A few snippets of information for would-be travellers to the area. The Republic of Ireland (ROI) uses the Euro ( € ) as its currency, like much of the rest of Europe. Though on a par with other European nation's living costs in some areas, be prepared for wildly disparate prices in others (tobacco and wines as an instance). Though there are signs that many expenses will fall into line with mainland Europe's in time.
Ireland has been operating a Smoking Ban in most places of employment since 2004 and this includes pubs. You will be politely asked to take your cigarette and yourself outside, should you now light up in an Irish bar.
This also holds true for most forms of travel within the ROI, there is no smoking allowed on any form of public transport (it's the driver's place of work).
Air Travel
Shannon Airport - this international airport is located approx. 21km (13miles) west of Limerick and offers easy access to both County Clare and County Galway. The site offers arrivals/departure information and operators etc.
http://www.aerlingus.com - Aer Lingus - ROI's National Airline
Bus and coach
Bus Éireann - national bus company providing many of the local services on routes in County Clare and Galway.
Car hire/rental
Irish Car Rentals - online price guide, vehicle descriptions, reservation and payment. One stop shop for car rental in Ireland.
Ferry services
Irish Ferries - Ferry company operating passenger services on the Irish Sea and to and from France. Shannon Ferries - operate between Killimer and Tarbet - across the Shannon - saving several hours drive around the estuary. Useful site offering service schedules, pricing and links to other sites of interest.
Train
Iarnród Éireann - Ireland's national railway company's web-site. The site contains train timetables, routes for Intercity, Dart ( Dublin area) and suburban services.
