A guidebook is a good place to start reading. Frommer’s has one of the best ones about Ireland as a whole, with a decently large section about Waterford. This is a reliable company with helpful and accurate information about hotels, restaurants and attractions. Frommer’s also publishes an Ireland road atlas , which is useful both for its clear diagrams and also its sturdy binding.

A guidebook doesn’t offer opinions, however, and that’s why one might want to check out Rick Steves’ Ireland 2006 . Steves seeks out unusual or overlooked venues and offers direct advice to travelers. Since this is the 2006 edition, it’s also the best resource for recently updated information. Travelers seeking to create the most complete Irish experience may also need to take a look at De wan an only book of Waterford Slang boy! published by UpTheDeise.com, the “Waterford People’s Website!” This unique book’s goal is to enlighten readers about the countless variants of English words that have evolved in Waterford. The task is probably too great for a fifty pager, but this is a valiant attempt.

Another way to get the local perspective is to read one of Waterford’s local newspapers, most of which can be accessed online. Waterford News & Star has an emphasis on local sports and has a sidebar for breaking news, both local and international. The Munster Express has a visitor’s guide with some friendly advice for tourists.