The island of Ireland is the most westerly island in Europe, it is 450 km long and 300 km wide and is divided into the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Ireland enjoys a rich diversity of ethnic groups and cultures. English is spoken by everyone in Ireland and in some area’s Irish is spoken also.
Dublin is Ireland’s capital city and was founded by the Vikings in 841. The 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 musical and literary tradition, its native sons include Shaw, Yeats, Joyce, Wilde 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, numerous golf courses, sandy beaches and fishing villages. The conference venue is located right in the centre of the city and is very easy to navigate around with everything within walking distance. A city map will be provided in your delegate pack to ensure you are familiar with the city
For those interested in seeing some of Dublin and Ireland best tourist attractions, delegates will have the opportunity to purchase optional tours tickets on their registration form.
USEFUL INFORMATION
Temperature
Ireland enjoys relatively cool summers. Daily temperature in May is on average 14 °C. Dublin enjoys reasonable sunshine in May with unpredictable rain showers. These rain showers generally don’t last long, but it is recommended that you have an umbrella or light rain gear to hand.
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.
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. Shopping hours in general 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. Dundrum Town Centre is a large shopping centre located in South Dublin. The LUAS Green Line serves Dundrum Town Centre from St. Stephens Green to Brides Glen. The Dundrum and Balally stops are only a few minutes-walk from the centre.
Insurance
The Conference Organising Committee or its agents 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 EHIC card.
Time
From March to October, Ireland operates on Greenwich Mean Time + 1 hour.
Tax
Refunds - Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 23% 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.
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.
