Visiting Etiquette

'Calling by' is another word for visiting. Normally, one would get permission before visiting someone. Holidays are when individuals tend to visit each other the most, particularly between Christmas and New Year's. Try to arrive on time if you are invited to a residence in Ireland. Inform your host if you'll be running late. Offer to help the host clean up after the dinner if you are over for a meal.

Bring a package of fine chocolates and a good bottle of wine for the host if you are asked to an Irish home. If you are late, the dinner may have already been prepared. After a meal, offer to assist with the cleanup. Table etiquette is generally informal and lax.

The procedure is stiffer the more formal the event. Watch what others are doing while in doubt. Continental table manners dictate that the fork should be held in the left hand when eating and the knife in the right. While keeping your hands out and not in your lap, avoid resting your elbows on the table.