EESI2 Final Conference

General Information about Ireland

Dublin

Dublin City Centre courtesy of Conference Partners

Dublin was founded by the Vikings in 841, it is Ireland’s capital city, steeped in history and buzzing with energy. Medieval, Georgian and modern architecture provide a backdrop to a friendly cosmopolitan city. Dublin is a thriving centre for culture and is home to a great musical and literary tradition, its native sons include Shaw, Yeats, Joyce, Wilde and Beckett.
The city’s attractions include castles, museums, art galleries, pubs and cafes. Within half an hour of the city are mountain walks, stately homes and gardens, numerous golf courses, sandy beaches and fishing villages.

Electricity

240 volts, plug type G

Most electrical items from the UK will work without any conversion necessary.
Most electrical items from continental Europe will work with a small, cheap adapter for your plug type to type G
Most electrical items from the USA will not work in Ireland. Check the voltage ratings which should be marked on the appliance. However, most laptops are dual voltage and will work with a plug adaptor.

Temperature

Ireland enjoys a temperate climate, with (until recently) mild winters and relatively cool summers. Mean daily temperature in May is 17 °C. Dublin enjoys reasonable sunshine and rain belts reaching the east coast are frequently light and generally clear within a few hours. However it is always wise when travelling to Ireland to pack rain gear or an umbrella.

Shopping

Dublin has a busy city centre shopping area around Grafton Street and Henry Street. There is a huge range of products to bring home – from traditional Irish hand-made crafts to international designer labels. Things to buy: woollen knits, tweeds, crystal, Claddagh rings, pottery, silver and music. Shopping hours are from 9.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Saturday, with shops open until 8.00pm on Thursdays, and many shops open from 11.00am – 6.00pm on Sunday.

Insurance

The Conference Organising Committee or its agents will not be responsible for any medical expenses, loss or accidents incurred during the conference. Delegates are strongly advised to arrange their own personal insurance to cover medical and other expenses including accident or loss. Where a delegate has to cancel for medical reasons, the normal cancellation policy will apply. It is recommended that citizens from EU countries bring with them a current EHIC card.

Tax Refunds

Value Added Tax (VAT) is charged at 23% on most goods. However, a 9% special rate is charged on tourism-related activities including restaurants, hotels, cinemas, hairdressing and newspapers. Cash back is the simplest and most widely used VAT refund service that issues cash refunds on departure for a handling fee. Ask for a cash back form when you make your purchase.