Are you moving to Galway? ...If you answered yes, then read on to learn what tips and tricks Galwegians think you should know!
Moving to a brand new place for work and living can be such an overwhelming task - it brings feelings both excited and apprehensive for all that’s ahead but hey, you’ve made it to Galway! So, rest assured you’ve done something right!
Whether you’re moving to the city or county, the beauty of Galway is endless. Additionally, now that you’re here that means you are in the best position possible to explore and experience its famous culture and be at the heart of Galway’s vibrant festival and events calendar.
We want to give you recommendations on how best to navigate your new home city so in order to give you the most reliable advice, we asked the locals of Galway for their help on how to make it in Galway. Discover what they had to say about it below!
Get out of Galway city and explore everything the county has to offer
As the above suggests, there is so much more to Galway than its city. From the wilds of Connemara landscapes to the picturesque beaches along the Wild Atlantic Way, if you aren’t making the most of living here by trying to get out and see it all you (I am afraid to say), aren’t doing it correctly! On Instagram, Rachel Kiernan says; “There are so many hidden gems. Explore the whole city and not just the touristy spots!” Another user added; “Don’t just stay in the city, travel around!” We also got lots of suggestions from locals recommending that you join a club or group to help you integrate into the community and make some new friends.
above: photo by Ado Lyons
Find alternative ways of getting around
Traffic around the city can be a bit heavy but not to worry as it is a walkable city that is gradually becoming more cyclist friendly. Keeping with this thought, Leona on Instagram suggests; “bring a comfy pair of walking shoes!” Lots of tips flooded in from Facebook recommended getting a bike and over on Twitter, our very transport provider Citylink reminded us that they are a fabulous affordable option to visiting all Galway’s local towns and villages and for trips even further afield also! A few more suggestions they said include; “say hello to strangers! Go to a show in An Taibhdhearc. Go to the Saturday market. Use your cúpla focal. Go out to Connemara often. Go for at least ONE sea swim and eat ALL the food.”
Prepare for the unpredictability of the weather in Galway
When it rains it pours. When it’s cloudy it probably will. When it’s sunny, I still wouldn’t trust it so best bring a brolly! - While Galway is truly a lovely place come rain or shine, you really never know what you are going to get so it’s best to prepare for all outcomes. Over on Twitter, University of Galway’s student union started us off with some sound advice, saying; “waterproof spray everything you own.” Peter G Werner on Facebook says to; “find a good umbrella and always have it with you.” This type of advice was shared across all our social media platforms so you know it’s worth heeding!
above: photo by Chaosheng Zhang
Finally… (and most importantly) Enjoy It!
The ultimate piece of advice all of us Galwegians can give is to enjoy every second of your time here. Oftentimes people come to Galway intending on passing through and years later find they never have the heart to leave, and who knows maybe that will be you too one day. On Facebook, Ann Byrne says; “Just love every single minute as it’s just a beautiful, friendly and wonderful place to live.“ Jess Ring adds; “You’ll never want to leave and you’ll never love living anywhere else as much ever again.” We agree wholeheartedly with all of this and to round off our advice we leave you with the words of Jamie Hutchings on Facebook, who says; “Just enjoy the sea air, the wonderful walks, the gorgeous scenery, the wonderful people and above all else... the craic... Galway is a gorgeous place.. Enjoy it.”
Give This is Galway a follow across all our platforms -Facebook, X, and Instagram- to stay in the loop of all the best events and things to do around Galway throughout the year. We’ll see you soon, safe travels!
Feature photo by Sonder Visuals via Ireland's Content Pool
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