Culture Shock in Ireland

Ireland has a first-class infrastructure and similar operating systems to much of Europe and the United States, thus in that regard, expats from proximal areas will not experience a large degree of culture shock. That being said, Ireland is not known for its excessive welcome of strangers and it may take some time to form close relationships with the locals despite their often jovial nature. Frequent grey and rainy days can also prove difficult for expats to adjust to.

Expats can always expect polite interactions with the Irish and there is very little resentment toward expats working in Ireland.

Although Ireland had years of economic growth, the country's wealth is not as evenly distributed as many foreigners expect from a European country.

Many expats find the cultural differences in Ireland can be enjoyed rather than become frustrations. There is a social drinking culture in Ireland, which stereotypically and truthfully revolves around the neighbourhood pub and Guinness. There are many expat groups in Ireland, particularly for Americans and British, to balance out feelings of estrangement with a taste of home. Expats should check with their embassy or consulate for a list of the preferred options.