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Trip Report
Travel Tips for Ireland
Ireland was an incredible trip and I can't wait to visit again!
+ 5
EuropeIreland8 days / August 2022
Highs & Lows
Make sure to try out Ireland's black and white pudding.
The weather is unpredictable
Itinerary Overview
With rolling mountains, abbeys, interesting history, and a lively atmosphere, Ireland is a magical place. One of my friends from university was moving back to Ireland and told me to visit so I made sure to take him up on that!
Everything they say about Ireland is true– it is one of the greenest and friendliest tourist destinations in the world, making it an ideal destination for any type of traveler.
I wanted to experience Ireland’s beautiful scenery which is why chose to travel to Galway for a week. I was planning on heading back home after a week but was enjoying myself too much and then wanted to learn more about Ireland’s history, so I decided to travel to Dublin for two days.
I am very lucky to have flown during Ireland’s horse races, which was something that I had previously never known about. I was also blessed with only one rainy day while traveling there!
Dublin My friend is from Ireland and wanted to show me around!
1+When I arrived in Dublin, I had a very difficult time navigating since I couldn't find any street signs. I looked this up and apparently many have struggled with this. Apparently, street names are often painted on the sides of buildings, so they fade over time or get covered by plants or construction. The locals suggest using Dublin's pubs as landmarks, which worked well for me!
I would recommend going on a day tour to get a better grasp of Dublin's history. I also recommend exploring both sides of the River Liffey.
If you're like me and also forgot your adapter when traveling, you can buy one from the tourism center on O’Connell Street.
Moreover, if you're in need, Starbucks and buses are two of the easiest places to get WIFI. I figured out that if you stand near a few Dublin City buses, you can get online for long enough to figure out your next step.
Galway I have always heard that Galway is the prettiest place in Ireland so I have always wanted to check it out!
1+I had never been to a horse race but figured out that I was visiting at the same time as the races. I was told to wear my fanciest dress and a hat, and I'm glad I did! All the women around me wore flamboyant hats and dressed and all the men wore suits. It was a great day and recommend going!
The hikes were incredible as well-- I hiked to see the windmills in Galway Wind Park and the Kylemore Abbey. I'm glad I wore layers because the weather was unpredictable, sometimes hot, sometimes cold, and sometimes rainy.
I was also pleased to find out that Galway wasn't overrun by tourists, which is something that I prepared myself for.
Quay Street is lined with an abundance of pubs, restaurants, and shops, and is a must-see if you want to experience Galway's nightlife.
I was lucky to have a friend showing me around, but if not, I hear that Galway has some amazing walking tours!
Q & A
What would you have changed?
I wish it was warmer when I was there!Restaurant recommendations?
Chapter one restaurant in Dublin was delicious. I also recommend the Quay Street Kitchen in Galway.Tips you would give a friend?
Keeping up with an Irish drinker turned out to be very difficult! Pace yourself!Packing tips?
Make sure to bring waterproof shoes and a rain jacket.Any surprises?
There were not many napkins or straws around, and many stores don’t give out plastic bags so I recommend bringing your own.Booking details?
Booking directly with the hostel turned out to be cheaper than booking with an agency.
Lodging
The Generator Hostel. A really amazing hostel, very comfortable with friendly staff.
I stayed at a friend's apartment right next to Quay street.