Entertainment

Recent Irish plays that have taken London and New York by storm often opened first in Dublin. Dublin's Abbey Theatre is one of the world's outstanding repertory drama centers; also prominent are the Gate and Gaiety theaters.

Traditional music and songs are performed year-round at the Abbey Tavern. Dublin also has a strong jazz tradition. Cork holds an International Jazz Festival each October.

A variety of outdoor pursuits is available, including cruising on inland waterways, horse racing, hill walking and more.

Golfers will head to Ballybunion, Portmarnock and Royal County Down. There are more than 250 courses, and greens fees are very reasonable. A number of tour operators offer attractive golf packages.

Food & Drink

Ireland is enjoying a culinary renaissance. Young cooks are making the most of the excellent Irish produce and the delicious Dublin Bay prawns, oysters, Shannon salmon and trout. Coarse-cut oatmeal is a mainstay of the hearty Irish breakfast. Visitors and locals alike can dine in a variety of fine restaurants or opt for more casual pub grub, always a bargain. Many restaurants serve a specially priced tourist menu.

Shopping

In Dublin, shoppers can find much of what they seek around Grafton and Henry streets. In Cork, try the St. Patrick's Street area.

Specialties include Waterford hand-blown crystal, delicate Beleek china, traditional tweeds, Irish-designed gold and silver jewelry, hand-embroidered tablecloths, fine linen products and an assortment of pottery items crafted in the countryside.