For such a small country Ireland has a wealth of history, tradition and culture. Here we aim to explain the lay-out of the land, the folklore that inspired a nation, and we’ve thrown in a few handy phrases as gaeilge (in Irish), just in case you are feeling adventurous.
Weather & Climate: When's the best time to visit Dublin?
“A wet and windy May fills the barn with corn and hay”. Now isn’t that a jolly way of interpreting cold and rain, especially considering May to September is the Irish quasi-summer? Although not as rainy as popular belief suggests, Irish weather is mild, but definitely more on the windy and cool side, so the sunshine that does come through will make you appreciate it all the more. Thanks to the oceanic climate with average yearly temperatures ranging between 5-15°C we definitely recommend a wind jacket, warm boots and - a summer dress! Yes, because you don’t want to miss the opportunity to act like a local and completely ignore the weather, especially in those hot Friday and Saturday nights where you want to show off your latest Penneys’ purchase. The rest of the world has summer, so let Dublin have its share. That being said, clothes for all seasons and occasions can be found in a variety of exquisite, mid-range and cheap shops all over town to keep you warm and fashionable during your stay.
Hospitals & Pharmacies in Dublin
Keeping warm is probably the main health concern, and hydrated, as always, especially if crawling around a city of 666 licenced pubs. If you do develop a sore throat, a nasty cough or anything nasty for that matter, but not urgent, you may find some standard medicine in convenient stores, supermarkets and small corner shops around town. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, find a local pharmacy where a pharmacist will likely be able to offer their advice regarding which medicine is best for you. For anything not over-the-counter you will need a doctor’s prescription, meaning you’re probably quite sick and need someone to ok that strong stuff, meaning you’re going to have to find a doctor or visit a hospital. Make sure you carry an insurance for your trip and check the details of your policy in advance so you don’t lose all your pocket money on one doctor’s consultation. And in case of an emergency, do the usually recommended thing - call for help in English or Irish - cabrhú !- loudly and then, depending on the situation, call an ambulance at 112 or 999.
Crime & Safety: Is Dublin safe?
As in many European capitals, not all is milk and honey and beer, and Dublin has its fair share of social tensions that result in crimes of opportunity. On the other hand, word is they also have the most friendly of police forces that keep the peace without carrying firearms, the national Garda Síochaána. If you’re considering to join them - you can! They’ve made is possible for non-nationals to join the force since 2005. What are you waiting for?
Public Toilets in Dublin
All shopping malls, museums and galleries are equipped with toilets and pubs are generally willing to let you use theirs if you ask politely. For a more fancy trip to the loo, you can find them in Brown Thomas and Marks and Spencers and the Stephen’s Green mall on Grafton street. Bigger versions of supermarkets like Tescos and Dunnes should also have some, somewhere in the back, behind those cans of tomatoes.
The Irish Flag
The green, white and gold vertical panels of Ireland's national flag - also know as the Tricolour - represent the Gaelic tradition, followers of King William of Orange and peace between these two opposing sides. A nice idea in theory.... Its raising above the GPO after the 1916 Easter Rising brought the flag into national prominence as a symbol of independence from British rule. In Northern Ireland the flag is also flown in staunch Republican areas where people regard Ireland as one nation.
