What is the wedding day dress code?
We kindly request the pleasure of your company in cocktail attire.
How do I get around?
We recommend that Americans visiting Ireland rent a car during their stay. However, it's important to know that we drive on the left side of the road here! If that sounds intimidating, there are many public transportation options as well.
From the Airport:
The following bus companies offer services to Dublin city centre and cities all across the country. It may be worth a look if you just want to get to your first destination as soon as possible after your flight gets in!
AirCoach
CityLink
Expressway
Travelling Locally:
Bus Éireann has a pretty wide range of routes and destinations, so once you know where you want to go, it is definitely worth checking their site out.
Travelling by Rail:
The train is also a handy way to travel- you can take in the sights without worrying about staying on the correct side of the road! Irish Rail has a network that connects most major cities, so if this form of travel sounds interesting, you could check out their routes and timetables.
Taxis:
Taxis can sometimes be spotted and waved down in bigger cities like Dublin, but it's often easier (and less stressful!) to download and use the FreeNow app to order taxis. It works the same way as Uber or Lyft in the United States, and this way you don't need cash! Just be warned, these can be scarce in more rural places like in Slane, Co. Meath or Cong, Co. Mayo.
Do I need cash?
Not necessarily- since Covid, most businesses have installed card machines. That being said, cash can be handy for smaller transactions like buying a coffee or tipping. The choice is yours; just think about how often you do or do not like using cash at home. If you do decide that you would like to have some Euros in your pocket while you're here, it might be good to visit your bank at home before your trip. Your personal bank may be able to give you a better exchange rate, and you do NOT want to get ripped off by airport currency exchanges!
How does tipping work?
Everyone in Ireland makes a livable minimum wage. Tips are not expected here so much as they are a sign of how satisfied you are with your service. With the exception of very large tables, a good rule of thumb is about 10%. Some touristy restaurants will automatically add a service charge for larger parties, so just scan your bill to double check before you factor in your tip.
How does phone service work?
Check with your current provider before you fly. Many companies already provide reasonable roaming/ data allowances for international travel.
You may decide to turn off your data roaming as much as possible while you're here and instead try to limit your phone usage to when you have WiFi access. Carroll's tourist shops, buses, trains, as well as most restaurants and cafes will have free WiFi!
If you are staying in Ireland for awhile, you may be interested in investing in a pay-as-you-go SIM card. You can buy one of these from a phone shop such as Vodafone, Eir, or Three once you arrive. This allows you to pay online for as much data roaming, calls, and texts as you want. This will give you a new phone number though- so make sure you are staying long enough to justify the hassle!
How should I pack for the weather?
Ah, the million-dollar question. Short answer: We don't know either! Better answer: It will be July, so the weather is typically mild and warm. Bring at least a light rain jacket for inevitable showers or chillier cloudy days. We could get lucky though and have sunnier, hotter, more humid days. Typically, the outdoor temperatures range between 50- 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Just remember that most places (including the wedding venue!) probably won't have air conditioning.
