Dublin
In the wake of a remarkable economic boom, Dublin's landscape has changed immeasurably over the past decade. These days Dublin ranks among the top tourist destinations in Europe, and this vibrant city hums with a palpable sense that it is creating a new cultural heritage. The city's burst of prosperity gave it a new confident sheen, but what remains special is the spirit of the people who ensure that, despite whirlwind changes, Dublin remains one of Europe's most down to earth, friendly and accessible cities.
Connemara
Connemara is one of the most scenic regions in Ireland. It's craggy mountain peaks, expansive sandy beaches and laced network of lakes exemplify the peaceful solitude and rugged beauty of The West of Ireland.
Cork
County Cork is situated in South West of Ireland, it is the largest of all the Irish counties and in many ways the most varied. Rich farmlands and river valleys contrast with the wild sandstone hills of the west, and above all there is the magnificent coastline scooped and fretted by the Atlantic into great bays and secret coves, strewn with rocky headlands and long soft golden sands.
Derry
County Derry is one of the longest continuously inhabited places in Ireland and is a county of unparalleled beauty. You can drive northeast from Derry city, along the coast to the seaside towns of Portstewart and Portrush, and walk along the beautiful beach at Castlerock. The Sperrin Mountains offer great walking opportunities while the town of Coleraine is home to the University of Ulster.
Galway
Galway is the capital of the West of Ireland. The streets and buildings of this ancient town have many interesting features, and its position on the edge of the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking area) makes it the gateway to magnificent areas such as Connemara, Corrib country, and the Aran Islands. The city itself is a continuing centre of growth with its University, Institute of Technology, Theatres, Cathedral, Castle, Hotels, Docks, Industries as well as other interesting attractions.
Waterford
County Waterford on the South East coast of Ireland is a maritime county with no part of it being more than twenty five miles (40 km) from the sea. At its widest points the county is fifty one miles wide and twenty seven miles long but contains a variety of landscapes and scenery that are rarely encountered in such a compact territory. The spectacular plateau of the Comeragh mountains rises up 2,600 feet above sea level in the center of the county.
Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher on the west coast of Ireland are one of the most outstanding coastal features of Ireland. The cliffs rise from Doolin and ascend to over 700 feet (213 metres) just three miles south of the village of Doolin. Being almost vertical, their sheer drop into the heaving Atlantic ocean is a haven for sea birds. One can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, as well as The Twelve Pins and the Maum Turk Mountains to the north in Connemara and Loop Head to the South, the top is never tiresome
Giants Causeway
For centuries countless visitors have marvelled at the majesty and mystery of the Giants Causeway. At the heart of one of Europe’s most magnificent coastlines its unique rock formations have, for millions of years, stood as a natural rampart against the unbridled ferocity of Atlantic storms. The rugged symmetry of the columns never fails to intrigue and inspire our visitors. To stroll on the Giants Causeway is to voyage back in time.
Kilkenny Castle
It was the seat of the Butler family. Formerly the family name was FitzWalter. The castle was sold to the Irish government in the middle of the 20th century for £50. It has since been refurbished and is open to visitors. Part of the National Art Gallery is on display in the castle. There are ornamental gardens on the city side of the castle, and extensive land and gardens to the front.
Killarney National Park
South and west of the town of Killarney are the world famous Lakes of Killarney. Killarney National Park, 10,236 hectares in extent, comprises the mountains and woodlands surrounding the Lakes as well as the three Lakes themselves.
Time Zone
Current time zone offset: UTC/GMT +1 hour
Population
Ireland's population has increased greatly in recent years. Much of this population growth can be attributed to the arrival of immigrants and the return of Irish people (often with their foreign born children) who emigrated in large numbers in earlier years during periods of high unemployment. However, birth rates in Ireland are currently over double the death rates, which is highly unusual among Western European countries, and the nation seems to be in the midst of a baby boom. Approximately 10% of Ireland's population is now made up of foreign citizens.
Transport
Ferry service is available from Ireland to the United Kingdom and Continental Europe. Taxis cannot be hailed in Dublin. Therefore, call for a taxi or go to a taxi station or rank. Some taxis are not metered, so it is advisable to ask your driver how much your trip will cost in advance. There’s an excellent countrywide bus network operating to all parts of Ireland. And for places that are inaccessible by rail, it can be your best option. Bus travel around Ireland tends to be cheaper than rail and special tickets of varying duration are available, offering very good value for money.
Currency and credit cards* *Dress Code
The currency for the Republic of Ireland is the Euro and for Northern Ireland is the Pound Sterling.
For the most part Ireland is laid back and informal. Dress is very casual, especially in the tourist areas. Your vacation should not be a fashion contest. For maximum comfort and practicality it is recommended that you bring layers of clothes that are easy to care for. Leave those bright white slacks and the clothes that wrinkle at home.
Safety and security
Travelling in Ireland is not dangerous as such millions of tourists visit the country every year without coming to harm whatsoever. Still it is a wise precaution to be a safety conscious traveller.