Thinking of traveling to Ireland alone? Regardless of race, religion or gender, traveling alone in Ireland is generally quite safe. While there are some places in the world where female solo travelers face additional security threats, Ireland is definitely not one of them. In fact, Ireland could be considered as a very safe place for the female traveler. This, however, does not change the fact that single travelers should always exercise some caution, as globally, predators often attack women more than men.
Crimes against women in Ireland
While Ireland is generally a safe country to travel, it is an unfortunate fact that sexually motivated crimes against women are still on the rise in Ireland. While these general statistics include a great deal of domestic and spousal abuse, they are certainly a warning. The Justice Minister noted that the increase in reported incidents came as a result of increased public focus on #MeToo. But overall, the risk for women traveling in Ireland appears to be on par with most Central European countries, the United States, and Canada.
To put the level of crime in perspective, of all the tourists killed in Ireland in recent years, the majority were traffic victims or victims of other accidents. However, it is sobering to know that the only murder victims abroad were young women traveling alone at the time of death. Therefore, normal precautions should be taken – the same precautions that you would take in every city or country where you are a stranger.
Attitudes towards single women in Ireland
Ireland has become a much more socially progressive country in recent years, passing many new laws by public majorities that increase the rights of previously marginalized people and put the right to choose in the hands of women. No one will raise an eyebrow if you tell them that you are in Ireland traveling alone. In fact, most people will simply want to share even more advice with you.
At the same time, a single woman often seems to invite conversation, even if you’re not in the mood to talk. Men can approach women who are dining or drinking alone and strike up a conversation. This flirtatious approach is known as “chatting,” and most of the time, everything is lighthearted. Most Irish men assume that this is all part of their famous charm, and that it will easily compliment and tease women they have never met before. Joking doesn’t mean you need to continue the conversation, but for some, a refusal or lack of interest is sometimes not taken lightly.
Expect choruses of “Aw, c’moooon …”
Sex in ireland
Sex outside of wedlock was scandalous to most Irish people until relatively recently, the sexual revolution passed through the Emerald Isle several times, and for miles. This has changed dramatically in recent years and it seems that part of the population is trying to make up for lost time, occasionally. Unfortunately, neither sex education nor hygiene seem to have followed this trend.
So whatever you do, wear protection. Ideally bring your own, condoms are quite expensive in Ireland and cannot always be easily found after hours. Protection is key, but if something goes wrong, it’s good to note that emergency contraception is available (even without a prescription) in Ireland.
What part of ‘No’ don’t Irish men understand?
Irish men must often be told repeatedly (and sometimes forcefully) that the object of their desire is not interested at all. In general, it is local custom to keep trying your luck, even after being rejected, as if it were all part of the jokes.
If you feel that a man is being overly aggressive and not interested, it is perfectly acceptable to tell him bluntly. Stand your ground and take a professional approach to get the message that this is not part of some game. However, it might take a few more tries to give up.
If even a strong no doesn’t get the message across, ask for help if necessary. In public in Ireland, people are sometimes too hesitant to interfere in other people’s business, sometimes they even ignore a crime in progress. You can also try a direct approach with other people around you, asking “Could you help me, please?” Involving more people means you don’t have to face an increasingly uncomfortable situation alone, and most people are happy to help once it’s asked.
Things to avoid in Ireland
There are a few things to avoid if you are traveling solo as a woman in Ireland:
- Avoid procrastination out of courtesy: If he objects to any contact, say so clearly and walk away from him immediately.
- Avoid ambiguity: use a clear and strong “No!” and appropriate body language to make your point.
- Avoid getting drunk: if you make yourself helpless, you are a fool. Also be wary of “spiked” drinks (although a sneaky shot of vodka is often more likely than a dose of flunitrazepam).
- Avoid being alone with male strangers, especially someone who wants to show you “a shortcut.”
- Avoid hitchhiking alone.
- Avoid known trouble spots, inquire about them at your accommodation.
- Avoid following any invitation to a “house party” with strangers.
- In any case, avoid drugs – they are more than likely to impair your judgment, and there are some deadly mixes on the market, too.
And finally, never assume that everything is fine because you heard that the Irish are so kind and helpful. Possible perpetrators are everywhere, even on the Emerald Isle.
What to do in an emergency
Quickly leave any awkward situation before you have a chance to escalate. Stay away from the person or people who are harassing or threatening you, choosing a safe direction (i.e., to the bartender or a bouncer, to the nearest open establishment, to a crowd, even to the nearest front door), and make others aware of your situation.
Request police assistance as soon as possible, and raise such a fuss that witnesses cannot ignore you and feel compelled to dial 112, the emergency number.
Self defense and weapons
Due to the threat of terrorism, Ireland’s gun laws are strict; in fact, any weapon other than shotguns and hunting rifles is illegal. This includes many items traditionally used for non-lethal self defense. Tazers, stun guns, pepper spray, and similar instruments are prohibited. If you own them, let alone use them, you could find yourself in a difficult legal position. They are not approved for self defense purposes so it is best not to bring them to Ireland, keeping in mind that the best defense is to follow basic safety guidelines and stay out of potentially dangerous situations.
