With an average temperature of 10°C (50°F) throughout the year
and rarely experiencing extremes of heat or cold, Ireland's mild
climate is largely dictated by Atlantic Ocean currents but can be
unpredictable. The mountainous west coast shields the country from
the worst of the ocean's winds, making Ireland pleasant to visit at
any time. Summers are warm and sunny with long days and in winter
the temperature seldom falls below zero.
Historically, much of Ireland's cuisine has been influenced by
the country's staple crop - potatoes. Traditional dishes such as
Colcannon, a dish of creamed potatoes and cabbage served with
melted butter, and champ; mashed potato with spring onions remain
popular as does the famous Irish stew, a hearty and warming lamb
and vegetable dish. Breads, including soda bread, potato bread and
the flatbread farl often accompany meals. Sampling Guinness,
Ireland's legendary stout beer, is practically obligatory on any
visit.
The arts play a major role in Irish life which can be seen in
everything from the folk music tradition to the heritage of Celtic
art. From the architect James Hoban to Bram Stoker, James Joyce and
W.B. Yeats, being escorted through Ireland on tours by train offers
a chance to see the country which has inspired some of the world's
finest minds.
People often refer to the 'craic' (pronounced 'crack') when
discussing having a good time in Ireland. Craic is a Gaelic word
for which there is no literal English translation, but the concept
of 'craic' is that of having fun in good company. Perhaps the best
definition was coined by Bernard Share in Slanguage: The Dictionary
of Irish Slang: "Craic - the particular sense of esprit produced by
the confluence of drink, romance and music".
