Everything You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions
As you are preparing for your Irish adventure, it’s only natural that you’ll have 101 questions. Over the years Trudy has built up a list of FAQs and some tips to share with you ahead of your trip to help make your journey and vacation more enjoyable. If there is anything not covered here just send a quick email to Trudy.
General Questions
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What time zone is Ireland in?
The time zone in Ireland is Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is the same in the U.K. During the summer it becomes GMT+1
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What is the weather like in Ireland?
This can help with your decision of when to visit us. The weather in Ireland is mild, humid, and very changeable. The coldest months are generally January and February, temperatures are between three and seven degrees celsius, or 39 and 45 degrees fahrenheit. Check out www.met.ie, for national weather updates.
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Do I need to speak Irish when coming to Ireland?
A lot of people worry about this but you need not, English is Ireland’s primary language. There are Gaeltacht regions that you can visit for a very different experience where you can hear the language as a living spoken language – Experiencing Ireland can include a Gaeltacht in your itinerary. We can prepare you with some simple Irish phrases to get you some bonus points with the locals.
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What is the telephone code for Ireland?
When ringing Ireland from outside the country, the code is +353, drop the first 0 and dial the rest of the telephone number.
If you’re ringing home from Ireland, you will need your country code, for example, to ring the United States the code is +001 followed by your phone number.
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What are the emergency phone numbers in Ireland?
Our emergency service numbers are 999 and 112. When you ring you will get an operator who will help determine which service you need and put you through. Fire, Ambulance, Coast Guard, Gardaí (Police).
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Will my cell phone / mobile phone work in Ireland?
Firstly, the best thing to do is check with your service provider at home to make sure your phone is compatible with G.S.M. (Global System for Mobile), used in Europe. Ask them if they have an international plan, some may even have a “use it like you do at home” plan.
Or you can get your phone unlocked and buy a SIM card when you get here, put minimal credit on the card, eg €10 to get data and calls. Use WIFI whenever you can to save this credit. If you are a regular traveler to Ireland, you could consider buying a cheap phone here to use on your travels.
If you need to make local calls, for example contact your accommodation or book a restaurant table for your evening, while on an Experiencing Ireland tour, your guide can facilitate this.
Packing for your vacation
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What clothes should I bring for my vacation?
Take into consideration the time of year you are visiting. Ireland’s not as cold as most parts of the world in winter, but it is still cold, wet and windy. Generally speaking, the weather is very changeable often throughout the day – I would advise layering your clothing. Ireland is very green, and this means only one thing, it rains a lot, but don’t let that stop you! A rain jacket is essential, as are comfortable walking shoes.
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Do I need formal attire for dinner?
Unless you have fine dining in mind, the simple answer is no. Smart casual is what the majority of restaurants will accept. Chat to Trudy when arranging your choices of accommodation and eateries.
Tour related questions
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What is included in my tour cost?
Your tour price includes:
- A fully qualified and insured driver guide and comfortable spacious transportation
- All Accommodations including breakfast. (on multi-day tours only)
- Some activities must be booked in advance, and if you choose to take part in some of these activities, we can discuss it together and include them in your itinerary and cost
- Tips are not included in your cost
- Tips are not mandatory but are gratefully appreciated, and at your own discretion, it is a sign of your appreciation for a job well done, particularly in the service industry. I would recommend 10-15% and round up to the nearest 5 or €10 if you are paying by card. You can pay by car and leave a cash tip if you prefer
- Tips for your driver guide is €50 – €100 per day.
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How long is the touring day?
You are on vacation so tours are done at a relaxed pace so you can appreciate everything you do and see. The typical touring day will be 8-9 hours.
Accommodation Questions
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Does every guest accommodation in Ireland have air conditioning as standard?
No, not every accommodation would have air conditioning. Most hotels do but we would advise to check before you get here. It is probably not as necessary as you might think. On the other hand, every accommodation will have central heating.
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Will my electric devices work in Ireland?
In Ireland we use 220 volt plugs with three square prongs. If your device is compatible with 220 volts, you just need an adapter. Just ask Experiencing Ireland for device advice.
Questions regarding Money
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What is the currency in Ireland?
The currency in the Republic of Ireland is the Euro, €. However, in Northern Ireland it is Pound Sterling £.
What is the current exchange rate? (this is updated regularly but you can check with your bank before you leave should you wish)1 Euro = 0.80 pounds sterling (approximately at time of typing)
1 Euro = 1.10 United States Dollar (approximately at time of typing)
1 Euro = 1.50 Canadian Dollar (approximately at time of typing)
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Can I use my credit card in Ireland?
Credit and debit cards, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted throughout the island of Ireland. American Express, however, is not as widely accepted. Cash can be withdrawn from an ATM but be aware there is usually a fee. ATMs belonging to national banks are best to avoid additional charges. If you step off the beaten track on an Experiencing Ireland tour, the small country pubs and stores may only accept cash.
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Can your waiter/waitress take away your card in a restaurant or bar to take payment?
Absolutely not, they will bring the machine to your table and perform the transaction right there with you.
Questions regarding smoking and alcohol
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What are the legal regulations for smoking in Ireland?
Smoking in Ireland is prohibited in indoor workplaces, public places and on public transportation. When smoking while visiting a bar or restaurant you will have to go outside or use a covered smoking area.
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What is the legal age for drinking alcohol?
The legal age for drinking in Ireland is 18 years old.
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What are the closing times for pubs/bars in Ireland?
Closing times vary but in accordance with the Liquor Act hours are Monday – Thursday 11.30pm, Friday and Saturday 12:30 am and Sunday is 11:00 pm. Also note, many pubs do not allow children after 6pm.
Questions regarding driving
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Driving in Ireland – what do I need to know?
While on an Experiencing Ireland tour you can just sit back and enjoy the views and leave the driving to Trudy. But if you are exploring Ireland yourself remember we drive on the left-hand side and road signs are in kilometres. For a quick conversion 80 km = 50 miles.
Speed limits are displayed throughout the country on circular signs, white background with a red border, and are only shown in kilometres. The national speed limit is 100 kmph, regional roads are 80 kmph and the motorway/highway maximum speed is 120 km. There is a 50km speed limit in built up areas and towns.
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Do I need an International driving licence to drive a car in Ireland?
You must produce all parts of your valid full driving licence. All non-EU licence holders are required to have an international driving permit/licence if it is not in English. International travellers must produce a passport along with proof of your return travel and provide residency information while you are here.
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What age requirements are there for car hire in Ireland?
To hire a car in |Ireland you must be 21 but be aware of a young driver fee for under 23s. Also to note, the upper age limit unfortunately for car rental in Ireland is 75 years. Credit card is the best form of payment if you are renting a car.
