In short
An Irish-speaking home is a household where Irish is spoken day to day. On Sa Bhaile hosts can mark their home as Irish-speaking, and lodgers can filter for it and show their own level, from cúpla focal to fluent. It suits learners, teachers, students and anyone who wants to use their Irish.
Who is it for?
Students of Irish, trainee teachers, people working in Irish-medium schools or organisations, Gaeltacht workers, and anyone who wants to bring their Irish back to life.
How fluent do I need to be?
Not very. Many hosts are happy to help a learner. Your profile shows your level: no Irish, cúpla focal, conversational or fluent. Say what you’re hoping for when you message a host.
How does Sa Bhaile support Irish?
You can use the whole site in Irish, search with Irish place names such as Gaillimh or Corcaigh, and filter for Irish-speaking households.
Is a Gaeltacht homestay the same thing?
Not quite. Summer Gaeltacht courses place students with registered host families, known as mná tí, through the course organisers. Sa Bhaile is for longer-term lodgers.
Common questions
- Can I search in Irish?
- Yes. Searching Gaillimh finds the same rooms as Galway.
- Do I have to speak Irish to live in an Irish-speaking home?
- Not necessarily. Many hosts welcome learners. Ask the host what they expect.
- Can I use Sa Bhaile in Irish?
- Yes. Choose GA in the header to switch.
Official sources
We checked this guide against these sources. Rules change, so check them for the latest position.
This is general information, not legal or tax advice. For advice about your situation, contact Citizens Information, Threshold or a solicitor.
Ready to find the right fit?
Listing a room and searching on Sa Bhaile are both free, and every arrangement starts with a trial period.