Traveler Information
for Ireland
A pilgrimage to Ireland offers a profound spiritual and cultural connections. Locales like Croagh Patrick, Glendalough, Corrymeela, and the Aran Islands invite reflection and a sense of peace. Pilgrims may explore early Christian history, connect with Celtic traditions, or learn about peacemaking. Ireland’s lush landscapes and welcoming communities enhance the journey, blending spiritual growth with cultural exploration. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a pilgrimage in Ireland.
Weather
The weather in Ireland is generally temperate. Winters rarely get cold enough for snow. Summer days are rarely sweltering and evenings can be cool. While July and August are the driest months, there is a chance of rain all year long. We rarely amend our itineraries for rain unless there is a torrential downpour or thunderstorm.
Packing
One pilgrimage practice is simplicity, so we recommend packing light. You should also be able to manage your own luggage between the airport, bus, and hotels. You can wear clothes multiple times, do a little laundry in the sink, or send a few items out for laundry through the hotel. We recommend packing clothing that can be layered for warm days and cool nights. Unless specifically mentioned, you won't need to dress up for dinners or other occasions. Some other things for your Ireland packing list include:
o Raincoat
o Waterproof shoes or boots
o Small umbrella
o Rain pants (optional)
o G-type power adapters for both Ireland and Northern Ireland
o Quick-drying washcloth (washcloths are often not provided at hotels)
If your pilgrimage includes overnight accommodations at the Corrymeela Community, you may also want to pack a hairdryer and your own soap and shampoo since these items are not provided at Corrymeela
Free Time
Our pilgrimages tend to be structured with few large blocks of free time for independent exploration. If your itinerary indicates a free morning or afternoon, you can expect to have at least 3-4 hours of time. We’ll do our best to clarify when that free time begins as the details of your itinerary become firm. You may wish to use this time just to shop and explore independently, or for some rest and reflection time. Here are some links to sites that might require prebooking tickets:
Dublin
Belfast
Money
Staying Connected
In Ireland, credit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases like a single pint at the pub, and tap-to-pay is very common. Check with your credit card provider about any international transaction fees, and let them know about your travel plans.
ATMs, called Cash Points, are available at the airport and are ubiquitous in most cities. Avoid processing transactions at ATMs or other checkouts in dollars as you may be charged high conversion fees. Always process transactions in the local currency.
The Pound Sterling is the currency in N. Ireland while the Euro is the currency in the Republic of Ireland. Most shops in N.I. will accept Euros, though at an unfavorable exchange rate. Pounds obtained in N. Ireland are difficult to spend in Scotland or England, so do not withdraw more than you need for your time in N. Ireland.
In Ireland, tipping is becoming more common but not at the rates most Americans expect. In a pub, leaving the coin change to the next Pound or Euro is common but not expected. A tip of 5-10% at a sit-down restaurant is generous but not expected. Only some restaurants will allow you to add a tip to a credit card payment.
Your pilgrimage includes all gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel staff, and meals taken together. Hotel gratuities are split among all staff, so if you want to tip a particular staff member, give them the tip directly. Housekeeping tips can be left in the room upon checkout.
Being disconnected from the constant onslaught of information and communication can be refreshing during a pilgrimage, so consider limiting your use of the internet during the day. You can expect wi-fi in all of your hotel accommodations but not usually on buses or coaches.
If you wish to have cellular or data connectivity during your pilgrimage, please contact your carrier to find out more about the cost of international roaming and the level of coverage you can expect in Ireland. If your phone is unlocked you can also purchase a local SIM or eSIM for a less expensive option. Some SIM plans offer only data while others provide calling, too. SIMs purchased in the airport are generally over priced compared to visiting a neighborhood shop
All of our pilgrimages use WhatsApp to communicate with group members during your travels together. Be sure to download and install WhatsApp on your smartphone at least a week before departure so we can add you to the group for your pilgrimage.
WhatsApp is also a great way to stay connected with family and friends at home since it allows you to call and text over a wi-fi connection.
Educational Resources
Travelers who do a little bit of preparation often have a richer experience on their pilgrimage. We send all our travelers a series of short articles about two months before your departure to help orient your journey in its historical and spiritual context. About a month in advance of the trip, we'll also send a print journal you can use during your pilgrimage. In addition to these resources, you might enjoy one or two selections from our extended reading list.