An International Student's Guide to a Rainy Day in Limeirck
When I arrived in Limerick this September, I was lucky enough to be greeted by sunshine, a sky without clouds, and a warm breeze. Soon enough, while talking to other internationals, I found out that this is the exception -not the rule. While I stayed warm and dry, others received the proper Irish welcome. Rain and heavy showers are an inherent feature of life on the island of Ireland. While some people are quite used to rainy weather, others may struggle with the ongoing showers of autumn (understandably so!). To make life a little easier for those of you currently struggling with Ireland’s unpredictable autumn weather, I have tried to collect some insights to make the rainy season a little more bearable.
Rule Number 1: Know Your City Map
The best way to avoid sudden or continuous rain is to find shelter. When walking to campus, running errands in the city or when meeting up with your friends, always allow some extra time to escape sudden showers. Appropriate shelter comes in many forms: Walking through a shopping mall, stopping for a cup of tea in a café, resting in the entrance area of a bookstore, or, in case of very heavy rainfall, stopping at a local pub. This may lead to extra expenses but will ensure a dry arrival. Therefore, it is advised to explore your city and to take mental notes on possible shelter options on your route. When going for your next walk, keep your eyes open and plan for your future self. I personally recommend places like Caffè Nero, O’Mahony’s Booksellers (especially the Irish section on the first floor), Bobby Byrne’s Gastro Pub and the Babylon coffee shop.
The best way to flee from wind and rain. Find a cosy café or a welcoming pub. Rule Number 2: Make Your Plans Waterproof
As hard as it is to say goodbye to sunny, warm weather and outdoor plans, it is no goodbye forever. This is the time to embrace the “cosy season” and there is no better excuse for it than rainy days. When rain is softly pattering on your windows, it is a sign to plan study sessions in a café, to visit the cinema or to search for a favourite recipe and spend hours cooking a comforting meal. All of this can be done alone but remember that your friends are most likely in the same situation as you. Meet up for an unofficial baking contest, plan game nights or embrace other cultures by cooking a favourite recipe from your new friend. I have had a wonderful time with friends making Shepherd’s Pie, playing Just Dance with just a phone screen in the living room or simply meeting up to study together. For cinema lovers, keep your eyes open for the new Sense and Sensibility, the new Avengers movie and other cinema releases. If your plans are waterproof, you will soon forget that it is raining altogether.
Rule Number 3: Be Prepared. Always.
A good rain jacket and waterproof boots go a long way. You may even find that walking in the rain (with appropriate gear) can be enjoyable. Fresh air, gentle movement and a warm cup of coffee after can alter your mood within minutes. To dress appropriately, next to a waterproof shell, I would advise you to choose a layering style with fabrics that dry quickly. Sports clothing is amazing as a base layer -the fabrics often have active drying abilities. It also helps to allow for a layer that can get wet: A woollen sweater or cardigan will absorb any unwanted moisture, and you can simply take it off when you have arrived at your destination. Have a look at the Irish Handcrafts store in Limerick for beautiful knitwear that also acts as lovely souvenirs. In any case, always keep a trusty umbrella in your bag to ward off unwanted surprise showers.
The right clothes will help you stay warm and dry. You cannot go wrong with wool! Rule Number 4: Allow Time to Dry
You have followed rules number one to three meticulously and you still got wet? You are still not enjoying the rainy weather? That is okay. Adjusting to the weather may take some time. Be patient with yourself and the Irish rain. Even though university life can get hectic, remember to allow for some time to dry off and to warm up. Do not be frustrated: Keep your favourite tea in stock or change into your comfiest sweater. Remember that rain is what shapes the island’s nature: The ragged cliffs, the green grass – without wind and rain Ireland could not thrive the way it does. So, cosy up, hang your raincoat to dry and try again tomorrow. Summer will be around again.
By Theresa Subtil, Germany
Left Image: The brim of your umbrella: A very familiar view during Irish autumn.Right Image: Try to make the most of the weather regardless!
