Ireland: US State Dept. Report

The US State Department's report on Ireland, prepared for those being posted to the Embassy in Dublin. My favourite parts:

Improvements have progressed to such an extent that ... a telephone can be installed within 6–10 weeks of application.

Traffic is heavy and people tend to drive too fast on a road network system that is out of date. Many of the main roads outside of Dublin are winding and narrow, which makes passing difficult. Irish drivers tend to drive more aggressively than drivers in the US.

Because of the cool damp climate, woolens can be worn most of the year. Even in summer, light cotton clothing is rarely worn. Irish houses are frequently cold compared to those in the U.S.

Swimming is popular among the Irish who are not deterred by the cold water.