Documents and Entry
Please ensure your passport is valid for travel. Keep a photo of your passport on your phone and leave a copy at home with someone you trust.
For Northern Ireland, a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required and must be completed prior to travel.
Medications
Official guidance recommends traveling with medications in their original containers. To be safe, please bring a photo of your prescription labels, a list of your medications, and any essential medications in your carry-on.
Money, Cash and Cards
You may want to have a small amount of local currency on hand when you arrive, particularly for driver gratuities. Cash is easily obtained from local bank ATMs.
We recommend using credit cards for most purchases and selecting the local currency when given the option for the best exchange rate.
The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro; Northern Ireland uses British Pounds (GBP). Visa and Mastercard are the most reliable. American Express is accepted in many places, but not all. Contactless payment is commonly used.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not expected. Restaurants: about 10% if service is not already included. Guides and drivers: typically 10 to 15%. Always check your bill, as a service charge is sometimes already included.
Transportation
Dublin: Taxis are readily available. Apps such as Free Now and Uber are widely used. The Luas light rail system is also available.
Derry: The city is very walkable. Your hotel can arrange taxis when needed. It is helpful to have some cash on hand.
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, and country roads can be narrow. This is completely normal.
Airport and Flights
When departing Ireland, you will go through U.S. Preclearance at Dublin Airport. Once you pass through, you cannot return to the main terminal. Lounge access is available post-clearance at the 51st & Green Lounge, with paid entry options. Those with Business Class flights have complimentary access.
Phones and Connectivity
Most travelers use their existing international plan. Wi-Fi is widely available. Local SIM cards such as Tesco Mobile are easy to obtain if preferred.
Power
Ireland and Northern Ireland use Type G outlets. A plug adapter will be needed.
Daylight
In April, sunset is typically between 8:00 and 8:30 PM, with long daylight hours. If you are sensitive to light while sleeping, a sleep mask is recommended.
Luggage
Please keep luggage manageable. Smaller bags make transitions between locations much easier.
Dining Culture
Dining tends to be more relaxed than in the United States. You will usually need to ask for the bill when you are ready. Service charges may already be included, so it is always worth checking before tipping.
Local Culture
Ireland is friendly and conversational. A simple greeting goes a long way. Traffic flows on the left-hand side -- always look both ways before crossing.
Travel Insurance
Please keep your travel insurance details easily accessible, including your emergency contact number.
Long-Haul Travel Tips
For your transatlantic flight: stay hydrated, move around periodically, and begin adjusting to your destination time. A relaxed first evening upon arrival will help ease the transition.