Cultural No-Nos And Taboos In Ireland To Avoid

Known for being a quaint, unique and vibrant country to explore, live and study in, Ireland is a great study destination and many international students flock there to pursue their studies every year.

If you’ve got your eye on this charming country, perhaps you might wish to take a moment to get familiar with some cultural taboos in Ireland to avoid. After all, you wouldn’t want to ruin your study adventure by unintentionally offending or upsetting someone!

Take a closer look at the cultural no-nos to avoid during your stay in Ireland, through this list that we’ve put together.

7 Cultural Taboos To Avoid While Living In Ireland

1. Do Not Confuse Ireland As Part Of Britain

In case you aren’t already aware, Ireland is not part of Britain.

To avoid upsetting or offending anyone, do not refer to Ireland as the United Kingdom or the UK and avoid referring to people from the Republic of Ireland as British.

Apart from that, be mindful that many in Northern Ireland will be offended if referred to as Irish.

2. Do Not Assume All Irish People Love To Drink

Although it is a stereotype that the Irish are masters at handling their alcohol, it would do you no favors to assume that all Irish people love to drink.

After all, you wouldn’t know for sure or can’t guarantee that everyone you chance upon enjoys alcohol.

Hence, it helps to clear your mind of stereotypes or clichés relating to alcohol and drunkenness while you’re in Ireland as they will not be well received.

3. Do Not Hog A Conversation Or Be Boastful & Rowdy

If you ever had an experience with someone who dominated a conversation, was aggressive or rowdy, you probably know first-hand that it isn’t the most pleasant experience.

In Ireland, being like this in a conversation is largely interpreted as being rude and pretentious – so be mindful when you’re chatting with someone and ensure that you take an interest in what they have to say as well, so that you don’t indirectly hijack the conversation!

A crucial topic to avoid when talking to the Irish is that of money. As it might be offensive or make things awkward, it is best to not bring up the subject of how much one earns or talk about money in general.

4. Do Not Be Stingy When It Comes To Pub Etiquette

When at a pub, the Irish typically drink in “rounds”, which basically means each person of a group will take turns to buy a round of drinks for everyone.

Accepting drinks from others but not buying a round can result in an unfavorable judgment of your character as it is deemed rude or stingy and people will remember that you missed your round.

Also, it helps to note that refusing a drink can be seen as insulting to some people.

5. Do Not Leave Your Hat On When Entering A Home, Church Or Pub

It may not seem like a big deal to wear a hat wherever you go when you’re in most countries.

However, in Ireland it is considered rude to not take off your hat when you’re entering a home, church or pub, so do remember this! (Alternatively, it might help to not wear a hat at all.)

6. Do Not Forget Your Polite Manners

When in Ireland, always remember to say “please” and “thank you” in day-to-day situations – for example, thanking your bus driver as you’re alighting.

Polite in nature, the Irish also patiently wait in line when there’s a queue and wait for their turn to be served.

In a social setting, don’t forget to shake hands with people when you first see them and again when you’re leaving.

Besides that, it is proper etiquette to acknowledge other drivers when you’re driving in rural areas. This can be done by raising a hand or finger from the steering wheel.

7. Do Not Talk Politics Or Religion

Politics and religion are two very sensitive topics that are best avoided while you’re in Ireland.

If you’re familiar with the Troubles of Ireland, you’ll know that there have been clashes between the Protestants and Catholics.

As the Irish have very strong opinions when it comes to the country’s history, it is a good idea to leave religion and politics aside when engaged in a conversation. After all, you never know what the other person’s experiences might be!

Get Ready For Your Ireland Study Adventure

Are you ready to make the most of your stay in beautiful Ireland?

Now that you know what to avoid doing, it’s time to take that next step and secure your spot in the university of your dreams.

At IDP, we’ve got a team of education counsellors who can help you successfully make it there by navigating the application process as well as offering tailored guidance and valuable advice – so that you choose the course that is most aligned with your career goals.

Get started by booking a free counselling session today!