Topics:
- Questions about travelling to Ireland
- Opening Hours & Irish Public Holidays
- Questions about the Irish Weather
Harriet's Cottage Questions
Contact details for the cottage please?
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25 Fairfield Close, Dingle, Co Kerry, Ireland
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066 91 30405 (when dialing from Ireland)
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001 781 632 3705 (when dialing from Ireland)
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+ 353 66 9130405 (when dialing from Europe)
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The 001 781 632 3705 number is also registered with WhatsApp and Viber so you can also use these apps to contact us at no charge.
How do I book the cottage?
Please contact us directly at harrietscottagedingle@gmail.com
How do I get in to the house?
A key lockbox is installed at the front door. Before arrival we will send you on details on how to access this.
Is the cost of electrical included?
Yes it is although we ask that you do not abuse it by leaving on appliances etc.
Is Internet Access included?
Yes it is, at no additional charge.
Is Shampoo and Soap provided?
Yes it is. Please let us know after you check in if this is running low and we will restock it.
Do you provide face clothes?
Yes we do.
Is there a Washing Machine and Clothes Dryer in the house?
Yes there is, in the kitchen.
Is there a Hair Dryer in the house?
Yes there is, in the Master Bedroom and downstairs Guest Bedroom closet
Is there an Iron and Ironing Board in the house?
Yes there is, in the Master Bedroom closet
I desperately need Packing Advice
Well you came to the right place, see here for lots of advice.
Tell me about safety in the house?
Please see here for a safety card outlining all the safety features of the house.
How is the house laid out
Please see here for a floorplan
I am bringing my child, what have you provided?
We can provide a highchair, a pack n'play cot, a bed guard and a stair guard at no additional charge.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes you can. A few doggie house rules:
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We please ask that you keep the dog off the beds and couch.
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We understand that a situation may arise when an accident will occur in the house. We ask in such cases that you clean it up as soon as possible (cleaning supplies are found under the sink in the kitchen).
What if we break something
Breakages occur so just let us know and depending on the breakage we will let you know if it needs to be replaced or not.
Is parking available?
Yes it is. In front of the house are two car spaces, no charge.
Where is the nearest pub?
It's funny you should ask as I have made a video to let you know, see here
When can we check in and when do we checkout?
Check in is after 2pm and check out is 10am or before. Please note we are strict about the check out time as we need to get the house ready for the next guest who most arrive on the same day..
What should we do when we check out?
Please do the following:
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Part of your rental fee goes towards cleaning the house after guests depart. We do however ask that you do a quick tidy up so the house is ready for the deep clean.
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Place all trash in the refuse bins at the back of the house. Ireland takes recycling seriously so please sort as much as possible.
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Make sure all windows are closed and doors are in a locked state.
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Leave the keys back in the front door lock box.
Any damages must to be reported, the house will be inspected prior to check out and any damages will be charged to the credit card on file.
Tell me about the TV in the house?
The TV is located in the sitting room. You have Saorview (Input 1 - Channel Guide here) and Dish (input 2 - Channel Guide here) as well as Chromecast (see below for more info). The following TV channels are available:
So what is Chromecast?
Chromecast is a media streaming device that plugs into the HDMI port on the TV. Use your mobile device with the TV to cast your favorite TV shows, movies, music, sports, games and more. Chromecast works with iPhone®, iPad®, Android phone and tablet, Mac® and Windows® laptop, and Chromebook.
More info: https://www.google.com/chromecast/tv/
Video Description: http://tinyurl.com/usechromecast
I'm bored with the TV, please help.
Well we have a number of books available to read as well as Board games for the truly bored
What are the House Rules?
We don’t like to be party poopers with our rules but we still would like for you to adhere to the following:
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Be considerate to your neighbor. Please don’t have loud music playing, leave trash outside the house etc.
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As owners having a house in Dingle has been a lifelong dream. We ask that you treat it like your own. Be careful not to break any items or mark the walls.
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If you do break something please repost it to us by email. We understand that this occurs and we will assess the breakage to determine if the replacement cost needs to be covered by you.
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After every departure we do an audit of the house and if any items are missing we will reach out to you to get an explanation and assess the cost of replacement. Most of the time items are taken by accident.
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Unlike other rental homes the cost of electricity is included in your rental charge. We ask that you do not take advantage of this by leaving items such as heating, showers etc on for any extended period of time.
Where do I do with the trash?
Ireland has a thorough recycling and waste disposal system in place and we ask that you help with the process. There are two bins located in the kitchen, one for regular trash and one for recycling . Please when disposing sort out the trash accordingly.Under the sink you will find a supply of trash bags which you can use for non-recycling. Once the bins are full please bring is to the back of the house where they can be placed in to larger bins.
How does heating work in the house?
In the common areas the house is heated using electric storage heaters which build up heat during the day and release at night. Each room has its own electric heater which can be turned on as needed and set on a timer (please don’t forget to turn off). In the living room the fireplace is electric and can be turned on at the lower right side by pressing the power button for a few seconds.
How does hot water in the house work?
In Ireland hot water (for baths, showers and sinks) is done via an electric immersion system. This differs from places like the U.S. where you have hot water on tap. The Irish way may sound technical but the following guide should help.
Master Bedroom Shower: This shower is electric. To start pull the cord beside the shower cord and turn on the shower as normal.
Water for Sinks & The Main Bath: In the kitchen there is a box on the left side of the wall just above the counter top. Here you can turn on the immersion system to get hot water for either the bath or the various sinks in the house including the kitchen. See here for more info
Dingle Questions
Whats is there to do in Dingle?
Lots and lots and lots, here are your options
How do I get to Dingle?
See here
Tell me about the Bus service to and from Dingle?
Dingle is serviced by many bus routes that all filter through Tralee or Killarney. More info here.
Can I get a taxi?
Yes you can. Here is a list of local taxi providers:
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Ann’s Cabs-0860307629
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Colm Bambury Taxi 087 2222248
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Begley, Diarmuid & Dolores: 087 2504767
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Co-op Cabs: 4 to 8 seater – 087 2225777
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Cooleen Cabs: Sean O’ Connor 087 2480008
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Dingle Bay Cabs: 087 6553399
Where is the closest Airport?
The closest airport is Kerry Airport (1 hr drive to Dingle). This is mostly flights for European flights. Cork Airport is 3hrs away. International flights come in to Shannon Airport (2 1/2 hrs) or Dublin Airport (4hrs)
Should I rent a car?
Renting a car is definitely the best way to experience the Dingle Peninsula and beyond. All airports (see above) offer car rental option from the major car rental companies (Hertz, AVIS etc)
Is Driving in Ireland difficult?
It can be a little intimidating for first timers, click here for some help.
What are the best Music Pubs in Dingle?
So many, here are a few
I would like to pamper myself, any suggestions?
... and may I say it is totally deserved, see here for more info
My teenage kids get bored easily, please help?
Lots to do for the kids and teenagers in Dingle, see here
I hear Golf in Kerry is great?
Some of the best courses in the world are located only a short drive from Dingle, see here for more info
General Travel Questions
Will jet lag affect my vacation?
After crossing several time zones, many travelers suffer from jet lag. Although there is no way to completely avoid jet lag, there are a number of ways to help your body adjust to a new time zone: Try to go to bed a little earlier a few days before you leave and get as much sleep as you can during your flight.Many side-effects of jet lag are the result of dehydration, so avoid alcohol, coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages and drink plenty of water during your flight.Eat lightly on your flight and forego rich or exotic foods on the first few days of your trip so that you can use your energy to adjust to your new surroundings rather than to digest your food.Exercising on a long flight will help alleviate such common discomforts as backaches, swollen legs and feet and general fatigue. Stretch at regular intervals and walk up and down the aisles of the plane from time to time to prevent dangerous blood clots from forming. Finally, take it easy on the day you arrive so that you can take advantage of your trip at a leisurely pace and establish a routine in sync with the local time.
What is the voltage in Ireland?
The standard electrical supply is 230 volts AC (50 cycles). To use small appliances, you may need a plug adapter to fit our 3 pin flat or 2 pin round wall sockets. If required, small travel transformers and adapters should be purchased prior to departure. More info on the Irish electrical system can be found here.
What type of converter do I need to power my electric shaver?
Advice should be sought from an electrician or appliance dealer if they are suitable for use with a transformer. More info on the Irish electrical system can be found here.
Can I charge my U.S. laptop in Ireland?
Most laptops can be charged as long as your have an adapter.
Should I bring my Phone to Ireland?
Yes but be very careful of data and roaming charges, see here for more info.
What are the customs procedures at Irish airports?
Customs operates under the green and red channels system. Visitors are allowed €175/US$170 worth of goods (over 15 years) and €90 (under 15 years); 200 cigarettes, 1 liter of spirits, or 2 liters of wine. U.S. visitors can take home US$4000 worth of goods per person. From Britain and other E.U. countries, visitors are entitled to import increased amounts of duty paid goods as long as they can satisfy authorities that they are for personal consumption.
Can I bring plants or plant products with me?
No plants containing soil or soil residues are allowed into the Republic of Ireland under regulations set down by the Irish Departure of Agriculture and Food. Fresh foods such as dairy and meat products are also banned.
Do I need a visa to travel to Ireland?
British subjects born in the United Kingdom when traveling to Ireland do not require passports and visas. However, identification is required. Residents of the U.K. or those traveling to Ireland via the U.K. do require a passport and may require a visa. From the United States and Canada a valid passport is required. For current information, visit the Irish Government website (www.dfa.ie).
Can I use my U.S. driver's license as I.D. in Ireland?
A valid U.S. or Canadian driver's license is sufficient to drive a car in Ireland, but is not a suitable form of identification. A passport is required.
How can I get health insurance while in Ireland?
The Irish National Health Plan does not cover U.S. or Canadian visitors. Ask your insurance agent before travel if your health plan is valid in Ireland. Visitors from the United Kingdom should obtain an E111 form prior to travel from practitioner, explain your situation, and get an Irish prescription which any pharmacy will service.
What will happen if I get sick while in Ireland?
Admission to hospital is usually arranged by a doctor. In the event of an emergency situation, you should present identification to the hospital services. Hospital services are provided free of charge in a public ward for British and
E.U. visitors.
What is the emergency phone number in Ireland?
Emergency services - dial 999.
Irish General Money Questions
Where can I get the best exchange rate in Ireland, at a bank or at an ATM?
The exchange rate in Ireland is the same either at a bank counter or via an ATM operated by that bank.
Should I convert my money to Euros in the U.S. or Ireland?
Either will suffice. It is advisable to exchange some currency prior to travel.
Should I use cash or travelers checks?
It is advisable to have some cash upon arrival for incidentals such as tips, taxis, etc. Please note you should not bring $100 bills with you as banks will not exchange these due to the high amount of forgeries with this note.
Will ATMs in Ireland accept my bankcards?
ATMs located in most banks accept VISA and MasterCard as well as PLUS and CIRRUSdebit cards.
Will I be charged to use my U.S. bankcard in Irish ATMs?
You will be charged the exchange rate and a bank-handling fee. Check with your bank prior to travel.
Which U.S. credit cards can I use in Ireland?
VISA and MasterCard are widely accepted in Ireland. Diners Club and AMEX is rarely accepted
How can I get a VAT refund?
Be sure to ask for a tax free shopping form with each purchase and present these forms to either the Global Tax Free Shopping or Tax Back counter at the airport prior to your departure. (Not valid for U.K. or E.U. originating visitors.
Is tipping expected in Irish restaurants, bars, hotels and taxis?
Many hotels and restaurants add a service charge of about 15% to the bill (check). However this is not universal. When service is not included a tip of 15% is appropriate. Taxi drivers should be tipped 10% of the fare and porters about 50 cents per bag.
What hours are banks open in Ireland?
Banks are open Monday thru Friday, 10am - 4pm with some branches open later on a Thursday.
What is the exchange rate between my currency and the Euro?
Varies, check with your bank prior to travel or visit www.xe.com.
Communications
Will I be able to get Internet access in Ireland?
Most hotels/accommodations/pubs/restaurant in Ireland offer Internet. At Harriet's Cottage we offer high speed broadband fiber internet at no extra charge.
How much does it cost to send a letter from Ireland?
Postal charges to the United Kingdom and other E.U. countries are 38 cents per letter. Charges to other countries depend upon the weight and size of the parcel/letter, the destination of the post, and the form of transport chosen.
When are post offices open?
Post offices are open Monday thru Friday 9am - 5:30pm and Saturday 9am - 1pm, 2:15pm - 5pm
OPENING HOURS / PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
What times are shops, bars, restaurants and banks open in Ireland?
Shopping hours are 9am - 5:30pm Monday through Saturday, with late night opening until 8pm on Thursday in most major towns and cities. Most large stores open on Sundays from 12noon until 6pm. Most country towns have a half-day close each week, usually Wednesday or Thursday. Bar times: Mon, Tues, Wed: 10:30 am - 11:30 pm, Thur, Fri, Sat: 10:30 am -
12:30, Sun: 12:30 pm - 11:00 pm.
What are the public holidays in Ireland?
New Years Day (January 1)
St. Patrick’s Day (March 17)
Easter Monday (date varies)
May Holiday (first Monday in May)
June Holiday (first Monday in June)
August Holiday (last Monday in August)
October Holiday (last Monday in October)
Christmas Day (December 25)
St. Stephens Day/Boxing Day (December 26)
Do shops, banks, attractions and museums close on public holidays?
All shops, banks and visitor attractions close on St. Patrick’s Day, Christmas Day and usually St. Stephen's Day. However, most are open on other public holidays.
Irish Weather
Tell me more about the infamous Irish weather
The dominant influence on Ireland's climate is the Atlantic Ocean and the prevailing winds. Consequently, Ireland does not suffer from the extremes of temperature experienced by many other ocuntries at similar latitude. The summer months can provide many a glorious day with temperatures averaging 20C (68F), proving the infamy of the Irish weather to be somewhat of a myth. Yes, the weather is changeable but the rain can easily blow away as fast as it can be blown in, so never be put off by a possible gloomy start to the day and likewise always be prepared with waterproofs at the ready. The most popular weather report throughout Ireland is 'sunny spells with outbreaks of rain'...in fact, it's a wonder why they employ weathermen at all?!
Average highs (2 pm) and lows (just before sunrise) in °F:
APR 55/39 MAY 60/43 JUN 65/48 JUL 67/52 AUG 67/51 SEP 67/48 OCT 57/43
Visit www.met.ie for up-to-date weather information.