Driving in Ireland is certainly not for the distracted or the faint of heart. For those in the United States who have never ventured into an EU country with different road regulations, let me assure you, it is quite the experience. There are several key considerations to keep in mind when deciding to drive in a foreign country. First and foremost, is it legal? In Ireland, as in most countries, it is permissible to drive with a U.S. license.

Next, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the specifics of the country where you will be driving. This includes understanding which side of the road is used, the location of the steering wheel, and, most importantly, whether the vehicle is automatic or manual.

For us, it didn't take long to adapt, but we certainly encountered some unique and amusing moments along the way. Driving on the left side of the road requires significant mental adjustment to ensure that you consistently stay to the left. There were a few instances where I instinctively veered to the right, a realization that was quickly corrected.

However, the most memorable experience occurred during our time in Dublin. While searching for a parking garage, we followed the GPS's instructions and turned down an alley, which unexpectedly led us to Henry Street. Those familiar with this area know it as a bustling thoroughfare primarily for pedestrian traffic. In a rather typical American fashion, Miriam and I drove down Henry Street with our emergency flashers on, navigating through the crowd. The humorous aspect of this situation was that no one seemed to react, even when I stopped to ask a man planting flowers for directions to exit the street. It felt as though we had been driving there for an eternity. Following that incident, we made a concerted effort to pay closer attention to the streets and the flow of traffic in each area we encountered.

Despite the extreme cold and wind, every moment spent experiencing the natural beauty of the Cliffs of Moher was worthwhile. This site is among the most stunning locations in Ireland. Our observations suggested that much of the country’s most breathtaking land and sea scenery is concentrated along this coastline. The accompanying exhibition is also remarkable, showcasing the rich history of County Clare alongside the cliffs. Although this area attracts a significant number of tourists, accessibility was excellent. Upon our arrival, the staff recognized that Miriam required a wheelchair and were very accommodating, providing assistance with parking. Overall, it was a truly remarkable experience.