Ireland

The perfect escape? The city break you’ve been dreaming of? The cliff-path walk you’ll remember forever? Well, Ireland has you covered. This magical island is just waiting to thrill you with its stunning windswept scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way, to capture you with its history of ancient sites such as Newgrange and to entice you with its traditional music.

Wild, astounding, inspirational – there are so many words to describe the awesome majesty of the Irish Coast. But one thing’s for sure: this place is pure magic. From Ballycastle in the north of Country Antrim to Allahies in the west of County Cork, this stunning country is renowned for its sylvan beauty, rich shades of green and individual character. You’ll find quiet villages, rugged mountain roads, tranquil rivers and mythical tales.

• Discover Ireland www.discoverireland.ie
• Discover Northern Ireland www.discovernorthernireland.com
• Wild Atlantic Way www.wildatlanticway.com

Whether you’re looking for stories of old, dreaming of fantastical castles, or just want to visit some of the most romantic settings imaginable there is something to suit every taste. From charming coastal villages to spectacular natural wonders, taking to the road on the island of Ireland reveals surprises at every turn.

The most westerly island in Europe, Ireland is 450 km long and 300 km wide. With a population of 6.5million Ireland enjoys a rich diversity of ethnic groups and cultures.

Dublin

Dublin is Ireland’s capital city and was founded by the Vikings in 841. The city is steeped in history and buzzing with energy. Medieval, Georgian and modern architecture provides a backdrop to a friendly cosmopolitan city. Dublin is a thriving centre for culture and is home to a great musical and literary tradition, its native sons include Shaw, Yeats, Joyce, Wilde and Beckett

The city’s attractions include castles, museums, art galleries, pubs and cafes. Within half an hour of the city are mountain walks, stately homes and gardens, numerous golf courses, sandy beaches and fishing villages.

A bustling city with a population of over 1.7 million and home to over 100 different nationalities all of whom contribute to the fabric of Dublin. While it has a genuine cosmopolitan feel, Dublin has still managed to retain its own distinct culture which is expressed in a love of literature, drama, traditional music and sport. The quintessential Dublin Pub provides the focal point of

Dublin’s social life, illuminating the vibrant hues of Dubliners and their culture. Conversation flows freely unleashing the unique atmosphere that defines the city.

Dublin is one of the oldest cities in Europe and with ancient churches, grand buildings and fine museums, cultural riches abound. From the ancient to the avant-garde, from history, architecture, literature, art and archaeology to the performing arts Dublin has it, with the real advantage to the visitor being that everything is contained within a small area.

When the conference business is over, there is a wealth of activities and culture for you to explore.

Further information is available by visiting the below websites:

• Visit Dublin: www.visitdublin.com
• Top 10 Attractions: www.visitdublin.com/top-10-dublin-attractions

Useful information

Electricity

220 / 240 volts . 3 Pin Plug (type G).

Driving in Ireland

Traffic in Ireland drives on the left.

Insurance

The Conference Organising Committee or its agents will not be responsible for any medical expenses, loss or accidents incurred during the conference. Delegates are strongly advised to arrange their own personal insurance to cover medical and other expenses including accident or loss. Where a delegate has to cancel for medical reasons, the normal cancellation policy will apply. It is recommended that citizens from EU countries bring with them a current European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) card.

Language

The main languages are English and Irish and most signposts in the Republic are bilingual. English is spoken by everyone while Irish is generally confined to pockets of the south-west, west and north-western coastal areas.

Money

The Euro is the currency in the Republic of Ireland. The Euro has 100 cents in the euro with coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 & 50 cents and 1 and 2 euros. Euro notes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euro.

Foreign exchange bureaus are available in most banks, post offices, Tourist Information Offices, airports, some shops and accommodation. Bureau de Change kiosks are also situated in many towns and most cities.

Smoking

Under current legislation, smoking is banned in all public areas and work places, including restaurants, pubs and bars. Smoking is still permitted in hotel bedrooms which are designated as smoking bedrooms by the hotel. Smoking in bedrooms in guest houses and bed and breakfast accommodation is at the discretion of the owner. There are substantial penalties in place for those found to be in breach of these regulations.

Tax

Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 23% on most goods. Cash back is the simplest and most widely used VAT refund service that issues cash refunds on departure for a handling fee. Ask for cash back form when you make your purchase.

Time

From November until February, Ireland operates on GMT 0 hour Greenwich Mean Time. From March to October, Ireland operates on GMT Greenwich Mean Time + 1 hour.

Shopping

Dublin has a busy city centre shopping area around Grafton Street and Henry Street. There is a huge range of products to bring home – from traditional Irish hand-made crafts to international designer labels. Shopping hours in general are from 9.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Saturday, with shops open until 8.00pm on Thursdays, and many shops open from 2.00pm – 6.00pm on Sunday. Dundrum Town Centre is a large shopping centre located in South Dublin. The LUAS Green Line serves Dundrum Town Centre from St. Stephens Green to Brides Glen. The Dundrum and Balally stops are only a few minutes-walk from the centre.

Weather

Ireland enjoys a temperate climate, with mild winters and relatively cool summers. The daily temperature in April in Dublin is on average between 4 and 13 degrees Celsius.

Dublin enjoys reasonable sunshine and rain belts reaching the east coast are frequently light and generally clear within a few hours. It is always wise when traveling to Ireland to pack rain gear or an umbrella.

Location