I am currently in my third week of an Erasmus+ work placement in Ireland, where I am working in a car repair shop. Part of the program involves keeping a journal where we note the differences between Ireland and the Czech Republic. Every day I experience something new, and I would like to share a few observations that stood out to me during my stay.
Transport and Daily Life
One of the first things that struck me upon arrival was driving on the left side of the road. It took me a while to get used to cars driving “on the opposite side,” and as a pedestrian, I had to be more careful when crossing the street. Another difference is the currency – Ireland uses the euro, which is convenient when traveling around Europe, but at first, I had to convert prices back into Czech crowns.
As for transport, I encountered one disadvantage – bus service here isn’t very reliable. Even though the buses are modern, they often don’t run on time or at all. In the Czech Republic, the public transport system is better organized and more punctual.
People and Everyday Interactions
Regarding the people, I must say that the Irish are incredibly friendly, welcoming, and willing to help. If you get lost or need advice, almost anyone will start a conversation with you right away and try to help. In contrast, people in the Czech Republic tend to be more reserved and less open to strangers.
Education and Teaching Differences
I also noticed differences in education. Every day on my way to work, I see students in uniform school clothes. Unlike in the Czech Republic, where we don’t wear uniforms, this is completely normal here. I also found it interesting that the school day starts around nine in the morning and ends between 3 and 5 PM, which is significantly later than back home.
Conclusion
Overall, Ireland has left a very positive impression on me. Although some things work differently here than in the Czech Republic, I quickly got used to it. People are more open and friendly, which makes the stay more pleasant. And even though I sometimes miss the punctuality of Czech transport or paying in crowns, every country has its advantages and charm. I’m glad I have the opportunity to be here and see it all with my own eyes.
Jakub Repa
