Ireland

Smart Talk

Northern Ireland. There is peace, but often a peace built on sidestepping the issue. "We're very good at avoiding things," says Irish-born novelist Colum McCann.

Religion, particularly Protestantism versus Catholicism as it bears on the issue above.

Bashing the British won't get you far-it's a cliché. Ireland’s had a rough history but moved beyond it in many ways.

Don't call yourself Irish if your great-grandfather was from there. It’s fine to talk about your roots but not to presume permanent cultural citizenship.

Sex is no longer a no-go zone in Ireland, though among the older generation you might feel the lingering effects of a long history of Catholic prudery.

Diversionary Topics - So long as you avoid politics, the Irish love Americans. Talk about the countries' commonalities and about Ireland’s rapid economic growth in recent years.