Wexford: A Quaint Irish Gem by the Sea

• HelloDia duit
  [dee-uh gwit]
• GoodbyeSlán
  [slawn]
• YesTá
  [taw]
• NoNíl
  [neel]
• Please/You're welcomeLe do thoil
  [leh duh hull]
• Thank youGo raibh maith agat
  [guh rev mah ag-ut]
• Excuse me/SorryÓisín orm
  [oh-sheen or-um]
• How are you?Conas atá tú?
  [kun-us uh-taw too]
• Fine. And you?Tá mé go maith. Agus tú?
  [taw may guh mah. ah-guhs too]
• Do you speak English?An bhfuil Béarla agat?
  [ahn will bay-rla ah-gut]
• I don't understandNí thuigim
  [neel hug-im]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBa mhaith liom an billeog a fheiceáil, le do thoil
  [ba wah lyum ahn bill-ogue ah ek-awl, leh duh hull]
• I don't eat meatNí ithim feoil
  [neel ih-him foh-il]
• Cheers!Sláinte!
  [slahn-cha]
• I would like to pay, pleaseBa mhaith liom íoc, le do thoil
  [ba wah lyum ee-uk, leh duh hull]

• Help!Cabhair!
  [cah-wir]
• Go away!Imigh uaim!
  [im-eeh oom]
• Call the Police!Glan an Garda!
  [glahn ahn gar-dah]
• Call a doctor!Glan dochtúir!
  [glahn dohk-too-ir]
• I'm lostTá mé caillte
  [taw may kahl-cheh]
• I'm illTá mé tinn
  [taw may chin]

• I'd like to buy...Ba mhaith liom ceannach...
  [ba wah lyum can-uk]
• I'm just lookingNíl mé ach ag féachaint
  [neel may ahk egg fay-uk-ent]
• How much is it?Cé mhéad é?
  [kay vayd ay]
• That's too expensiveTá sé ró-dhaor
  [taw shay row-gweer]
• Can you lower the price?An féidir leat an praghas a ísliú?
  [ahn fay-dur lat ahn prah-gus ah 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 ah hayn ah khlog]
• Half past (10)Leathuair tar éis a deich
  [lah-hoo-ir tar aysh ah deh]
• MorningMaidin
  [mad-in]
• AfternoonTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
• EveningTráthnóna
  [traw-noh-nah]
• YesterdayInné
  [in-ay]
• TodayInniu
  [in-yoo]
• TomorrowAmárach
  [ah-ma-rahk]
• 1Aon
  [ayn]
• 2Dó
  [doh]
• 3Trí
  [tree]
• 4Ceathair
  [cah-her]
• 5Cúig
  [koo-ig]
• 6Sé
  [shay]
• 7Seacht
  [shahkht]
• 8Ocht
  [ukht]
• 9Naoi
  [nee]
• 10Deich
  [deh]

• Where's a/the...?Cá bhfuil...?
  [kaw will]
• What's the address?Cad é an seoladh?
  [kod ay ahn shoh-lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?An bhfuil tú in ann (ar an léarscáil)?
  [ahn will too in on (ahr on layr-skawl)]
• When's the next (bus)?Cén uair an chéad (bus)?
  [kayn oor ahn khayd (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Ticéad (go dtí ....)
  [tick-ayd (guh dee)]

Wexford's history dates back to the Viking era, around 800 AD, when Norse invaders established a settlement called 'Veisafjǫrðr,' meaning 'inlet of the mud flats.' This settlement laid the groundwork for what would become the modern town of Wexford. The Vikings fortified the area and established trade routes that significantly influenced the region's economy and culture.

In 1169, Wexford was one of the first areas in Ireland to be invaded by the Normans. Led by Richard de Clare, also known as Strongbow, the Normans took control of Wexford and ushered in a new era of feudalism. They built several castles and fortified towns, including the iconic Selskar Abbey, which stands to this day as a testament to their architectural influence.

The 17th century brought turmoil to Wexford when Oliver Cromwell's forces attacked the town in 1649. Cromwell's siege was brutal, leading to significant loss of life and the destruction of many buildings. This event had lasting effects on the region, both in terms of its physical landscape and its social structure.

The United Irishmen Rebellion of 1798 was a significant event in Wexford's history. The town became a focal point for the uprising against British rule. Key battles took place at Vinegar Hill and New Ross, where Irish rebels fought valiantly but ultimately faced defeat. The rebellion left an indelible mark on the local community and is commemorated through various monuments and annual events.

The mid-19th century Great Famine had a devastating impact on Wexford, as it did on the rest of Ireland. The potato blight led to widespread starvation and emigration. Many families left Wexford for new lives in America, Canada, and Australia. The famine's legacy is still felt today, with numerous memorials and museums dedicated to this dark chapter in history.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Wexford experienced a cultural renaissance. The town became a hub for Irish literature, music, and art. The Wexford Opera Festival, founded in 1951, is a world-renowned event that attracts talent and visitors from around the globe. This period saw a revival of traditional Irish culture and a renewed sense of local identity.

In recent decades, Wexford has seen significant modernization while retaining its historical charm. The town has invested in infrastructure, tourism, and cultural preservation. Modern Wexford is a vibrant community that celebrates its rich history while looking towards a prosperous future. The Quayfront development and the preservation of historical landmarks like the Irish National Heritage Park are prime examples of this balance.

Wexford is located in the southeast of Ireland. The nearest international airport is Dublin Airport, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Dublin, you can take a direct bus or train to Wexford, with journeys typically taking around 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive, which allows for scenic routes through the Irish countryside.

Wexford town itself is quite walkable, with most attractions within walking distance. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are readily available. Bus Éireann operates services connecting Wexford to nearby towns and cities. Car rental services are also an option for those looking to explore the surrounding areas at their own pace.

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, especially when visiting smaller establishments or rural areas. ATMs are widely available throughout Wexford.

Wexford is generally a safe destination for tourists. As with any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Wexford.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 or 999 for immediate assistance. There are local police stations and medical facilities available in Wexford. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in the town for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Avoid overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful to fellow passengers and offer your seat to elderly or disabled individuals. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. Handshakes are common in more formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy the fresh seafood. Don't rush your meals; dining is often a leisurely and social activity.

To experience Wexford like a local, visit the Wexford Farmers' Market held on Fridays, where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with locals, who are known for their friendliness and willingness to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss the annual Wexford Festival Opera if you're visiting in October, a highlight of the local cultural calendar. For a unique experience, take a stroll along the Wexford Harbour and enjoy the stunning views.