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Expat Exchange - The Insider's Guide to Galway 2024
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The Long Walk in Galway, Ireland


The Insider's Guide to Galway

By Joshua Wood, LPC

William Russell
William Russell

Summary: Living it Up in Galway: Your Insider's Guide to Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Discover the Best Recreational Activities, Connect with Friendly Locals, and Experience the Charm of the City.

Welcome to Galway! If you're planning to move to Galway, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Galway has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Galway.

Galway is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for both tourists and locals alike. From its stunning coastline to its lively pubs and restaurants, there is something for everyone. The city is known for its vibrant culture, with plenty of festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Here are some of the top sites of interest in Galway.

The Claddagh is a traditional fishing village located on the banks of the River Corrib. It is home to the iconic Claddagh Ring, which is a symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship. Visitors can explore the village and learn about its history, or take a boat tour of the river. The Galway City Museum is also located in the Claddagh, and it offers a fascinating insight into the city's past.

The Spanish Arch is a 16th century monument located on the banks of the River Corrib. It was built to protect the city from invading ships, and today it is a popular spot for tourists to take photos and admire the views. Nearby is the Galway Cathedral, a stunning Gothic-style building that dates back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore the cathedral and its grounds, or take a guided tour.

The Galway Arts Festival is one of the city's most popular events, and it takes place every July. The festival features a variety of performances, including music, theatre, and dance. There are also art exhibitions, workshops, and street performances. The festival is a great way to experience the city's vibrant culture.

The restaurant and nightlife scene in Galway is vibrant and diverse. There are plenty of pubs and restaurants to choose from, ranging from traditional Irish pubs to modern gastropubs. One of the most popular pubs is Tig Coili, which serves traditional Irish food and live music. Another popular spot is The Quays Bar, which offers a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails. For a more upscale experience, The Gourmet Tart Company serves delicious gourmet tarts and pastries.

For a night out, there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. The Róisín Dubh is a popular live music venue, and it hosts a variety of acts from around the world. The Electric Garden is a popular nightclub, and it features a variety of DJs and live music. The Skeff Late Bar is another popular spot, and it offers a wide selection of craft beers and cocktails.

Galway is also home to a variety of recreational activities. The Galway Bay Golf Resort is a popular spot for golfers, and it features an 18-hole championship course. The Galway Atlantaquaria is a great place to explore the underwater world, and it features a variety of marine life. The Galway City Karting Centre is a great spot for adrenaline junkies, and it offers a variety of go-karting tracks. For a more relaxed experience, visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the Salthill Promenade, which offers stunning views of the bay.

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Insider Tips from Expats in Galway: Making the Most of Life and Connections

"Expats living in Galway can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as sports clubs, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, joining meetup groups, or attending events hosted by the local expat community. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats in the area," said one expat living in Galway.

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"Galway is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads in Galway can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring the city's many pubs and restaurants to taking in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The city also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as plenty of opportunities to meet other expats and digital nomads. The cost of living in Galway is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to live and work abroad. With its welcoming atmosphere and abundance of activities, Galway is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for an exciting and rewarding experience," commented an expat living in Galway.

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Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

CORNERSTONE RelocationCORNERSTONE Relocation

Home finding, schooling, moving, settling-in and more for UK, London and Ireland. Cornerstone is a tech-driven, innovative relocation company. Making relocating to London, UK, Ireland and beyond a happy experience!
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.


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William Russell

William Russell
William Russell

The Long Walk in Galway, Ireland

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