General Information
Ireland
Ireland is an English speaking island on the north western edge of Europe. It is 486 km long and 275 km wide. The Republic of Ireland occupies three-quarters of the island and its capital city is Dublin. It is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. Ireland, with its beautiful scenery, offers a range of attractions to visitors including ancient archaeological sites and monuments, diverse landscapes, habitats, gardens, flora and fauna, a variety of activities including sports, as well as traditional dancing and music. It has a population of 4.5 million, over one million of whom live in Dublin.
Dublin, Ireland’s capital city, is steeped in history and buzzing with energy. Medieval, Georgian and modern architecture provide a backdrop to a friendly cosmopolitan city. Dublin is a thriving centre for culture and is home to a great literary tradition, its native sons include Shaw, Yeats, Joyce 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, sandy beaches and fishing villages. Dublin is a vivacious and welcoming capital. It has great transport links so delegates will find travelling here easy and the compactness of the city means it’s only a leisurely walk to your next stop. It is well renowned for its friendliness and generous hospitality so visitors won’t be disappointed. There is one major international airport in Dublin, situated approximately 10km north of the city center.
A city of fine Georgian buildings, Dublin has excellent shops, museums, art galleries, antique shops and a range of pubs and restaurants. It has four major theatres, including the world famous Abbey theatre, concert facilities, art galleries and cinemas.
Ireland enjoys a temperate climate, with mild winters and relatively cool summers. Mean daily temperature in June is 18 °C. Dublin enjoys reasonable sunshine and rain belts reaching the east coast are frequently light and generally clear within a few hours. However it is always wise when travelling to Ireland to pack rain gear or an umbrella. 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. Things to buy: woollen knits, tweeds, crystal, Claddagh rings, pottery, silver and music. Shopping hours 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.
Insurance
The Conference Organising Committee or its agents, will not be responsible for any medical expenses, loss or accidents incurred during the congress. 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 EHIC card.
Tax Refunds
Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 21.5% 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.
Tipping
A small tip is appreciated for good service. Tipping is not usual in pubs and bars. Tip cabs 10% and porters 60c per bag.
Currency
The currency in Ireland is the Euro.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards are widely accepted.
Smoking Policy
Under Irish law smoking is not permitted in pubs, restaurants, hotel lobbies and all enclosed public buildings.
Electricity
220 volts
Time
From March to October, Ireland operates on Greenwich Mean Time + 1 hour.
What to Pack
Include jeans and casual wear. Jacket and tie for fine dining is optional. Rainwear and comfortable shoes are advised.