Irish National Costums
sandwiches, cakes, or biscuits--at around 9 PM.
Socializing
The traditional Irish greeting Céad míle fáilte literally means "A hundred thousand
welcomes." However, the Irish greet one another with common English phrases such as
"Hello" and "How are you?" or more casual greetings such as 'How's it going?' The most
typical Irish greeting is Dia dhuit, which means "God be with you." Goodbye is
expressed with Slán (roughly "Go safely") or the warmer Slán agus beannacht ('Go
safely, and blessings be with you'). Greetings are generally accompanied by a firm
handshake, although in cities and among younger people it is not unusual for women to
be kissed on the cheek when greeting. The use of first names is now widespread.
Unless one knows someone well, it is usual to telephone before visiting. Rural people
are more likely than urban dwellers to drop in on friends unannounced, as was common
practice in the past
annaabi.ee 
