Ireland is an island on the north-western edge of Europe. It is 486 kilometers long and 275 kilometers wide. Ireland has 3,172 kilometers of coastline – the longest coastline per head of population in Europe. The Republic of Ireland occupies three-quarters of the island and its capital city is Dublin.
Ireland, with its beautiful scenery, offers a range of attractions to the tourist including ancient archaeological sites and monuments, a variety of sporting activities such as fishing, riding and golf, as well as traditional dancing and music. Ireland is now enjoying stability and peace North and South of the Island.
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Population
4.4 million, over 1.5 million live in Dublin.
Dublin
Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland, is built on the River Liffey and is also situated beside the sea, yet close to both the countryside and mountains. A city of fine Georgian buildings, Dublin has been influenced by its Danish, Norman and English antecedents. It has excellent stores and shops, museums, antique shops and a range of pubs and restaurants. Among the goods for which Ireland is particularly well known are tweed, knitwear, linen, glass, lace and silverware. It has four major theatres, including the world famous Abbey theatre, concert facilities, art galleries and cinemas. There is a wide variety of sporting facilities including golf courses, sailing and racecourses. Climate Ireland enjoys a temperate climate with mild winters and relatively cool summers. Mean daily temperature in June and July is 18 C. Dublin enjoys reasonable sunshine and rain belts reaching the east coast are frequently light and generally clear quickly. However, it is always wise when travelling to Ireland to pack a rain mac or umbrella.
Documentation/Passports everyone entering Ireland must have a valid passport, or in the case of European Union Member States, a national identity card. Visas are required for visitors from some countries. Delegates should check with their local Irish consulate or embassy. A valid driving license is required to drive in Ireland.
Please note that it can take up to 8 weeks to process a visa application, and early application is recommended. The Conference Organizing Committee, or its agents, cannot accept any responsibility for visa applications. Where a delegate is unable to attend because of failure to obtain a visa on time, the normal cancellation policy for registration fee will apply. Please contact Conference Partners if you require a letter of invitation for your visa application. You may also request such a letter by fax. For Irish Government information relating to visa applications please see http://foreignaffairs.gov.ie/home/index.aspx?id=8605
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: woolen 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, its agents, and the Society will not be responsible for any medical expenses, loss or accidents incurred during the conference. 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 E111 form. Tax Refunds Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 21% 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 forms when you make your purchase.
Tipping A small tip is appreciated for good service. Tip cabs 10% and porters €1 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 Plugs in Ireland are 3 pin plugs.
Time From March to October, Ireland operates on Greenwich Mean Time + 1 hour.
