Experience in Cork, Ireland by Ioana

What is it like to live in Cork? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

I have been living in Cork in the last 10 years and Cork had given me the best of what I was expecting from a city. Cork has a wonderful variety of places to try different types of food as we are a multi cultural country, numerous tourists sights in Cork City and outside of Cork, even if you don't have a car, the transport is great. If you like to go out with your friends during the week or in weekend there are many places to choose from like pubs and night clubs, or if you don't want to go 'wild', then cinema, Opera House plus lots of other events are going on all the time. Tip: check the small magazine called "What's on" for all the events.

What is the student lifestyle like in Cork?

To take advantage of a student lifestyle you need to make friends first, and I can tell you Irish people are not shy at all. Lots of students are going out specially other the weekend or there will be lots of other events organised by college where students go out and have fun.

How much does it cost to live in Cork?

Ireland is considered one of the most expensive country to live in, but it's manageable. Just need to know how to calculate your budget well and you'll be fine. If you like to cook from scratch it's even better, this way you can bring your own lunches and save money.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Cork? Is there any advice you can give?

Cork is dealing with a high demand of accommodation, so I would advice to look for an accommodation earlier (don't leave it till the last minute). Darft.ie is a our national site where people advertise rooms available, so it would be handy to check this website too, but also college might be able to provide more information about accommodation.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Cork is a multinational city and you will come across with different types of dishes from Asian to Mexican foods, but you can't beat some of the traditional dishes like Irish Stew or Fish and Chips.

What places would you recommend visiting in Cork?

Well, depends what you like. If you want something in Cork City..English Market, Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, Blackrock Castel, Crawford Gallery, Shandon Bell, Fitzgerald Park for a nice walk. Outside Cork City...highly recommend Kinsale, Cobh, Barney Castel, Youghal...

Is it good to eat out in Cork? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Oh yes, and also depends on your budget, but you can't beat Oyster Tavern, Market Lane, Cornerstore Restaurant, Quinlans Restaurant, Ramen is an asian chain food restaurant (try the deal 6 before 6) = it means 6 euro before 6 o'clock.

Is the nightlife good in Cork? Where is good to go?

Pretty much every night Cork city is a full buzz, but to enjoy you need to go to Tom Barry's (also nice pizza), Franciscan Well Brewery & Brewpub, Electric.

What advice would you give future students heading to Cork?

Get a Student Leap Card which it will give you a lower fee on Transport. Enjoy and have fun! Cork is wonderful people, food, places...you'll fall in love with it.