Whether we realise it or not, there’s a lot of things that Irish people do or say that the rest of the world just does not understand. Irish culture and traditions can confuse newcomers, but many are also unique worldwide.

So, on behalf of all the international students at Trinity, we set out to investigate all the little things that represent Irish culture and make it so charming.

Food and Drink

1) Potatoes with every meal.

Turns out that some stereotypes are true! Whether boiled, mashed, or fried, you’re never far from a potato in some form within Ireland’s restaurants, pubs, and cafes.

Let’s face it, what can beat a good spud?

2) Food is love.

Turning down biscuits/scones/sandwiches when at someone’s house is pretty much equivalent to slapping them in the face. This is especially true if the person is over 60. Even if you aren’t hungry, take the offer anyway. You’ll never hear the end of it if you don’t!

3) Pubs aren’t just a place, they’re a lifestyle.

There’s a pub on every corner in Dublin, meaning you’ll never be stuck for a beverage. Outside the city, there’s at least two in every village! People are also very proud of their favourite watering holes and why.

4) A cup of tea is the answer. Always.

When you’re offered ‘tea’, it will usually be strong black breakfast tea with the option of milk and sugar (and a few biscuits if you’re lucky!). Tea is the cure for every issue in Ireland, from heartbreak to hangovers to a dose of the flu.

Socialising

5) Late is on time.

If someone says a party begins at 8pm, that means no one will arrive until around 9pm. Ditto for meeting for coffee, or any social occasion – an Irish person will always stroll in a little bit late (with apologies, at least). Punctuality is not a strong point for the Irish.

6) Any chance of rain?

When all else fails, talk about the weather. You’d swear the Irish are all meteorologists, but in a country where there is no rhyme or reason to the weather patterns, sometimes a rainy day (or the threat of it) is the most interesting thing to talk about. 

7) Don’t take yourself seriously.

The Irish love self-deprecating humour, so tell an embarrassing story about yourself and you’ll be popular.

Also, don’t be upset if people ‘slag’ you (make fun of you) – it’s a rite of passage in Irish culture and the way people will get to know you.

Everyday life

8) Bargain hunting.

The Irish love a good deal, no doubt. Irish people are always hunting for value and will tell you all about it when they find it. It’s one of the important things to know about Irish culture, so share your own bargain hunting story and you’ll make friends quickly.

9) Be polite, even if it feels weird.

You’ll no doubt get the bus while living in Dublin, and you’ll notice a lot of people thanking the bus driver as they get off (even the driver can’t hear them). Saying thank you isn’t weird, it’s polite – and you may get a few looks if you don’t!

10) Saying sorry – and meaning it.

The Irish are an apologetic bunch. “Sorry” means anything from “get out of my way”, to “I can’t hear you”, to “you just walked straight into me”. You’ll usually get what is meant at the time and, before you know it, you’ll be doing it too.

11) Can’t live with it, can’t live without it.

Irish people give Ireland a lot of stick. They complain about politicians, the weather, people from neighbouring counties, and even other people in Dublin! But, deep down, they love the place just the way it is. There’s nowhere else like it!

If you’re an international student and you want to learn more about life in Ireland, the Global Room may be the support you need! Discover how we support international students at Trinity.