Can you spot the differences?

Having been here for over two months I have quickly adapted and come accustomed to the cultural difference here. From the food, how they drive and other modes of transportation, dress, or speak all of this makes Ireland what it is!

Do you remember when your parents told you to always look both ways while crossing the street? Well that is very important here! Here in Ireland they drive on the opposite side of the road than us. This caught me off guard when we arrived but after some time now I am used to which way the cars will be coming down the street. Not everyone has to drive here though. Pubic transportation is big here in Ireland and all of Europe. You actually can't get your drivers license until you are 18. You will see a lot of people walking or riding bikes as well. Some countries even have bike lanes. This is something I am not accustomed to coming from small town Nebraska.

Riding bikes through the street.

When it comes to food there are not much differences in what they eat compared to what I eat back home. The difference is in the names. What we would call french fries are called chips and what we all chips are called crisps. This can get a little confusing when ordering your food. Typically your meals are fairly cheap and large. There is this adorable cafe in Galway that has meals for 6.90 euro and it's more than enough food for me and I eat a lot! :) Also its isn't typical that they would bring you water. Typically you have to ask for it and in some countries pay for it. Tipping here isn't as big as in the U.S. Waiters and waitresses are paid a higher wage so a tip is just extra. Sometimes depending upon the person they even refuse to accept a tip.

Smoked salmon open faced sandwich for 7 euro!

Another difference you will see is that people are usually well dressed. I know sometimes I am feeling lazy and so I throw on leggings or sweat pants. Here you won't see people walking around dressed like that at all unless they are running or riding a bike.

Not much is too different from back home. You forget about these differences and become used to them within a short amount of time. Here people are so inviting and helpful so even if you do seem out of place you have no need to worry, they will help out.