Killarney: The Jewel of Ireland's Southwest

• 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 rev mah ugg-ut]
• Excuse me/SorryGabh mo leithscéal
  [gav muh leh-shkale]
• How are you?Conas atá tú?
  [kun-us ah-taw too]
• Fine. And you?Go maith. Agus tú?
  [guh mah ah-gus too]
• Do you speak English?An labhraíonn tú Béarla?
  [ahn law-vree-un too bayr-lah]
• I don't understandNí thuigim
  [nee hug-im]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBa mhaith liom an mhenu a fheiceáil, le do thoil
  [ba wah lum on wen-oo ah eck-awl, leh duh hull]
• I don't eat meatNí ithim feoil
  [nee ih-him foh-il]
• Cheers!Sláinte!
  [slawn-cheh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseBa mhaith liom íoc, le do thoil
  [ba wah lum ee-uk, leh duh hull]

• Help!Cabhraigh!
  [ka-vree]
• Go away!Imigh uaim!
  [ih-mee oom]
• Call the Police!Glaoigh ar na Gardaí!
  [glay-ee air na gar-dee]
• Call a doctor!Glaoigh ar dochtúir!
  [glay-ee air duck-too-er]
• I'm lostTáim caillte
  [tawm kahl-cheh]
• I'm illTá mé tinn
  [taw may chin]

• I'd like to buy...Ba mhaith liom ceannach...
  [ba wah lum kyawn-uk]
• I'm just lookingNíl mé ach ag breathnú
  [neel may akh eg breh-noo]
• How much is it?Cé mhéad atá air?
  [kay vayd ah-taw air]
• That's too expensiveTá sin ró-dhaor
  [taw shin row-yare]
• Can you lower the price?An féidir leat an praghas a laghdú?
  [ahn fay-djir lat an prah-gus ah lay-goo]

• What time is it?Cén t-am é?
  [kane tahm ay]
• It's one o'clockTá sé a haon
  [taw shay ah hayn]
• Half past (10)Leathuair tar éis a deich
  [lah-hoo-ir tar aysh ah deh]
• MorningMaidin
  [mah-jin]
• AfternoonTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
• EveningTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
• YesterdayInné
  [in-ay]
• TodayInniu
  [in-yoo]
• TomorrowAmárach
  [ah-mar-ahk]
• 1Aon
  [ayn]
• 2Dó
  [doh]
• 3Trí
  [tree]
• 4Ceathair
  [cah-her]
• 5Cúig
  [coo-ig]
• 6Sé
  [shay]
• 7Seacht
  [shakht]
• 8Ocht
  [ukht]
• 9Naoi
  [nee]
• 10Deich
  [deh]

• Where's a/the...?Cá bhfuil...?
  [kaw wil]
• What's the address?Céard atá ar an seoladh?
  [kay-ard ah-taw air un shoh-lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?An féidir leat é a thaispeáint (ar an léarscáil)?
  [ahn fay-djir lat ay ah hass-paint (ar un layr-skahl)]
• When's the next (bus)?Cathain atá an chéad bus eile?
  [kah-han ah-taw on khayd bus el-eh]
• A ticket (to ....)Ticéad (go dtí ....)
  [tick-ayd (goh dee)]

Killarney's origins date back to the early medieval period. The town's name, 'Cill Airne,' is derived from the Irish language, meaning 'Church of the Sloe,' indicating the presence of a church and the sloe berry, which were significant in the area. The first known settlement in Killarney is believed to have been established by Saint Finian the Leper in the 6th century.

In the 7th century, Christianity began to take root in Killarney with the establishment of Innisfallen Abbey on Innisfallen Island in Lough Leane. Founded by Saint Finian the Leper, the abbey became a significant center of learning and religious activity. The Annals of Innisfallen, a chronicle of early Irish history, were compiled here and remain a crucial source for understanding the era.

The 12th century brought the Norman invasion, leading to significant changes in Killarney. The FitzGerald family, also known as the Earls of Desmond, established their stronghold in the region. They built several castles and forts, including Ross Castle, which still stands today. The FitzGeralds played a pivotal role in the political and social landscape of Killarney for several centuries.

Ross Castle, constructed in the late 15th century by the O'Donoghue clan, is one of Killarney's most iconic landmarks. During the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland in the 17th century, the castle was one of the last strongholds to fall to Cromwell's forces. Its capture marked a significant moment in Irish history, symbolizing the end of Gaelic rule in the area.

In the 18th century, the Herbert family acquired extensive lands in Killarney and played a crucial role in its development. They transformed Muckross Estate into a magnificent Victorian mansion and gardens. The Herberts were instrumental in promoting Killarney as a tourist destination, attracting visitors with the natural beauty of the lakes and surrounding landscapes.

In 1861, Queen Victoria visited Killarney, staying at Muckross House. This event was a significant boost to the town's reputation as a premier tourist destination. The Herberts made extensive preparations for the royal visit, including remodeling parts of the house and gardens. Victoria's visit helped to cement Killarney's status as a must-see location for travelers.

Established in 1932, Killarney National Park was Ireland's first national park. The park was initially formed from lands donated by the Muckross Estate and has since expanded to cover more than 25,000 acres. It encompasses stunning landscapes, including lakes, mountains, and woodlands, and is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a vital part of Killarney's cultural and natural heritage.

Killarney has long been a center for the preservation and celebration of traditional Irish culture. The town hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year that showcase Irish music, dance, and storytelling. The Killarney Summerfest and the Killarney Races are two examples of events that draw visitors from around the world, eager to experience the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Killarney is located in County Kerry, in the southwest of Ireland. The nearest airport is Kerry Airport (Farranfore), about 17 kilometers away. The airport offers regular flights from Dublin and London. Alternatively, Cork Airport is about 90 kilometers away and Shannon Airport is roughly 135 kilometers away. From these airports, you can rent a car, take a bus, or use a train service to reach Killarney. Irish Rail operates direct train services from Dublin to Killarney, and Bus Éireann provides bus services from major cities.

Killarney is a compact town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. Killarney also has a good public bus network, with Bus Éireann providing connections to nearby towns and villages. Additionally, cycling is a popular way to explore Killarney, particularly the scenic routes around Killarney National Park. Bicycle rental shops are widely available. For a leisurely experience, you can also take a jaunting car (horse-drawn carriage) tour.

The official currency in Ireland is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in Killarney, and currency exchange services are available at banks and some hotels. Tipping is customary in Ireland, with 10-15% being standard in restaurants and for taxi services.

Killarney is generally a safe destination for tourists. Nonetheless, it is important to take standard precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Killarney does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 or 999 for immediate assistance. Killarney has a local Garda (police) station and medical facilities, including a hospital and several pharmacies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies in the town can provide over-the-counter medications and advice.

Fashion: Do dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather. Casual dress is generally acceptable, but consider dressing more formally for fine dining or special events. Religion: Do respect local religious customs. When visiting churches, dress modestly and remain silent during services. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don't block seats with bags and avoid loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet people warmly. A simple 'hello' or 'hi' is customary. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and beverages. Don't forget to tip service staff around 10-15%.

To experience Killarney like a local, visit its traditional pubs and engage in a conversation with the friendly locals. Take a stroll or a bike ride through Killarney National Park to enjoy its natural beauty. For an authentic experience, attend a local festival or event. Don't miss out on traditional Irish music sessions available in many pubs. Exploring lesser-known trails and lakes within the national park can provide a more serene and personal experience.