Experience in Limerick, Ireland by Emma

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

Limerick is quite a small city, approximately 20 minutes by bus from UL (this greatly depends on traffic). It's a pretty city, with a lot going on. I really love the way the university is outside the city, yet still close enough to access it.

Source

What is the student lifestyle like in Limerick?

UL has a huge range of clubs and societies - there is honestly something for everyone! These societies have events quiet frequently and are well worth going to. Sign up to whichever ones interest you at the recruitment drive and try them! You are not obligated to attend all events (or any) if you sign up to a club or society.

How much does it cost to live in Limerick?

Ireland in general is more expensive than other European countries, however Limerick is one of the less expensive cities (a lot less expensive than Dublin, for example). Rent can vary between €90 to €120 per week. I would however advise international students to go on campus if they can. It is more expensive but everything is included, you have a good location, and you know that the accommodation will definitely be there when you get there.

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

It's not overly difficult to find accommodation, although the key is to look for it early on. If you don't get on-campus accommodation, there are many landlords in the area and you can find a list of them on the university website.

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

Lidl or Aldi are the cheapest to shop in, though they are a little bit of a walk away if you live on campus. Bring a couple of friends with you and the walk doesn't feel long at all!

Traditional Irish student food includes chicken rolls from Spar or spice bags (chips, crispy chicken, vegetables and spices) from Jumbo's Chinese.

Try an Irish breakfast during your stay! (Hook and Ladder do a nice one, and their "Piggy in the Middle" is great for breakfast too!)

What places would you recommend visiting in Limerick?

The milk market on Saturday mornings. Get there early - 9:30 or 10:00am!

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

On campus, the Plaza café in the library is nice, not too expensive, and the staff are so lovely! Stables is good too with a nice atmosphere, and Eden has a range of options that change daily.

Just off campus, La Cucina is a bit more expensive but really nice. Check their insta to see their desserts!

Marco Polo in town is really good, and during the day you can get a two course meal for €10.

Lana is a really great take away for Asian food. You can easily order take away from a range of places in the area on justeat.ie

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

Stables on campus on Fridays for international night is great! So much fun and craic, and DJ Ber is hilarious!

Clubs in town: Molly's for over 18s, or Icon for over 20s.

What advice would you give future students heading to Limerick?

Join the international society! They go on trips around the country at the weekends and have internatinal night in the campus pub every Fridays.

Join any society you're interested in!

Everyone is really helpful, so just ask if you've a problem, get lost or feel homesick.

If you need to buy a book, get it second hand from the students' union (now called UL Student Life Centre).

Bring a rain jacket and lots of layers! It rains a lot and the weather changes all the time!