possession and drug dealing/trafficking are illegal and punishments can be heavy.
When to Go
Ireland has famously unpredictable weather. One minute it may be raining and the next basking in bright sunshine. The Gulf Stream generally warms the climate and prevents harsh cold winters being an issue. Usually.
Cash and Plastic
Credit and Debit Cards are widely accepted and ATM machines available. Check with your card provider before departure to ensure they are accepted.
Insurance
Comprehensive cover is advised for all aspects of your trip, this should include medical, accident, luggage, money and possessions.
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