Jess in Ireland: Pub Life

Haha It couldn't be helped. If you're staying in Ireland one of the major aspects of life is the pub. Pubs are not bars. To understand the Irish you must make sure that you know and understand the difference. Pubs are not one room affairs with a smoked riddled bar in the front. They are not the place you go just because you are drunk, they are the place you go for company, for music and to meet your friends for friendly conversation over a few pints.


Yes, drunkness happens in these places. But, pubs are more about the company. Going to a pub allows you to meet so many new people. When I go into a pub I end up talking to people ranging from their 20s all the way to the 60s, and in Ireland that is not odd. Last weekend, I had a lovely conversation with two older gals, and after I continued to drink with my friend and coworkers that he introduced to me that night.

In Galway there are 97 different pubs. Each of them has their own style and taste and it is fun to explore the different kinds of people they attract. You can stay on the cobblestones for some of the more famous and expensive pubs or you can travel off Shop and Quays Street to find a cheaper pint. The variety of people that you end up talking to in a night is amazing and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Pubs in a small town are different than in Galway but they are both still centered around talking to people. In a small town of possibly one or two pubs you can find parents trying to get their children to eat their vegetables while they talk with their neighbors over a drink. You can find craggy old men debating the upcoming horse racing season (horse racing is very popular in Ireland). Don't forget the live music scene! From top 40 to classic rock and off course the Irish ballads the Irish certainly love their music!

I am going to miss being able to walk 5-minutes down the road in either direction and find myself at a pub. I am going to miss being able to talk to so many people without anyone thinking it is odd or stange that yes, some random girl started to talk to you and she isn't going to mug you. Galway is the safest city in Ireland and the Irish are some of the most friendly souls I have ever met. I am going to miss Galway and all of the new friends I have made here.