Planet Patrick - Ireland Travel Writer

09/02/2026

The number one packing mistake I see visitors make: bringing one "rain jacket" and no layers.

Ireland doesn't do "rain or sunshine." It does both. In the same hour. Sometimes in the same 10 minutes.

What actually works:
- A proper waterproof outer layer (not a fashion raincoat)
- A fleece or light insulated mid-layer
- A base layer you can strip down to when the sun appears

Skip the umbrella. It's useless in Irish wind.

Full packing list (with what I actually bring):

Fill in any gaps in your packing list for Ireland (for men) with well-priced essentials & make the most of a great trip to Ireland

28/01/2026

Tipping in Ireland: What You NEED to Know 🇮🇪

One of the most common questions from visitors, especially from North America: "How much should I tip?"
Good news: it's way simpler than back home!

Quick guide:
🍽️ Restaurants: 10-12.5% (check for pre-added charges!)
🍺 Pubs: No need to tip per drink
🚕 Taxis: Round up to nearest euro
🎭 Tours: €5-10 per person
💡 Pro tip: Cash is still king for tips!

Full guide on my website: https://irelandexplore.com/tipping-in-ireland/

28/01/2026

Tipping in Ireland: The Local's Guide 🇮🇪

One of the most common questions I get from North American visitors: "How much should I tip in Ireland?"

Good news: it's much simpler than back home! Since our minimum wage is somewhat higher, tips are truly a bonus for exceptional service.

Quick Guidelines:
🍽️ Sit-Down Restaurants: 10-12.5% (but always check for pre-added service charges!)
🍺 Pubs: No need to tip per drink: a few euros for table service is grand
🚕 Taxis: Round up to nearest euro or two
🎭 Tour Guides: €5-10 per person for day tours
🏨 Hotels: €1-2 per bag for porters\

Pro tip: Cash is still king for tips.

I just published a complete guide covering every tipping scenario you'll encounter. Link in comments 👇

Any questions? Drop them below!

27/01/2026

Storm Chandra bringing clouds, rain and storms to the North East

27/01/2026

Wild weather today due to Storm Chandra, overlooking Carlingford Bay (at Flagstaff Viewpoint).

25/01/2026

Absolutely thrilled to have reached 10,000 subscribers on YouTube! Thank you to all of you who are enjoying my journeys there! (Https://youtube.com/planetpatrick)

22/01/2026

Planning a family trip to Dublin and want to keep things simple? My latest guide has a full 3-day itinerary that uses only buses and trams, packed with kid-friendly spots and smart tips to save your energy and budget.

My guide works just as well for first-time visitors at the start of a longer trip, or families coming for the weekend.

What's the first thing your family would want to see?

https://irelandexplore.com/3-day-dublin-family-itinerary/

18/01/2026

Discover VIA Rail The Canadian sleeper food in this quick 5-min tour! Freshly cooked galley kitchen meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner + drinks served in the dedicated Dining Car, plus canapés & snacks. All shown up close!

17/01/2026

Hilarious 😆 😬

🚨 BRAND NEW CALMAC FERRY ARRIVES FROM TURKEY… WITH TURKEY TEETH 🚨

CalMac’s latest vessel has finally reached Scottish waters after being built in Turkey — and locals are convinced it’s picked up more than just a fresh coat of paint.

As the new Isle of Islay sailed into port, onlookers noticed the bow appeared to be sporting a suspiciously perfect set of gleaming white teeth.

One islander said:
“We waited years for a new ferry and it’s come back looking like it’s ready to couple up on Love Island.”
Another added:
“Genuinely thought the tannoy was about to say ‘I’ve got a text!’”

Shipyard bosses in Turkey have denied installing any cosmetic upgrades, insisting the design is “entirely related to maritime engineering and not dentistry.” while CalMac described the rumours as: “Maritime nonsense fuelled by too much whiskey.”

CalMac confirmed the vessel is fully operational and will begin service soon, adding:

“The ferry does not have veneers.
The ferry does not need veneers.
Please stop asking.”

Locals have already given it a nickname:

🦷 The Smile of Islay.

17/01/2026

Stunning views from my hike around Carlingford Lough this morning. These are on the Omeath, County Louth side.

17/01/2026

My viewer has a fear of flying and would love to go from Cork, Ireland to Termoli in Italy. Here's my advice on the route to take Make sure you follow my Planet Patrick page for more FAQs!

16/01/2026

Would you prefer leafy summer or snowy winter?