Dublin has undergone considerable development in recent years, and now boasts superb conference facilities, hotels, entertainment and transport options. With English as its first language, and the Euro as its currency, arranging conferences in Ireland's capital poses few of the obstacles that may be encountered elsewhere. For more on the practicalities of choosing Dublin, see the various sections below.
> Population
> Climate
> Language
> Passport Requirements
> Electricity
> Shopping
> Metrification
> Annual Public Holidays
> Money Matters
Population
The population of Dublin City and county area is approximately 1.5 million.
As of 2007, the population of Ireland (Republic) reached 4,239,848.
Climate
Dublin’s climate is mild and changeable, so come prepared for all seasons! Winter temperatures average 7°C (44°F) and in summer between 15° – 20°C (59° – 70°F). There are about 18 hours of daylight daily during July and August, only getting truly dark after 11 pm.
Language
English is the spoken language throughout Ireland. Irish (or Gaelic) is the original native language of Ireland and while it is mandatory to learn Irish in schools in Ireland to the present day, it is rarely spoken in everyday conversation. Place names and signage are usually in both languages.
Passport Requirements
Visitors from the E.U., Australia, U.S., Canada, South Africa and New Zealand require a valid passport but not a visa in order to enter the country. We advise that you consult your travel agent or airline before you fly.
Electricity
The standard electricity supply is 230 volts (50 cycles). To use small appliances, you may need a plug adaptor to fit our 3-pin flat or 2-pin round wall sockets.
Shopping
Most shops in Dublin are open from 09.00 until 18.00 Monday to Saturday and from 12.00 until 18.00 on Sundays. Shops stay open late Thursday evenings in the city centre and late on Friday evenings in the suburbs.
Many of the out-of-town shopping centres also have late opening on other nights during the week. For non-EU visitors, tax free shopping is available in many outlets which allows you to reclaim VAT (Value Added Tax) paid. Check with the outlet before you purchase the goods.
Metrification
Ireland is gradually shifting to the metric system, but the imperial system is still widely used. Speed limits and car speedometers are usually shown in miles per hour. Most roadsigns are now shown in kilometres but older roadsigns still give distances in miles. Beer is still sold in pints!
Annual Public Holidays
> New Years Day - January 1st
> St. Patrick’s Day - March 17th
> Easter Monday - Monday following Easter Sunday
> May Holiday - First Monday in May
> June Holiday - First Monday in June
> August Holiday - First Monday in August
> October Holiday - Last Monday in October
> Christmas Day - December 25th
> St. Stephen’s Day - December 26th
> Good Friday, although not a public holiday, is observed as such by many businesses in Dublin.
Money Matters
Currency, Banking & Tipping!
The Euro is the only currency that is officially recognised as legal tender in the Republic of Ireland. In general, banks open Monday to Friday, 10.00 to 16.00, with late opening on Thursdays until 17.00. Foreign exchange facilities are widely available. All major credit cards are widely accepted.
A normal tip for good services in Dublin restaurants is between 10% and 15%. Some restaurants automatically add a service charge to your bill, so check before adding an additional tip. Service charge is automatically included for groups of six or more.