Ireland trips

Irish folk are known for their slang, so if you want to stay hip, try out some of these popular words and phrases:

• Bang on: Meaning you’re right, accurate; “You are bang on.”
• Black stuff: Guinness; “A pint of the black stuff please!.”
• Brutal: Meaning awful or dreadful; “That was a brutal tackle.”
• Craic: Pronounce like crack; meaning fun, going on’s like “What’s the craic?” “Where’s the craic?”
• Deadly or Savage: Fantastic or great; “That was a deadly joke.”
• Grand: A reply to most questions like how are you, how are you feeling, in response to a statement; “How are you? Grand.” “Meet me here. Grand.”
• Knackered or Shattered: Exhausted
• Langers: Drunk

• The locals in Ireland are known for being friendly. Spark up conversation in the pubs and you may even find a new friend.
• We said it before and we’ll say it again: The weather changes in an instant. Expect the unexpected.
• It’s tempting to take pictures at every corner or of every pint you purchase, but remember that life in Ireland is all about living in the moment. Enjoy it!
• When at the pubs with a group, it’s common for each person to take turns “buying a round” for the rest of the group. Try it out with your new friends!
• Try new foods, we promise you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

You’ll sample a variety of local dishes on your trip, but read on for tips, tricks, and delicacies you just must try.

• Irish Stew: Ireland’s most famous dish of meat, potatoes, onions, and more
• The Full Irish: Or, Irish breakfast, usually consists of soda bread, bacon, eggs, fried sausages, mushrooms or tomatoes. Locals get their fuel for the day with this massive feast
• Salmon: Smoked or Irish, Salmon is a treat in Ireland and always fresh! Especially from April – June
• Galway Oysters: The best oysters are found in the West of Ireland, harvested in Clarinbridge.
• Soda Bread: Every Irish family has their own soda bread recipe, but it’s always good with butter, alongside Irish stew, or on its own
• Coddle: A slow cooked combination of sausage, bacon, onions, and potatoes
• Guinness & Guinness Cake: Why not pair a fresh pint o’ Guinness with a cake made from the dark stout? You’re on vacation, after all.
• Boxty: Essentially a mashed and grated potato in dumpling-form. Try it at Dublin’s Temple Bar!
• Black and white pudding: No, not like a Snack Pack. It’s pudding made from blood and fat mixed with barley, pork meat, oatmeal, and suet in one sausage. Trust us, try it.

Ireland is small but mighty, packed with rugged coastlines, ancient castles, and storybook villages that feel straight out of a movie.

• Dublin: The capital city buzzes with energy. Tour the Guinness Storehouse, visit Trinity College’s Book of Kells, and cap it off with live music at Temple Bar.
• Cliffs of Moher: Ireland’s most iconic natural wonder. These dramatic sea cliffs tower over the Atlantic and make for jaw-dropping photo ops.
• Galway: A colorful harbor town full of cobblestone streets, street performers, and cozy pubs. The perfect place to experience traditional Irish music.
• Ring of Kerry: A scenic drive through rolling green hills, lakes, and charming villages. Don’t miss a stop in Killarney National Park.
• Giant’s Causeway: A UNESCO World Heritage site formed by ancient volcanic activity, now one of the most surreal landscapes in Europe.

Irish culture is rooted in storytelling, music, and a deep love of community.

• Music & Dance: Traditional Irish music (often called trad) is the heartbeat of the country. You’ll find locals playing fiddles, flutes, and bodhráns in nearly every pub.
• Storytelling: The Irish have a knack for spinning a good tale—whether it’s about fairies, folklore, or family history, expect humor and heart in equal measure.
• Hospitality: The Irish are famously welcoming. Don’t be surprised if a stranger strikes up a conversation or buys you a pint.
• Sport & Pride: Gaelic football and hurling are national obsessions. Catch a local match to experience true Irish spirit.
• Festivals: From St. Patrick’s Day parades to Galway’s arts festivals, there’s always a reason to celebrate—rain or shine (and probably both).

There’s no bad time to visit Ireland, but each season offers something different.

• Spring (March–May): Expect blooming landscapes, fewer crowds, and the excitement of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
• Summer (June–August): Long daylight hours, lively festivals, and the best weather for exploring the countryside—just remember to pack a rain jacket.
• Fall (September–October): Cooler temps, golden scenery, and a cozier pace. Great for pub-hopping and scenic drives.
• Winter (November–February): Chilly and quiet, but magical. Think roaring fireplaces, hearty stews, and off-season deals.

No matter when you go, Ireland’s charm, culture, and craic will make you feel right at home.