Irish Getaways Blog
Discover Ireland through local insights, travel guides, and cultural stories
Irish Surnames Explained: Maps, Clans & The "O" and "Mac"
What does your Irish surname mean? We explain the difference between "O" and "Mac," map the most common clans (Murphy, Kelly, Ryan), and debunk the myth of "Irish Tartans.
DNA Testing for Irish Roots: Ancestry vs. 23andMe vs. MyHeritage
Taken a DNA test? We explain which database is best for finding Irish cousins (Ancestry vs. MyHeritage), how to interpret your "ethnicity estimate," and why DNA alone won't get you citizenship.
Irish Census & Parish Records: A Guide to the Archives
A complete guide to the Irish National Archives. Learn how to search the 1901/1911 Census, navigate Catholic Parish Registers, and use "Census Substitutes" like Griffith's Valuation.
The Emigration Trail: Cobh, The Famine Ships & The Diaspora
Retrace the steps of the 6 million who left Ireland. We guide you through the historic port of Cobh (Queenstown), the Famine Ships of Dublin, and the story of the Irish Diaspora.
How to Find and Visit Ancestral Graves in Ireland
Searching for an ancestor's grave in Ireland? We explain how to locate the right churchyard, the etiquette of cleaning old headstones, and what to do if the grave is unmarked.
Irish Citizenship by Descent: Do You Qualify? (2026 Rules)
Want an Irish Passport? We explain the "Grandparent Rule," the Foreign Births Register (FBR), and why great-grandchildren usually don't qualify. A complete guide to the documents you need.
Visiting Your Ancestral Townland: How to Plan the Ultimate Trip Home
Planning a trip to find your Irish roots? We explain how to locate your ancestral townland, why GPS won't help you, and the etiquette of knocking on farm doors.
Hiring a Genealogist vs. DIY: Is It Worth the Cost?
Stuck on your Irish family tree? We compare the costs of DIY research vs. hiring a professional. Learn about hourly rates (€70-€90), hidden archives, and when to call in the experts.
How to Start Your Irish Family Tree: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners
Want to find your Irish roots? We explain the first steps, from talking to older relatives to navigating the 1901 Census. Learn how to break through the "1922 Fire" brick wall.