In the last decade, Limerick has opened its shores to immigrants and many are now embracing the cultural ways of their adopted home. I checked with some immigrants on their reasons for staying back in Limerick, instead of going home for Christmas.

• Limerick provides refuge, peace and safety

• Limerick is new home

• Traveling home for Christmas costs more money 

• Immigrants have found new families and friends – integration is at its highest

• Their businesses are succeeding

• Some immigrants lack a choice to return home

• Hope for snow

• Limerick is a beautiful city

• To help those in need

• The River Shannon is reminiscent of birth places