Input for a Solo Traveler?

I spent a lot of time in pubs, often alone, sometimes with a companion. I never offered to buy anyone a drink and I don't remember anyone treating me either. That being said, I found it easier to chat with the locals not just in the pubs but everywhere - in shops, museums, just about anywhere and everywhere. I also had people start up conversations with me. I found the locals very ready to talk about anything and everything. And if there are no empty tables but there's an empty chair at a table, you can ask to sit there - chances are you'll have a great conversation though it might be with other tourists but probably not Americans.

I personally wouldn't do that unless a bar is very quiet, and to be honest even then I wouldn't. Standing there you are blocking other people from being served and it can be uncomfortable.

Emma would know this and I'm surprised there are no seats. Maybe stand for a bit and then sit down? Hold Harmless: I have not been to Ireland. However, when traveling solo in Europe I will sit solo at the bar at bars/pubs for several reasons. 1. Bartenders are very well informed about the area and I often will pick their brains. 2. As a 60 something woman, the bartenders (males particularly) seem to really enjoy talking to me and will continue to do so as they work. (I'm their Mom?) 3. Because the bartender knows so many people in the bar, pretty soon the musicians, if any, and other clientele are talking to me as well. 4. I'm not much of a drinker so if I have a drink it is only a glass of wine. Mostly, I'll drink tea and they seem fine with that. As Ireland has a reputation for being so friendly towards Americans...as many were Irish, I guess...I think it would be even easier to converse there. If you can't sit at the bar, I recommend a table in a sociable position in the middle or in front of the band/entertainment if any. So many more people will speak with me everywhere when traveling solo...and I'm an introvert. Have fun. Ireland has recently been added to my list.

PS, I have never bought a customer a drink in a bar. I'd feel uncomfortable with that as I'm not picking someone up. I have bought lunch for people, but it was payback for going out of their way doing research or driving me somewhere. That being said, I have some in laws in the musician field, who will buy a bear for the band once they've been singing a bit.

I've traveled solo nearly all my life. Personal preference. Been to Ireland twice. LOVE pubs because I enjoy a pint of Guinness after a day exploration.Feel in love with it 20 years ago and have never wavered. As I travel in the Fall months and I enjoy a late afternoon meal of Stew or soup to ward off the chill. Pubs are perfect for this. Love the ambience of pubs. A gathering spot for family and friends have ever felt out of place even during a football match when there can be some rowdiness.

In answer to your query have never but a round. Have bought a friend a pint but never a round. Sit where ever you feel comfortable. I like reading in a pub late in the afternoon before the after work folks arrive. In less touristy towns and villages afternoons can be massively quiet and for me I enjoy the solitude.

Wray is spot on, bartenders can be a wealth of information. Male or female I've found them friendly, funny and pleasant company.

You'll love the Irish and Ireland. Simply respect their history and culture. Slainte.

Wife and I have been to Ireland probably 8 times. Never bought a round or seen one done. Go into the bar, go to the bar, ask and pay for drink. Go find a seat. We usually try to find a seat close to a group of people. We start a conversation and away we go. As said above, some bars have waiters/waitresses to serve you. Ask at the bar, the barman will tell you. If you get hungry, most bars have a menu. Food is usually decent. Food service usually stops around 10. You might ask when you get your drink when food services end.

In pubs known for trad music in Galway and Doolin, I found that people offered me a free seat (usually a stool) at tables, and that people who were not necessarily in a group, easily shared tables to watch and listen to the musicians. Sometimes these were locals and sometimes other tourists. It was easy to interact during breaks in the music. Occasionally someone offered to buy me another beer when ordering for themselves but I didn't see much buying of rounds for groups. I live in Washington, DC. In Ireland, as in other places I have traveled, when I answer where I'm from, people often have questions about what it is like to live there. I'm not naturally that outgoing, so this makes it easier.

Here's my solo experience. I usually find a seat at the bar and say hi to the people sitting next to me. After a little banter I've regularly had someone offer me a pint (now my second). When people buy you a pint, it's rude not to buy their next pint - don't drink and run - figure on staying around to talk for awhile. If they want to buy another round after that, you may have to decline saying you can't stay because that means two more rounds (one on them and one on you). The pace I drink, two pints usually takes me to closing time.