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Ireland For Dummies
The drive around Ireland’s Iveragh Peninsula, commonly called the Ring of Kerry, is one of the most popular scenic drives in Ireland, and for good reason. This Cheat Sheet features a map that will help you navigate the route. You’ll also find a glossary that will help you decipher some common Gaelic and “Irish English” terms, and a mileage guide to help you plan your Ireland itinerary.
Ireland's Ring of Kerry
This map highlights the famous “Ring of Kerry,” a scenic route around the Iveragh Peninsula in southwestern Ireland. No doubt you’ve heard of it — and so has everyone else, which means the route can be clogged with tour buses and crowds. To get the most out of your journey, rent a car and head out early — ideally before 9 a.m., when tour buses hit the road.
Going by car will allow you to stop at whatever charming towns and scenic vistas interest you along the way. To beat the crowds, start in Kenmare and drive the ring clockwise to Killarney. Most other travelers do it the other way.
Learning the Lingo: “Irish English”
English spoken in Ireland differs a bit from the English spoken in other parts of the world. Throw in some Gaelic words and you may encounter more of a language barrier than you were expecting. This helpful list covers some Gaelic words you’re likely to hear and see on your trip to Ireland, as well as some local turns of phrase you may not be familiar with.
| An Lar | city centre |
| Bonnet | car hood |
| Boot | car trunk |
| Bord Fa’ilte | Irish Tourist Board (Gaelic) |
| cheers | thanks |
| crack, craic | good times, fun |
| creche | day care |
| deadly, brilliant | great, excellent |
| fa’ilte | welcome (Gaelic) |
| fir | men (Gaelic) |
| footpath | sidewalk |
| garda | policeman |
| lift | elevator |
| mna | women (Gaelic) |
| off-license | liquor store |
| press | cabinet |
| petrol | gas |
| quay | waterfront (pronounced key) |
| quid, or bob | pounds, or money |
| sla’inte | cheers or goodbye (Gaelic — pronounced schlancha) |
| take-away | fast food, to go |
| tins | canned goods |
Ireland Mileage Guide
Renting a car and driving yourself around is an easy and enjoyable way to get out and explore the Irish countryside. Use this mileage chart to help plan your itinerary during your visit to Ireland.
