I've driven in both countries but more so in Ireland. I've driven both automatic and manual. I'd second what many others have suggested and rent an automatic. You'll have enough challenges to your concentration without trying to shift with your left hand.
There is a terrifying moment when you are on one of the narrow Irish country roads (maybe slightly wider than our cart paths) and see a truck or a bus coming in the opposite direction. I learned quickly that the safetist thing to do is just pull over to the left and let the large vehicle pass. When you hear the branches of the bushes hit the side of the car you'll know you've gone far enough ( don't try this with walls)
I remember after a trip to Ireland I told someone at work that I'd driven around the Ring of Kerry. He asked me if I'd gone around it clockwise or counter clockwise. I told him "clockwise" why do you ask? He tole me Americans were safer going the other way. If you go clockwise the cliff on the ocean is always directly to your leflt. Counter clockwise you're always on the inside.
I say go for it. If you can drive here you can drive there.
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