Anything I need to know before I go to Ireland?

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Orla C

In Ireland, f a g means cigarette, and bumming a f a g means to ask someone for a cigarette. Seriously.

Hurling is a sport. Google it.

If you're from America, then please don't go on about being Irish or having Irish roots - not only do we not care, but we make a clear distinction between one's nationality and one's cultural heritage. To us you are just another American tourist - and welcome.

Also, going on about relations between Britain and Ireland is, simply put, NOT ON. And definitely not appreciated. You don't want people starting on you about the war in Iraq, do you? See, for us, that was an illegal war ... and you really don't want to do down that road, do you?

Nor should you go on about Ireland being full of drinkers. That isn't appreciated either.

Otherwise, you should be fine. Just be friendly, ask questions, smile, etc.

And get yourself a copy of the DK Eyewitness Guide for Ireland, it will give you all the tourist and other information you need. Or try www.discoverireland.ie. Have a great time!

Sam C

I live in Ireland, which country are you from,would help to know to explain cultural differences? depending on which part you are visiting there are different slang words in different counties.
A quick note about Irish people that may make US seem rude and not you is that Irish people make fun of their friends a lot or people they are getting to know, its not supposed to be malicious or anything, its how they bond lol strange i know......but I know a lot of foreigners who arent used to that find it really weird when they're meeting new people

slipstreamer

Avoid the word fanny

Lulu M

I wouldn't talk about the north it just annoys people. Oh and considering the economic turmoil, don't talk about the government or the economy at the moment, unless what you're looking for is a hot and heated and angry discussion.

You should know you're not allowed to smoke inside public buildings, that's why you'll see everybody standing outside in the cold with their cigarettes.

The Irish hate being patronized (well who doesn't?) and foreigners who come in and think they can do things better... it comes from being repressed by the English.

You need to visit Connemara (it's beautiful, breathtaking scenery and deep down Ireland) and the capital: Dublin (great nightlife)

Of course there are loads of words we use Americans wouldn't use, but you should be fine, i think you'll get it considering what contexts it's used in.

Well that's a couple of things, but to be honest you don't really need to worry about it. Smile, chat (the Irish are great talkers, and love to have fun, sing and dance) and enjoy yourself!

Ps: the word *craic* refers to *fun* not drugs. There are a couple of words from the gaelic Irish language which have slipped into our English...

Eddie F

Better off not talking about the North, the peace process is working wonders at the moment - everybody from all backgrounds are putting their differences behind them.

To be honest, we don't really care if you have Irish ancestors or not, we are friendly to all tourists - regardless of where they come from.

Just be yourself, enjoy the country and world renown hospitality!

The general rule all over the world is - politics and religion are off limits (This, I find is the best policy of the lot)

So, come on over, bring plenty of dollars, and kick start our economy again!!

Aisling xx

Bring a rain coat.

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