Is Ireland a Good Place To Live?
Ireland not just a good place to live, Ireland is the BEST place to live.
Although I frequently hear people my age (teenagers) complain that our nation “Is just a bit crap,” I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.
Forget statistics; the place and the people of Ireland are what truly distinguish it.
The scenery here is breathtaking. There are lush green landscapes everywhere you look on the island, which is also dotted with tiny settlements and secluded retreats. We have, in my opinion, one of the best coastlines in the world, and places like Belfast and Dublin are quickly becoming popular travel destinations worldwide.
There is a lot of excitement among the populace regarding Ireland. I can attest to the fact that we are known throughout the world for having some of the friendliest people. You won’t lack for conversation, whether it be small talk while going about our daily lives or chance full-blown conversations with complete strangers.
There is nowhere I’d rather be than in our nation, which is bursting at the seams with breathtaking scenery and fascinating people. Home is in Ireland.
Living in Ireland: Pros and Cons
Pros of living in Ireland
Let’s examine a few of the many reasons why Ireland should be taken into account by expats looking for a new home:
The location is pretty much perfect.
One of the European nations with the closest proximity to the US and Canada is Ireland. The UK is only a one-hour flight away, Barcelona is only a two-hour flight, and Rome is only a three-hour flight, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the rest of Europe. Ireland is one of the best home bases in the world for travelers.
In Ireland, there are a lot of foreigners.
Because of its geographic location as well as its strong historical and cultural ties to Europe, the UK, and the US, Ireland is a major international hub.
Since English is the official language, it’s a fairly simple place for English speakers to live, study, and work. In reality, Ireland’s population of about 5 million includes somewhere in the neighborhood of 650,000 foreigners.
Low crime rates
Ireland has relatively strict gun laws and, compared to many other nations, a very low rate of gun ownership—roughly 7 civilian firearms per 100 people. This indicates that Ireland has low rates of violent crime overall and almost nonexistent rates of gun violence. It’s a reasonably secure place to live.
Access to healthcare is very easy.
Everyone who lives in Ireland permanently has access to healthcare. The government funds healthcare, but some services, like doctor visits, may still require you to pay out of pocket.
There are numerous programs in place to aid people in managing the costs of long-term or chronic conditions and to cap the amount you must spend on prescription medications.
You can acquire dual citizenship.
Irish citizens are permitted to hold dual citizenship with another country, provided that other country also recognizes the possibility of dual citizenship. That means you don’t necessarily have to renounce your rights in your native country when you become an Irish citizen.
Access to public transportation is universal.
Although there are occasionally delays in the larger systems, public transportation in Ireland’s bigger cities, like Dublin, is typically fairly quick and dependable. Buses and trains can take you almost anywhere outside of the cities, and rental cars are affordable for the places they don’t go.
Eat, drink, and have a good time.
The pub scene in Ireland is well-known throughout the world. Pubs are more than just places for the Irish to eat and drink Guinness; they serve as community hubs where people can meet and socialize, play games, enjoy music, and more. It’s good news for people who enjoy food and drink that Ireland has a vibrant social scene that undoubtedly centers around time spent in pubs.
Cons, or reasons not to move to Ireland
Sadly, no place is perfect, and Ireland is no exception. Living in Ireland has some drawbacks, just like in any other nation, such as:
The notorious Irish climate
Ireland is well known for having a nearly perpetual winter and rainy season. It is this that gives the island its name, the Emerald Isle, but it is also erratic, so you might experience both sunny skies and a downpour of rain in the same day (or even the same afternoon!).
Ireland doesn’t get much snow, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t cold for most of the year. Ireland might not be the best place for you if you require constant sunshine to be happy.
It can be expensive to live there.
The cost of living in the larger metropolitan areas of Ireland can be quite high. As you move away from the city centers, rents drop significantly, but public transportation is less accessible there.
Not everyone fits into the bar scene.
Many people find the love of Irish pubs to be a draw to the nation. However, alcohol dominates the social scene, which may turn you off if you don’t drink.
Despite this, the Irish government is investing a lot of money in promoting sensible drinking habits, and sober establishments, such as sober pubs, have started popping up recently.
Fuel is pricey.
Irish fuel taxes, which are over 50%, are extremely high and raise the price of gas. While costs vary by location, filling up your tank in Ireland will cost you twice as much as it would in the US. Additionally, drivers don’t save money by filling up in the UK because gas prices are high there as well.
Finding housing can be challenging and expensive.
Due to a lack of available housing, house prices in Ireland increased by an average of over 10% in 20212. This trend is expected to continue. Rental rates, which are already fairly high in cities, are also impacted by the lack of supply.
9 Reasons Why Moving To Ireland Will Improve Your Life
There are numerous benefits to moving to Ireland for expats. They are considering moving not only because the economy is rebounding but also because it is a fantastic location for expats.
Ireland does, in fact, consistently perform well in various expat surveys and consultants. Dublin is ranked as the second best city in the world for US expats to live in by ECA International. In addition, the UN ranks it as the sixth-best country in the world to live in when considering standards of living, access to knowledge, and healthy and long lifestyles.
Here are the top nine reasons why moving to Ireland will improve your life, according to Expat Focus.
First off, it’s a great location for expats.
In keeping with the theme of countries that have high rankings for quality of life, Ireland tops the ‘Good Country’ index and, according to Travel and Leisure magazine, has the world’s first, third, and fourth friendliest cities. That’s quite the honor.
Additionally, Ireland is ranked as the fifth best country for travel by Lonely Planet and has a lot to offer. It also ranks first on Forbes’ list of the “Best Countries for Business” because it is excellent for business.
Ireland is a secure nation as well. Guns are forbidden, and the police force is small.
Additionally, a variety of housing options are available for a range of rents, allowing expats to find what they want at a cost they can afford. However, they should be aware that a lot of the real estate that was constructed during the economic boom is still vacant.
Ireland has both public and private healthcare options, which is impressive. Having access to a variety of private healthcare providers, expats can get treatment right away if needed.
Second: It is located in the European Union.
After Brexit, Ireland might be a desirable location for British expats who still want to benefit from being part of the EU. In fact, Irish post offices claimed they had run out of passport application forms in the weeks following the European referendum and were juggling more than 4,000 inquiries per day, mostly from Britons.
The EU membership caused Ireland’s economy to flourish. It earned the moniker “Celtic Tiger” because, between 1995 and 2007, it experienced a meteoric rise in size and value before the recession really took hold.
Ireland’s economy today is strong and provides a wide range of opportunities. It appears to be more durable than it was previously, which gives expats peace of mind. Ireland does indeed feel vibrant and spirited because its population is relatively young.
There is no requirement for a visa for citizens of other EU nations to travel, work, or reside there. Although the cost of living tends to be higher than in many other European countries, there is also a favorable tax regime in place for people and businesses that relocate. Even so, it is significantly less expensive than places like New York or London, for example.
The fact that Ireland uses the Euro as its currency may also be beneficial to EU citizens living abroad.
Ireland has a large international business community due to its low corporate tax rate. The nation is home to many of the most well-known companies in the world, including Facebook and Google. This presents the chance to advance a career with a vibrant, well-known brand.
Number three: Living outside
All expats will benefit from Ireland’s impressive outdoor lifestyle, which will enhance their health and happiness. The temperate climate is advantageous because it avoids both harsh winters and oppressive summers.
As a result, the nation is a lush, green, and pleasant place to be.
Additionally, this tiny nation is not only lovely to look at but also has a good system of roads for getting around. It’s a great place for campers and walkers because there are many hiking trails there as well as several National Parks to enjoy.
The extensive road system makes it simple for expats to travel by rental car, and there are also affordable bus and train options. From one side of Ireland to the other, it only takes a few hours.
One advantage for expats traveling is that locals are hospitable and frequently curious about guests. Visit a far-flung pub and you’ll be the center of attention!
The fourth: Irish food
This might come as a surprise, but Ireland has a wide variety of delectable food options and some top-notch local farmers’ markets for fresh meat, vegetables, and seafood. These markets have something for everyone, no matter where the expats are from.
There is also a lot of rain, which contributes to the creation of fertile, lush land that grazing cows can enjoy while producing creamy milk that is used to make delicious cheese, ice cream, and chocolate.
Additionally, a vibrant food scene and a variety of delectable stews and fish pies are available to expats who enjoy dining out. You’ll see that Irish people also enjoy cakes and pastries, and that the bakeries have a wide selection of delectable treats.
Big towns and cities have a wide variety of food stores from around the world, particularly European, so expats who miss their comforts from home won’t have to go for very long without a delectable reminder of home.
Number five: Irish culture
Ireland has a thriving cultural scene that includes traditional pubs, art galleries, and museums. The majority of Irish people enjoy having fun and going out for a night or a pint. There is a type of pub that everyone will enjoy, from those with music to those that are rowdy to those that have a few regulars.
The nation has also produced eminent authors and artists, and it continues to have talented artists and craftspeople who display their wares and creations in public markets and exhibitions.
It comes as no surprise that Irish actors and comedians go on to achieve international fame given the country’s vibrant theater scene. There are numerous plays and musicals to choose from.
Without a doubt, the nation has a vibrant music scene, and music fans won’t have to go very far to find it. This could entail going to bars and pubs or just strolling down a street in a town or city because most musicians perform everywhere.
There are numerous music festivals as well, which are not only great for families but also a great way for foreigners to enjoy homegrown talent and grow their appreciation for the nation.
Also keep in mind that dancing is very popular in Ireland, and Irish dancing is regularly enjoyed at performances and festivals.
Ireland works hard to preserve its cultural heritage because it is proud of it. The best way to describe the cultural scene is “vibrant,” which foreigners will undoubtedly appreciate.
Additionally, there are many festivals to take part in all over the nation, with St. Patrick’s Day being among the most enthusiastically observed. Additionally, Ireland hosts some fantastic food and music festivals that showcase the nation’s originality and love of a good time!
The sixth is folklore and customs.
Ireland offers plenty of activities for expats, as well as opportunities to take in the history and culture of the nation. With books, stories, and music, the Irish can celebrate their proud heritage.
Indeed, the nation has a rich history that dates back to early Christianity and ancient man. Monasteries, prehistoric artwork, forts, and castles are also included. There are about 30,000 castles in the country, including ruins, so those who enjoy them have many options.
According to local lore, visitors to Blarney Castle can enjoy the “gift of the gab” by kissing the blarney stone at the top of the castle.
Ireland has a rich history and a passion for good storytelling, but it also has a wide variety of mythology and folklore that includes leprechauns and fairies.
The myths also include heroic battles, heroes who slay giants, and maidens who are saved.
Ireland has a wide variety of unique shops and boutiques in addition to shopping malls, so there are plenty of “modern” attractions to enjoy as well if we’re talking about culture. If you choose to visit or reside in Dublin, Galway, Cork, or Limerick, for example, there is a wide variety of shopping options. Additionally, there are “pop-up” stores and eateries that are also impressive.
Sport is number seven.
Ireland offers a wide range of sports, including many that expats are likely to have never heard of, for those who enjoy playing or watching sports.
Rugby and football are two of the most popular sports in Ireland, but large numbers of people also participate in horse racing and golf. For those who like to play, there are some impressive golf courses available, and horse racing is a popular pastime in many areas.
Even though foreigners may be perplexed by what is going on, expats who move to Ireland may also enjoy the exciting sports of Gaelic football, hurling, and handball, each of which has ardent supporters and is well-liked by locals. However, watching them is very entertaining.
Eighth: Instruction
The issue of their children’s education is one of the main concerns for expats moving abroad, and many choose to use international schools in an effort to provide a high-quality education.
However, Irish schools not only provide excellent primary and secondary education and impressive academic results, they are also free. In international league tables, the universities also perform very well and are ranked highly.
Universities are a popular choice for many people abroad because they offer a wide variety of programs in old-world cities. These produce impressive academic results, and foreign students also get to experience Irish culture and graduate for a fair price. Under specific government programs, some European Union expats might be eligible for free university education.
Location, location, location is number nine.
With excellent air connections to the United Kingdom and the European Union, Ireland is a great place for those looking to spend weekends or vacations exploring Europe. Expats can travel to another diverse European nation with an enthralling history and culture in just a few hours.
Popular low-cost airlines operating outside of the nation offer incredibly low airfares to assist those on a tight budget in order to promote this.
We’ve now discussed nine excellent reasons why expats should think about relocating to Ireland in order to better their lives. Additionally, it should be noted that many employers have adopted flexible workplace policies, which has helped Irish people maintain a healthy work-life balance. The more time an employee spends working for an employer, the more generous holiday entitlements they are legally entitled to.
Employee benefits include equal opportunities at work, four weeks of paid leave, eight public holidays, as well as good health and welfare provisions.
However, if the inhabitants were left out of a list of reasons to relocate to Ireland, it would be pointless. The warmth, friendliness, and humor of the Irish people will surprise many expats. In pubs, they’ll discover that people approach them to ask about their experiences.
The fact that foreigners can easily make friends here may be the main reason why they enjoy living here. Additionally, they will have a blast with outgoing people who love to socialize and entertain themselves while taking part in a wide variety of cultural and sporting activities that they would not otherwise have access to.
Topic: Is Ireland a Good Place To Live? 9 Reasons Why Moving To Ireland Will Improve Your Life
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By: Travel Pixy
would like to live in Galway