FAQs and Tips

Question

Should I/we rent a car?

Answer

In Ireland they drive on the opposite side of the road, with steering wheels on the right side of the vehicle. We would not recommend renting a car unless you are comfortable with this, or have experience. The roads (and cars) tend to be smaller than in America. There are taxis available. If you're interested in traveling around the county, we recommend using a transportation shuttle company.

Question

Is it customary to tip in Ireland?

Answer

No. This remains a difficult concept for Jen, but it is not customary to tip servers, taxi drivers, or vendors in Ireland. Because Killarney is a popular tourist spot, you may see receipts with the line for "tip," but only do so if you feel inclined.

Question

What's the dress code?

Answer

Cocktail, please. But we want you to feel comfortable, so if those shoes are too high or that top button is too tight, let it all hang loose.

Question

What is the closest airport to Killarney?

Answer

Kerry Airport is the closest, but is not an international airport. Taxi service is available and could take you directly to Killarney, which would be approx a 15 minute drive. The closest international airport allowing direct flight from America is "Shannon." If flights are up and running, you could get a connecting flight to Kerry airport or take a bus. See Travel page for ideas.

Question

Do they have Uber & Lyft in Ireland?

Answer

No. They only use taxi cabs. Check out www.killarneytaxi.com, if you're looking for airport transfers, or for private tours!

Question

What is the time difference in Ireland?

Answer

For those of us on the East Coast in America: Ireland is 5 hours ahead from U.S. Eastern Standard Time. For those on the West Coast in America: Ireland would be 8 hours ahead. *Fun fact, in the summer it does not get dark until after 10pm in Ireland. We will all enjoy the long days.

Question

How are dates referenced in Ireland?

Answer

Dates are referenced by the "day" and then the "month." So our wedding date would look like 31/07/2022 written out. Remember this if you are making reservations over an email. Most hotel websites, that tourists would access, will allow you to select a date in the "month" then "day" format. However, use caution on the Irish rail website or other sites that are not designed for tourists.

Question

What currency do they use in Ireland? Should I bring cash?

Answer

They use Euro. Most places take credit cards, but we would recommend traveling with some Euro. The currency exchange rate is less at certain banks, rather than in the airport.

Question

Any other travel recommendations?

Answer

You may want to contact your cell phone provider to find out about international calling/texts. If you have a phone that uses a Sim card, and the phone is unlocked (not tied to a contract), you can purchase a new Sim card at any Vodafone store, and swap the Sim card temporarily. The cost is 20 Euro for the Sim card, and this would grant you an Irish phone #, unlimited talk/text for 1 month. **Verizon Wireless charges $10 (USD) per day of use in Ireland, and includes unlimited talk/text/data usage. If you plan to only use your phone on WiFi then just keep your phone on Airplane mode and you would not incur any charges. You may also want to contact your bank and credit card company(ies) to inquire about foreign exchange fees/charges.