8 TOP TIPS FOR VISITING IRELAND...from a local

Here are some of my top tips for visiting Ireland for the first time...

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1: Go with the Flow

I know you've spent a lot of money of traveling to Ireland but some of the best times I have had in Ireland have been unplanned. Absolutely make plan of where you want to go and what you want to see but also leave time to go with the flow. To be somewhere without a dedicated plan. You may end up having the best craic of your whole trip.

2: The Rain

Don't let it stop you. We're an Island in the middle of the Atlantic. The chance of rain is pretty high. Don't let it ruin your plans or spoil your holiday. Wrap up and head on out into it. And it worst comes to worst, jump into a local pub and you might even find some music to accompany your pint and toastie.

3: Get out of Dublin

Don't get me wrong, Dublin is great. I lived there for two years. But there is so much more to see and do in Ireland. Get your couple of days in and then hit the road out. My preference would be to head West.

4: Rent a car but.... rent and SMALL car

A big car will be fun for a while. Especially after leaving the airport with the bigger roads. But once you meet those small Irish roads, that large car quickly becomes a liability. And once you meet that first tractor or truck, you'll be in trouble. Squeeze into a smallie, you'll be much more relaxed.

5: Find the Wild Atlantic Way

It doesn't really matter where you join it. It is magical. I would suggest going from South to North though so you are driving on the coast side. You really can't go wrong on that route.

6: Old School Directions

You won't always have coverage on your phone. If you do lose coverage, it's good to know some basic directions to get yourself back. Know your North, South, East, West. Where the sun is etc. It might sound silly in this day and age but I still find myself using it today.

7: Beware of the Grass

Simple, if you start to see grass in the centre of the road, that's a very small country road. Make sure you know where you are going. I would take a minute to make sure you're heading in the right direction. It may lead to something amazing, more often than not, it leads to a dead end.

8: The Local Food

Don't be afraid to try the local food. We know have some of the best fresh food in the world. I know there's a comfort in the chain fast food places, getting something you know but you'll be seriously missing out. If you're unsure, just ask a local where to go and they'll guide you.

9: SECRET TIP

If in Cork, order and Beamish instead of a Guinness. You'll gain serious street cred with the locals.