Ireland is becoming increasingly popular as a tourist destination and for good reason. Among its many attractions, Ireland’s scenery is unparalleled and there’s a unique history behind every corner. But, as the world continues to deal with the extraordinary effects of the global pandemic, some people are wondering – is it safe to go on vacation to Ireland?
The answer isn’t always simple. When it comes to international travel, Ireland’s restrictions depend on where the traveler is arriving from. The Irish government has implemented a 3-tiered system for arriving travelers. Level 1 countries are considered “low risk” and no pre-testing or quarantine is necessary for travelers. Level 2 also does not require pre-testing, but enforced self-quarantine is enforced. Level 3 nations require travelers to take a pre-travel test and a 14-day quarantine upon arrival.
New regulations are also in place for those who are planning on staying in Ireland long-term. Any traveler who intends to stay more than 90 days must present both a negative COVID-19 test and a residency certificate upon arrival.
When it comes to safety, experts advise caution and planning when traveling right now. “Travelers should research local laws and restrictions, as well as transportation options, at their destination to make sure they identify any gaps in risk,” says Kara McLarty, travel health specialist at WorldAware. “This could mean looking into the availability of medical services in more rural areas or transportation services in remote locations.”
Travelers should also take into account Ireland’s current social distancing regulations. Mask-wearing is required on public transportation and visitors are advised to use caution and observe stringent hygiene protocols while in public. The government also recommends downloading their COVID-19 tracker app, which will alert people if they’ve been in contact with an infected person.
Health Care System: Pros and Cons
Ireland’s healthcare system is generally ranked highly and is often praised for its efficiency. The country has well-funded health care services and consistently invests in the latest technologies. It has a fleet of well-equipped ambulances and its nurses are highly trained. Ireland does have a private health care system, but it’s generally seen as an option for those who want quicker care or cannot get the treatment they need in the public system.
The downside of Ireland’s health care system is that there have been reports of overcrowding in hospitals and long waiting time for scheduled appointments. Additionally, due to the geographical size of the country, it can often take longer to get to a doctor in rural areas. It’s also important to note that, like other countries, it does have a two-tiered public health system. If you’re not an Irish citizen, you may find it difficult to access certain services.
Vaccination Status: Pros and Cons
The vaccination rollout in Ireland is well underway and the government is planning to finish vaccinations for those over 70 by the end of April. For travelers, this means that Ireland is currently in a better position than many other countries. As of the end of March, 20% of the population has been fully vaccinated and almost half of the population has already received at least one dose of the vaccine.
The downside is that it’s unclear if Ireland will offer the vaccine to visitors or tourists. As of right now, there has been no announcement from the government on whether or not they will provide the vaccine to non-residents. This means that travelers who do visit may not be eligible for the vaccine, leading to some potential risks.
Travel Insurance: Pros and Cons
When it comes to safety, travel insurance is always recommended – especially during a pandemic. Travel insurance can help reduce the costs associated with medical care in case of an emergency or if a traveler becomes ill. In Ireland, a basic travel insurance policy starts at around €14/month.
However, it’s important to note that while it’s a good safety measure to have, it’s still no guarantee against illness or injury. It’s also important to read the fine print of any travel insurance policy before purchasing it as there may be exclusions depending on the insurance provider. Given the current pandemic, some policies may have exclusions for COVID-related illnesses.
Public transportation: Pros and Cons
Public transport links around Ireland are generally reliable and safe, with many bus and train services running throughout the day. For travelers, there are a few ways to get around. Ireland has a great public transport network and a public bike sharing system called “Dublin Bikes.” Additionally, there are many taxi and ride-hailing services throughout the country.
The downside is that due to limited restrictions, some people may not be wearing a mask when traveling. Additionally, the public transportation can often be crowded, making it difficult to comply with social distancing protocols. Travelers should make sure to plan ahead by researching transportation options and services to ensure safety and convenience.
Accommodations: Pros and Cons
Ireland has an abundance of accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to 5-star hotels. For visitors, there are plenty of options to choose from that will fit any budget. Ireland also has some of the highest safety standards in the world and many hotels and guesthouses have implemented additional safety protocols to safeguard their guests.
The downside is that prices are often much higher than other destinations in Europe. Additionally, as more bans are put in place in other countries, Irish hotels are feeling the effects. Prices have been driven up as occupancy numbers have dropped and this is only expected to continue as more restrictions are put in place. As a result, travelers may find it difficult to find an affordable place to stay.
Culture: Pros and Cons
Ireland is a very welcoming country with plenty of cultural attractions. The country has an incredibly rich history and there is something to discover in every part of the country. Its people are known for being friendly and hospitable and visitors will be sure to feel the warm embrace of the locals.
The downside is that due to the pandemic, some of Ireland’s most popular attractions have been closed or limited. This means that visitors may not be able to do all the activities they may have planned. Additionally, because of the restrictions in place, some restaurants and bars may be closed or limited. This may mean that travelers can’t experience all the nightlife that Ireland has to offer.
Weather: Pros and Cons
Ireland’s weather can be a bit unpredictable, but it’s generally mild with much less extreme temperatures than other countries. Average temperatures in the summer months can range from the low to mid-20s Celsius (75-73 Fahrenheit), so visitors won’t be too hot or too cold. Additionally, rainfall is common and the country often experiences mild to moderate rain throughout the year – a welcome relief from the heat.
The downside is that because of the mild temperatures, visitors may not always feel the need to layer up. This means that they may end up feeling too hot or cold at times depending on the weather. Additionally, it’s important to note that sometimes the rain can be heavy or even accompanied by windstorms, so visitors should be prepared with proper rain gear.
