Friends drink a pint of the black stuff at the Gravity Bar in the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin

Drinking in Ireland is a religion that gives the Catholic Church a run for its money.

The Irish are the most enthusiastic tea drinkers in the world and it is hard to make it past the doormat of any home without being offered a cup. However, the Starbucksification of the world has not escaped Ireland, and nowadays lattes are more ubiquitous than the proverbial Irish coffee.

When it comes to alcoholic beverages, Guinness has weaseled its way into hearts and beer bellies as Ireland's national tipple. Although it is now owned by Spanish conglomerate Diageo, Guinness is still brewed in Dublin and there's nothing like drinking a pint of "the black stuff" on its home turf. Poured properly, this creamy-headed stout should take a two-minute breather about three-quarters of the way through pouring and then be left to settle for another two minutes before drinking. For those who find the taste too bitter, a shot of blackberry cordial helps the medicine go down.

In Cork, the local stout is Beamish or Murphy's, and the distinct aroma of hops often lingers over Cork city.

Popular winter warmers in Ireland are hot port and hot whiskey (the latter also known as a hot toddy); both are served with boiling water, cloves and a slice of lemon and the Irish swear by its medicinal benefits.

When drinking with others in an Irish pub, everyone takes turns to buy a ''round''. This often requires a marathon effort to keep up with the fastest drinker. No matter how inebriated you or your fellow drinkers become, dodging your round or leaving before your turn is an unforgivable social faux pas.