Getting Around :
Dublin has appalling street congestion in the city centre, but the new light rail service known as LUAS (the Gaelic word for 'speed') now offers two lines with numerous stations, many of them giving easy access to the main sights and places of interest. The city also has an extensive bus network with a limited Nitelink service operating from 1.30am, but this is most useful for commuters to and from the city centre. There is also a rapid transit train (DART) that links the city centre with the suburbs and seaside communities. Various passes for bus or train or a combination are available. Because public transport stops before midnight, taxis can be hard to find in the city centre after 11pm, particularly over the weekend. Taxis can be hailed in the street, but it is often easier to find them at taxi ranks or better still to book ahead by telephone. If it can be avoided don't rent a car while in the city, as it is impractical and expensive, although they can be essential if wanting to explore off the beaten track on excursions from Dublin.
Health :
There are no special health requirements for visitors to Ireland. Health insurance is advisable unless from the UK or other EU countries, most of which have reciprocal agreements with Ireland. A European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be obtained before departing for travel to Ireland. Medical facilities are good, and payment for treatment is usually required in cash.
Tipping :
A 10% tip will be welcomed in restaurants and cafes, but tipping is not usual in bars and pubs. Tipping is not common for other services.
Safety :
Most visitors enjoy a fairly high level of personal safety however travellers should take sensible precautions against petty theft. Terrorism is no more a threat than in other Western countries.
Customs :
Smoking in pubs, cafes and restaurants, is illegal.
Business :
The Irish are very sociable and although the usual elements of business etiquette apply (punctuality, formal wear, a courteous manner), expect good conversation and a rather relaxed air. Handshakes are customary on introduction, and take the lead from the host with regards to using first names or surnames. Business hours are usually from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday, with a lunch break from 1pm to 2pm.
Duty Free :
Travellers over 17 years arriving from non-EU countries do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250g tobacco, or a proportional mix of these; 1 litre spirits with more than 22% alcohol volume, or 2 litres dessert wine with a maximum 22% alcohol content, or a proportional mix of these products, and 2 litres table wine; perfume up to 50g or 250ml eau de toilette; and other goods for personal consumption to the value of EUR175 per adult or EUR90 for children under 15 years. Prohibited items include meat or dairy products or raw vegetables.
Communications :
The international access code for Ireland is +353 (do not dial the first zero of the area code). The outgoing code is 00, or 048 for Northern Ireland, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). City/area codes are in use, e.g. 1 for Dublin. The local mobile phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators. Internet cafes are available in the main tourist areas.
History :
Contacts :
Emergencies: 112/999
