Sir, - Since I came to Dublin three weeks ago as a German student who wants to improve her English, I have encountered many aspects of Irish life that were new to me.
First of all I was struck by the friendliness and helpfulness of the people who were patient enough to explain to me which bus to take and which way to go. Moreover, I enjoyed the interesting museums and the buzzing cultural life of the city.
But I also was surprised at some aspects I hadn't expected, such as the necessity to have your exact fare ready in some buses. This is not very user-friendly towards tourists, who are not acquainted with the different Irish coins or have only notes if they are newly arrived. When I wanted to get back to the city centre one day from the Botanic Gardens I didn't know what fare I had to pay and had no coins ready. If there hadn't been this nice lady who helped me out, I'd still be there! - Yours, etc.,
Traudi Toews, Seapark, Malahide, Co Dublin.