The Little Things That Surprised Me About Life in Ireland Even though the semester had just started, there was already a lot to discover about life in Ireland within the last days. Experiencing another country and culture first-hand always comes with surprises. After my first two weeks in Ireland and Limerick, these are the things that fascinated me the most.
The 'Gift of the Gab'
When visiting Ireland for the first time, it does not take long to notice that many people here seem to have the so called ‘gift of the gab’. It is an idiom used in Ireland to describe a person that can express themselves in a very entertaining, friendly, and engaging manner. This will manifest in simple everyday interactions, for example when asking for directions or when making space for other people in the grocery aisle. In Germany for instance, affairs and interactions like this would be brief, whereas in Ireland, you will quickly find yourself tangled up in friendly conversation. The Irish people’s friendliness and interest in each other, whether it be sincere or etiquette, is truly to be admired. They start and end conversations seamlessly and always find questions they can ask back. This has led to many charming encounters within my first week and it is something I find truly amazing.
In Ireland, any shade of green is possible… The Green Island
It is no secret that Ireland is one of Europe’s countries that receives the most rain. Due to the ever-changing weather and the consequent showers, Ireland’s nature shows a variety of green that I was not prepared for. Whether it be going for a walk at the People’s Park in Limerick or when visiting the countryside: Ireland seems to be showing every shade of the colour in existence. Be prepared to find a lot of greenery – and to bring an umbrella, of course! When strolling around the streets of Limerick, I still forget quite often that I am currently situated on the coast of an island. Gladly, there are always heaps of seagulls wandering around the city to remind you of that. Their calls may follow you throughout the streets and you may find one or the other hanging around the pigeons.
...quite literally. The Unexpected Colours
One of many bright murals, artist unknown. With a lot of rain, grey skies go hand in hand. But even though Ireland sees a lot of both, there will never be a shortage of colours. Flowers, painted storefronts, and funky, colourful signs shape Ireland’s cities. No matter how grey the sky, there will always be a blot of colour somewhere to brighten your day. In Limerick especially, you can see a lot of street art and different shops with beautiful fronts. So, the next time you walk around Limerick and it starts to rain, stop and take in all the different colours around you – you will not be disappointed.
The houses that will brighten your day. This is just the beginning of lots of little things that differentiate life in Ireland from life in my home country. As an international student, I am looking forward to noticing even more of these. We will have the next weeks to find out what really defines life in Ireland and how it differs from life at home.
I wish you all a grand start to your ’26 autumn semester!
by Theresa Subtil, Germany
