Irish Pubs

Wherever you are in the world, you will always receive a warm welcome in Irish pubs. They pop up in the most unexpected places, there's even one in Kabul in Afghanistan. Called The Irish Pub of Kabul, it is run by an Australian. No one is allowed to be gloomy in these pubs. The Guinness flows and the craic, an Irish term for chatting with your buddies, keeps everyone entertained.

A friendly game of darts is a good way of getting to know the locals in Ireland. If you're lucky, there may be a traditional Irish folk group, complete with penny whistle, flute and fiddle. Food in Irish pubs tends to be good, wholesome meals like Irish Stew or Coddle, a dish of sausage, bacon, potatoes and onion.

The international pubs fall into two categories, those that are Irish owned and those that are not but have a general Irish theme. There are around 100 of these pubs in Rome and Florence in Italy for example. Irish and British expats are fond of congregating in these pubs all over the world. Sometimes, the attraction is for soccer matches from home, shown on the big screen. Before the evening is out, an Irish person, nostalgic for home and misty eyed, may sing a few verses of Danny Boy to a hushed crowd.

There is a little piece of Ireland in Shenzhen, China. McCawley's Irish Bar and Restaurant has put the shamrock in the Orient. There is an extensive menu that includes Beef and Guinness Pie and punters can take a souvenir away in the form of a rugby shirt, coffee mug or leprechaun hat with the bar's logo. Other Asian countries have their Irish pubs, as in Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and especially in Japan, where there are several.

In the desert heat of Dubai, the thirsty can go to The Irish Village pub for refreshment. The traditionally built pub is part of the expat community, which also supports a Dubai Irish society. The Irish singer and fundraiser, Bob Geldof recently gave a concert there. In contrast, Iceland has a pub that will warm visitors on the coldest night. Paddy's Irish Pub is located in Keflavik and sells draught Guinness and Kilkenny beer. The owners show soccer matches from Europe and there is live music throughout the week.

There are, in fact, few countries that don't have Irish pubs of some sort. They are most warmly welcomed on St. Patrick's Day, when thoughts turn to home. It's time to raise a glass, put on a big, silly heart and sing your heart out. The Irish have roamed all over the world and it's good to connect with home every so often.

Summary

Visiting Irish pubs is like coming home. Warm welcomes come from everywhere! Irish pubs can be found all over the world, including England, France, Italy, and even China. Some are owned by Irish people while others have an Irish themed decor. Visit one and bring your singing voice.

Related Sites