Before booking a flight or ferry to Ireland, be sure to check the visa requirements for travelers from your country. Citizens of the United States, Canada and Europe are not required to obtain a visa before entering Ireland. Nationals of other countries should be advised of visa information before booking transportation to Ireland. All travelers to the country will be required to present a valid passport upon entry.
Ireland is famous for its rolling green hills, excellent beer, and friendly people. Popular tourist attractions include the Guinness Beer facility in Dublin, the Mourne Mountains in County Down, Trinity College in Dublin, the Walled City of Derry and the country's many rural towns. Travelers to Ireland also enjoy visiting the country's many castles, including Blarney Castle, Kilkenny Castle and Trim Castle.
Ireland is divided into two countries: Ireland and Northern Ireland. Although Northern Ireland has been the site of considerable political and social unrest, it is still popular with travelers. Belfast, Derry and Omagh are popular locations in Northern Ireland. In Ireland, travelers enjoy the cliffs on the sea, and the rolling hills of the interior. In Kilarney National Park to the south, visitors can watch wildlife and hike among stunning hills and lakes.
Ireland has produced many contributions to literature, the arts, music and dance. Many travelers enjoy visiting the birthplaces of Jonathan Swift, George Bernard Shaw, and James Joyce, who were all famous Irish authors. Ireland also offers a wide range of Celtic music and dance, as well as modern musicians. U2, Enya, Flogging Molly and The Pogues are popular music groups who came from Ireland.
Ireland is an overwhelmingly safe country in which to travel, but visitors should nonetheless exercise caution. In larger cities, travelers should be careful to leave valuables behind and to carry wallets and purses to the front of the body. Never walk alone at night and behave with the same caution you would in any major city. When exploring the countryside, carry a map and be prepared for mechanical auto problems.
