Ireland is known for its breathtaking landscapes and the humorous and hospitable locals. Only about 5/6 of the island of the same name belong to the independent island state. The rest belongs to Great Britain. Traditions are very important in Ireland. Whether it’s dinner, music or parties like St. Patrick’s Day, where everyone wears green clothes. Ireland’s national sports are gealic football and hurling and still bear witness to Ireland’s rather harsh past. If you prefer a little calmer, you can join a football team.

AFS Youth exchange in Ireland

Culture and Society

The Irish are seen as an open, warm and cheerful people. The families enjoy spending their evenings together. Both parents often work full-time and the children are in school until the afternoon. Especially in smaller villages you spend a lot of time outside and on weekends you can go for a day trip in the beautiful, green landscape.

School

Many Irish schools are confessional. Therefore, there are many pure girls’ or boys’ schools. The school day runs from 8.30 am to 3.30 pm and there are many different subjects. You will wear a school uniform like all other students, as it is compulsory. In the afternoon there are many extra-curricular activities such as sports, art or music.

Food

The most important meal of the day is dinner. Often there are soups and stews, meat dishes and vegetables or potatoes. But there is also a lot of fish in the coastal regions. Just like in England, there are fish and chips and international restaurants in the cities. In the afternoon the Irish drink tea with milk and sugar and eat scones.

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