Travel FAQs

Question

When should I begin planning my trip if I'm traveling?

Answer

Start ASAP! We realize due to the Coronavirus many of our traveling guests will have hesitations about planning a big trip, so book your flights when it feels right for you. Booking your room at Cabra Castle sooner rather than later is always a great idea. The hotel is a very popular weekend destination and has weddings scheduled for every day of the week in the summer of 2022. There is a total of 108 available rooms. We do have a block of rooms reserved for our wedding, but we want to make sure everyone that wants to stay at the hotel is able. If you require a room for more than two adults then you can call the hotel directly to discuss their other options. BOOK EARLY!

Question

Should I plan to rent a car while I am in Dublin?

Answer

No. Dublin is a small and very walkable town and it is easy to get around via cab/ride apps. Depending on your travel plans, we suggest renting a car only as a means to get yourself to Cabra Castle and for any extra travel you may want to embark on afterwards.

Question

What should I know about driving in Ireland?

Answer

They drive on the LEFT side of the road, the RIGHT side of the car and there are a lot of roundabouts. Everyone drives a manual / stick shift so be sure to specify if you want an automatic car when renting.

Question

How long does it take to travel across Ireland?

Answer

Ireland is slightly smaller than the state of Maine and you can definitely travel to a new destination every day without spending your entire day in the car. A trip from Dublin City on the East to Galway City on the West takes under 2.5 hrs on the main tolled motorway. Traveling from Belfast City in the North to Cork City in the South would take under 4.5 hrs on the tolled motorway also. Smaller and more rural roads around the country vary in speed and condition (you might run into a tractor or a flock of sheep on a country lane just about big enough for 2 bicycles).

Question

What will the weather be like in July?

Answer

Summers are pleasantly warm (~65-75F) but it rains often so pack accordingly!

Question

What is the currency? Do I need cash?

Answer

The Republic of Ireland is part of the European Union and uses the Euro. In Northern Ireland they use the British Pound. Credit and Debit cards are widely accepted but it always helps to have some cash on hand.

Question

How long is an Irish Wedding?

Answer

Irish Weddings are a full day event! The ceremony will be in the early afternoon at 230 pm. This is followed by a 2 hour cocktail reception, then dinner and speeches before the party kicks off with live music and a DJ. The music and bar service will run in the ballroom until 2am. After this the party will continue in the residents bar which is open until 4am. We look forward to partying with you all night!

Question

What is the legal drinking age? Do I need ID?

Answer

The legal drinking age is 18 in Ireland. They are no where near as strict about asking for ID like in the US so if you do manage to get asked then take it as a compliment. *Tip* - Bars do not typically open a tab for your drinks so expect to pay as you go. If you are paying in cash this will mean a quicker transaction each time but you will end up gathering a pocket full of coins after a few hours.

Question

There's too much to see! Where should I go?

Answer

Go West. The wedding is taking place in the midlands and our strongest recommendation would be to go straight from Cabra Castle to Galway City on the West coast. Galway is a hive of activity, culture and nightlife. From there you have several options for leisurely drives, day trips or simply to use it as the first night of your tour of the Wild Atlantic Way. The West will provide you with the most rural and picturesque scenery with countless villages, towns and sights along the way. Whether you want to surf, fish, go boating, climb a mountain, ramble around villages, get lost down a country road or enjoy a creamy pint by a fireplace, you'll find something to suit your needs wherever you travel in the country.

Question

Is it customary to leave a tip when dining out?

Answer

The price you see is the price you pay. This includes that Guinness you just ordered from the barman! YAY! Gratuity and tax are always factored in but anything extra you wish to leave for great service is appreciated.

Question

Will my electronics work?

Answer

In Ireland the standard voltage is 230 V where as the US is 110 V. You can use an adapter to charge standard devices like phones or iPads but DO NOT bring a hairdryer or any appliance from the US without a sufficient power converter or they will get FRIED. Ireland uses the 3 pin plug like this: https://amzn.to/2CPoWHu