When I was preparing to visit Galway, Ireland during my junior year at Saint Joseph’s University, I did a lot of research. I wanted to find out where to eat, what pubs to visit, where to stay and what people in Galway did for fun. I also knew I wanted to do some travelling throughout Europe during my time in Ireland. Therefore, I looked up airlines, bus routes, hostels and places to visit throughout Europe. Here are some tips I have for people visiting Galway from the United States.

When it comes time to book your flight, one of the most expensive parts of the trip, I suggest booking with Aer Lingus. I have found that they typically have the cheapest, most frequent and direct flights from different American cities. Aer Lingus, however, flies into two Irish airports; Dublin International Airport and Shannon International Airport. You can get to Galway from either airport; however, it is faster, easier and cheaper to get to Galway from Shannon International Airport.

When you land at Shannon International Airport, you will have to pass through customs. Don’t forget your passport, and if you’re a student studying abroad, you’ll need your admission letter from the Irish school you’ll be attending. Once you get through customs and pick up your luggage, you will head out the front of the airport and walk towards the bus stops. Here, you will wait for Bus Eirann to pick you up. Tickets can be purchased online and printed from home in advance of your trip. Students can take a bus to Galway for as little as 10.80 Euros with a student ID card.

You will want to select your lodging accommodations in advance of your trip. I stayed at Niland House Apartments through my entire stay in Galway. It is convenient, well maintained and full of students from across the world.

Before I went to Ireland, I wanted to know where the best Irish pubs were for students. My recommendations include The Quays and The King’s Head which are both on Shop Street. For a more traditional Irish pub feel, go to Monroe’s on Lower Dominick Street.

Finally, if you want to travel throughout Europe during your travels, you can find cheap air travel. Ryan Air services Shannon International Airport and Dublin International Airport. Flights can be as cheap as $15 (American) if you book on the right days – so plan your trip in advance with flexible travel dates if possible.

Enjoy your trip to Galway!