Pros and Cons of Living in Ireland

"Irish people are friendly enough after they get to know you. Food was relatively cheap and higher quality in some cases than in US. I lived in a 54 individual house development for retired (65) or disabled people less than 65 could also qualify. I was one of the first ones to rent in there," said one person in Enniscorthy.

"I love that kids stay innocent longer here. The kids just play and run around and there isn't the same fears associated with it as there would have been in my home town in Canada. People are very friendly and inviting and go to great lengths to help you out once they know you. We've been warmly included in many traditions and celebrations here. We also love the history and have spent a lot of time exploring the country learning as much as we can. It's a gorgeous place to live, especially when sunny," remarked one expat in South County Dublin.

"Multicultural environment, ability to travel more, possibilities seem to be expanded here as compared to Argentina/Latin America, more connection with the spiritual side of human being," explained one expat living in Dublin.

"Expats in Ireland are especially appreciative of the country's vibrant culture, friendly and welcoming people, and traditional Irish music. Many expats also enjoy exploring the country's stunningly beautiful landscape, diverse and rich history, and great sense of humor. Irish people are also known for their excellent hospitality, making it an appealing place for foreign visitors who want to feel welcome and accepted. The country's deep traditions, both in folklore and in music, are also something many expats value, as it reminds them of their cultural roots," said one expat in Ireland.

"Be careful not to talk too much about yourself and reveal too much about yourself too early. It will takes weeks and months of getting together with an Irish friend to learn personal details about them. Only reveal one or two personal details per visit or it will overwhelm them. They will respect the friendship more if it is earned and learned over time. Forget getting anything fixed, it will take weeks and more than one visit. Always offer a service person (plumber, gardener, etc.) tea and make sure it is one of the two Irish brands, offering a biscuit doesn't hurt too. Won't improve the service but they will appreciate that you are polite. Always apologize if you create any sort of inconvenience for another person, it will be much appreciated," said a person living in Dublin.

"Difficult in a small town to become a part of the community. Had planned to volunteer in the schools, but they don't do that here. But we're making baby steps. Buying anything is a nightmare. I was so used to shopping online. Not really possibly here. Products are so different," explained one expat living in North Tipperary.

"Expatriates in Ireland often find the country's strong emphasis on community, connectedness and communal activities to be very different from what they are used to in their own countries, making it a challenge to feel part of the local culture. Some expats find the wet climate and short days of winter to be very difficult to adjust to, while others struggle to understand the variety of regional accents and slang. Additionally, some may find that Irish culture is comparatively secular and that traditional Catholic mores are less prominent than in other parts of the world," said one in Ireland.

"Nobody is in a hurry to do anything and they run on "Irish time" meaning it's normal and acceptable to be late. It has taken us a long time to get used to this. Repairs take forever as does processing paperwork. Don't even get me started on the challenges of getting a full Irish driving license!!," explained one expat who made the move to South County Dublin.

"Bureaucracy. Banks, Insurance, documents, learning bus routes and how to deal with rental agents. I had several problems with "owners" and their agents. No room here to tell all the stories. Did not know about need for TV license until neighbors told us after we bought new TV. License does not cost for 65 + but one still needs to get it. Took 4 months," commented one expat living in Enniscorthy.