Culture
The City
Dublin is a small capital with a huge reputation (as referred to on Lonely Planet). This city is definitely where old age meets new age. Dublin has layers and layers (literally!) of history, every street has a story, whilst it has also become a real cosmopolitan melting pot. Dubliners (the locals) are generally a laid back bunch, we enjoy a good chat and even though we treat our surroundings like a city, we also truly embrace a slower pace of life, greenery and simply pleasures.
The Lingo
Ireland is an English-speaking country but there are parts of the country where Irish is the choice of language. We recommend learning the basics which can be found here (maybe you could say “cupla focal as Gaeilge” by the time you arrive!). We have a many phrases that can be very ambiguous to say the least- there are many YouTube videos about common Irish phrases, why not take a look and have some prepared for your arrival!
Roads & Signs
In Ireland we drive on the left hand side of the roads and most of our roads are one or two lane (except our motorway which is four). Most roads have bus lanes which have specific rules to usage . You will quickly notice that a lot of roads and streets are not very straight, this is something we have inherited from the past and we love it!
When outside Dublin you may also notice that many of the country roads have no road markings and are often used by farmers to move livestock from one grazing field to another (yes, getting stuck behind a herd or tractor is a popularly used excuse for lateness!).
We strongly encourage that you only cross roads/streets at pedestrian crossings (tip: at most of these crossings, if you look at the ground there will be a sign telling you which way to look for traffic). Street signs and landmarks are very helpful in the city and we recommend using them to navigate your way around. Don’t be afraid to ask someone for directions if you need to. Sometimes we even recommend getting lost as it’s the best way to discover a lot of the city’s hidden gems!
Transport
Public Transport
We have various forms of public transport here in Dublin and you may need to take a tram, train, bike or bus to work. As they say: the best way to experience a city is to live like the locals! We suggest taking a look at our guides to all things travel.
Stint will provide you with a travel card so you don’t need to stress about where to find one or how it works. Our Dublin Travel guides can be really useful to further explain how to get around Dublin and beyond. It’s an Irish custom to say thank you to Bus Drivers!
Taxis
Hailo and Uber are commonly used Apps for ordering taxi’s. But if you do not use either, fear not as in Ireland it is acceptable to hail a taxi curbside just aware that nearly all taxi’s will only accept cash.
You will also notice there are many taxi ranks throughout the city too. Always ensure that the taxi has a “taxi” sign on top of the car, their taxi license is displayed on the dashboard and when your journey starts that the meter is running.
Airport
Dublin Airport is your gateway to adventure! The airport is situated north of the city, approximately 20-30minutes by bus or taxi. If you’re lucky you can regularly catch cheap and quick flights to Europe and beyond.
If you are planning a trip, we suggest checking out our friends at WSA Europe. These guys offer really great affordable trips to a variety of cities in Europe (you can even avail of a Stint discount code). Whether you plan to travel solo or with a friend these guys have it covered.
How to use a Leapcard
Things you should know
Important Laws
We just wanted to make you aware of some important laws here in Ireland.
The legal age of alcohol consumption in Ireland is 18. It is not permitted to consume alcohol in public places (such as parks or streets). Many pubs, clubs, and bars have outside areas where you can sit and enjoy a drink once it is bought within the premises.
It is illegal to smoke in enclosed public and/or workplaces. Many buildings will have designated smoking spaces outside.
Pepper spray and pocket knives (carrying and/or use) are illegal in Ireland. To avoid any unnecessary fines or problems we recommend not carrying any during your travels.
Tipping
You are not obliged to tip if you feel you are not happy with the service or food but tipping is recommended. In pubs, we recommend tipping when table service is provided (approximately €1 per round of drinks). Within restaurants and cafes, tipping is usually 10-15% of the total bill. Within taxi’s we recommend just rounding the cost to the nearest euro as a sign of tipping.
Travelling & Trips
Whether you’re traveling around Ireland or Europe, it is important to let someone at Team Stint know.
Remember when you travel outside Ireland to take your insurance cover card.
A host of our partners offer discounts to various trips and tours around Ireland and beyond. Check out our:
Health & Safety
Seeking medical help
Within each Stint house you will find documentation on the noticeboard which provides all the important contact details for doctors, dentists, hospitals and help-lines. Otherwise you can just email one of the Stint team and we will help to locate the right person in the utmost confidence. If you are feeling unwell, you can always follow our Feeling Under The Weather guide.
Insurance cover
Before arriving in Dublin, you will have received your travel/medical insurance documentation. It is important that you fully read and understand the policy before your arrival in Ireland. You will also need to ensure that you have your insurance e-card printed out upon arrival (you will receive your e-card by email). We recommend that you consider taking out additional insurance to cover gadgets, laptops and other personal belongings.
If you do incur any medical expenses throughout your time in Ireland you will need to visit Volunteer Card to file a claim. Always remember to keep your receipts!
Home sickness and personal problems
Home sickness can happen, we have all had it whilst travelling, it’s not uncommon and it is totally normal. The most important part with feeling home sick or having a problem is communicating. In Ireland we say there is nothing a good chat and cup of tea can’t sort so drop us an email, pop into the office and we will put the kettle on. Just know that whatever the problem is, we will do our best to help to sort it.
Safety
Dublin is relatively a safe city and Stint will provide you with relevant details for police stations, tourist centres, doctors, dentists and hospitals. Like most city’s there is always the chance of petty crime so we encourage you to ensure you have relevant cover on personal belongings such as phones and laptops. It is also important to be vigilant when in crowded areas, know where your belongings are at all times and keep them tightly concealed in your pocket or bag.