00:00Welcome back to Ireland in View, the channel where we bring you modern Ireland today.
00:05Visitors to Ireland don't always know the difference between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland
00:10and can get themselves into trouble in the North.
00:13Keep watching to avoid the pitfalls.
00:16Here are some things a first-time visitor should never do in the North.
00:211. Never discuss Irish politics or religion unless you know the person's affiliations that you are speaking to.
00:28A short explainer, the population in the North is divided in allegiance.
00:32Just over 50% of Northerners might support a united Ireland currently, ruled from Dublin.
00:39The remainder wish to remain under British rule, from London, and want nothing to do with the Republican government in Dublin.
00:46Into that mix, let's throw you the innocent traveller.
00:50There are two cultures, one based on Irish Gaelic tradition and one based mainly on Scottish planter traditions.
00:58Both cultures are based on Gaelic, but from separate geographic areas.
01:04You might want to research and explore that one on a visit.
01:07The Northern Nationalists support the Irish language while the Northern Unionists hate it.
01:12The Northern Nationalists support the Gaelic Athletic Association based at Croke Park, Dublin.
01:17Commonly known and joked about as the Grab All Association because of its financial needs to fund Gaelic sport.
01:25The Unionists want nothing to do with that.
01:28So the first lesson is keep the peace.
01:30Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics or religion unless you're with close friends who are open to the discussion.
01:37Instead, first focus on the beautiful scenery and the non-political culture.
01:42It's essential to be respectful and avoid making assumptions.
01:46If the topic arises, simply ask people about their preferences rather than labeling them.
01:51We would even suggest avoiding some parts of Northern Ireland in July when sensitivities do run high, particularly around the 12th.
01:59By the way, if you are enjoying our videos where we look at Irish life today, can we ask you to follow, subscribe, and share?
02:05It helps us reach a larger audience.
02:09Up next, the tipping culture.
02:12In restaurants and cafes, a tip of around 5 to 10% is standard if service is not included.
02:19However, if service is exceptional, feel free to tip more.
02:23Conversely, avoid tipping excessively as it may be seen as unnecessary.
02:28Just follow the local customs and you'll be good to go.
02:30We ourselves, because we come from the hospitality industry, tend to tip more to the less well-paid, such as hotel cleaning staff.
02:38But it's entirely your choice.
02:40The next don't do is not so obvious.
02:42While credit cards are widely accepted, some smaller shops, pubs, or rural areas may only accept cash.
02:49It's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for local markets or eateries.
02:54You wouldn't want to miss out on that delicious soda bread just because you can't pay.
02:58Remember, Northern Ireland uses its own currency of British pounds, which you cannot, for some reason, use in England, Scotland, or Wales, if you are traveling over to, say, Scotland.
03:07The Republic, of course, uses the euro.
03:10The next tip is perhaps an obvious one to avoid.
03:14Stereotypes can lead to misunderstandings.
03:17While the Irish are known for their hospitality, avoid assumptions about drinking habits or friendliness.
03:24Not all Irish people, north or south, live all the time in a pub.
03:28Engage people as individuals, and you'll find that everyone has a unique story to share.
03:33Next up, familiarizing yourself with local customs can enrich your experience.
03:38For example, use the local language when having a quiet drink.
03:43Words such as sláinte, cheers, etc.
03:46Observing social cues can help you navigate interactions seamlessly.
03:51Very much like in the Republic, if someone buys you a drink, offer to buy them one back.
03:56They don't like cheap skates in the north any more than in the south.
04:01Depending on which side of the political or religious divide you're in, observe and follow the customs.
04:07They may be the same or completely different.
04:10Look outside and see which flags are flying.
04:13It will be the United Kingdom Union flag or the Irish tricolor and act accordingly.
04:19Next up, don't make the mistake of thinking there are only three things in the north to see.
04:24The Titanic exhibition, the Giant's Causeway, or the Derry stroke Londonderry city walls.
04:31There is so much more.
04:32Northern Ireland is not just about its cities.
04:35The countryside is filled with stunning landscapes such as the Causeway Coast, the Antrim Coast Road, and the Morne Mountains.
04:43Make sure to explore these areas to fully appreciate the beauty of Northern Ireland.
04:49Next up, don't forget to respect personal space.
04:53Cultural norms regarding personal space can differ.
04:56In Northern Ireland, people may prefer a bit more distance than what you might be used to in the, say, the U.S.
05:02Be attentive to body language and respect personal boundaries to ensure comfortable interactions.
05:08Next, don't disregard the weather.
05:11The weather in Northern Ireland can change rapidly.
05:14Expect rain at any time, even in the summer.
05:17Always check the forecast and pack waterproof gear.
05:20A good umbrella can be your best friend.
05:23Layer up to peel off.
05:24Don't miss out on local cuisine.
05:26Don't stick to familiar food.
05:28Northern Ireland has a rich culinary scene.
05:31Try traditional dishes like Irish stew, champ, potato and soda, or wheat and bread.
05:36Visiting local pubs for food is a great way to experience the culture.
05:41Finally, don't forget, from January 2025, you will need an electronic travel authorization
05:47to cross the Irish border into the United Kingdom-controlled Northern Ireland
05:51if you are from outside Ireland and the European Union, which will be included later in 2025.
05:58Links will be in the description.
06:00Finally, finally, don't get caught with this one.
06:04There are no toll roads in the North, and when hiring a car in Dublin,
06:09please make sure your insurance is covered in the higher cost for the North.
06:14Some car hire companies include it, some companies exclude it, and it's an add-on.
06:19Don't worry about driving on the left in Ireland North and South.
06:23If you can drive an American freeway, you can drive anywhere in Ireland.
06:28We hope you enjoy your trip north.
06:31By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can make the most of your visit to Northern Ireland.
06:36If you enjoyed this video, please like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more travel tips.
06:42Share your own experiences in the comments below.
06:45Thank you. Sláinte.
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