With restrictions finally easing in both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, now is the perfect time for a staycation on the Emerald Isle.
How about a Wild Atlantic adventure down the Wild Atlantic Way? Or a bustling weekend trip to Dublin’s fair city?
We’ve put together this ultimate Covid-Friendly guide, to answer all your questions on travelling to the Republic of Ireland safely this summer.(From the Common Travel Area).
When travelling from Northern Ireland, or anywhere within the Common Travel Area, you do not need to take a Covid-19 test before arrival (a lateral flow test in recommended), do not need to quarantine (unless Covid positive) and do not need to take a day 2 or day 8 PCR test when returned (A lateral flow test on both day 2 and day 8 of returning is recommended).
Face Coverings
Much like Northern Ireland, face coverings are still required to visit indoor services such as retail, shops and public transport – But, with this comes the news that retail, shops and restaurants are open!
Shops and retail services are opened to the public (capacity numbers are still required) so fill your boots at the Kildare Village or stick to the streets of Dublin for a shopping frenzy.
What happens when I when i want something to eat?
Bars and restaurants, along with hotels and B&B’s, are opened once more for the public to indulge in the Irish life and culture; Those that are fully vaccinated (or have proof of full recovery of Covid-19 within 6 months) can eat inside any stand alone bar and restaurant – Just show the staff upon arrival your proof of vaccination (full list of accepted vaccine proof at gov.ie). For those that are not fully vaccinated, you can still wine and dine in the eatery delights of Ireland… but only from outside seating areas. Knowing the Irish weather we suggest you dress for the occasion! (wellys and umbrellas are our go-to choice).
Indoor settings such as bars and restaurants that are situated in hotels and B&B’s are only available to overnight guests staying within the premises – This includes both vaccinated and non-vaccinated visitors.
Once you’ve shopped to you drop, why not wind down with a bit of light entertainment?
Cinemas, theatres, galleries and museums are opened once more to enjoy as you delve into the joys Ireland has to offer; If you’re lucky and pick a beautiful day, try your hand at playing 18 holes on some of the most well renowned golf courses in the world. For the kids, the zoos and outdoor farms have also reopened to the public – something for everyone!
