The Obvious Yet Underrated Way To Meet Locals And Have An Authentic Experience In Ireland

For some travelers, making new friends abroad comes naturally. If you're the type of person who finds it easy to strike up a conversation, you'll have no trouble meeting people throughout your travels around Ireland. For the rest of us, getting to know locals can be a bit challenging. It takes a lot of confidence to introduce yourself to a stranger, especially if you're traveling somewhere with different customs and cultural norms. If you've ever found yourself at a loss on how to meet new people during your adventures, you're certainly not alone. Whether you're traveling solo or with a group of friends, connecting with Irish citizens is a wonderful way to make your trip more meaningful. Many frequent travelers will tell you that their most cherished experiences abroad occurred when they finally gathered up enough courage to chat with the locals.

One of the best ways to feel more comfortable meeting people is to frequent a local pub. Even if you're only staying in Ireland for a short time, consider visiting the same spot for a nightcap a few nights in a row. Chances are you'll begin to notice some familiar faces. Becoming a "regular" at a pub, even if it's only for a few days, is a great way to get to know the place you're visiting and the people who live there.

Ireland is often considered the most friendly European destination. That being said, some expats and travelers claim that while the Irish are charming and kind, it's hard to break through the small talk to create a deeper connection. Many locals are part of close-knit groups that formed during childhood and they aren't necessarily seeking out new friendships, according to Reddit users. Pubs and bars make it a bit easier to break through the ice. 

Ireland has a lively pub culture, which is convenient for travelers looking to make friends. Bars and pubs are inarguably a wonderful place to connect with strangers all over the world, but the ones in Ireland are particularly fun. It's hard to deny that alcohol helps release one's inhibitions. Next time you're looking to meet people in Ireland, head to the local pub where you can get a cold pint or a glass of local whisky.

The setting itself makes it easy to strike up a conversation. Grab a seat at the bar, and ask the person next to you for a drink suggestion — they'll likely be excited to tell you about their favorite whiskey or beer. Talking to the bartender may seem less intimidating at first, and they're usually very friendly, but keep in mind that they're at work and try not to monopolize all of their time. Don't get your feelings hurt if they cut you off to take someone's order. Instead, try to connect with your fellow patrons. As the night progresses and the drinks flow, you'll almost certainly find yourself immersed in conversations that allow you to experience the famous Irish charm and sense of humor.

If you spend all of your time in Ireland partying at the touristy bars in Dublin, you may miss out on connecting with locals entirely. Don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path, and seek out spots that cater to locals. Explore some of Ireland's beautiful small towns and visit the traditional and atmospheric pubs in the evening. If you're one of the few tourists visiting the establishment, then people who live in the neighborhood might be more excited to tell you about their community.

The live music scene in Ireland is phenomenal, and musical performances are ideal for connecting with locals. Music is deeply ingrained in Irish culture, and has been since ancient times. Traditional Irish music can be enjoyed in pubs across the country. If you have the chance to enjoy a performance during your trip, you absolutely should. For many tourists, the traditional music is a highlight of their entire vacation. From heart-stirring ballads to toe-tapping jigs, traditional Irish music is a true delight and locals love it just as much as tourists.

Plenty of pubs offer live music, but if you really want an authentic experience try to attend a "trad session." Irish trad sessions are sometimes planned, but often they occur spontaneously at pubs and bars. They're very informal, and almost any musician can join in – think of it as a social gathering centered around music. Don't leave too early, as sometimes it takes awhile for the sessions to pick up speed. By the end of the night, you'll likely be sharing pints and singing along with the locals as if they were old friends.