Those who have not traveled to Ireland will never be able to fully understand the beauty, values, and culture of the country that is completely underrated as a travel destination. Though it is a small island in western Europe, it is packed with amazing sights, genuine people and great food. Irish or not, there are some things that visitors will immediately pick up on.
Sheep and cows EVERYWHERE.
I knew there were sheep in Ireland, but nothing could prepare me for the little, puffy, white specks that can be seen off in the distance of every direction. If you're an amused traveler like me, the hardest part is holding back from snuggling these cute, little fuzzballs.
Castles are normal, so don't make a big deal of them.
Ireland is known for all of the beautiful castles in every city. Some are abandoned and some have become tourist attractions. One thing's for sure, the Irish definitely don't care about them as much as travelers do since they are so common.
It's never too early to drink in Ireland.
As I toured the university's campus before beginning classes, I was filled with shock and excitement as I saw several beer taps beside the area where my latte was being made at 7:00 in the morning. Even better, Irish coffees were being ordered at this time as well. For those of you who don't know, that's coffee, cream, and most importantly, Irish whiskey. It's five o'clock somewhere, right?
If you try to make plans around the rain, you'll never get to do anything.
It rains every single day. No exaggeration. As long as you have an umbrella, you will have a good time. Enough said.
The sun rarely goes down and it's amazing.
It's confusing to first experience the lengthy time difference from the United States and the absence of darkness makes it a bit difficult to ever know if it's the evening or night time. In the summer, the sun will set as late as 11:00 PM. Seems like some higher power calls for more time day drink!
You will never get used to walking or driving.
Most people know that Europeans drive on the left-hand side of the road. In Ireland, it is said that this began when Vikings needed to be ready to battle with their swords in their right hands. To me, this has become normal but I didn't realize how difficult it was to also move to the left-hand side of the sidewalk when taking a simple walk!
Getting used to the endless amounts of potatoes is a must.
Potatoes are served with every meal in Ireland. Don't question it. With the wet weather that occurs rear round, potatoes are the easiest crop to grow. They are especially cherished after the Irish Potato Famine in the 1800s. I was once served baked potatoes, mashed potatoes, and chips with one single dinner. Also, you better not call your chips "french fries" unless you basically want "I'm an American" stamped to your forehead.
Accent Obsessed.
No, people in Ireland don't say "Top of the mornin' to ya", but their accents are still very noticeable and also one of my favorite parts of being immersed in the culture. I will forever miss being called "ye" and listening to the Irish pronounce "th" as just "t" since all of those letters just take too long to say.
The immediate sadness that comes with leaving the beautiful country.
It's always a big nerve-wracking traveling to an unfamiliar destination, but leaving the green beauty after coming to know how amazing it is, is the hardest part.
