Every now and then people just need to leave their everyday lives behind and experience something new that recharges their batteries. No matter if it is a wellness trip to a spa, a vacation to a foreign country or a weekend spent in a place one has never been to before, getting out once in [...]
Traveling can take on many forms. Some people want to travel as cheaply as possible and rely on hitchhiking, others want to take their car with them wherever they go, and others want the journey to be over as soon as possible and take the plane whenever it’s possible. It always depends on one’s personal [...]
In 2008 the American Community Survey found out that almost 37 Mio Americans have Irish ancestors – that means that the diaspora is almost six times higher than the Irish population itself and it is still rising. Back in the days, immigration to the USA meant a lot of power of endurance to survive the [...]
Every country has its own culture and standards of behavior. Cultural norms are seldom discussed or thought about by those who live them every day. However, a traveler might find some customs strange or may offend without meaning to simply through lack of understanding. Irish culture stems from the native Irish and their language, their religion as well as a mixture of the various cultures that occupied Ireland at one time or another in their history. Each country that occupied Ireland added a little to the culture and history of this amazing country.
Although many Irish are very punctual, visitors who live by the clock may find that time is relative in Ireland. Its not meant to be offensive but an appointment at eleven am may take place at noon. It is best to be prepared for a leisurely lunch in those cases.
Every nation and culture has their own standards of acceptable language. The Irish culture is full of colorful language. This is not intended to be offensive; however, a visitor should be prepared for language that might be a bit more off colored than might be the norm at home.
Ireland is a modern country and its people are warm and incredibly friendly however; they are also extremely proud and independent. Although the majority of Irish are Roman Catholic, the culture of Ireland is filled with customs and traditions with religious as well as pagan roots inextricably entwined. The national symbol of Ireland is a Celtic harp, not a shamrock, as some might believe. The Irish language is Gaelic although English is commonly spoken and communication is not an issue for visitors.
