INTRODUCTION - Ireland 2014 - page 34

Check the Rick Steves guidebook updates page for any recent changes to this topic
( www.ricksteves.com/update ).
Because airline carry-on restrictions are always changing, visit the Transportation
Security Administration's website ( www.tsa.gov ) for an up-to-date list of what you can
bring on the plane with you...and what you must check. If you're flying into Dublin from
London, note that some airlines may restrict you to only one carry-on (no extras like a
purse or backpack); check with your airline or at Britain's transportation website for the
latest ( www.dft.gov.uk ).
Practicalities
Emergency and Medical Help: In Ireland, dial 999 for police or a medical emergency. If
you get sick, do as the Irish do and go to a pharmacist for advice. Or ask at your hotel for
help—they'll know the nearest medical and emergency services.
Theft or Loss: To replace a passport, you'll need to go in person to an embassy (see
here ) .Ifyourcredit anddebit cards disappear,cancel andreplace them (see “Damage Con-
trol for Lost Cards” on here ). File a police report, either on the spot or within a day or two;
you'll need it to submit an insurance claim for lost or stolen railpasses or travel gear, and it
can help with replacing your passport or credit and debit cards. For more information, see
www.ricksteves.com/help . Precautionary measures can minimize the effects of loss—back
up your photos and other files frequently.
Time Zones: Ireland, which is one hour earlier than most of continental Europe, is
five/eight hours ahead of the East/West coasts of the US. The exceptions are the begin-
ning and end of Daylight Saving Time: Ireland and Europe “spring forward” the last
Sunday in March (two weeks after most of North America) and “fall back” the last Sunday
in October (one week before North America). For a handy online time converter, see
www.timeanddate.com/worldclock .
Business Hours: In Ireland, most stores are open Monday through Saturday from
roughly10:00to17:30,withalate nightonWednesdayorThursday(until19:00or20:00),
depending on the neighborhood. Saturdays are virtually weekdays, with earlier closing
hours and no rush hour (though transportation connections can be less frequent than on
weekdays). Sundays have the same pros and cons as they do for travelers in the US: spe-
cial events, limited hours, banks and many shops closed, limited public transportation, no
rush hours, street markets lively with shoppers.
Watt's Up? Europe's electrical system is 220 volts, instead of North America's 110
volts. Most newer electronics (such as laptops, battery chargers, and hair dryers) convert
automatically, so you won't need a converter, but you will need an adapter plug with
three square prongs, sold inexpensively at travel stores in the US. Avoid bringing older