text:
Iriomote

Iriomote (西表) is the largest of the Yaeyama Islands of Okinawa, Japan.

Understand
While the second-largest of all Okinawa islands, Iriomote's population is barely over 2,000 and visitors, at over 150,000 a year, outnumber residents by almost 100:1. 90% of the island is covered in dense jungles and swampy mangroves, most of which are either part of the Iriomote National Park or protected state land, and the island is unquestionably one of the few remaining great wildernesses of Japan. Together with Tokunoshima, Amami Oshima and the northern part of the Okinawa Island it was listed as a natural world heritage site by UNESCO in 2021.

Pretty much all of the island's population lives along the coast. Clockwise from the west, the major settlements are Shirahama (白浜), Uehara (上原), Funaura (船浦) and Ōhara (大原). The southern stretch between Ohara and Shirahama is effectively untouched coastline, with no roads and only a few isolated fishing villages near the western end.

Get in
Despite its size Iriomote does not even have a landing strip, so all visitors must arrive by boat. The nearest airport is in neighboring Ishigaki.

Two ports on the island have services from Ishigaki, operated by Anei Kankō and Yaeyama Kankō Ferry (which share tickets offices and boat schedules), and by Ishigaki Dream Kankō Ferry. Almost all visitors use the rapid services listed below, but dedicated penny-pinchers may opt for Yaeyama's thrice-weekly slow cargo boats to Ohara (2 hours, ¥1,070) and Uehara via Hatoma (3 hours, ¥1,380) instead. Round-trip tickets are generally available at about 10% discount.

East coast
Ohara, in the south-east coast, is the busiest port on the island and accessible in all but the very worst weather. Anei, Yaeyama and Ishigaki Dream operate boats roughly hourly for a fixed ¥1,540 and take about 35 minutes.

Northwest coast
Anei and Yaeyama boats both service to Uehara in the north of the island. Both services cost ¥2,000 and take about 40 minutes. Some of them also stop in Hatoma, which makes the trip 15 minutes longer. Ishigaki Dream also offers this route, but its two daily ferries stop in Hatoma and the whole trip takes around 70-80 minutes (¥1,420).

Note that northwest coast services are subject to cancellation (欠航 kekkō) if there is a strong north wind, which happens particularly frequently in the winter (in autumn-winter 2016, on average half the time). In this case your ¥2,000 will get you to Ohara by boat and then a free bus transfer to anywhere between Ohara and Shirahama. In case of cancellation for the return to Ishigaki, allow one hour to go by bus from Uehara to Ohara where you will be able to take a ferry (which follows Ohara schedule); relevant timetables for buses and ferries available at the An-ei Kanko website.

Get around
The port Uehara is probably your preferred place to start exploring the island. Most sights are relatively easy to reach from here. Bike, scooter, and car rental are found near the harbor. Public transport on Iriomote is rather limited, but most lodges on the island offer free transfers to/from the nearest port, and both Anei and Yaeyama operate free shuttle services timed to meet ferry departures.

By bus
Iriomote Kōtsū runs 5 services per day in each direction from Shirahama to Funaura (30 min, ¥390), 3 of which continue across the north coast to Ohara on the east (from Funaura 50 min, ¥670). Tell the driver where you're going when getting on and pay when you get off. A three-day bus pass costs ¥1,000.

On foot
The 20 km-long and demanding "Iriomote-jima Island Nature Trail" crosses the island. The southern terminus is over 1 km from the Ohara port, and not labeled well, so a north-to-south passage, beginning with the Urauchi River cruise, is the recommended route. The jungle is home to habu vipers, which though rare, are venomous. After a Japanese hiker went missing in 2003, signs now ask hikers attempting the cross-island hike to notify the local police department in advance.

By car
You can rent a scooter or car at several locations on the island. Depending on the rental shop, an international driving permit alone may not suffice, and an official Japanese translation may be required.

By bike
If all else fails or you like the idea, you can rent a bike. Locks are usually not necessary and as a result you won't get one with your rental. Bikes are cheap (as low as ¥500), but make sure you get a bike that fits your needs. The Uehara Service Station rents bicycles with several gears and an integrated lock. They are comfortable for taller people, and multi-day rental is possible.

See
Around a third of the island is designated as the Iriomote National Park (西表国立公園 Iriomote-kokuritsukōen), the only national park in all of Okinawa. The park's most famous denizen is the Iriomote wildcat (イリオモテヤマネコ Iriomote yamaneko), an endangered creature found only on this island. Alas, the critter is nocturnal and very rarely seen. Other more readily viewable flora and fauna include the giant mangrove trees known as sakishimasuo-no-ki, a range of water birds, and lizards, including Japan's largest lizard, a skink, reaching up to 2 feet in length.

There are boat trips available on the Urauchi River, on the west side of the island, and the Nakama River, on the east side. A 70-minute cruise up the Nakama River ends at a giant mangrove tree said to be the largest and oldest in Japan. For jungle rivers minus the tour groups, head for Maira (前良), Shiira (後良) on the east coast or Yutsun (ユツン) on the north coast. All are suitable for canoeing.

 * The most popular option is offered by many local tour operators and hotels who offer tours where you kayak up the river and then hike (~30 minutes) to get to the bottom of the falls. This requires a decent fitness level and is the easiest way to reach the falls. From the bottom there is a rather demanding path to hike up to the top. This is usually not part of the Kayak tour. Make sure to inquire ahead if this is on your list. One of the companies that have English speaking guides is GreenRiver.
 * Hire a guide or take a tour to go to the top and basin of this fall, it will take about 6-7 hours in round trip.
 * It is possible to hike from a parking lot close to the kayaks to the top of the waterfall by foot on your own. This requires walking through deep jungle, crossing through rivers by foot, walking muddy paths, using the occasional hand to get up some steep passages (some ropes are present), as well as a very good level of fitness. Proper shoes and plenty of water are recommended. If you are unsure you should not attempt this by yourself but hire a guide. The entrance to the path is tricky to find (a video guide and some GPS coordinates can be found on this page [German]). The hike takes 2-3 hours round trip. The views from the top are stunning. There is a steep path down to the base of the waterfall. However, you will need to hike it back up to get out, so factor in that extra time.
 * Hire a guide or take a tour to go to the top and basin of this fall, it will take about 6-7 hours in round trip.
 * It is possible to hike from a parking lot close to the kayaks to the top of the waterfall by foot on your own. This requires walking through deep jungle, crossing through rivers by foot, walking muddy paths, using the occasional hand to get up some steep passages (some ropes are present), as well as a very good level of fitness. Proper shoes and plenty of water are recommended. If you are unsure you should not attempt this by yourself but hire a guide. The entrance to the path is tricky to find (a video guide and some GPS coordinates can be found on this page [German]). The hike takes 2-3 hours round trip. The views from the top are stunning. There is a steep path down to the base of the waterfall. However, you will need to hike it back up to get out, so factor in that extra time.

Do
Snorkeling and scuba diving are very popular. There is a lot of virgin coral, particularly on the southern coast. Dolphins can frequently be spotted in the summer and Ishigaki's famed mantas also make an occasional appearance here. Dive operations are clustered on the northern shore around Uehara and Funaura. You can get leaflets of some of them at the Uehara Ferry Terminal. Furthermore, canoeing is also very attractive, and you will find and touch magnificent mangrove forest, beautiful waterfalls and plenty of unique plants and creatures.

 * At the end of the 8-km cruise you can disembark at Gunkan-iwa Rock and trek for half an hour through the jungle down a well-trod path to a viewing pavilion (展望台 tenbōdai) with views of the Mariyudu Waterfalls (マリユドゥの滝 Mariyudu-no-taki). The paths can be quite muddy so boots can be useful (they will lend you some if you come back by canoe).
 * Another 10 minutes from here the trail descends to the upper level of the falls. As of 2016, this section of the path is roped off due to a fallen tree.
 * 5 more minutes down the main trail will take you to the Kanbirē Waterfalls (カンビレーの滝 Kanbirē-no-taki). The cross-island trail starts from here.
 * 5 more minutes down the main trail will take you to the Kanbirē Waterfalls (カンビレーの滝 Kanbirē-no-taki). The cross-island trail starts from here.

Buy
The Yamaneko wildcat may be elusive in real life, but it's difficult to avoid in souvenir shops, which plaster the poor creature on every surface imaginable. Many Yamaneko souvenirs are also sold on Ishigaki.

Eat and drink
Iriomote has a scattering of places to eat, most of which double up as izakaya watering holes in the evening. But be aware that it's easy to find yourself wanting to eat lunch with no lunch in the vicinity. Though Uehara offers more tourist-targeted food options, Ohara is the larger settlement on the island, with a number of bars and restaurants.

Local specialties include pineapple and the smaller, sweeter local variety, the peach-pineapple (ピーチパイン), available only in the summer, as well as coconut crab (ヤシガニ, yashigani), the ferocious-looking armor-plated main battle tank of the crab world (from ¥3000 per critter). If you stroll along the island's trails, you will probably see traces of wild boar, and perhaps some caught in a trap. Its meat is available in izakaya (even as sashimi!). Fruits and vegetables are often available at unmanned roadside stalls.

Sleep

Accommodation in Iriomote is typically either very expensive or very cheap in old houses.

Connect
Softbank has 3G and 4G coverage in populated areas and around the coasts, but much of the interior of the island lacks coverage.

Go next
Head back to Ishigaki by boat, and from there you can explore the rest of the Yaeyama Islands or Okinawa.

title: Iriomote


text:
Iris

There is more than one place called Iris:

United States of America

 * Iris (South Carolina) — a location near Abbeville, Old 96 District
 * Iris (California), a community in the United States
 * Iris (West Virginia), a community in the United States

Others

 * Iris (Cluj-Napoca), a district in Romania
 * Iris (Prince Edward Island), a community in Canada
 * Iris Bay, in South Georgia, British Overseas Territory
 * Glen Iris (disambiguation), several places

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Iris


text:
Irish phrasebook

Irish (Gaeilge) is one of the three Goidelic languages, the others being Scottish Gaelic and Manx. This Goidelic (or Gaelic) branch, together with the Brythonic branch (Welsh, Cornish and Breton), form the Celtic language family. Irish is compulsory in schools in the Republic of Ireland, but spoken as a first language only by a minority of the Irish population. It is also taught in Catholic schools in Northern Ireland, but is in general much rarer than in the Republic. Practically all native Irish speakers are also able to speak English, so learning Irish is not necessary to communicate. That said, many place names and personal names are in Irish, so at the very least, knowledge of Irish pronunciation is useful for getting around and meeting people. If you plan to visit a Gaeltacht, an area where Irish is the main language of communication, it is a very good idea to at least learn the basics. This shows respect to the local people you meet, and will almost certainly open doors for you that remain shut to tourists who only speak English.

Some features of Irish, which it has in common with other Celtic languages, but which may strike learners as odd are:
 * 'mutations': sounds change, often at the beginning of words, as part of the grammar, e.g. cat 'cat', but mo chat 'my cat'
 * the verb is usually at the beginning of the sentence
 * prepositional pronouns that are conjugated, e.g. agam 'at me', agat 'at you', etc.

Outside of Ireland, the language is often referred to as Gaelic, but this is an error conflating Irish with its two sister languages. People in Ireland always refer to the language as Irish when speaking English.

Pronunciation guide
There are three major dialects in Irish, named for the three provinces in the north (Ulster, major cities Derry and Belfast), west (Connacht, major city Galway) and south (Munster, major cities Cork, Limerick, Waterford) of the island. The eastern province, (Leinster, major cities Dublin, Kilkenny), no longer has its own distinct dialect. The Caighdeán Oifigiúl (kaigh-DAWN iffig-OOL, official standard) has been in place since the mid-20th century after spelling was 'regularised' (to an extent). This is the official Irish that appears in phrasebooks and in Government publications. It is largely the same as the Munster dialect, with a very few exceptions. There are great differences in pronunciation between the dialects, with Munster differing the most from the other two. For example 'tá go maith', 'yes indeed' is pronounced 'TAY guh MAIGH' in Ulster but 'TAW guh MAH' in Connacht and Munster. There are also differences in the phrases used in everyday speech. In the phrasebook below, the Munster phrase has been used except where indicated. The conjugation of verbs, too, differs from dialect to dialect. Munster uses a contracted form in the past and present first person and in the third person of all three tenses. For example 'tá mé' ('TAW MAY', I am) is 'táim' ('TAW'm') in Munster, and 'bhí mé' (VEE MAY, I was) is 'bhíos' (VEE-us) in Munster.

Vowels
These are the pronunciations of the vowels when stressed (stress with word-initial). Unstressed short vowels (not marked with an accent) are generally pronounced like an 'uh' sound.

 * a : like 'o' in "cod"
 * á : like 'aw' in "flaw"
 * e : like 'e' in "peg"
 * é : like 'ay' in "hay"
 * i : like 'i' in "tin"
 * í : like 'ee' in "heel"
 * o : like 'u' in "bud"
 * ó : like 'o' in "home"
 * u : like 'u' in "bud"
 * ú : like 'oo' in "cool"

 * note: vowel combinations/diphthongs in Irish (e.g. 'Gaeilge, 'seachtain) are slightly rounded and pronounced in the back of the mouth without using the lips at all. (e.g. 'Gaeilge' should not, strictly speaking, be pronounced with a w after the g.) Thus, correct pronunciation can be obtained only from imitating spoken Irish, but the pronunciation guide given here is an adequate enough approximation in that by using it, you will be perfectly understood by any Irish speaker.

Consonants
Consonant combinations with h are sometimes written with a dot (séimhiú, shay-VOO) on the letter instead of the h and are sometimes silent. All consonants have two versions called caol (narrow, palatalized) and leathan (wide, velarized) (except for h, which is neither palatalized or velarized); this is indicated in writing by adjacent vowels.

As a rule, if the nearest vowel is a, o, or u, the consonant is broad. If the nearest vowel is e or i, it is slender.

 * b : like bed
 * bh : like W sound when broad; like a V sound when slender
 * c : like kid when broad; like the ty in Hungarian when slender (does not occur in English)
 * ch : as is Scottish 'loch' when broad; like high or German ich when slender
 * d : like dog but sometimes slightly softer, like the Icelandic ð or th in them, often like the English 'j' when followed by an 'e' or 'i'
 * dh : voiced h sound when broad, y when slender; sometimes vague gh sound (Munster dialect especially), always silent after long vowels
 * f : like fun
 * fh : silent (except in Ulster, where it's said like an h)
 * g : like go when broad; like the gy in Hungarian when slender (does not occur in English, with the closest approximation probably being the d in the French dure)
 * gh : see dh
 * h : like help
 * l : like lean
 * m : like mother
 * mh : same as bh but slightly softer
 * n : like nice
 * ng : like sing when broad and word initial (follow with a broad g otherwise); like onion when slender and word initial (follow with a slender g otherwise)
 * p : like pig
 * ph : like phone or whom
 * r : like rat when broad; like zh sound in vision when slender
 * s : like soon when broad; like sheen when slender
 * sh : like hear
 * t : like th in 'the', or occasionally like t in 'tin', depending on its placement in the word; sometimes pronounced as the English 'ch' in China when slender
 * th : like hear

Common diphthongs
Diphthongs are generally irregular and can be learned only by experience. For example, 'ai' in "Corcaigh" (the city and county of Cork) is pronounced like the 'i' in "dig" but the 'ai' in "faic" (nothing) is pronounced like the 'a' in "hack", and the 'ai' in "haigh!" (hi!, transliteration of a loan-word) is pronounced like the 'i' in "high".

Phrase list
There are differences in the phrases used in everyday speech in the different provinces. In the phrasebook below, the Munster phrase has been used except where indicated. The conjugation of verbs, too, differs from dialect to dialect. Munster uses a contracted form in the past and present first person and in the third person of all three tenses. For example 'tá mé' ('TAW MAY', I am) is 'táim' ('TAW'm') in Munster, and 'bhí mé' (VEE MAY, I was) is 'bhíos' (VEE-us) in Munster.

Basics
(plural) Cé as sibh? ("Kay ahss shiv?")
 * Hello. : Dia dhuit (DEE-a GHWIT) [Shortened form of, 'Go mbeannaí Dia dhuit', literal meaning is, 'May God bless you']
 * the response to this greeting is : Dia is Muire dhuit (DEE-a iSS MWIRR-a Gwit) [literally  (May) God and (The Virgin) Mary bless you]
 * How are you? : Conas atá tú? (CUNN-us a-TAW too?)
 * I'm well. : Táim go maith (TAW'm guh MAH)
 * What is your name? : Cad is ainm duit? (COD iss ANNim dit?)
 * My name is ______ . : ______ is ainm dom (_____ iss annim dum)
 * Nice to meet you. : Deas bualadh leat. (JAHSS BOO-lah laht)
 * Please. : Le do thoil (singular), Le bhur dtoil (plural). (LE do HULL, LE wur DULL)
 * Thank you/you (pl.). : Go raibh maith agat/agaibh. (GUH ROH MAH ug-ut/ug-iv)
 * You're welcome (in response to 'thank you'. : Go ndéanaí mhaith duit/daoibh (singular/plural). ("Goh nyae-nee wah ditch/dee-iv") or : Tá fáilte romhat/romhaibh. (TAW FOIL-chyeh ROWt/ ROW-iv)
 * Yes. : 'Sea (SHAA; note that there is no real translation for yes and no in Irish - the words here literally mean 'it is'. People usually use the question verb again in their replies, in the positive or negative, in the same tense, voice and person as the question was asked.)
 * No. : Ní hea (Nee haa; literally, 'it is not'. See note for 'Yes'.)
 * Excuse me. : Gabh mo leithscéal. (Goh mah lesh-kyale)
 * I'm sorry. : Tá brón orm. (TAW BROHN urr-im)
 * Goodbye : Slán (Slawn)
 * I can't speak Irish [well]. : Níl Gaeilge [mhaith] agam. (neel GWAYL-geh [wah] ug-um)
 * Do you speak English? : An bhfuil Béarla agat? (ahn will BAYR-la ug-ut?)
 * Is there someone here who speaks English? : An bhfuil Béarla ag éinne anseo? (ahn will BAYR-la egg AYN-ya on-SHUH?)
 * Help! : Fóir dom! (Fore dum!)
 * Look out! : Bí curamach (BEE KOOR-mukh!)
 * Good morning. : Maidin maith. (mah-jin mah)
 * Good evening. : Tráthnóna maith. (Trah-no-nuh my)
 * Good night. : Oíche mhaith. (EE-hah wah)
 * I don't understand. : Ní thuigim. (NEE HIGG-im)
 * Where is the toilet? : Cá bhfuil an leithreas? (CAW will ahn LEH-HER-as?)
 * Where are you from? (singular): Cá as duit? (CAW oss ditch?) OR Cé as thú? ("Kay ahss hoo?")

Problems

 * Leave me alone. : Lig dom. (ligg dum)
 * Don't touch me! : Ná bain dom! (NAW bine dum!)
 * I'll call the police. : Cuirfidh mé fios ar na Gardaí!. (KIRR-EE may FISS air nah gard-EE!)
 * Police! : Gardaí! (guard-EE!) (The literal translation of Gardai is 'Keepers')
 * Stop! Thief! : Stad! Gadaí! (STODD! god-EE!!)
 * I need your help (singular). : Tá do chabhair de dhíth orm. (TAW doh KHOWER deh YEE urr-um) (KH is guttural, OWER is like English "tower")
 * It's an emergency. : Is éigeandáil í. (Iss AE-GUN-dall EE.)
 * I'm lost. : Táim caillte. (TAW'M kyle-cheh)
 * I lost my bag. : Chaill mé mo mhála. (KYLE may muh WALL-a)
 * I lost my wallet. : Chaill mé mo thiachog. (KYLE may muh HEE-UH-Hohg)
 * I'm sick. : Tá mé tinn. (Taw may chin)
 * I've been injured. : Táim gortaithe. (TAWM GORT-i-HAH)
 * I need a doctor. : Tá dochtúir a dhíobháil orm. (Taw DOCH-TOOR deh YEE urr-im) (dochtúir is guttural)
 * Can I use your phone? : An bhfuil cead agam do ghutháin a úsáíd? (ON will KYAD a-GUM duh ghuh-HAWN a OO-SOYD?)

Numbers

 * 1 : aon (Ayon)
 * 2 : dó (doe)
 * 3 : trí (tree)
 * 4 : ceathar (cah-har)
 * 5 : cúig (koo-igg)
 * 6 : sé (shay)
 * 7 : seacht (shokht)
 * 8 : ocht (okt)
 * 9 : naoi (nay)
 * 10 : deich (deh)
 * 11 : aon déag (Ayon DAYeg)
 * 12 : dó dhéag (doe yAYog)
 * 13 : trí déag (tree DAYog)
 * 14 : ceathar déag (cah-har DAYog)
 * 15 : cúig déag (coo-igg DAYog)
 * 16 : sé déag (shay DAYog)
 * 17 : seacht déag (shokt DAYog)
 * 18 : ocht déag (ukt DAYog)
 * 19 : naoi déag (nay DAYog)
 * 20 : fiche (fih-ha)
 * 21 : fiche h-aon (fih-ah hAyon)
 * 22 : fiche dó (fih-ah doe)
 * 23 : fiche trí (fih-ah tree)
 * 30 : triocha (truck-ah)
 * 40 : daichead (dah-head)
 * 50 : caoga (KWAY-ga)
 * 60 : seasca (shas-ca)
 * 70 : seachto (shokt-oe)
 * 80 : ochto (UKT-oe)
 * 90 : nocha (noe-KA)
 * 100 : céad (kay-ahd)
 * 200 : dhá chéad (ghaw kay-ahd)
 * 300 : trí chéad (tree kay-ahd)
 * 1000 : míle (mee-leh)
 * 2000 : dhá mhíle (ghaw vee-leh)
 * 1,000,000 : milliún (mill-yewn)
 * number _____ (train, bus, etc.) : uimhir a _____ (iv-urr ah)
 * half : leath (lah)
 * less : níos lú (nee-uss loo)
 * more : níos mó (nee-uss moe)

Time

 * now : anois (ann-ish)
 * later : níos déanaí (nee-uss DAY-nee)
 * before : roimh (riv)
 * morning : maidin (moj-in)
 * afternoon : iarnóin (ear-NOE-inn)
 * evening : tráthnóna (tráthnóna)
 * night : oíche (EE-hah)

Clock time

 * one o'clock AM : haon a chlog ar maidin (HAY-ann ah klug err MOJ-in)
 * two o'clock AM : dó a chlog ar maidin (DOE ah klug err MOJ-in)
 * noon : nóin (noe-inn)
 * one o'clock PM : haon a chlog san iarnóin (HAY-ann ah klug san ear-NOE-inn)
 * two o'clock PM : dó a chlog san iarnóin (DOE ah klug san ear-NOE-inn)
 * midnight : meanoíche (mann EE-hah)

Duration

 * _____ minute(s) : _____ nóiméad (NOE-made)
 * _____ hour(s) : _____ uair (oor)
 * _____ day(s) : _____ lá/laethanta (law/LAY-hint-ah))
 * _____ week(s) : _____ seachtan(na) (shokt-inn(ah))
 * _____ month(s) : _____ mí (mee)
 * _____ year(s) : _____ blian(ta) (BLI-an(tah))

Days

 * today : inniu (inn-yew)
 * yesterday : inné (inn-yay)
 * tomorrow : amárach (am-AW-rok)
 * this week : an seachtain seo (on shokt-inn shuh)
 * last week : an seachtain seo caite (on shokt-inn shuh cotch-ah)
 * next week : an seachtain seo chugainn (on shokt-inn shuh koo-inn)

 * Sunday : Domhnach (DOW-nok)
 * Monday : Luain (Loo-inn)
 * Tuesday : Máirt (MAWrt)
 * Wednesday : Céadaoin (KAY-deen)
 * Thursday : Déardaoin (dare-deen)
 * Friday : Aoine (EE-nah)
 * Saturday : Satharn (SAH-harn)

Months
In Ireland, spring starts on the 1st of February.

 * January : Eanair (ann-arr)
 * February : Feabhra (fyow-rah)
 * March : Márta (mawr-tah)
 * April : Aibreán (ab-rawn)
 * May : Bealtainne (byowl-tin-neh)
 * June : Meitheamh (meh-hiv)
 * July : Iúil (oo-ill)
 * August : Lúnasa (loon-assah)
 * September : Mean Fomhair (mann foe-arr)
 * October : Deireadh Fomhair (derr-ah foe-arr)
 * November : Samhain (SOW-inn)
 * December : Nollaig (null-igg)

Colors

 * black : dubh (duv)
 * white : bán (bawn)
 * gray : liath (LEE-ath)
 * red : dearg (dahrg)
 * pink : bándearg (bawn dahrg)
 * blue : gorm (gurm)
 * yellow : buí (buee)
 * green : glas (gloss)
 * orange : oráiste (urr-AW-ish-tah)
 * brown : donn (done)

Bus and train

 * How much is a ticket to _____? : Cé mhéad atá ar thicéad go dtí _____? (kay VAYD ah-TAW air HICK-aid guh jee)
 * One ticket to _____, please. : Ticéad amháin go dtí _____, le do thoil. (TICK-aid ah-WAWN guh jee _____, leh duh hull)
 * Where does this train/bus go? : Cá rachaidh an traein/bus seo? (kaw ROCK-ee on train/bus shuh?)
 * Where is the train/bus to _____? : Cá bhfuil an traein/bus go dtí _____? (kaw will on train/bus guh jee _____?)
 * Does this train/bus stop in _____? : An stadfaidh an traein/bus seo i _____? (on STAWD-fee on train/bus shuh ih _____?)
 * When does the train/bus for _____ leave? : Cathain a fagfaidh an traein/bus go dtí _____? (CAW-hin ah FOG-fee on train/bus guh jee _____?)
 * When will this train/bus arrive in _____? : Cathain a bhainfidh an traein/bus amach i _____? (CAW-hin ah VAN-fee on train/bus ah-MOCK ih _____?)

Directions

 * How do I get to _____ ? : Cad é an bealach go dtí _____ ? (cod ay an BAHL-ock guh jee ______ ?)
 * ...the train station? : ...an stáisiún traenach? (on STAW-shoon TRAY-nock?)
 * ...the bus station? : ...an busáras? (on bus-AW-rass?)
 * ...the airport? : ...an t-aerfort? (on TAIR-fort?)
 * ...downtown? : ...lár na cathrach? (LAWR na CAW-rock?)
 * ...the youth hostel? : ...an brú óige? (on broo OH-geh?)
 * ...the _____ hotel? : ...an ostán _____? (on USS-tawn?)
 * ...the American/Canadian/Australian/British consulate? : ...an consalacht Meiriceánach/Ceanadach/Astrálach/Briotanach? (on KUN-sah-lockt merry-KAW-nock/KYANNY-dock/oss-TRAWL-ock/BRIT-in-ock?)
 * Where are there a lot of... : Cá bhfuil a lán... (kaw will a lawn...)
 * ...hotels? : ...óstáin? (USS-tawn)
 * ...restaurants? : ...bialanna? (BEE-ah-LAWN-ah)
 * ...bars? : ...beáir? (bor)
 * ...sites to see? : ...laithreáin a fheiceáil? (LAH-rawn a ECK-oil)
 * Can you show me on the map? : An dtaispeánfaidh tú dom ar an léarscáil? (on DASH-PAWN-ee too dum air on LAIR-shkawl)
 * street : sráid (shrawd)
 * Turn left. : Cas ar chlé. (coss air khlay)
 * Turn right. : Cas ar dheis. (coss air yesh)
 * left : clé (clay)
 * right : deas (jass)
 * straight ahead : díreach ar aghaidh (DEE-rock air eye)
 * towards the _____ : chun an/na_____ (kun on/nah)
 * past the _____ : thar an/na_____ (har on/nah)
 * before the _____ : roimh an/na_____ (riv on/nah)
 * Watch for the _____. : Bí ag faire amach don/do na_____. (bee eg FAR-eh a-MOCK dun/duh nah)
 * intersection : crosbhealach (cross-VYAL-ock)
 * north : tuaisceart (TUSH-kyart)
 * south : deisceart (DESH-kyart)
 * east : oirthear (OR-har)
 * west : iarthar (EER-har)
 * uphill : i gcoinne an aird (ih GUN-yeh on orj)
 * downhill : ag bun an cnoic (egg bun on knuck)

Taxi

 * Taxi! : Tacsaí! (Tuhk-see)
 * Take me to _____, please. : thabhairt dom go dtí _____, le do thoil.(HOORt dum guh djee____, lehd HULL.)
 * How much does it cost to go to _____? : cé mhéad a chosnaíonn é a dhul go dtí _____? (kay vayd a HOHS-nee-uhn ay a ghul guh djee ____?)
 * Take me there, please. : Thabhairt dom ann, le do thoill. (HOOR-t dum ow-n)

Lodging

 * Do you have any rooms available? : An bhfuil aon seomraí ar fáil? (on will ayn show'm-ree air fawl)
 * How much is a room for one person/two people? : Ce mhead ata seomra le haighaidh duine amhain/ beirt daoine? (kay veyd atAW showmrah leh high din-na awAN/ bert dee-nee )
 * Does the room come with... : Does the room come with... (...)
 * ...bedsheets? : ...bedsheets? (...)
 * ...a bathroom? : Seomra Folchta (show-mra ful-ka)
 * ...a telephone? : Guthán (guh-HAWN)
 * ...a TV? : Teilifís (Tele-feesh)
 * May I see the room first? : May I see the room first? (...)
 * Do you have anything quieter? : Do you have anything quieter? (...)
 * ...bigger? : ...bigger? (...)
 * ...cleaner? : ...cleaner? (...)
 * ...cheaper? : ...cheaper? (...)
 * OK, I'll take it. : OK, I'll take it. (...)
 * I will stay for _____ night(s). : I will stay for _____ night(s). (...)
 * Can you suggest another hotel? : Can you suggest another hotel? (...)
 * Do you have a safe? : Do you have a safe? (...)
 * ...lockers? : ...lockers? (...)
 * Is breakfast/supper included? : Is breakfast/supper included? (...)
 * What time is breakfast/supper? : What time is breakfast/supper? (...)
 * Please clean my room. : Glan mo sheomre le do thoil. (Glohn muh heomrah leh duh hul)
 * Can you wake me at _____? | Can you wake me at _____? (...)
 * I want to check out. : I want to check out. (...)

Money

 * Do you accept American/Australian/Canadian dollars? : An nglacann tú/sibh le dollair Meiriceánach/Astrálach/Ceanadach? (On NG-loc-an too/shiv le dollar mer-i-CAWN-och/os-TRAWL-och/KYAN-a-dyoch?)
 * Do you accept British pounds? : An nglacann tú/sibh le puint Briotánach? (On NG-loc-an too/shiv le pwint bri-TAWN-och?)
 * Do you accept credit cards? : An nglacann tú/sibh le cártaí creidmheasa? (On NG-loc-an too/shiv le KAWR-tee cred-va-sa?)
 * Can you change money for me? : An féidir leat airgead a mhalartú ar mo shon? (On FAYH-dizh latch ar-gid a wol-ar-too ayr mu hun?)
 * Where can I get money changed? : Cás féidir liom airgead a mhalartú? (Kaws FAYH-dizh lum ar-gid a wol-ar-too?)
 * Can you change a traveler's check for me? : An féidir leat seic thaistil a mhalartú ar mo shon? (On FAYH-dizh latch shek HASH-til a wol-ar-too ayr mu shun?)
 * Where can I get a traveler's check changed? : Cás féidir liom seic thaistil a mhalartú? (Kaws FAYH-dizh lum shek HASH-til a wol-ar-too?)
 * What is the exchange rate? : Cad é an ráta malartú? (Cod ay on RAW-ta wol-ar-too?)
 * Where is an automatic teller machine (ATM)? : Cá bfuil an pól an bhainc? (Kaw will on pull on vonk?)

Eating

 * A table for one person/two people, please. : Bord do duine amháin/beirt, le do thoil (bord duh DINN-eh ah-WAWN/burtch, leh duh hull)
 * Can I look at the menu, please? : An féidir liom a féachaint ar an bhiachlár, le do thoil? (uhn FAY-duhr lyom uh FEE-uh-khunt uhr uhn vee-uh-KHLAWR, lehd-HULL)
 * Can I look in the kitchen? : An féidir liom a féachaint sa chistin? (uh FAY-duhr lyom uh FEE-uh-khunt suh KHISH-tin?)
 * Is there a house specialty? : An bhfuil speisialtacht an tí?(uh vwil spehsheeltkht uhn tee?)
 * Is there a local specialty? : An bhfuil speisialtacht áitiúil? (uh vwil spehsheeltkht aw-TYOO-il?)
 * I'm a vegetarian. : Is feoilséantóir mé (is fyohl-shayn-TOOR meh.)
 * I don't eat pork. : Ní ithim muiceoil. (nee IH-im MWIH-kyoll)
 * I don't eat beef. : Ní ithim mairteola. (nee IH-im MAR-toll-ah)
 * I only eat kosher food. : Ithim bia coisir amháin. (IH-im bee-ah kosher ah-WAWN)
 * Can you make it "lite", please? (less oil/butter/lard) : Le níos lú saill, le do thoil? (leh neese loo sall, leh duh hull)
 * fixed-price meal : béile le luach seasta (BAY-leh leh LOO-kh SHASS-tah)
 * à la carte : à la carte (...)
 * breakfast : bricfeásta (BRICK-faw-stah)
 * lunch : lón (lone)
 * tea (meal) : tae (tay)
 * supper : suipéar (sip-AIR)
 * I want _____. : _____ atá uaim. (___at-AW wim)
 * I would like a dish with _____. : Ba mhaith liom baochas a mhias le _____(buh vah lyum BAY-uh-khas uh VEE-as leh _____)
 * chicken : sicín (shik-EEN)
 * beef : mairteola (mwir-TYOH-lah)
 * fish : iasc (eesk)
 * ham : liamhás (LEE-uh-vaws)
 * sausage : ispín (ispheen)
 * cheese : cáis (kawsh)
 * eggs : uibheacha (IV-ah-kah)
 * salad : sailéad (sai-LAYD)
 * (fresh) vegetables : glasraí (úr) (GLAHS-ree (OOR))
 * bread : arán (ah-RAWN)
 * toast : tósta (TOHS-tah)
 * noodles : núdail (NOO-dil)
 * rice : rís (reesh)
 * beans : pónairí (poh-NUH-ree...)
 * sandwich : ceapaire
 * meat : feoil
 * pasta : pasta
 * May I have a glass of _____? : An mbeidh gloine _____ agam? (uh meg GLI-neh...)
 * May I have a cup of _____? : An mbeidh cupán _____ agam? (un meg cuh-PAWN ____ uh-GUHM)
 * May I have a bottle of _____? : An mbeidh buidéal _____ agam? (un meg bi-DAYL ____ uh-GUHM)
 * coffee : caife (ka-feh)
 * tea (drink) : tae (tay)
 * juice : subh (soov)
 * mineral water : uisce mianraí (ISH-keh mee-uhn-REE...)
 * water : uisce (ISH-kah)
 * beer : beoir (bi-or)
 * red/white wine : Fíon dearg/bán (...)
 * May I have some _____? : An mbeidh roinnt _____ agam? (un meg rint ____ uh-GUHM?)
 * salt : sallan (...)
 * black pepper :piobar dubh(PI-burr DUH-v)
 * butter : im ('im')
 * Excuse me, waiter? (getting attention of server) : Gabh mo leischeal, a fhreastalaí? (guh muh leh-SHKAYL, uh RAHS-tuh-lee?)
 * I'm finished. : Táim críochnaithe. (tawm KREEKH-nuh-hah)
 * It was delicious. : Bhí sé go blásta. (vee shay go BLAWS-tuh)
 * Please clear the table. : glan an mbord, le d'thoil. (GLAHN an MORD lehd HULL...)
 * Give me the bill, please. : Tobhair dom an bhille, le do thoil. (on VILL-eh, lehd HULL)

Bars

 * Do you serve alcohol? : An ndíolainn sibh achól? (...)
 * Is there table service? : An bhfuil seirbhís boird i bhfeidhm? (...)
 * A beer/two beers, please. : (insert amount- ie. cup/glass/mug)beoir, le do thoil. (...)
 * A glass of red/white wine, please. : Gloinne fíon dearg/bán le do thoil. (...)
 * A pint, please. : Pionta, le do thoil. (...)
 * A bottle, please. : Buidéal, le do thoil. (...)
 * _____ (hard liquor) and _____ (mixer), please. : _____ agus _____, le do thoil. (...)
 * whiskey : uisce beatha (ISH-kaa baaha)
 * vodka : vodca (...)
 * rum : rum (...)
 * water : uice (ISH-kaa)
 * club soda : club soda (...)
 * tonic water : tonic water (...)
 * orange juice : sú oráiste (...)
 * Coke (soda) : Cóc (...)
 * Do you have any bar snacks? : An bhfuil aon sneaic beáir agat? (...)
 * One more, please. : Ceann amháin eile le do thoil. (...)
 * Another round, please. : Babhta eile, le do thoil. (...)
 * When is closing time? : Cathain a bhfuil sibh dúnta? (...)
 * a Toast - To Health or Life : Sláinte (Slawn-cha)

Shopping

 * Do you have this in my size? : (...)
 * How much is this? : Cé mhéad é seo? (...)
 * That's too expensive. : Tá sé sin ró-dhaor. (...)
 * Would you take _____? : (...)
 * expensive : daor (...)
 * cheap : (...)
 * I can't afford it. : (...)
 * I don't want it. : Ní theastaíonn sé uaim (...)
 * You're cheating me. : (...)
 * I'm not interested. : (..)
 * OK, I'll take it. : OK. Tógfaidh mé é (...)
 * Can I have a bag? : An féidir liom mála a fháil? (...)
 * Do you ship (overseas)? : (...)
 * I need... : Is gá liom... (...)
 * ...toothpaste. : (...)
 * ...a toothbrush. : (...)
 * ...tampons. : (...)
 * ...soap. : (...)
 * ...shampoo. : (...)
 * ...pain reliever. (e.g., aspirin or ibuprofen) : (...)
 * ...cold medicine. : (...)
 * ...stomach medicine. : (...)
 * ...a razor. : (...)
 * ...an umbrella. : (...)
 * ...sunblock lotion. : (...)
 * ...a postcard. : ...cárta phoist. (...)
 * ...postage stamps. : ...stampai. (...)
 * ...batteries. : (...)
 * ...writing paper. : ...páipéar. (...)
 * ...a pen. : ...peann. (...)
 * ...English-language books. : (...)
 * ...English-language magazines. : (...)
 * ...an English-language newspaper. : ...nuachtán i mBéarla. (...)
 * ...an Irish-English dictionary. : ...fóclóir Gaeilge-Béarla. (...)

Driving

 * I want to rent a car. : I want to rent a car. (Tá carr/gluaisteán ar cíos uaim)
 * Can I get insurance? : Can I get insurance? (An féidir liom árachas a fháil)
 * stop (on a street sign) : stop (Stad)
 * one way : one way (slí/bealach amháin)
 * yield : Géill slí (Gale shlee)
 * no parking : no parking (ná pairceáil)
 * speed limit : speed limit (luastheorann)
 * gas (petrol) station : gas station (stáisiún peitril)
 * petrol : petrol (peitreal)
 * diesel : diesel (díosal)
 * gas (LPG) : gas (LPG) (gás)

Authority

 * I haven't done anything wrong. : Ní dhéarna mé coir. (nee YAR-nah may kor)
 * It was a misunderstanding. : Ba mhíthuiscint é. (bah VEE-HISH-kint ay)
 * Where are you taking me? : Cá bhfuil tú ag tógail mé? (kaw will too ag TOWG-awl may)
 * Am I under arrest? : An bhfuil mé gafa? (on will may GOFF-ah)
 * I am an American/Australian/British/Canadian citizen. : Is saoránach Meiriceánach/Astrálach/Briotanach/Ceanadach mé. (iss sayr-AWN-ock merry-KAWN-ock/ass-TRAWL-ock/BRIT-annock/KYANNY-dock may)
 * I want to talk to the American/Australian/British/Canadian embassy/consulate. : Ba mhaith liom labhairt leis an ambasáid/consalacht Meiriceánach/Astrálach/Briotanach/Ceanadach. (bah wawh lum LOWR-t lesh on OM-bass-oyj/CUN-sill-ockt merry-KAWN-ock/ass-TRAWL-ock/BRIT-annock/KYANNY-dock)
 * I want to talk to a lawyer. : Ba mhaith liom labhairt le dlíodóir. (bah wawh lum LOWR-t leh DLEE-dor)
 * Can I just pay a fine now? : An féidir liom íocaíocht cáin amháin anois? (on FAY-jer lum EEK-ee-ockt koyn ah-WAWN ah-NISH)

title: Irish phrasebook


text:
Irkutsk

Irkutsk (Russian: Ирку́тск; eer-KOOTSK) is capital of the Russian province of Irkutsk Oblast in Eastern Siberia. The historic centre of Irkutsk is included on UNESCO's tentative list of World Heritage Sites.

Understand
Irkutsk was founded in 1661 as a settlement for trading gold and furs. It was connected to Europe via a road constructed in 1760.

After the Decemberist Revolt of 1825, many Russian artists, officers, and nobles were sent into exile to Siberia for their part in the revolt against Tsar Nicholas I and in the late 1800s, 30% of the population of the city were exiles. Irkutsk became the major centre of intellectual and social life for these exiles, and much of the city's cultural heritage is a result of these exiles. Many of their wooden houses, adorned with ornate, hand-carved decorations, survive today in stark contrast with the surrounding Soviet apartment blocks. Around 1900, the city was nicknamed the "Paris of Siberia" due to its wide streets and ornate, continental architecture, but travellers today will find little resemblance with Paris.

During the civil war that broke out after the Bolshevik Revolution in 1917-1922, Irkutsk became the site of many furious, bloody clashes between the "Whites" and the "Reds" (aka Bolsheviks). A number of city landmarks remain from that era. In 1920, Kolchak, the once-feared commander of the largest contingent of anti-Bolshevik forces, was executed in Irkutsk, effectively destroying the anti-Bolshevik resistance.

Today, Irkutsk is the 6th largest city in Siberia, with a growing population of more than 590,000 people. It's home to several universities and a major branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, due to its proximity to Lake Baikal.

Climate
In July, the average temperature is 18°C (64°F) with a bit of rain, but by January, the temperature plunges in typically Siberian fashion to -19°C (-2°F). Early September finds the local foliage at its finest.

By plane

Buses, trams, and minibuses run frequently between the airport and Kirov Square (near the Angara Hotel) and other points in the historical center. A trip via public transport costs approximately ₽30. Taxi services are available via mobile application or phone, Yandex and Maxim are the most common. I-Way transfers taxi service may be the choice for business travellers and guests (booking via website or app in advance). Private drivers offer their services at the airport but you must be careful, there is some risk of fraud.

By train

Most travellers arrive in Irkutsk via the Trans-Siberian Railway. Irkutsk is about halfway between Moscow and the two eastern terminus cities, Vladivostok and Beijing, making it a good place to break the trip, if only to stretch your legs and buy provisions. The Baikal-Amur Mainline, connecting with more northerly cities, also runs nearby.

Apart from Moscow there are also direct carriages from most cities in Russia such as Saint Petersburg (86 hours), as well as from Minsk (94 hours) and Warsaw (113 hours).

Other popular destinations include Vladivostok, Beijing, Ulaanbaatar, Novosibirsk, Chelyabinsk, Chita, Khabarovsk, Severobaykalsk, Ulan-Ude, Neryungri, Blagoveshchensk, Ust-Ilimsk, Novokuznetsk, Penza, Kislovodsk and Abakan.

Be wary of the taxi-drivers at the station if arriving on a late-night train. A taxi ride to the centre of town should only cost ₽200-300. Unlicensed taxis will overcharge you. If there is a disagreement, ask your hostel/hotel owner to come to the taxi and arrange the correct fare.

By car
Irkutsk is not only on the railway across Russia, but also on the 11,000 km Trans-Siberian Highway from St. Petersburg to Vladivostok.

By foot
The historical center of Irkutsk is relatively compact and walkable. Traffic congestion is not bad for a city of nearly 600,000 people.

By public transport
For those who want to save time or travel between one side of the river and the other, the public transit system is a good option. Knowing at least how to read the signs on the buses and bus stops is helpful, and on the minibuses, one must call out to the driver to request a stop. Oddly enough, the names of major bus stops are posted on kiosk roofs parallel to the road so that the names are not often visible from inside the bus. Bus and minibus ("marshrutka") fare is usually ₽15. Local etiquette is to pay the driver when exiting the bus and trolley (therefore you can exit it only through the front door). In trams tickets should be purchased from driver, then stamped in the machine on board.

A map of tram lines and a map of trolleybus lines are available.

Bike rental
Skiwalker, Kultukskaya Ulitza #15, offers bicycle rental.

See
Among the Soviet concrete monstrosities, Irkutsk features many of atmospheric, decaying wooden buildings. Most of these are either abandoned or still used as private residences and add to the atmosphere of the city.

Museums

Estates

Religious buildings

Other places

Do

 * Walk down Ul. Uritskovo, a pedestrian street with shops and cafes.
 * Walk down Ul. Uritskovo, a pedestrian street with shops and cafes.
 * Walk down Ul. Uritskovo, a pedestrian street with shops and cafes.
 * Walk down Ul. Uritskovo, a pedestrian street with shops and cafes.
 * Walk down Ul. Uritskovo, a pedestrian street with shops and cafes.

Learn

 * Alliance française.
 * Irkutsk state university.

Buy
Wood carvings, birchwood boxes, and lacquer boxes are typical souvenirs of Siberia. A few hotels have souvenir stalls in the lobby, and the Regional Museum at Ul. Karla Marksa 2 has a decent selection in their gift shop as well.

Kamusi are winter boots used by native Siberians made out of deer, elk, or other fur. One place to buy is at a small shop across from the bus station at Ul. Oktyabrskoi Revolyutsii 20B called "Aikhal". It is in a courtyard behind some kiosks, so it takes some searching. They have kamusi for men, women, and children, with prices starting at about ₽3000.

Eat
For a local speciality, Omul, Sig and Kharius are local fishes found in the lake Baikal (available in many restaurants). Cold smoked kharius is good with beer. Hot smoked kharius you can find in Listvyanka or Kultuk villages near Baikal lake. Price depends on fish size and is usually about ₽150-25 for one. In the Central or New market (Noviy Rinok) you can buy kharius and sig caviar - tasty.

National Buryat big dumplings (boozy, pozy) can be found in Amrita cafés. It's a special Buryat fast food chain with some cafés in the middle of town. Cheap, tasty. Pozy is a steamed meat (beef with pork) big dumplings that must be eaten using only hands.

Budget

 * Cafe Shokolad at Ul. Dekyabrskikh Sobytii 102 behind the wedding palace, is a clean, modern cafe with good salads, reasonably-priced main courses, and, as their name suggests, sumptuous desserts. A bit outside the historical center (near the TANK bus stop), it is a good place to relax after an excursion to the Sukachev Estate down the street.
 * Pizza Domino with no relation to the US chain, is at Lenina 13A across from the Lenin Statue. They do pizzas, soups, and other quick meals.  Very cheap, and open 24 hours.
 * Pizza Pinocchio near the Angara Hotel on Kirov Square and other locations; quick and inexpensive pizzas that are sometimes reheated in a microwave.

Drink

 * Liverpool — Is a somewhat Beatles themed restaurant which also works as a superb nightclub with young beautiful Russian hipsters and 2 dance floors. Not much on out of season. Said only 1 beer on which was of course the most expensive!

Balsams Buryatia and Amrita are very nice Buryat alcoholic drinks (costs about ₽180 each 0.75 liter). Thay are also very helpful against cold. Balsam Buryatia was consecrated by Dalai-Lama XIV, as it says label on the bottle.

Sleep
Many locals have rooms for rent and services such as Airbnb are popular ways of finding accommodation.

Consulates

 * 🇨🇳 China
 * 🇱🇹 Lithuania
 * 🇲🇳 Mongolia
 * 🇵🇱 Poland
 * 🇰🇷 South Korea

Go next

 * Listvyanka is the closest village to see Lake Baikal. Purchase bus tickets online or at the bus station at ulitsa Oktyabrskoy Revolyutsii, 11.
 * Irkutsk port serves boats to Ust-Barguzin, Nizhneangarsk, Bolshoye Koty, Listvyanka and port Baikal on the Circum-Baikal Railway.
 * Circum-Baikal Railway and the southmost village on the shore Slyudyanka.
 * Daily trains to Mongolia arrive after 36 hours to Ulaanbaatar.
 * Daily trains to Mongolia arrive after 36 hours to Ulaanbaatar.
 * Daily trains to Mongolia arrive after 36 hours to Ulaanbaatar.
 * Daily trains to Mongolia arrive after 36 hours to Ulaanbaatar.
 * Daily trains to Mongolia arrive after 36 hours to Ulaanbaatar.
 * Daily trains to Mongolia arrive after 36 hours to Ulaanbaatar.

title: Irkutsk


text:
Irkutsk Oblast

Irkutsk Oblast (Russian: Ирку́тская о́бласть eer-KOOTS-kah-yah OH-blahst') is a region in Eastern Siberia, which borders Krasnoyarsk (region) to the west, Evenkia to the northwest, Yakutia to the north, Zabaykalsky Krai to the northeast, Buryatia to the southeast, and Tuva to the southwest.

Cities

 * — the attractive capital and largest city; one of the principal stops on the Trans-Siberian Railway and the gateway to Lake Baikal
 * — the second largest regional city is home to the Museum of Clocks
 * — a relatively large city on the Baikal-Amur Mainline
 * — located on the shores of Lake Baikal
 * - southernmost point of the Baikal, famous for its marble railway station and smoked omul
 * — a small city on the Trans-Siberian with a pretty church; located near some interesting caves and a waterfall along the Uda River
 * — nothing much to see, but many stop at this important rail junction to begin the Baikal-Amur Mainline
 * — a medium sized city on the Trans-Siberian with a mudbath spa and many archaeological sites
 * — the center of the Ust-Orda region contains a museum of regional history featuring the indigenous Buryat culture

Other destinations

 * — located between Buryatia and Irkutsk Oblast, is the deepest and oldest lake in the world and also the planet's largest body of freshwater.
 * — the largest island in lake Baikal is a real jewel, and worthy of the effort it takes to reach it.
 * — the largest island in lake Baikal is a real jewel, and worthy of the effort it takes to reach it.
 * — the largest island in lake Baikal is a real jewel, and worthy of the effort it takes to reach it.

Understand
Irkutsk Oblast, in particular the capital Irkutsk and the shores of Lake Baikal, is likely Siberia's top travel destination.

Talk
Russian is understood and spoken by all; some members of ethnic minorities (especially the Buryat) are bilingual and speak their native languages with one another.

By plane
Irkutsk Airport is one of Russia's most important and receives international flights from Mongolia, China, South Korea, Thailand, and Uzbekistan. Domestic flights are available from most major Russian airports, including: Saint Petersburg, Moscow, Khabarovsk, Yekaterinburg, Vladivostok, and many others.

By train
Despite the importance of Irkutsk Airport, most travellers still arrive via the Trans-Siberian Railway, which stops at (from west to east): Taishet (junction with the Baikal-Amur Mainline), Nizhneudinsk, Usolye-Sibirskoe, Angarsk, Irkutsk, among other less frequented settlements.

By car
Baikal Highway crosses the region from west to east. A bus from Ulan-Ude connects Irkutsk with Buryatia.

Get around
Bratsk and Ust-Orda are accessible via the Baikal-Amur Mainline from the Trans-Siberian Railway junction at Taishet.

Itineraries

 * The Baikal Highway (Байкальский тракт), a route from Irkutsk to Listvyanka village usually taken by marshrutka. One-hour trip starts from Irkutsk reservoir and is 68km long. The road is in some distance from the Reservoir that can be seen by rare glimpses as the road goes up and down along the hills covered with pines, birches and bush.
 * The Circum-Baikal Railway (Кругобайкальская железная дорога), a memorial railway in Pribaikalsy National Park. It was a part of Trans-Siberian Railway in active exploitation till 1950s. When the main bypass was constructed the Railway lost its importance and is used now for tourist and emergency purposes. A few carriages depart from Slyudyanka, the southernmost station and 4h 40min later arrive in Baikal station, which is also a port up north. Enjoy panoramic views full of beautiful nature as the train moves along the shoreline. There are four stops and 38 tunnels during the trip. Retro trains (№988/987 Байкальский круиз) shuttle on special dates.

Do

 * Camping out on one of Lake Baikal's islands
 * Fishing galore
 * Rafting on Irkut river. Whitewater grade is 1-3 in some places of 150 km river.

Read

 * Michel Strogoff by Jules Verne.
 * Plays by Alexander Vampilov.
 * Writings by Valentin Rasputin.

Drink
Local vodka produced by OAO "Kedr": «Baik», «Слава», «Байкальская», «Звезда Байкала».

Stay safe

 * While being in woods, beware of snakes that are commonly warming in the sun on the stones. There is not many of them but some may be vipers.
 * The other problem of this (and other regions of the North Hemisphere) is ticks. Their bites may be infectious. Usually vaccinations are taken beforehand.

Go next
Irkutsk Airport is a useful hub to jump off to different parts of the country.

For closer destinations, most will travel by the Trans-Siberian Railway, which leads to Kansk and further Krasnoyarsk in the west and to Ulan Ude in the east.

The Baikal-Amur Mainline, which runs on a parallel track to north of the Trans-Siberian, begins at Taishet in western Irkutsk Oblast and on to Severobaikalsk.

title: Irkutsk Oblast


text:
Ironbridge

Ironbridge is an important historic location in Shropshire, England.

Understand
"THIS BRIDGE WAS CAST AT COALBROOK DALE AND ERECTED IN THE YEAR MDCCLXXIX"

- Ironbridge's inscription

Ironbridge Gorge is a. It is one of the "birthplaces of industry" and central to the story of the Industrial Revolution in Great Britain.

By car
Ironbridge Gorge is on the River Severn, 5 miles (8 km) south of Telford in Shropshire. Take junction 4 from the M54, and follow the brown and white traffic signs.

By train
(+44 8457 484950) in Telford is 5 miles (8 km) north of Blists Hill Victorian Town.

By bus

 * Telford Travelink (+44 1952 200005)

By bike
The National Cycle Route follows the route of a former canal and railway, now called "The Silkin Way" from North Telford, through the town centre to Ironbridge, via Blists Hill Museum.

Get around
A regular shuttle bus service (+44 1952 200005) operates throughout the Gorge every Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday. This bus also has limited links to the Rail Station.

If you are visiting the museums and want to see the surrounding area, a car is essential as public transport links vary from limited to non-existent. There is no free parking in Ironbridge, though parking charges are normally reasonable.

Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust
Most of Ironbridge is overseen by the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust. A year-long annual pass is available which allows entry to all the museums (adult £37, child £21.50 in 2024), and is very good value for money if you intend to visit a number of them.

Buy
There is a souvenir shop in the Ironbridge Gorge near the Iron Bridge itself and an online store for distance shopping.

There is also a bookshop nearby.

Eat
Various expensive pubs and nondescript curry houses / Italian restaurants. Also a good Thai place next to the bridge.

Drink
A near-exhaustive list of pubs in the area can be found on this site.

Sleep
There are a large number of small inns and Bed & Breakfasts in or near Ironbridge. When searching for accommodation outside of Ironbridge, it is worth looking across Telford and Madeley.

Budget
There is are Youth Hostel Association hostels at Coalport and Coalbrookdale, both campuses being part of the same hostel. The latter campus is very modern and popular, though is not ideal for self-catering visitors.

No camp sites are available in Ironbridge itself, though there are more in South Shropshire and Shrewsbury directions.

Go next
Map of places with Wikivoyage articles nearby

You can head out by car:

 * North to Telford
 * South toward Much Wenlock, Bridgnorth and Church Stretton part of the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
 * West toward Shrewsbury and North Wales

It's worth exploring Wellington which, like Ironbridge, is part of the new-town of Telford, which has a nice town park which is worth a visit if you have children.

Telford Steam Railway is also a pleasant trip on a Sundays or Bank Holidays, as is a walk up the nearby Wrekin Hill.

title: Ironbridge


text:
Iron Mountain

Iron Mountain is a city of 7,500 people (2020) in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

title: Iron Mountain


text:
Ironwood

Ironwood is in the Upper Peninsula region of Michigan in the United States of America.

By car

 * US-51 comes in from the south - Wausau, Madison, New Orleans. 51 ends at the Sin City of the North, Hurley (Wisconsin).
 * US-2 runs east and west. From Sault Ste. Marie to Duluth, Minnesota

Get around
Car is the best way to go. Renting a vehicle isn't too easy, but it is possible.

Ironwood makes a good stop if you are snowmobiling on the trail system, and you can get to most accommodations or restaurants with your machine.

In the summer, a bike will get you most places in town, but it's a long ride to any of the local attractions (i.e. Lake superior is about 18 miles, Copper Peak is about 12 miles).

See

 * Copper Peak
 * Black River Harbor
 * Waterfalls
 * Ski hills
 * Lake Gogebic
 * Lake Gogebic

Do
Ironwood makes a great base for outdoors activities in the region. If you are visiting, you are probably here or should be here for one of the following:

 * Skiing
 * Snowmobiling
 * Hiking
 * Mountain biking
 * Camping
 * Four wheeling

If you do happen to want to see the sights of Ironwood, you could check out Hiawatha, an enormous fiberglass and cement Indian statue on a hill above the city. You can see it from most intersections downtown (the real downtown, not the freeway!)

Another claim to fame is the 'Copper Peak Ski Jump'. This ski jump is or was the largest freestanding ski jump in North America. When it was built it was the largest in the world. It hasn't been used for jumping since the late 1980s. During the summer you can ride the lift up to the top, and get a great view of the forest, and out to Lake Superior. During the winter, they have a snowmobile climb competition on the jump's landing area. This is quite a bit of fun to watch as most snowmobile machines can't handle the slope and go end over end down the hill.

Pick up an Ironwood Daily Globe newspaper to check for events happening during the week.

Buy
Buy an original Stormy Kromer Cap. Made in Ironwood by Jacquart's. Hibernate your head.

Eat
Pasty is the Yooper Soul food. If you never had it, you must try it. The original version feature Rutabaga. Many swear by eating it with ketchup accompanied by dill pickles and chocolate milk.

Good Restaurant options:

Go next
Lake Superior: You can visit the beaches at several locations. 'Little Girl's Point' and 'Black River Harbor' are the two most popular. Turn north off of US 2 on Lake Road to get to either.

Hiking: There are several waterfalls and hiking trails along the Black River. If you drive towards Black River Harbor, you will see carved wooden signs near parking lots where you can access these trails. Most trails have basic bathroom facilities available (closed during winter?).

Camping: You can camp at Little Girl's Point and at Black River Harbor for a fee.

title: Ironwood


text:
Southern Myanmar

Southern Myanmar, this area includes all the three Ayeyarwady (Irrawaddy), Bago, Yangon Myanmar regions. Irrawaddy covers the Ayeyarwady River (Irrawaddy River) delta.

Cities

 * (Rangoon) — the capital of Myanmar until it was superseded by Naypyidaw in November 2005
 * (Pegu) — home to uncountable Buddhist temples
 * (Bassein) — the capital of Ayeyarwady Division
 * — historical port town close to Yangon.
 * — delta town famous for its pottery.
 * — historical port town close to Yangon.
 * — delta town famous for its pottery.

Other destinations

 * — the site of the war cemetery with the graves of more than 6,000 Allied soldiers who perished in Burma during World War II.
 * – the biggest of the islands were used as a penal colony for political prisoners until 1971
 * — the site of the war cemetery with the graves of more than 6,000 Allied soldiers who perished in Burma during World War II.
 * – the biggest of the islands were used as a penal colony for political prisoners until 1971

Get in
Ayeyarwady Region is served by Pathein Airport and Yangon International Airport

See

 * Cape Negrais: this headland west of the Irrawaddy Delta is a landmark with scenic beaches and grand cliffs.

title: Southern Myanmar


text:
Irvine

Irvine is a city of 308,000 people (2020) in Orange County, California. Irvine is one of the newest and largest cities in Orange County, and it is still growing. The city is a perfectly planned suburbia. The Irvine Company started developing the area in the 1960s and the city was formally incorporated on December 28, 1971.

Understand
Irvine was incorporated on December 28, 1971, Most of the growth in Irvine was sparked by the donation of a large parcel of land to the University of California system in order to establish the 4th largest UC Campus (in terms of attendance) - UC Irvine.

The city is becoming the de facto business center of Orange County with many national and international companies having a presence in Irvine. Most of Irvine bordering Newport Beach (and the airport) and the areas surrounding any freeways are commercial areas where most of the larger companies have their offices.

The arterial streets are very wide and have very generous speed limits. Most residential areas are off the arterial streets on smaller two-lane residential streets that lead to housing communities.

By air

 * John Wayne/Orange County Airport (SNA) is practically located between Santa Ana and Irvine, NE of the intersection of Hwy 55 & I-405. Alternatively, Los Angeles International Airport is about an hour's drive away without traffic via freeway 405, or Long Beach Airport  about 30 minutes away, also via 405.

By train

Most buses serving the Irvine and Tustin train stations run only during peak commute hours on weekdays.

By car
Irvine is at the intersection of the 5 and 405 freeways. One does have to consider, though, that these freeways have a significant amount of traffic and may be slow during rush hour. If you are traveling northbound from San Diego and wish to avoid traffic, consider using State Route 73, which splits off from Interstate 5 in Laguna Niguel. It is a toll road.

The 55 state freeway may be used to get to destinations in the northwest of Irvine; north of the 55 is Santa Ana.

By car

 * As in all suburbs, it is extremely difficult to get around without a car. Rental cars are available near John Wayne Airport.
 * Irvine is known for its winding streets that do not follow the traditional grid pattern most urban drivers are used to. It is extremely easy to become disoriented and lost if you are unfamiliar with the area. Bring a GPS or a map if you are new to the area. In the various housing tracts, if you follow the double yellow lines it will always lead you to an exit or through fare to a major street.
 * Since Irvine is bounded on all sides by freeways, most of the arterial streets (which tend to be at least 4 lanes in either direction) will eventually lead to a freeway, but it may be many miles before this happens.
 * Gas stations are unusually rare for a city this large and are not usually visible from the street. If you are in need of gas in Irvine, your best chances are to look in large shopping plazas where a gas station is usually hidden. Hiding the gas stations are a 'sign of upscale gentrification' in this city where household incomes rank as one of the highest in the nation.
 * Most of the major roads in Irvine have a bike path near the shoulder. Watch out for cyclists using the bike paths.

By bus

 * The Orange County Transit Authority (OCTA) provides local bus transport in Irvine and surrounding cities.

By bike
Irvine is a large city, covering about 66 square miles (170 km2), but is very friendly to bicyclists. There are over 45 miles of off-road bicycle trails and 282 miles of on-road bicycle lanes provided in Irvine. It is possible to transit from north to south in Irvine via tree shaded greenbelt bike trails with only two grade level crossings of highways. Other trails lead into the nearby hills for road touring or mountain biking experiences. Some paths parallel wildlife corridors and riders can often get glimpses of some of the wildlife native to the area - ranging from birds (sparrows to hawks), to opossums and skunks, and coyotes to mountain lions. City of Irvine Bikeways.

There are numerous bicyclist clubs in Irvine and weekend mornings are a favorite time for street touring by groups sometimes numbering in the dozens. Buses and trains carry bicycles when riders are traveling longer distances.

Eat

 * Walnut Village Center. Shopping plaza across from Heritage Square. Features Trader Joe's and Smart & Final, among other restaurants.
 * Walnut Village Center. Shopping plaza across from Heritage Square. Features Trader Joe's and Smart & Final, among other restaurants.
 * Walnut Village Center. Shopping plaza across from Heritage Square. Features Trader Joe's and Smart & Final, among other restaurants.
 * Walnut Village Center. Shopping plaza across from Heritage Square. Features Trader Joe's and Smart & Final, among other restaurants.
 * Walnut Village Center. Shopping plaza across from Heritage Square. Features Trader Joe's and Smart & Final, among other restaurants.
 * Walnut Village Center. Shopping plaza across from Heritage Square. Features Trader Joe's and Smart & Final, among other restaurants.
 * Walnut Village Center. Shopping plaza across from Heritage Square. Features Trader Joe's and Smart & Final, among other restaurants.

Individual restaurants

Drink
There are several areas of the city where bars are clustered. The Irvine Police Department knows where they are, too. The IPD is very concerned about keeping drunk drivers off the city's streets, so if you have been drinking to the point of intoxication don't be surprised to see flashing lights in your rear view mirror. The IPD stakes out these areas at closing time and actively pulls over anyone showing signs of DUI.

Stay safe
Irvine is considered America's safest city by FBI studies. Feel free to walk around alone at 3AM if you are over 18. The Irvine curfew is 11PM for minors unless accompanied by guardian; just don't jaywalk or you may find yourself run over on Irvine's fast moving streets.

Internet access

 * UC Irvine Libraries Both campus libraries, Langson Library and the Science Library, offer free internet access to the public.
 * Fedex Office

Telephones

 * 949 is the local area code, but a small portion of Irvine is in the 714/657 area code.
 * The area code must be diaed for all calls.
 * All numbers affiliated with UC Irvine begin with 949-824-xxxx.

Go next

 * Crystal Cove State Beach. Generally considered the nicest beach in Orange County. Follow the Pacific Coast Highway south from Newport Beach.
 * Corona del Mar. Nice small beach with tidepools and natural reserve on one side, and firepits on the other. Free parking on the side of the road, or $6 parking at lot on the beach. Southern end of Irvine. Keep going south on Jamboree until you hit the Pacific Coast highway.
 * Fashion Island. Another shopping mall similar to South Coast Plaza. Based in Newport Beach. Take Jamboree south.
 * Laguna Beach. One of the nicer beaches around here with plenty of restaurants and shops. Take the 405 or 5 south until they merge, then take the 133 south all the way until you hit the Pacific Coast Highway.
 * South Coast Plaza. The largest shopping mall around here in Costa Mesa. Just as luxurious as Fashion Island, but much larger.
 * Newport Beach and  Balboa. these two semi-connected beaches are closest to irvine. Take the 5 North to the 55 South which ends in the center of Newports shopping district.

title: Irvine


text:
Irving

Irving is a city in the Prairies and Lakes region of Texas. Part of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, Irving has experienced exponential growth over the past fifty years, and is home to a multitude of attractions of all types, from modern art to major sporting events. Founded in 1902 out of the remnants of the small community of Kit, Irving is now a bustling city of approximately 197,000 residents.

Rather like Dallas, it is divided into a highly affluent northern half and less affluent but highly diverse southern half. It is bounded to the east by the northern fork (Elm Fork) of the Trinity River and to the northwest by the sprawling D/FW International Airport.

By car
Irving is bordered on the northwest by Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, one of the largest and busiest in the world. Access to the city from D/FW is quite easy, from Texas State Highway 183 (also known as Airport Freeway) on the south, and Texas State Highway 114 (John Carpenter Expressway) and Interstate 635 (Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway) on the north. Dallas' inner loop (Loop 12, or Walton Walker Blvd) borders the city on the east, and Irving is also the current southern terminus for the President George Bush Turnpike. Additionally, Irving is traversed by Texas State Highway 183 which runs between Dallas and Ft. Worth. It connects to both I-35E and I-35W that lead to other major interstates that lead all over the United States.

By public transportation
Irving is served by DART's Orange Line, the TRE, and a number of DART bus routes. From D/FW Airport, take the airside SkyTrain to Terminal A, then follow the signs to the DART rail station and board any train. Alternatively, you can head to the end of the platform and take a bus. From Love Field, take the LoveLink DART shuttle bus to Inwood/Love Field Station, then take the Orange Line bound for D/FW Airport Station.

By car
As in its larger neighbor Dallas, by far the fastest and most convenient way to get around Irving is by car. Several rental companies are available at each airport. Irving's streets are fairly easy to navigate, with most major thoroughfares laid out on a simple grid pattern. Major north-south streets are Belt Line Road, Story Road, MacArthur Blvd. and O'Connor Rd, and east-west include Walnut Hill Ln., Northgate Drive, Rochelle Rd., Irving Blvd. and Rock Island Road. During rush hour most of these streets (as well as the freeways serving the city) can become quite congested, so plan accordingly.

By public transportation
For those who prefer to avoid traffic altogether, Irving is also served by Dallas Area Rapid Transit, or DART, and the Trinity Railway Express, a rail link between downtown Dallas and Fort Worth, also passes through Irving. DART's Orange Line has six stops in Irving including the terminus at the airport and a local bus hub across the street from Irving Convention Center Station. The TRE makes two stops in Irving, and while its fares are surprisingly reasonable ($1.25 to Dallas) the stops are infrequent, especially on Saturdays, and there is no Sunday service. Getting around on DART and the TRE is covered more thoroughly in the Dallas article.

Do
While there is not really anything in Irving that could not be done in an afternoon, this suburb is filled with a wide mix of cultures from all over the world. What started as a handful of affluent subdivisions has also become a city of immigrants. This fusion has led to the development of restaurants and shopping centers that creates a uniquely American suburban experience.

Drink
Beer and wine is widely available: nearly all convenience and grocery stores have a large variety of beers and wines available. Only a handful of bars in the city allow patrons to smoke indoors - although most that do not allow this also have a patio where you can.

Go next
Irving is nestled deep in the heart of the Dallas/Ft. Worth metroplex. Drive an hour or two in any direction to get out of the city and experience the real Texas in basically any small town you find. The Texas people read about and see in movies is still alive and well, but unfortunately not in the fifth largest urban area in the United States.

title: Irving


text:
Irvington

Irvington is a village of 6,500 people (2019) in Westchester County in the state of New York. It takes its name from the author Washington Irving, who lived nearby.

Understand
Irvington-on-Hudson Chamber of Commerce provides visitor information and sponsors local events.

By plane

 * Westchester County Airport, 240 Airport Road, White Plains, +1 914 995-4860 (airlines). The closest airport, about 30 minutes drive. Rental cars are available.
 * Stewart International Airport, 1180 First St, New Windsor, +1 845 564-2100. Another alternative to the congestion of the 3 major airports, but offers few direct flights.
 * Newark Liberty International Airport, Newark, New Jersey, John F. Kennedy International Airport, and LaGuardia Airport: The three major international airports in the New York City area offer service to just about anywhere. Westchester-based taxi and livery cars offer regular service to and from the three internationals from most areas of the county. New York City yellow cabs will take to you Westchester in a pinch, but the fares can be exorbitant. If staying in Westchester, ask if your hotel offers shuttle service.

By train

 * Metro-North Railroad - Hudson line. Express service between Irvington station and New York City's Grand Central Terminal is about 30 minutes. Local rail service is available between other Metro-North commuter stations. Taxis are usually available at the arrival of trains from New York City. On all Metro-North trains on-board fares are subject to a stiff surcharge, so buy your tickets at the station or at the vending machines.
 * Amtrak. Long distance connections are available in New York City's Penn Station and at Metro-North's Croton-Harmon station.

By bus

 * Bee Line System. Westchester County's bus service provides access to White Plains and other locations in the county. Schedules and route maps are available on-line and at the Irvington train station.

See
Over the past decade or so, Irvington has attempted (fairly unsuccessfully) to sell itself as a tourist attraction. Irvington certainly has its charm and history, but for the most part it is comparable to any of its neighboring New York suburbs. That being said, like all locations, Irvington has history. Those who are intent on exploring the colonial history of this affluent village should be able to find enough attractions to keep them occupied for a few afternoons.

Do

 * Go for a leisurely afternoon walk and enjoy the foliage at Halsey Pond or the Irvington Reservoir, both located off of Hamilton St.
 * Go for a leisurely afternoon walk and enjoy the foliage at Halsey Pond or the Irvington Reservoir, both located off of Hamilton St.

Sleep
There is no overnight lodging in the village of Irvington itself. You can find accommodations in adjacent villages and towns.

Stay safe
Dial 911 from any telephone for emergency police, medical, and fire services.

title: Irvington


text:
Irwin (Pennsylvania)

Irwin is a borough in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania.

title: Irwin (Pennsylvania)


text:
Isaan

Isaan (อีสาน; also Isan, Isarn and even Esarn) is Thailand's largest region, consisting of 20 provinces. Despite having 30% of Thailand's population, this region receives less than 3% of Thailand's tourist dollars. It is a multicultural region where Laos, Cambodia and Thailand meet, and has a rich history and great food. In particular, it is home to Thailand's second-largest ethnic group, the Thai Lao.

Cities

 * — centre of the Isaan region, Mittraphap Rd (Rte 2) passes the edge of the town centre
 * — known for its numerous high hills, mountains and is one of Thailand's vineyards
 * — bordering Laos along the Mekong
 * (Korat) — the chaotic hub of Isaan, gateway from central Thailand
 * — gateway to Vientiane and the lovely Mekong Valley
 * — home to the tallest standing Buddha image of the world, Phra Phuttha Rattana Mongkhon
 * — known for its annual elephant parade and Khmer temples
 * — almost always shortened to simply "Ubon", gateway to the Cambodia-Laos border
 * — also known as "Udon", best known for the archaeological site Ban Chiang

Other destinations

 * — Thailand's first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
 * — beautiful Khmer temples and one of the top attractions in Isaan
 * — some of the most important Khmer architecture in Thailand

Understand
Isaan is a wonderful part of Thailand to visit if you tire of backpacker haunts, one temple after another, or the beaches. The relative isolation and underdevelopment of the area means that Isaan is a good place to get off the beaten track and encounter Thailand's agricultural underpinnings and natural scenery.

Climate
North east Thailand is monsoonal, cool in the dry months of December and January, getting hot and humid in February, March and April, the very wet and tropical during May, June, July and August. Temperatures during the dry can be mid to high 20s °C during the day and as low as 10°C overnight. For much of the rest of the year expect low to mid 30s °C. and high humidity. The air during February, March and April can be very smoky when the main cash crop of sugar is burnt prior to cutting. Use the AQI website for more information and real-time air quality data.

Talk
The native language of the inhabitants of the region is Isan, which is a dialect of Lao.

Most inhabitants of Isaan are fluent in Thai.

By car
One of the best ways to enter the region is by car.

By plane
There are airports in Khon Kaen, Nakhon Phanom, Roi Et, Sakon Nakhon, Ubon Ratchathani, and Udon Thani. A flight to Khon Kaen from Bangkok will take you about an hour.

By bus
Isaan has a large and extensive public bus network.

Depending on traffic conditions, a bus ride to Nakhon Ratchasima from Bangkok takes about four hours.

You can purchase bus tickets at a local bus station or online.

By train
Regular train services connect Bangkok with Ubon Ratchathani (via Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Si Saket and other stations along the way) and Nong Khai (via Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, etc).

Get around
Depending on where you're coming from and where you want to get to, buses, minibuses, songthaews, motorbikes, and bicycles are all good options.

The train system is also a good way to get around, but with only two lines in the region, the number of locations served is limited.

See

There are many attractions in Isaan:

 * The surreal statues of Sala Kaew Ku, Nong Khai
 * The temple inside the mountain at Chiang Khan
 * The temple of beer bottles in Si Saket
 * The beautiful Khmer temples in the Phanom Rung Historical Park
 * Phimai Historical Park has even more Khmer architecture
 * Flora, fauna, and waterfalls in the Khao Yai National Park

Eat

Isaan cuisine shares much in common with Lao cuisine, and is distinctly different from central Thai cooking, although there has been a considerable amount of cross-pollination. Perhaps the best-known Isaan dish is som tam (or tam mak hung in Lao/Isaan), a spicy salad prepared from unripe papayas. While Thais prepare this with dried shrimp, in Isaan the preferred style is with preserved crab (puu) or mudfish, an acquired taste. Other characteristic dishes include roast chicken (kai yaang), sticky rice (khao niaw), fermented pork and rice sausage (sai krok) and a wide variety of cold meat, mint and lemon juice "salads" known as larb.

A word of warning: Isaan food is known, even among Thais, for being fiery hot.

Drink

In addition to the regular standbys, popular drinks in the Isaan region include lao kao, a strong clear spirit distilled from rice, and a home made fermented rice wine called lao hai (เหล้าไห), also known as sato or sa tho (สาโท), made from sticky rice in earthenware jars and drunk directly with a straw. Another popular spirit is Hong Tong, made from distilled molasses (making it a type of arak) and drunk with ice and soda.

Beware that distilling at home is illegal in Thailand, and while this is rarely enforced, it does mean that there is little if any quality control on the local moonshine.

Stay safe
Violence occasionally flares up along the Cambodian border, mainly near Preah Vihear, as Cambodia and Thailand squabble over a small patch of disputed territory. However, as elsewhere in Thailand, Isaan people are Buddhist and are generally happy and friendly people. Many Isaan people are poor and the temptation to overcharge tourists is common as the perception is that 'falang' are wealthy. Compared to the average earnings in Isaan, tourists are wealthy and can probably afford to pay a few extra baht for a tuk tuk ride.

Respect
The inhabitants of Isaan tend to be direct communicators, i.e., you can expect them to tell you exactly what they think. Be mindful of that while you're here.

Go next

 * Phitsanulok - a gateway to Northern Thailand
 * Preah Vihear - magnificent Khmer temple in Cambodia, easy to reach from Isaan with no visa required
 * Vientiane - the once sleepy capital of Laos, becoming more and more discovered

title: Isaan


text:
Isabela

There's more than one place called Isabela:

Ecuador

 * Isabela (Ecuador) - the largest of the Galapagos Islands

Philippines

 * Isabela (Negros Occidental)
 * Isabela, a city in Basilan.
 * Isabela Island
 * Isabela, a province in Cagayan Valley.

Puerto Rico

 * Isabela (Puerto Rico)

title: Isabela


text:
Isabela (Ecuador)

Isabela Island, known by its Spanish name of Isla Isabela and less commonly by its English name of Albemarle Island, is the largest of the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador.

Understand
In the western part of the archipelago, Isabela is larger than all of the rest of the islands combined. Comprising six volcanos, the island is about 120 km long and covers 4,585 square km. Its highest point on Wolf Volcano rises 1,700 m above sea level. Due to most of the visitor sites being on the western side of the island, far from Santa Cruz, only the longer (and hence more expensive) boat tours visit this island.

See the Galapagos wildlife page for information on the flora and fauna of the islands.

By boat
There are public speedboats operated by Ferry Galapagos, running twice a day from Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz), departing at 7am and 3pm. Persons subject to seasickness should take appropriate precautions for this often bumpy ride. The four seats at the end of the boat are less bumpy than the side ones. It is best to buy tickets at least one day in advance. It costs $30 each way (Nov 2022), plus 2x $1.00 in taxiboats. When departing from Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz) you will also need to pay $1.50 port fee. You must arrive 30-60 minutes prior to departure as your bags will be subject to an agricultural search. On arrival in Isabela, foreigners must pay a $10 entrance fee ($5 for Ecuadorians). The public speedboat back to Santa Cruz departs some time in the morning and at 3pm. Again, you must arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. The transfer between Isabela and Santa Cruz is 2 hours.

By plane
Inter-island flights are available from EMETEBE Airlines, which operates nine seater aircraft to transport passengers and their luggage from San Cristobal Airport to Isabela, Santa Cruz and Baltra islands. Bookings can be done directly through EMETEBE's website or a travel agent.

Here is the schedule of flights:

 * From San Cristobal to Isabela: depart 07:30; arrive 08:00
 * From San Cristobal to	Baltra: 07:30-08:05
 * From Isabela to San Cristobal: 13:30-14:00
 * From Isabela to Baltra:	 08:30-09:05
 * From Baltra to San Cristobal:	 11:00-11:35
 * From Baltra to Isabela:       12:30-13:05

Get around
Most streets lack adequate street signs, but a civic improvement project is changing this, at least in the center of town. New sidewalks with lava pavers are also being added. The roads in the town are still unpaved though. The town is small enough to explore in an hour. Local children are glad to help you find your destination.

Standard price for a taxi ride is $1.00 (and $5.00 to get you the airport). A line of taxis is waiting in front of the harbor when speedboats arrive.

Do

 * Diving - there is only one diving center on the island which offers dives for 120-140$.
 * Snorkeling - snorkeling around Las tintoreras or Concha de Perla is excellent. You might also ask a local panga owner to take you out to "Los Tuneles", or "The Tunnels", a wonderful area of eroded lava islets filled with sea life.
 * Diving - there is only one diving center on the island which offers dives for 120-140$.
 * Snorkeling - snorkeling around Las tintoreras or Concha de Perla is excellent. You might also ask a local panga owner to take you out to "Los Tuneles", or "The Tunnels", a wonderful area of eroded lava islets filled with sea life.
 * Snorkeling - snorkeling around Las tintoreras or Concha de Perla is excellent. You might also ask a local panga owner to take you out to "Los Tuneles", or "The Tunnels", a wonderful area of eroded lava islets filled with sea life.
 * Snorkeling - snorkeling around Las tintoreras or Concha de Perla is excellent. You might also ask a local panga owner to take you out to "Los Tuneles", or "The Tunnels", a wonderful area of eroded lava islets filled with sea life.

Buy
Shops in Puerto Villamil sell food, supplies, and souvenirs. A good place to buy fresh fruit and vegetables is around Mercado Municipal.

Money
There is one ATM (Cooperativa de ahorra y credito) in Puerto Villamil. It's located in calle Escalecias next to the supermarket "el familion". Very few locations accept credit cards, make sure to bring plenty of cash in case the ATM is not working.

Eat
The town of Puerto Villamil at the southern end offers lodging and food to visitors wanting to stay on the island. There are several restaurants and bakeries in Puerto Villamil. Most restaurants serve rice, beans and a piece of meat for around 2 dollars.
 * Encantado de Pepa is a wonderful little cafe serving good food on a clean and charming patio adjacent to the town's main square. They have lunch and dinner menus for $8 each. La Pepa is one of the most entertaining characters in the Galapagos.
 * Cesar's is a restaurant just next to Encantado de Pepa. They also serve both lunch and dinner menus for $8. There is Wi-Fi available there (ask them to turn the router on if it doesn't work).

Drink
The nightlife is pretty sedate in Puerto Villamil.
 * Bar de Beto is a beachfront bar popular with locals and travelers, good to grab a beer and chill out.
 * Pink Iguana is a spacious bar located directly on the beach, very popular. Drinks for $6-$8. Happy hour 5pm-8pm - 2 drinks for $10.

Splurge

 * La Casa de Marita is the first upmarket place in town.
 * Hotel Albermarle the newest and most upscale hotel in town.
 * Hotel Albermarle the newest and most upscale hotel in town.
 * Hotel Albermarle the newest and most upscale hotel in town.

Connect
As of 2022, Internet connectivity on Isabela is significantly worse compared to Santa Cruz or San Cristobal. This applies to guest houses as well as the mobile network. Claro offers 3G connectivity in Puerto Villamil whereas Movistar has only 2G (GSM/EDGE) coverage. Take that into account when buying a SIM card.

It is not common for restaurants, cafes and bars to offer Wi-Fi access.

Go next

 * Fernandina
 * Santiago

title: Isabela (Ecuador)


text:
Isabela (Puerto Rico)

Isabela is a city on the northern coast of Puerto Rico.

Get in

 * San Juan: Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport
 * Aguadilla: Rafael Hernández Airport
 * Ponce: Mercedita Airport

You can fly directly from Newark via United Airlines, from Philadelphia via American Airlines, from Atlanta via Delta Connection, from New York via jetBlue Airways, and from Orlando via jetBlue Airways and Pan Am into Rafael Hernandez International Airport. Hotels have shuttles to and from the airport.

By car
From Aguadilla it is about a 20-minute drive via PR-2.

Get around
Isabela is served by Interstate PR-2. I-PR-2 to the East connects to Quebradillas, Camuy, Hatillo, and eventually to San Juan via Arecibo. To the West with Aguadilla and from there, it connects to Aguada and Añasco to the South. Other roads include State-Road 459 to San Antonio Village, State-Road 4466 to Bajuras and Jobos two great beach spots.

See

 * Bewitched Well "Pozo Brujo" - Is a freshwater well.
 * Cacique Rock "Monumento al Indio" - An art work honoring Puerto Rican taino heritage and Chief Cacique Mabodomaca.
 * Guajataca Forest - Natural Spot that consists of 46 hiking trails, an observation tower, camping and karst areas.
 * Guajataca Tunnel - Built in 1911 for sugarcane trains, this tunnel is located at the beautiful Guajataca Beach.
 * Isabela City Hall "Alcaldia" - Built in 1922.
 * Jacinto's Well "Pozo de Jacinto" - Water site of rough waves. The tale of Jacinto is that when you ask it for a cow the water would get extremely rough
 * San Antonio de Padua Cathedral
 * San Antonio de la Tuna Ruins - Ruins of the original location of Isabela back in 1725.
 * San Antonio de la Tuna Ruins - Ruins of the original location of Isabela back in 1725.

Do

 * Bajuras Beach
 * Blue Hole - is the best place for snorkeling over the North coast.
 * El Pastillo Beach
 * Guajataca Beach - Great for tanning not for swimming due to strong currents.
 * Jobos Beach- Experience the Tropical Chinchorros feel on the strip, where you can go bar hopping and taste the best food in the Caribbean.
 * Montones Beach - Great for kids since it is outcropped by a coral that forms a protected area and creates a huge wave-spray on the ocean side.
 * Punta Sardinera Beach - Originally a port for Spanish ships
 * Shacks Beach

Buy
Isabela complements the region's commercial activity. It has a strategically located commercial center on Interstate PR-2 called Plaza Isabela. There are also stores along PR-2 and in the downtown area, called pueblo.

Sleep

 * Parador Villas del Mar Hau
 * Villa Montaña Beach Resort

Go next

 * Aguadilla
 * Moca
 * Quebradillas
 * San Sebastián

title: Isabela (Puerto Rico)


text:
Isalo National Park

Isalo National Park is in Toliara Province of Madagascar.

Understand
The park is known for its wide variety of terrain, including sandstone formations, deep canyons, palm-lined oases, and grassland. The closest town is Ranohira, and the closest city is Toliara. A local guide is required for visitors entering the park, and guides and porters can be hired in Ranohira. Treks in the park can last from several hours to a week or longer.

The Bara people, who traditionally inhabit the park, entomb the dead in natural mountain caves that are considered sacred, they have buried the dead of their ancestors for centuries.

Get in
From the north, taxi brousses to Ranohira can be found from Fianarantsoa, Ambalavao, and Ihosy.

Fees and permits
National park fees for Isalo as of 2018 are:
 * 65,000 Ar pp for one day
 * 110,000 Ar pp for two days

Compulsory community tax is an additional 5,000 per person for entire length of visit.

Guide fees for treks in the park are:

 * Less than 4 hours - 80,000 Ar
 * More than 4 hours - 120,000 Ar

Lodging
In Ranohira there is a 2,000 Ar 'community tax' on top of every room per night. Check whether this is included in the price you are being quoted.

title: Isalo National Park


text:
Isère

Isère is a department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France.

Cities

 * Voiron
 * Voiron

History
Isère is one of the original 83 departments created during the French Revolution. It was created from part of the former province of Dauphiné.

People
Inhabitants of the department are called Isérois.

Geography
Isère is part of the current region of Rhône-Alpes and is surrounded by the department of Rhône, Ain, Savoie, Hautes-Alpes, Drôme, Ardèche, and Loire.

Isère includes a part of the French Alps. The highest point in the department is the summit of La Meije at 3,987 meters. The Vercors Plateau dominates the west of the department.

See
The Grande Chartreuse is the mother abbey of the Carthusian order. It is located near Voiron 14 miles north of Grenoble and can be visited. Monks at the abbey distil a beverage rich in alcohol called "the chartreuse" and made of several hundred of plants picked in the mountain.

Do

 * Many ski resorts, including the Alpe d'Huez and Les Deux Alpes
 * The

Eat
Isère produces the following cheeses: Bleu du Vercours-Sassenage and Saint-Marcellin.

Go next

 * GR 65 leads from Geneva via La Côte-Saint-André, Isère, to Le Puy-en-Velay and further on to Spain, as part of the Way of St. James to Santiago de Compostella.

Neighboring departments:
 * Ain to the north
 * Ardèche and Drôme to the southwest
 * Loire to the west
 * Rhône to the northwest
 * Savoie to the northeast
 * Hautes-Alpes to the south

title: Isère


text:
Isca Marina

Isca Marina is a village in Calabria, Italy. It is situated in the very south continental part of Italy, inheriting a warm climate during winter and beautiful hot summers.

Get in
The nearest airport is Lamezia Terme International Airport about an hour away. It is served by flights from cities around Italy and other parts of Europe, along with seasonal flights from Tel Aviv and Toronto.

By train: Nearby Stations at Badolato and Sant' Andrea Apostolo dello Jonio have a good train connection to/from all major Italian towns and cities.

A Bus and Coach service is also available.

By car, you can drive from Highway "Salerno-Reggio Calabria" and get-off at Rosarno, then cross Calabria from north to south on highway "autostrada dei due mari". These highways are all toll-free.

See
Coastal Resort near the buzzing East coast city of Soverato on the Ionian Coast.

There is a nature reserve on the sand dunes behind the beach making sure there are always peaceful areas somewhere on the beach

History: Locri's Greek ancient town

Nature: parks of Sila and Aspromonte

Isca Marina is also home to an indoor swimming pool with 6 25 m lanes.

There are also sub aqua lessons and a great cafe.

Right next to Isca is Badolato with a new sailing marina

There are good fishing expeditions from the Marina

Do
During summertime everything is related to sea. During daytime main activities are water sports or beaches activities; during nighttime sea-side discos (in Roccella or in its surroundings) are quite crowded and in a serene mood. Entrance is almost free. Drink prices are cheap.

Eat
Like all the surroundings, food is very typical and extremely tasty. Main suggestion includes dry-sausages ("soppressata"), any preparation of egg-plants (by themselves, oven-cooked or in a unique course very similar to Greek moussaka), fresh fried anchovies, and so on. Food is typically spiced with fennel, oregano, onion, garlic. Roccella has as well an excellent local-made bread.

Drink
There are a few nice bars in Isca Marina and even more lovely ones open on the beach in the Summer

Sleep
Villa holiday and vacation rental - brand new villa near the beach with 2 pools.

 * Villaggio Club Santandrea, Sant' Andrea Apostolo dello Jonio, 88100, Tel. +39 0967.45039 Fax +39 0961.770145,.
 * Villaggio Club Santandrea, Sant' Andrea Apostolo dello Jonio, 88100, Tel. +39 0967.45039 Fax +39 0961.770145,.

title: Isca Marina


text:
Ischgl

Ischgl (1377m) is a small village of 600 people (in 2018) in the Paznaun Valley (German: Paznauntal) in Tyrol Austria.

By plane
Ischgl is an hours drive or so from Innsbruck's airport, two from Munich's and three from Zurich's.

From Innsbruck Airport there are many taxis that offer transfers to Ischgl.

By car
Ischgl can be reached very easily from Innsbruck, the regional capital of Tyrol. Follow the "S16" motorway route until you reach a junction near "Pians" and exit the motorway in the direction of "Paznauntal - Ischgl". The drive is just over an hour and is very direct, making the most of Austria's incredibly efficient road network. However, in winter it can happen that you need chains from the motorway down to See!

By train
Ischgl has no railway station and neither do any other villages or towns in the entire Paznaun valley. However, trains from Innsbruck travel as far as Landeck, roughly 3.5 km (2 mi) from the start of the valley. Regular bus services operated by "OBB", Austria's main public transport operator, run from the station in Landeck (Landeck-Zams) via the town centre to the Paznauntal frequently, making for a relatively simple journey.

Do
Ski: 220 km of pistes, resort opens early.

title: Ischgl