Studying in Ireland

Date: 9:01 PM, 12/20/05

Studying in Ireland

wojazz3 · Guru

Hi Carrie:

Almost all communication here will be on the board. I don't know really anything about the Dundrum community, but it is a southern suburb of Dublin. There is a light rail system ( http://www.luas.ie/index.asp?head) runs through Dundrum that will get you into Dublin city center more quickly than the bus. I couldn't find a time table on the website. There probably is one somewhere. I did a quick check on the bus system webpage (http://www.dublinbus.ie/your_journey/viewer.asp?placeName=Dundrum) and it looks like the trip would be over an hour on the bus.

The Irish a very friendly folk in general and quite helpful to travelers and guests, even in the city (though probably more so in the countryside). Like any big city, things are fairly fast paced but since you are used to NYC, they may seem rather slow .

There is a language barrier of sorts but you'll catch on quickly. There are probably hundreds of websites similar to what I list below, but they will show you some English/Irish to American terms and slang. By the way, pudding can be dessert (afters) also but doesn't look like something that Jello invented.

http://www.at.artslink.co.za/%7Egerry/irisha_m.htm

http://www.uta.fi/FAST/US1/REF/engtran.html

http://www.bg-map.com/us-uk.html

http://english2american.com/index.html#index

London to Dublin is about 1:15 minute flight as I remember. You can fly from Heathrow or Gatwick, usually on Aer Lingus. Ryan Air may be a bit cheaper though Aer Lingus has adopted a no frills approach to flights from the UK to Ireland. Ryan Air flies out of Gatwick, Stanstead and Luton. The Gatwick prices may be a bit higher. The only other route out of London to Dublin uses a train and ferry and takes much longer and is much more expensive. Sort of a no brainer.

You needn't be too nervous about your trip. Excited is much better. Ireland is a wonderful country and you should have a great time.

Bill

Michele Erdvig · Host

Carrie,

Don't be nervous about your time in Dublin. Think of it as an adventure where you will meet new people and experience new things. It will be fun!

Bill has already given you some excellent info. Usually the best and cheapest way to get from Dublin to London is by air. Aer Lingus, RyanAir and British Midland are the carriers that come immediately to mind. The flight takes 50 minutes.

I know that NY is expensive, but expect sticker shock in Dublin. It is Ireland's most expensive area. You might take a look at my "Money" and "Tips & Tricks" pages for a bit of help about budgeting and money.

While you are in Ireland be sure to take advantage of the info dispensed at the tourist offices. There is one right inside Dublin Airport and also on Suffolk Street in downtown Dublin. Get yourself a good map of the city and pick up the bus and train schedules. Look into getting some sort of bus/rail pass.

As Bill said, the Irish are generally very helpful. If you need help, ask questions and most people will be happy to help out a "Yank".

I hope you have a fantastic time!

Michele