About Ireland

Ireland is an island on the western edge of Europe whose nearest neighbours are Wales and England. The Republic of Ireland occupies most of the island and its eastern capital, Dublin, is the birthplace of writers including Oscar Wilde and Samuel Beckett, and home of Guinness beer. Nicknamed the “Emerald Isle” for its lush landscape of rolling green hills, it is dotted with castles and ancient sites, such as the massive 12th-century Cahir Castle.

Ireland has a wealth of things to do and see: The Wild Atlantic Way along the western coast, the stone age monument at Newgrange which is older than the pyramids, the impressive Cliffs of Moher or take a trip to the Aran Islands! You are spoiled for choice!

FAQs

 

Banking and Currency

The Euro (€) is the currency in use in Ireland. Visa and Master Card are all widely accepted in pubs, shops and restaurants throughout the country.

Bank Opening Hours – Mon, Tues & Fri 10.00-16.00; Wed 10.30-16.00; Thurs 10.00-17.00.

Climate

Mild and temperate (showers can occur any time of the year). October weather can be very variable. Temperatures range from 2 – 10 °C with average monthly rainfall of 60mm (October).

Clothing

Delegates are reminded of Ireland’s variable weather (it is why the countryside looks so lush and green!) During the conference, we would recommend standard neat attire. Jeans and casual wear are appropriate.

Electricity

Electric Current: 240 Volts AV Plug type: 3 large flat prong British type plug. BS1363 system.

Insurance

All conference attendees are advised to arrange private travel insurance. The conference organisers and committee accept no liability for personal accidents or damage to property while in attendance at the conference. The organising committee of WEFTA 2017 reserves the right to amend and alter the conference programme and events without prior notice and accepts no liability as a result of such actions.

Language

The official language of the conference is English.

Shopping

General opening hours are Monday-Saturday, 09.00-18.00 with later opening hours on Thursday evenings. Most major stores/shops open on Sunday – some with reduced opening times, 10.30 to 18.00.

Smoking

Ireland has a strict ban on smoking. Smoking is prohibited in public areas within Ireland including all bars, nightclubs and restaurants. If required, you should enquire whether your accommodation bedroom is a smoking or non-smoking room. Please use the smoking areas designated outside venues.

Tax Refunds

Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 23% on most goods when purchased in a store. Further details about whether you can claim back your tax together with the process are available here.

Tipping

Tipping is a generally accepted practice in restaurants, bars, taxis and hotel porters. A service charge may be included in some restaurants and should be stated on the menu, but otherwise this is a discretionary item.

Telecommunications / Cell Phones

For international delegates, only digital phones with GSM subscriptions and a roaming agreement will work on the island of Ireland. Visitors should consult with their supplier before departure. Networks widely available are Three, Vodafone and Meteor. The country code for dialling Ireland is +353.