Moving to Ireland with your family

Hi

I have moved to ireland 14 years ago. I only had my son and myself to take care of. i did not move over here initially to settle down, I just took a year out to see what it would be like to work in ireland. it was quite an adjustment given the climate and a few smaller issues. Having had a job in place and a place to live the agency which brought me here pretty much did the hard work for me. I was one of the luckier ones. I did however find the climate harsh and the constant rain and darkness compared with coming from a dry and brighter climate  unbearable to say the least. I was ready to pack my bags shortly after arriving here.
The pub culture did not grab me at all and I still don't socialize hanging out in pubs. I was not prepared for just how much the climate would and still does affect me. I knew I was only coming for a short stay and not forever. It was hard to socialise if you are not a regular drinker or like hanging out in pubs. It was hard to make friends. I met a few expats like myself and we did what south africans do. If you move here with your family its a little easy but for a single parent or person it is very difficult to adjust. Young children going to school means you meet other families and parents but for a single person its harder. You cannot really prepare for things like the weather, you either love it or hate it.  As far as the irish people is concerned, they are not the worst and/or  best at making people feel at home. you just have to find your way and a way of fitting in. I met my husband here hence I am still here.  It took 5 years to adjust to living here. I am still not use to the weather but I bare it because 2 hours from here the sun shines a bit better. Best way is not to expect too much on arrival and you will be ok. Get use to the green fields and plentiful rain. Thats ireland for Ye!