Ireland Travel Information: Logistics & Planning
Ireland is a popular tourist destination that boasts many attractions for a traveler. It has good weather year round, a multitude of different geographical features to fit the wants of any outdoor enthusiast, and plenty of historical sites as well. Ireland is a very safe country that is open and welcoming to tourists interested in visiting. Planning a trip ahead of time and taking into consideration the logistics of what will be involved is an excellent way to save headaches while in the country.
Other People Are Reading
-
Climate
-
Ireland has a temperate and mild climate throughout the year. Temperatures range from 40 degrees Fahrenheit (5 degrees Celsius) in winter to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) in summer, according to Ireland's official tourism website. Ireland can be visited year-round because of its temperate climate, but the peak months for tourists are during the summer, specifically June through August. Savvy travelers often come in the buffer months of May or September to avoid crowds and high costs.
Entrance Regulations
-
All foreign internationals entering Ireland will need a passport except travelers from Britain. Most tourists will be able to enter the country without need of a visa, including travelers from the United States and member countries of the European Union. To check visa regulations for holidays and vacations, visit the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service website listed under the Resources section of this article.
-
Getting In
-
The Republic of Ireland has four international airports, with Dublin being the main hub for all international arrivals. From the U.S., flights connect from Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, NYC, Newark, Orlando, Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and San Francisco. There are also ferry services from Britain, and a wide variety of flights from all over Europe.
Attractions
-
Ireland has a huge variety of attractions, from historic sites to fantastic outdoor activities. Two of the most famous are Blarney Castle in County Cork, and the Cliffs of Moher in County Clare. The Blarney Castle has the "blarney stone" that is kissed by visitors for good luck. The Cliffs of Moher are over 230 meters tall and border the Atlantic ocean.
Safety
-
Your safety as a tourist is the same as it is in most European countries, though the crime rates in Ireland are lower than many. The police are courteous and willing to help, and can be found throughout both rural and urban areas. Exercise caution in large cities when out at night, and store valuables in the hotel safe. Do not bring up or participate in discussions about the "Irish conflict," as it is still a hotly debated topic and tempers can flare.
-
