Frequently Asked Questions
Regarding O'Shea Travel Services
Travel Information
Passports and Visas
Money and Financial Matters
Health Information
Communications
Opening Hours/Public Holidays
REGARDING O'SHEA TRAVEL SERVICES
Can I custom-build my vacation or do I have to follow your itineraries?
We are here to help you plan the vacation that is right for you. If you can't find exactly what you're looking for on our website, just let us know and we'll get to work designing a trip that's specifically tailored to your interests, schedule, and budget.
Do you book flights?
No. However, we would be delighted to assist with your flight requirements as part of your vacation package by recommending experts in the travel industry who are able to find you the very best flight deals and service. (Please note that O’Shea Travel is not responsible for business transacted or any issues that arise between you and any third party we refer.)
How can I insure my vacation?
Many travelers carry travel insurance year-round with an independent company and others obtain it through a variety of ways including frequent flyer or credit card benefits. If you do not have travel insurance, more information can be viewed at www.insuremytrip.com. (Please note that O’Shea Travel is not responsible for business transacted or any issues that arise between you and any third party we refer.)
Are your accommodations graded and inspected?
Yes. All accommodations and other vacation products are thoroughly inspected and graded. We absolutely stand over the quality of everything we sell.
What are your Terms and Conditions?
Please click here to view our Terms and Conditions.
How do I contact O’Shea Travel?
Please see our Contact page for options.
TRAVEL INFORMATION
What clothes should I pack?
If golfing, one should always pack golf waterproofs which allow easy movement. While polo shirts, light trousers and even tailored shorts may well be required, it is essential to have adequate rain gear. Because of the variable weather, clothes should be flexible enough to allow for temperature change. Between May and September, it is usually warm but a light waterproof jacket should still be packed. From October to April, heavier sweaters are recommended, particularly if spending time outdoors.
Will jet lag affect my vacation?
After crossing several time zones, many travelers suffer from jet lag. Although there is no way to completely avoid jet lag, there are a number of ways to help your body adjust to a new time zone:
- Try to go to bed a little earlier a few days before you leave and get as much sleep as you can during your flight.
- Many side-effects of jet lag are the result of dehydration, so avoid alcohol, coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages and drink plenty of water during your flight.
- Eat lightly on your flight and forego rich or exotic foods on the first few days of your trip so that you can use your energy to adjust to your new surroundings rather than to digest your food.
- Exercising on a long flight will help alleviate such common discomforts as backaches, swollen legs and feet and general fatigue. Stretch at regular intervals and walk up and down the aisles of the plane from time to time to prevent dangerous blood clots from forming.
- Finally, take it easy on the day you arrive so that you can take advantage of your trip at a leisurely pace and establish a routine in sync with the local time.
What is the voltage in Ireland?
The standard electrical supply is 230 volts AC (50 cycles). To use small appliances, you may need a plug adaptor to fit our 3 pin flat or 2 pin round wall sockets. If required, small travel transformers and adaptors should be purchased prior to departure.
What type of converter do I need to power my electric shaver?
Advice should be sought from an electrician or appliance dealer if they are suitable for use with a transformer.
Can I charge my U.S. laptop in Ireland?
Most laptops can be charged at your desired hotel. Check locally.
What is the weather like in Ireland?
Click here for information about Ireland's weather.
How can I trace my ancestors in Ireland?
Click here for information about genealogy resources in Ireland.
What are the customs procedures at Irish airports?
Customs operates under the green and red channels system. Visitors are allowed €175/US$170 worth of goods (over 15 years) and €90 (under 15 years); 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits, or 2 liters of wine. U.S. visitors can take home US$4000 worth of goods per person. From Britain and other E.U. countries, visitors are entitled to import increased amounts of duty paid goods as long as they can satisfy authorities that they are for personal consumption.
Can I bring plants or plant products with me?
No plants containing soil or soil residues are allowed into the Republic of Ireland under regulations set down by the Irish Departure of Agriculture and Food. Fresh foods such as dairy and meat products are also banned.
PASSPORTS and VISAS
Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?
British subjects born in the United Kingdom when traveling to Ireland do not require passports and visas. However, identification is required. Residents of the U.K. or those traveling to Ireland via the U.K. do require a passport and may require a visa. From the United States and Canada a valid passport is required. For current information, visit the Irish Government website (www.dfa.ie).
Can I use my U.S. driver's license as I.D. in Ireland?
A valid U.S. or Canadian driver's license is sufficient to drive a car in Ireland, but is not a suitable form of identification. A passport is required.
HEALTH INFORMATION
How can I get health insurance while in Ireland?
The Irish National Health Plan does not cover U.S. or Canadian visitors. Ask your insurance agent before travel if your health plan is valid in Ireland. Visitors from the United Kingdom should obtain an E111 form prior to travel from your local post office and present this in Ireland for treatment from any general practitioner who has an agreement with a local health board.
Do I need health insurance before coming to Ireland?
It is advisable to insure oneself before travel.
Can I get U.S. prescriptions filled in Ireland?
You should bring with you a sufficient supply of any regularly-prescribed medicine you take. If needed, it is advisable to visit an Irish general practitioner, explain your situation, and get an Irish prescription which any pharmacy will service.
What will happen if I get sick while in Ireland?
Admission to hospital is usually arranged by a doctor. In the event of an emergency situation, you should present identification to the hospital services. Hospital services are provided free of charge in a public ward for British and E.U. visitors.
What is the emergency phone number in Ireland?
Emergency services - dial 999.
MONEY and FINANCIAL MATTERS
Where can I get the best exchange rate in Ireland, at a bank or at an ATM?
The exchange rate in Ireland is the same either at a bank counter or via an ATM operated by that bank.
Should I convert my money to Euros in the U.S. or Ireland?
Either will suffice. It is advisable to exchange some currency prior to travel.
Should I use cash or travelers checks?
It is advisable to have some cash upon arrival for incidentals such as tips, taxis, etc. Please note you should not bring $100 bills with you as banks will not exchange these due to the high amount of forgeries with this note.
Will ATMs in Ireland accept my bankcards?
ATMs located in most banks accept VISA and MasterCard as well as PLUS and CIRRUS debit cards.
Will I be charged to use my U.S. bankcard in Irish ATMs?
You will be charged the exchange rate and a bank-handling fee. Check with your bank prior to travel.
Are credit cards readily accepted in Ireland?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Ireland.
Which U.S. credit cards can I use in Ireland?
VISA, MasterCard, AMEX are widely accepted in Ireland. Diners Club is accepted in most establishments but usually in urban areas.
How can I get a VAT refund?
Be sure to ask for a tax free shopping form with each purchase and present these forms to either the Global Tax Free Shopping or Tax Back counter at the airport prior to your departure. (Not valid for U.K. or E.U. originating visitors.
Is tipping expected in Irish restaurants, bars, hotels and taxis?
Many hotels and restaurants add a service charge of about 15% to the bill (check). However this is not universal. When service is not included a tip of 15% is appropriate. Taxi drivers should be tipped 10% of the fare and porters about 50 cents per bag.
What about tipping caddies?
Caddies are requested for customers but cannot be guaranteed, as they are effectively self-employed. The standard cost for a caddy at most clubs is between €25 and €38 per bag. Gratuity varies depending on your satisfaction but a tip of between €10 and €20 is recommended. The rates vary from course to course and you should check with the caddy master at the course.
What hours are banks open in Ireland?
Banks are open Monday thru Friday, 10am - 4pm with some branches open later on a Thursday.
What is the exchange rate between my currency and the Euro?
Varies, check with your bank prior to travel or visit www.xe.com.
COMMUNICATIONS
Will I be able to get Internet access in Ireland?
Most 4- and 5-star hotels in Ireland offer Internet access direct from your hotel room. Internet cafes are situated in most major cities and towns. We can assist you in finding access during your tour if needed.
How much does it cost to send a letter from Ireland?
Postal charges to the United Kingdom and other E.U. countries are 38 cents per letter. Charges to other countries depend upon the weight and size of the parcel/letter, the destination of the post, and the form of transport chosen.
When are post offices open?
Post offices are open Monday thru Friday 9am - 5:30pm and Saturday 9am - 1pm, 2:15pm - 5pm
Where can I find pay phones in Ireland?
Pay phones are located throughout the country in most cities, towns and some rural areas.
How can I make discounted international calls or use a fax service in Ireland?
Discounted international calls can be made at specific discount telephone & fax booths in major towns and cities.
What newspapers and other media are available in Ireland?
At most newsagents and news stalls in major towns and cities, international newspapers and magazines are available. In smaller towns and villages it is advisable to order at least a day before.
OPENING HOURS / PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
What times are shops, bars, restaurants and banks open in Ireland?
Shopping hours are 9am - 5:30pm Monday through Saturday, with late night opening until 8pm on Thursday in most major towns and cities. Most large stores open on Sundays from 12noon until 6pm. Most country towns have a half-day close each week, usually Wednesday or Thursday.
Bar times: Mon, Tues, Wed: 10:30 am - 11:30 pm, Thur, Fri, Sat: 10:30 am - 12:30, Sun: 12:30 pm - 11:00 pm.
What are the public holidays in Ireland?
- New Years Day (January 1)
- St. Patrick’s Day (March 17)
- Easter Monday (date varies)
- May Holiday (first Monday in May)
- June Holiday (first Monday in June)
- August Holiday (last Monday in August)
- October Holiday (last Monday in October)
- Christmas Day (December 25)
- St. Stephens Day/Boxing Day (December 26)
Do shops, banks, attractions and museums close on public holidays?
All shops, banks and visitor attractions close on St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas Day and usually St. Stephen's Day. However, most are open on other public holidays.