The Expat must-have apps in Ireland
When I arrived in Dublin 11 years ago I didn’t know much about the country - my associations were limited to Guinness, green fields, and leprechauns … Needless to say, the learning curve was long and exhausting at times, especially because I didn’t have any idea about the culture, habits or climate of my new destination.
Avoiding unexpected surprises is key when you are moving abroad. Research, research, research!
For those of you who have recently arrived on the Emerald Isle, I strongly encourage you to embrace the adventure and figure out the best way (your way) to integrate your life, career and goals. I hope this simple selection will be helpful in your journey of converting Ireland into your HOME 🏠
I have classified my suggestions into three sections based on their purpose:
Getting around
Social life
Services on-demand
There is nothing better than being well-prepared for your first day in the capital (which quite often is the first one on a new job). Leaving the complicated apartment-chasing process, the next important piece of the puzzle is getting from point A to point B.
Getting around
Dublin Bus - having access to Real-time information (RTI), timetables and a fare calculator is a pretty good start. If you are planning to stay in the city, my recommendation is to get a Leap card that provides you with an online top-up option (if you are an Android user) and cheaper fares on all public transport. A lot of companies do provide a Taxsaver commuter ticket which is basically a tax alleviation. The LUAS is the local version of a tram that has two lines crossing the city and The DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transmit) is the train alternative. A fan of a healthier lifestyle - check Dublin bikes, a great and cost-effective way to commute in the city center (unfortunately only in certain areas and limited by the number of stations and the rush hour). If a taxi is your preference, make sure you download Free Now (the former Hailo) - just create a profile, add your payment details and don’t forget to tip your drivers. No cash is needed, great for those late nights on Camden Street! And probably one of the best things about living in the Irish capital is the fact that this is Ryanair’s HQ! Tons of promo flight options and deals from €14,99 for a one-way trip to London.
If you’re planning a longer trip (in or out of the city) or perhaps a countryside visit, renting a car or hopping in a GoCar (you can even get a minivan if you are moving out/in. The only downfall is that you have to return the car in more or less the same place you picked it up from) or DriveYou. Once you are comfortable driving in the city, the important app (if you don’t have tons of coins in your pocket for the street machines) is Parking Tag where you register the vehicle plate and pay for the public parking spots per minute.
2. Social life
Now, whether you are a fan of cinema, theatre, musicals, or sports events - there are several resources with easy access and a lot of (free) activities: Let’s start with Eventbrite & Ticketmaster. Both have free mobile apps and Eventbrite even allows you to create events yourself (if they are free, there is no fee!) and manage them through an additional app. Meetup is an alternative if you are looking to join a specific group of interest (Dublin Tech specialists or Yoga enthusiasts Dublin for example) - most don’t require any payment unless it is mentioned, so it is good to find like-minded people - if you become a part of a group, you do get access to other members and can socialize with them directly.
Knowing what is happening around you in terms of business, politics, economy, etc. is also a way to engage with this new culture - I personally found The Journal as a good option to keep myself updated occasionally.
Living Social is your go-to for buying vouchers for various activities, trying new restaurants, or buying 50 rolls of toilet paper if you have a family of 5 (😳 yes, that is a real thing).
3. Services on-demand
Miss your local cuisine? Dublin has a great food scene for the food lovers, although most of the delivery options are focused on American (burgers, BBQ), Asian (Chinese, Japanese, Indian, Thai), or Italian options (mostly pizza). Just Eat, Deliveroo and Uber Eat are the common apps to order a delicious dinner for a friend gathering or a stay-at-home Friday.
In case you are more of a home cooking person, but the closest Dunnes or Tesco are far - Buymie can be your best friend as they deliver groceries from these two stores (for now). It is a straightforward process and can save you carrying 15 kg of potatoes, carrots, and other heavy veggies/fruits …
Cleaning is never a favorite activity - especially if you are moving into a new flat or you have to leave your present one (a lot of landlords and agencies require a final thorough cleaning of the apartment in order to release your deposit). Helpling is an affordable online option where you can select your cleaner, desired time slot and get the invoice right away.
Do you have something to sell or looking for second-hand furniture? Adverts.ie (or DoneDeal) is the perfect online shop with no fees involved. You can learn more about the buyers/sellers from their ratings and make a decision based on the available information, price, and distance.
Last but definitely not least, make sure you download the free applications for your utility providers (gas, electricity, mobile phone, internet, bin collection, etc.) - this way you will ensure you don’t miss important updates, deadlines, renewals, or promotions.
Are you new to the Irish reality, or planning to relocate soon? Let’s work together and ensure you have a smooth start and experience from Day 1!
Full disclaimer: The article is a personal selection based on fellow expats’ choices and the apps in the Apple store. There are plenty of alternatives and useful options out there for you to explore!