Visitors from all nations are welcome to Ireland. However, you  need a valid passport to enter the country. Certain visitors need in addition a VISA. Please consult your travel agent or the Irish Embassy well in advance before traveling. You may check your status at: http://www.dfa.ie/home/index.aspx?id=8777 Please apply for your Visa as soon as possible.  In addition, you must contact Ashley Piggins at ashley.piggins@nuigalway.ie in order to receive an official letter confirming that you are attending the conference.  This letter forms part of your Visa application. Currency: The currency of Ireland is the Euro which is made up of 100 cents, for daily exchange rates check,    http://www.ecb.int/stats/eurofxref/eurofxref-xml.html Smoking:  Smoking is now forbidden in all enclosed places of work. This includes office blocks, various buildings, public houses/bars, restaurants. Time Zone: Ireland operates on GMT+1 (known as BST).  Tipping: Many hotels and restaurants include a service charge of 10% to your bill. A small tip of 10% is appreciated for good service if a service charge is not applied. Tipping is not expected in pubs. Power sockets: Like the UK, Ireland uses power sockets with 3 square pins.  Further information at http://www.dochara.com/info/electricity/index.php