Newbie with question

raleigh · Member

Newbie with question

yesiree · Guru

If you're naturally shy...it's unlikely you'll come off as an "ugly American," so no worries there. Your sensitivity will be appreciated in Ireland and will reflect well on your countrymen.

Let's see, what are some "ugly American" examples I've witnessed:

A basic lack of "please" and "thank yous."

Starting sentences with..."well, in America we..." or "I can't BELIEVE you don't have..." or "We don't have time for the full tour, can you just give us the highlights..."

Disrespect toward waitstaff (FYI - the reason servers don't bring you the bill until you ask for it is because they feel it would be rude, as if they were asking you to leave the premises, to bring the bill until you said you were ready).

Attempts to get into conversations about politics and religion with people they just met...some Irish are comfortable with these topics, but they usually appreciate a pint first wink

The uglies also tend to forget that Ireland is just as technologically, socially and environmentally savvy as their North American counterparts...sometimes even more so.

I should also note that NOT being the "ugly American" does not mean you can't complain, can't have national pride and shouldn't be yourself.

My tips for B&Bs are posted at http://www.irishfireside.com/enewsletter/1006/IrishFireside1006.htm

Itallian Chauffeur · Moderator

Michele and several of the others would probably have much more insite than I do, but I see that Michele was onthe board quite late (or, MUCH earlier), so I'll toss out my 1 euro cent worth.

Irish B&B's fall into two categories: Supplimental SIDELINES or active BUSINESSES. Obviously, BOTH types, being 'people-oriented', means that the operators are, by and large, outgoing and personable. I have only on RARE occassion encountered anyone who was 'all business', aloof and/or less than friendly and inviting.

Even in a 'Business' B&B, you are still staying in someone's HOME, so basic, common curtesy is generally all that is required. Things like not leaving trash or clothing laying strewn around your room, not placing your suitcase atop the bed, hanging up towels after using them are as appropriate in a B&B as it would be if you were a houseguest of a relative ...

Mostly, it's about TONE...

Most B&B operators that I've encountered seemed to take their cue from YOUR demeaner -- if YOU are friendly and polite (rather than treating them like 'STAFF', they tend to be friendly and chatty. But if you appear frazzled, stressed or disinterested, they tend to disappear into the woodwork and leave you alone.

Anyone can have a bad day, be distracted by pressures, demands and activities not visible or related to work, of course, so it's ALWAYS possible that you might catch someone on a 'bad' day, but it isn't LIKELY.

My two LEAST favorite B&B hosts were no more unfriendly than a typical US hotel desk clerk. Some of my MOST favorite made me feel JUST like family. The typical host is (like most things in life) about 1/2 way between those two extremes.

If you bring along the same sense of humor and self-effacing openness that you display in your post, most of the Irish will LOVE meeting you and your time in Ireland will be enhanced by that welcome.

End of Sermon....

Bob

Michele Erdvig · Host

raleigh,

Click on that link that Corey provided you with. It explains virtually everything. I will say that the Irish B&B hosts are pretty perceptive. They can pick up on subtle signals you don't even know you are giving. They have radar that tells them when a guest wants interaction and when they want to be left alone. Every host has a different personality and things going on in their own life. Sometimes hosts that come across as being cool are actually shy. I find that asking questions and inquiring for extra info on the area sometimes breaks the ice. If you are in doubt about anything at a B&B just ask. The hosts will be happy you took the time to clarify the details.

Most hosts hang out in the kitchen of their homes. If you need attention either knock on the kitchen door (usually marked "Private") or ring the doorbell.

It used to be that you paid for your B&B when checking out after breakfast, however that is slowly changing. Some B&Bs now require up-front payment because they have fallen vicitm to people skipping out without paying. When checking in you can politely inquire as to when they want payment and whether they take credit cards or prefer cash.

Reservations expire at 6 pm sharp!! Be sure to call ahead if you will be later or you may find your room given to someone else.

Michele

raleigh · Member

Thanks so much, Corey, Bob and Michele. The info on the link is great, and I appreciate the information about personal interaction. I am looking forward to the experience.

Michele Erdvig · Host

raleigh,

We are always happy to help. I know you will enjoy the B&B experience.

Michele