Ireland (better known as the Republic of Ireland to differentiate it from Northern Ireland, which is part of the UK) is a country of 4.5 million people in the extreme west of Europe. Both Irish and English are official languages of the country with street signs etc. generally being printed in both languages. The Irish are a fiercely nationalistic and patriotic people, with a strong affinity to their Celtic background. Ireland is full of interesting cities and characterful smaller towns and villages, as well as truly beautiful countryside. The troubled past is largely behind the country making Ireland one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

The most popular cities in Ireland are Dublin (the capital) Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford and all of the cities are steeped in history and have some wonderful architecture on display. Serviced apartments in Ireland can also be enjoyed in the more rural areas including the rugged terrain of the west. There are numerous areas famous for excellent fishing rivers and lakes, and hill walking and trekking is very popular in the striking countryside. The average summer temperatures of the low 20s Celsius make the country a comfortable place to visit during June, July and August in particular. Winter temperatures do reach freezing and snow is not uncommon.