Since I have been here for almost two months now I would like to talk about the Irish culture a little bit. Many people have asked me, back home and here, what is the biggest difference coming from the States to Ireland. So through my eyes, I will do my best to explain my personal feelings about it. I must say I believe there are some big differences and some more subtle ones as well.
One of the biggest differences I have witnessed so far, believe it or not, is the roads/driving. As you might be aware of, Ireland drives on the left side of the road and the steering wheel is on the right. Even though I have been here for this long I cannot seem to get used to it one bit! Crossing the street, I have no idea what way the cars are coming unless I stop and think about it! Also, when I'm in a car I still get on edge when we turn on or off roads…I always feel like we are going the wrong way and even worse that we are heading right into oncoming traffic. One other thing, Ireland has a million roundabouts. I still am not entirely sure about the rules with them either haha! Also, I must have opened the driver door a 100 times thinking it was the passenger seat…
However, the biggest difference, aside from driving and everyone speaking with Irish accents, is how laid back of a culture they are. Everything, and I mean everything, is much more relaxed here. Compared to the States, no one is ever in a real rush to get anything done or to go somewhere. This leads me to say that it seems like people really enjoy things more here too. Whether it's sitting and relaxing over a cup of tea, coffee, or a pint of Guinness.
Also, when someone honks his or her horn here 95% of the time it is to be polite and to just say thank you. That's quite the opposite from back home! On that note, the people here are so kind and welcoming compared to the States. Everyone I have encountered has gone way out of their way to be kind and welcoming.
Another difference, as everyone knows is the weather, it is often cloudy and rainy, but since I have been here the majority of the time it's been really nice. Everyone says that will not be the case for much longer. What can I say; I guess I brought the sun over with me! Side note, when the sun is out it might be one of the most beautiful places in the world! It’s a sea of bright green.
Also, the most popular sports here are Gaelic Football, Soccer, and Hurling. Although you will find an occasional American Football game on TV at a bar it's not that popular. NBA games are more visible but basketball still isn't as popular as the other sports.
One last difference, the Guinness here is delicious!
As you can do with any culture, you take something from it. I think a lot of people back home can learn from the Irish. If you have the opportunity to come here I suggest you take it!
Sorry I didn’t talk about a destination on this blog, but in the next one I’ll talk about my surfing trip…stay tuned it’s going be a good one I promise!
