Westport: 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 rev mah agut]
• Excuse me/SorryMaith thú
  [mah hoo]
• How are you?Conas atá tú?
  [kun-iss a-taw too]
• Fine. And you?Tá mé go maith. Agus tú?
  [taw may guh mah. ah-gus too]
• Do you speak English?An labhraíonn tú Béarla?
  [on low-reen too bayr-lah]
• I don't understandNí thuigim
  [nee hug-im]

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

• Help!Cabhair!
  [cah-ir]
• Go away!Imigh uaim!
  [ih-mee ooh-im]
• Call the Police!Glan an Garda!
  [glahn on gar-dah]
• Call a doctor!Glan dochtúir!
  [glahn duckh-too-ir]
• I'm lostTáim caillte
  [taw-im ky-alt-eh]
• I'm illTá tinneas orm
  [taw chin-ess urm]

• I'd like to buy...Ba mhaith liom ceannach...
  [ba wah lum can-ukh]
• I'm just lookingTáim ag faire amach
  [taw-im egg fah-reh ah-mockh]
• How much is it?Cé mhéad atá air?
  [kay vayd ah-taw er]
• That's too expensiveTá sé sin ró-dhaor
  [taw shay shin row-gwair]
• Can you lower the price?An féidir leat an praghas a laghdú?
  [on fay-dur lat on prug-huss ah lay-goo]

• What time is it?Cén t-am é?
  [kayn t-ahm 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 es ah deh]
• MorningMaidin
  [mah-jin]
• AfternoonTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
• EveningTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
• YesterdayInné
  [in-ay]
• TodayInniu
  [in-yoo]
• TomorrowAmárach
  [ah-maw-ruckh]
• 1Aon
  [ayn]
• 2Dó
  [doh]
• 3Trí
  [tree]
• 4Ceathair
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• 5Cúig
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• 6Sé
  [shay]
• 7Seacht
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• 8Nóí
  [noh-ee]
• 9Naoi
  [nee]
• 10Deich
  [deh]

• Where's a/the...?Cá bhfuil...?
  [kaw will]
• What's the address?Cad é an seoladh?
  [cod ay on show-lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?An féidir leat é a thaispeáint (ar an léarscáil)?
  [on fay-dur lat ay ah hass-paynt (ar on lay-ers-kawl)]
• When's the next (bus)?Cathain atá an chéad (bus) eile?
  [cah-hain ah-taw on khay-ad (bus) el-eh]
• A ticket (to ....)Ticéad (go dtí ....)
  [tick-ayd (guh dee)]

Westport, known as Cathair na Mart in Irish, meaning 'stone fort of the beeves', was originally established in the 18th century. The town's layout was designed by the renowned architect James Wyatt in 1780. Westport was built around the estate of the Browne family, who played a significant role in the town's development.

Westport House, one of Ireland's most beautiful historic homes, was constructed in the 1730s by Colonel John Browne. The Browne family were descendants of Grace O'Malley, the famous Pirate Queen of Connacht. The house is a testament to Georgian architecture and is set amidst stunning parkland overlooking Clew Bay.

The Great Irish Famine of 1845-1849 had a profound impact on Westport, as it did on the rest of Ireland. The population suffered greatly, with many people dying from starvation and disease. The famine also led to a significant wave of emigration, with many Westport residents fleeing to America and other countries in search of a better life.

The arrival of the railway in Westport in 1866 was a significant milestone in the town's history. It connected Westport to the rest of Ireland, boosting trade and tourism. The Westport Railway Station, which remains an important transport hub, helped the town thrive economically in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Westport Quay, once a bustling port, played a crucial role in the town's economic development. In the 19th century, it was a major hub for the export of agricultural produce and fish. Today, the Quay has been revitalized and transformed into a vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and heritage centers, preserving its maritime history.

Grace O'Malley, or Gráinne Mhaol, is one of Westport's most legendary figures. Born in 1530, she was a fierce chieftain and pirate who controlled the waters around Clew Bay. Her legacy is celebrated in Westport, with various landmarks and stories paying homage to her adventurous spirit and leadership.

Clew Bay, with its 365 islands, is steeped in history and legend. The Clew Bay Archaeological Trail takes visitors through a journey of ancient monuments, including megalithic tombs, medieval churches, and forts. This trail highlights the rich archaeological heritage of the region, offering a glimpse into the lives of its early inhabitants.

During the Irish War of Independence (1919-1921), Westport was an active center of resistance against British rule. Local volunteers from the Irish Republican Army (IRA) carried out various operations and ambushes. The town's involvement in the struggle for independence is a significant chapter in its history.

In recent decades, Westport has seen a cultural revival, becoming a hub for arts, music, and festivals. The Westport Arts Festival and the Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival are just a few examples of the vibrant cultural scene. This renaissance has not only preserved traditional Irish culture but also introduced contemporary influences, making Westport a dynamic place to visit.

Westport is located in County Mayo, on the west coast of Ireland. The nearest major airport is Ireland West Airport Knock, approximately 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a bus or taxi directly to Westport. Alternatively, you can fly into Dublin Airport and take a train or bus to Westport; the train journey from Dublin Heuston Station to Westport takes about 3.5 hours.

Westport is a compact town, making it easy to explore on foot. Local taxis are available for short trips within town. For exploring the surrounding areas, renting a car is a convenient option. There are also local and regional bus services that connect Westport to other towns and attractions in County Mayo. The Westport Greenway is a popular cycling route, and bicycles can be rented locally.

The official currency in Ireland is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available throughout Westport, and most accept international cards. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas where card payment might not be available.

Westport is generally a safe destination for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

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

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Religion: Do respect religious customs when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as Irish stew and seafood. Don't forget to tip your servers, usually around 10%.

To experience Westport like a local, visit the Westport Market held every Thursday, where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Take a stroll along the picturesque Westport Quay and enjoy the views of Clew Bay. Don't miss the chance to hike or cycle the Great Western Greenway, a scenic trail that runs from Westport to Achill Island. Engage with locals in traditional pubs where you can enjoy live music sessions.