Page 14 - (DK Eyewitness) Back Roads Travel Guide - Ireland

12 BACK ROADS IRELAND
Practical Information
Ireland may have an idyllic rural image but its infrastructure is
thoroughly up-to-date. Public services operate smoothly and
efficiently, and its health system is good. Communication networks,
from Internet to mobile phone services, are widespread, and most
banks have an ATM outside. What hasn’t changed is Ireland’s respect
for religion and tradition, or the affable, laid-back nature of its
people. Some shops and services are closed on Sundays, and the
pace of life may feel slow, especially in the countryside. Above Traditional green cross indicating a
pharmacy, illuminated for visibility
Passports and Visas Travel Safety Advice Also check to see what kind of cover,
UK citizens do not need a passport or Visitors can get up-to-date travel if any, is offered under your home
visa to enter the Republic of Ireland. safety information from the UK insurance policy. Some credit card
However, it is advisable to have a Foreign and Commonwealth Office, companies also offer limited travel
valid form of photo identification, the US Department of State and the insurance benefits if you use your card
and most airlines and ferry Australian Department of Foreign to book your trip or rental car.
companies will require a passport or Affairs and Trade.
driving licence. Those hoping to Health
travel without a passport should Travel Insurance No vaccinations or immunization
check with the carrier as to whether All travellers are strongly advised to documents are required to enter
another form of ID is acceptable. take out travel insurance that offers Ireland, unless travelling from a country
Nationals of EU countries should also cover for a broad range of possible where infectious disease is widespread.
carry their passport, as some national emergencies. In addition to medical Anyone planning to hike in boggy
ID cards are not accepted. All other insurance, a comprehensive policy will areas is advised to bring insect
visitors must have a passport with at normally cover the holder: for loss or repellent to ward off the tiny biting
least six months’ validity remaining. theft of luggage and other belongings insects, called midges, that are active
Travellers from the United States, such as passports and money; damage when in dull and damp weather.
Canada, Australia, New Zealand and or injury to a third party; personal Standard remedies can be bought in
South Africa do not need a visa if accident; delayed or cancelled flights; pharmacies, but bring any prescription
they are staying for less than 90 days. and in some cases the cancellation of medications from home to last
For longer stays, or for student or your trip due to personal illness or that throughout the trip, otherwise it will
working visas, apply well in advance of a family member. Most policies also be be necessary to visit a doctor for
of departure. Other nationalities may cover legal costs up to a certain limit, a prescription. Pack medications in
require a visa, and visitors should as do comprehensive motor policies carry-on luggage with their original
check with the Irish Embassy or (see p16) in the event of any legal pharmacy labels in order to avoid any
Consulate in their own country prior advice or action being needed, for problems at airport security. If any
to travelling. A list is available online. example, after an accident. A standard condition requires carrying a syringe
The same rules apply for entry into policy will not cover hazardous or when travelling by air, get a formal
Northern Ireland. For visa information extreme sports; many activities can be letter of notification of the condition
and applications, anyone planning a added for a small extra premium. from the prescribing physician.
trip should get in touch with the Read the terms and conditions In the event of illness while travelling,
British Embassy, Consulate or High carefully as coverage, excess amounts, the Irish Medical Council can provide a
Commission in their home country. exclusions and deductibles vary widely. referral to a doctor or dentist. Most

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