Weather
Ireland has a mild, temperate climate with summer temperatures ranging from 16-22 degrees Celsius. In winter temperatures rarely drop below freezing point, but it can feel quite cold.
Public Holidays
There are ten public holidays (called Bank Holidays) in the year.
Transport
The Luas operates two tramlines servicing Dublin city centre and suburbs. Trams run every 5 minutes at peak time and every 10-15 minutes at other times. The Student Leap Card is valid on the Luas. There is also a extensive Bus services throughout Dublin and Cork
Electrical Current
The electrical current in Ireland is 220-240 AC volts AC. The plugs most commonly used are 3-pin flat and occasionally 2-pin round.
Shopping
Shops are generally open Monday-Saturday from 9am/10am until 5.30pm/6pm. Some also open for more limited hours on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
Post Office
Services include stamps, registered post, express mail, parcel post, money orders, postal orders, international reply coupons, TV licences and savings accounts as well as bill payments.
WiFi Access
Many cafes and coffee shops have free WiFi access for customers, so if you have a laptop or tablet, you can utilise free Internet access in these areas.
Telephone Service
Mobile phones are widely used in Ireland and phone companies offer both pay-as-you-go and monthly contract plans. Mobile phones can be expensive for international calls so using Mobile apps such as Viber, WhatsApp or Skype to make your international calls is recommended.
Banks
Banks are open between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday, (some smaller branches may close for lunch, check locally).
Pubs
Pubs are licensed to open between 10.30am and 11.30pm Sunday to Wednesday. From Thursday to Saturday the closing hours are extended to 12.30am.
Smoking
Smoking is forbidden in enclosed places of work in Ireland. This includes office blocks, various buildings (including cinemas etc), public houses/bars, restaurants and company vehicles, as well as on public transport.
Emergencies
Dial 999 or 112 from any phone for police, ambulance, fire, sea and mountain rescue services.