Galway: The Heart of Ireland's West Coast

• HelloDia dhuit
  [dee-ah gwitch]
• GoodbyeSlán
  [slawn]
• YesTá
  [taw]
• NoNíl
  [neel]
• Please/You're welcomeLe do thoil
  [leh duh hull]
• Thank youGo raibh maith agat
  [guh row ma agut]
• Excuse me/SorryMaith thú
  [mah hoo]
• How are you?Conas atá tú?
  [kun-us a-taw too]
• Fine. And you?Tá mé go maith. Agus tú?
  [taw may guh mah. ag-us too]
• Do you speak English?An bhfuil Béarla agat?
  [un will bayr-la agut]
• I don't understandNí thuigim
  [nee hug-im]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBa mhaith liom an mianú
  [ba wah lyum on mee-noo]
• I don't eat meatNí ithim feoil
  [nee ih-him foh-il]
• Cheers!Sláinte!
  [slawn-cha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseBa mhaith liom íoc, le do thoil
  [ba wah lyum eek, leh duh hull]

• Help!Cabhraigh!
  [ka-vray]
• Go away!Imigh uaim!
  [im-ee oam]
• Call the Police!Glan an Gárda!
  [glahn un gar-da]
• Call a doctor!Glan dochtúir!
  [glahn dook-too-ir]
• I'm lostTá mé caillte
  [taw may kyle-cha]
• I'm illTá mé tinn
  [taw may chin]

• I'd like to buy...Ba mhaith liom ceannach...
  [ba wah lyum kyen-ukh]
• I'm just lookingNíl ach ag breathnú
  [neel okh eg vrah-noo]
• How much is it?Cé mhéad atá air?
  [kay vayd a-taw air]
• That's too expensiveTá sé ró-dhaor
  [taw shay row-gheer]
• Can you lower the price?An féidir leat an praghas a ísliú?
  [un fay-dur lat an proh-us a eesh-loo]

• What time is it?Cén t-am é?
  [kayn tahm ay]
• It's one o'clockTá sé a haon a chlog
  [taw shay a hayn a khlog]
• Half past (10)Leathuair tar éis a deich
  [lah-hoo-ir tar es a dekh]
• MorningMaidin
  [maw-din]
• AfternoonTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-na]
• EveningTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-na]
• YesterdayInné
  [in-ay]
• TodayInniu
  [in-yoo]
• TomorrowAmárach
  [ah-maw-rah]
• 1A haon
  [a hayn]
• 2Dó
  [doh]
• 3Trí
  [tree]
• 4Ceathair
  [ka-hir]
• 5Cúig
  [koo-ig]
• 6Sé
  [shay]
• 7Seacht
  [shakht]
• 8Ocht
  [ukht]
• 9Naoi
  [nee]
• 10Deich
  [dekh]

• Where's a/the...?Cá bhfuil an...?
  [kaw will un]
• What's the address?Cad é an seoladh?
  [kad ay un shoh-lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?An féidir leat é a thaispeáint (ar an léarscáil)?
  [un fay-dur lat ay a ha-shpaynt (ar un layr-skawl)]
• When's the next (bus)?Cathain atá an chéad cheann eile (bus)?
  [ka-hin a-taw un khayd kyan el-eh (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Ticéad (go dtí ....)
  [tick-ayd (guh dee)]

Galway's origins date back to a small fishing village at the mouth of the River Corrib. The name 'Galway' is derived from the Irish word 'Gaillimh', which means 'stony', a reference to the river's rocky bed. The initial settlement grew during the early medieval period around a fort built by the King of Connacht.

In 1232, the Normans, under the leadership of Richard de Burgo, captured Galway. The town was fortified with walls to protect against local Irish clans, and it began to develop as a Norman stronghold. This period marked the establishment of Galway as a key trading port.

During the 14th century, fourteen merchant families, known as the 'Tribes of Galway', rose to prominence. These families controlled the trade and politics of the town. Their legacy is still visible today in the form of medieval buildings and walls that grace Galway's historic center.

Galway's strategic location and bustling port led to a close relationship with Spain during the 16th century. The city traded extensively with Spanish merchants, leading to a distinctive Spanish influence on Galway's architecture and culture. The Spanish Arch, a remnant of the town's medieval walls, stands as a testament to this era.

The Irish Confederate Wars brought turmoil to Galway in the mid-17th century. In 1652, after a prolonged siege, the city surrendered to Oliver Cromwell's forces. The aftermath saw the confiscation of property from Catholic merchants, significantly altering the town's socio-economic landscape.

Galway, like much of Ireland, was profoundly affected by the Great Famine of the mid-19th century. The city's population declined dramatically due to starvation and emigration. Many historical sites, such as the Famine Memorial, serve as poignant reminders of this tragic period.

The late 20th and early 21st centuries have seen a remarkable cultural renaissance in Galway. The city has become a vibrant hub for arts, music, and literature. Festivals such as the Galway Arts Festival and the Galway International Oyster Festival attract visitors from around the world, celebrating the city's rich cultural heritage.

Today, Galway is a bustling, cosmopolitan city known for its lively atmosphere and welcoming spirit. The blend of historical landmarks, such as Lynch's Castle and St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church, with contemporary attractions, reflects the city's ability to honor its past while embracing the future.

Galway, located on the west coast of Ireland, is accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest international airports are Shannon Airport (approximately 85 kilometers away) and Dublin Airport (approximately 210 kilometers away). From Shannon, you can take a bus or rent a car, with the journey taking around 1.5 hours by road. From Dublin, you can either drive (around 2.5 hours) or take a direct train from Dublin Heuston Station to Galway, which takes about 2.5 hours.

Galway is well-served by public transport, including buses and taxis. The city is relatively compact, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer journeys, Bus Éireann operates an extensive network of routes within the city and to nearby towns and villages. Taxis are readily available, and ride-sharing services such as Uber may also be an option. For those looking to explore the countryside, renting a car can be a convenient choice.

The official currency in Ireland is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are abundant in Galway, and most of them accept international cards. Contactless payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay are also commonly used.

Galway is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard safety precautions. Avoid isolated areas at night and be cautious in crowded places to protect your belongings. Areas like Eyre Square can get busy, especially during festivals, so always stay alert. There are no specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 or 999 for immediate assistance. Galway has several medical facilities, including University Hospital Galway for serious medical issues. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health concerns. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. The local police, known as Gardaí, are approachable and can assist with any safety concerns.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Casual and comfortable attire is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do have exact change for bus fares. Don’t be loud or disruptive on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like seafood chowder and Irish stew. Don’t forget to enjoy a pint of Guinness or a glass of whiskey, but drink responsibly.

To experience Galway like a local, visit the Galway Market near St. Nicholas' Church, especially on weekends, where you can find fresh produce and crafts. Take a stroll along the Salthill Promenade and kick the wall at the end, a local tradition. Engage with locals in traditional pubs where you can enjoy live Irish music. Don’t miss the Galway International Arts Festival if your visit coincides with it, as it offers a range of cultural events and performances.