2. Ireland is a fairly large country that covers 27,135 square miles. Ireland is located off the north west coast of Europe, four fifths of the island is covered by the republic of Ireland and shares the rest of the island with Northern Ireland (United Kingdom). Surrounding the middle of the island are rugged hills and mountains.

3. Snow falls rarely in Ireland and melts quickly. The North Atlantic current makes the winters very wet and soggy The coldest temperatures range from 40°F to 30°F The dampness, fog and rain make Ireland the lush green color that it is.

4. Irelands history is traced back several thousand years. The Great Potato famine devastated the country in the 1840’s killing around one million people and two million immigrated to other country's The first case of highly contagious chemicals was found among Irelands livestock in march 2001.

5. The current population of Ireland is about 4,832,765 84.5% of the population of Ireland is Irish, 9.8% are white, 1.4% are black, 1.9% Asian and 0.9% other Average life span of a male is 78 years Average life span of a women is 82 years

6. Earth tones and warm colors are more popular. Because of Irelands cooler climate woolen items are more common. If you are traveling or live in Ireland, light rainwear is necessary.

7. The Irish are warm and hospitable. Other people often get invited into someone's house for dinner. Some people like to get together at pubs. Parties are also popular around the holiday time.

8. Like most people the Irish eat three meals a day. Irish dishes are hearty, simple and delicious. Many fast food places are in Ireland. The Irish eat in the continental style with the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right.

9. Some main holidays In Ireland include new years day, St.patricks day (march 17), Easter (Friday through Monday), Labor day (May 1) Christmas and St.Stephans day(26 December). The Irish also have many parades especially in Dublin on St.patricks day.

10. Ireland produces many fresh dairy produces, fresh vegetables, bread and seafood. Potatoes are a main food in Ireland Some of Irelands specialties include smoked salmon, Irish stew, Irish lamb and local delicacies. Tea is the most common drink in Ireland

11. Ireland has a rapidly growing economy. The economy grew by 11% in 2000 and inflation was about 5 percent. Unemployment is very high. Some key crops are potatoes, sugar beets, turnips, barley, and wheat.

12. The Population of Ireland is very healthy. Throughout Ireland are many well equipped medical clinics. Most people choose private doctors so they avoid the inconvenience of waiting lists.