069- 10 things I learned in Ireland

I'm finally getting this post written. It is a part 2 to my original post about my Ireland trip which can be found HERE. I wanted to share 10 things that I learned in Ireland.

Make your own cocktails : In Ireland, particularly in traditional pubs, it is common for bartenders to let customers mix their own cocktails. There are a few reasons for this. (1) Irish pubs often emphasize the authenticity and simplicity of drinking experiences. Serving liquor neat or with a separate mixer maintains the focus on the quality and the separate flavors. (2) Providing the liquor and mixer separately allows for personal customization. (3) Irish pubs can be very busy, and preparing cocktails can be time-consuming. Serving drinks in their simplest form helps bartenders serve more customers quickly, which is especially important during peak times.

You don’t have to pick up your bags in London : When traveling from London to Ireland, you typically don't have to pick up your luggage enroute because both the United Kingdom (which includes London) and the Republic of Ireland participate in a Common Travel Area (CTA). This arrangement allows for more streamlined travel procedures between the two countries.

Dublin airport pre-clearance : Dublin Airport offers U.S. Preclearance facilities, which allow travelers flying to the United States to complete U.S. immigration and customs procedures before departing Ireland. Preclearance means that upon arrival in the United States, passengers are treated as domestic arrivals. This can save time as travelers bypass the often lengthy immigration and customs queues in U.S. airports. Most U.S.-bound flights from Dublin use the preclearance facility. Passengers should confirm with their airline that their flight is eligible for preclearance. By completing U.S. entry requirements in Dublin, passengers can enjoy a smoother and quicker arrival process in the United States.

Irish coffee : This is a classic cocktail that combines coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream. It's a warming, comforting drink that's perfect for chilly days or as an after-dinner treat.

Irish coffee was invented by Joe Sheridan, a chef at Foynes Airbase (a precursor to Shannon Airport) in the early 1940s. He created the drink to warm up and comfort passengers arriving on transatlantic flights. When asked if it was Brazilian coffee, Sheridan famously responded that it was "Irish coffee."

Guinness with black currant : Adding blackcurrant syrup to Guinness, often referred to as a "Guinness and Black" or simply "Blackcurrant Guinness," is a popular variation in Ireland and the UK. The addition of blackcurrant syrup adds a sweet, fruity flavor that contrasts with and complements the rich, bitter taste of the Guinness. This can make the drink more palatable for those who find the stout too strong or bitter on its own. While not a traditional way to drink Guinness, the addition of blackcurrant syrup has become a recognized and accepted variation in many pubs. It showcases the versatility of Guinness and how it can be adapted to different tastes.

Fish and chips : The fish is usually one big piece, rather than multiple pieces like in the US. Fish and chips, a beloved dish in both Ireland and the UK, has subtle variations depending on where you get it. In Ireland, cod and haddock are the most commonly used fish. Due to Ireland's extensive coastline, the fish used in fish and chips is often very fresh, sometimes caught the same day. The batter in Ireland is typically light and crispy, made from a simple mixture of flour, water (or sometimes beer), and seasonings.

Bring lots of layers : Wearing lots of layers in Ireland is often recommended due to the country's unpredictable and changeable weather. It's not uncommon to experience sunshine, rain, wind, and even hail all in one day. Layering allows you to adjust your clothing throughout the day as the weather changes. Layering allows you to add or remove clothing to stay comfortable as temperatures rise and fall. Ireland receives a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year. Having layers, including waterproof outer layers, helps you stay dry and warm during showers or drizzle. Layering allows you to pack lighter when traveling, as you can mix and match different layers for various weather conditions.

Temple Bar is not just a bar : The Temple Bar area is located on the south bank of the River Liffey in central Dublin. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, Temple Bar is home to numerous art galleries, theaters, music venues, and cultural institutions. It is famous for its lively pubs, traditional Irish music sessions, and a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Temple Bar is a popular destination for tourists, both during the day for its cultural attractions and in the evening for its nightlife. Within the Temple Bar area, there is also a pub called Temple Bar.

Whiskey and cheese pair well together : As strange as it might sound, yes, whiskey and cheese can pair very well together, offering a surprising combination of flavors and textures. There are a couple reasons why whiskey and cheese make a great pairing: Both whiskey and cheese can have complex, rich flavors that complement each other. The sweetness of whiskey can balance the saltiness of cheese, creating a harmonious contrast. Whiskey often has deep, nuanced flavors that can enhance the flavors of different cheeses. Some tips that we learned were to match a smooth Irish whiskey with a mild, creamy brie or a nutty aged Gouda; and serve whiskey and cheese at room temperature to allow their flavors to fully develop. Offer a variety of cheeses with different textures and Irish whiskey flavor profiles to create a diverse tasting experience.

An amazing, local travel guide makes a huge difference : A local travel guide is indispensable, especially if navigating unfamiliar terrain isn't your forte. Their expertise not only alleviates the stress of getting lost but also enriches the travel experience immeasurably. They possess intimate knowledge of hidden gems, authentic eateries, and off-the-beaten-path attractions that guidebooks often overlook. Their insights into local culture and history bring destinations to life, offering a deeper understanding and appreciation. Moreover, a guide provides logistical support, ensuring seamless transitions between locations and maximizing time spent exploring rather than deciphering maps. Ultimately, their presence transforms a potentially overwhelming journey into a relaxed and enriching adventure, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the essence of a place without the hassle of navigation.

One of the things that I love most about traveling is the new things that I experience and what I learn. And I love sharing the things I've learned.... what have you learned while traveling to a new place?