Killarney, Ireland- a brief intro is in order. My specialty is writing on college basketball (covered Penn State's 2009 NIT title) though college football is closely followed. Currently on a vacation/tour of Ireland with my wife Karen. We have met a number of Nittany Lion followers along the way so this is geared to those arriving a day or two before Saturday's kickoff..
1. Exchange money at the airport. Dublin is in the Republic of Ireland which uses Euros as a monetary system. Approximately $1.33 of American money is a Euro. So that 10 Euro burger at the pub will set you back 13 American dollars. In the city you can get Euros using your debit or credit card at an ATM.
2. Our extremely efficient and knowledgeable tour guide Camel calls it 'liquid sunshine'. Simply, it rains every day here. Not a torrential downpour but maybe a light shower for 10 minutes or an hour. Be prepared with an umbrella even if the sun is shining when you go out.
3. If you love books and reading as I do, forget seeking out one of the many 'booking shops'. Those are place of betting. Wagering is big here especially on English Premiership soccer matches.
4. Be careful crossing the street. In Ireland motorists drive on the left side of the road. Trust me, it takes getting used to as well as you full attention.
5. A pub trip or two is a necessity. The atmosphere is quant, people friendly and choice of amber refreshment varied and excellent.
6. A Dublin side trip highly recommended is to Trinity College. The grounds are very impressive. There is a museum of ancient artifacts and a shop on campus. There are a number of stores and pubs along the thoroughfare outside Trinity.
7. Back home in my native Northern New Jersey (please no Rutgers jokes), we are used to all night convenience stores and other late closing establishments. Not here. Shops close around 6:30 or 7 p.m. Bars close around midnight. Takes a little getting used to but It is a nice change.
8. Showering could be an adventure. Water can be too hot or icy cold. Takes a little getting used to and some patience as each hotel shower is different.
9. The people are wonderful. Very friendly, willing to chat, greet you with a smile and just a pleasure to help you out with directions if need be. Quite a difference from my area and nearby ( to me) New York City.
10. Savor the experience,enjoy the stay and best of luck to the Nittany Lions!
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