A week in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Author: MissRoseDarrensAngel
Date of Trip: September 2007

I had a wonderful holiday in Belfast, Ireland, and it went by way too fast for me but I will be back again for sure.

**Seen the SS Nomadic which is docked in the River Lagan next to the Odyssey Arena (last link to the Titanic – it had Titanic history/film stuff on it, plus a few things related to past White Star Line vessels on it) – as a Titanic fanatic – I LOVED that i was able to see this link to Titanic in the town where it was built. Admission is 5 pounds for adults. Not a place for small children due to some items on board are fragile and/or rare

**A Double decker bus tour of the city to see a variety of sights through Belfast and learned some trivia and history behind alot of various buildings and sights. I used the http://www.belfastcitysightseeing.com/citytour/ bus tour company, and they have many departures, and you get to see the city, and get a commentary from the guide, and have the opportunity to take pictures as well. Well worth the 11 pound per adult price.

**I visited West Belfast – seen the many political and/or historical murals, shops, and also went to a very nice Irish pub and a very nice restaurant (I don’t recall the place but it is not far from Broadway Street and on the Falls Road itself). It is not licensed to sell alcohol (yet!). It has many signs in both Irish and English as it is considered the Gaeltecht Quarter section of Belfast. Much of the area is considered working class/middle class by some American standards.

**I rode in the black taxis in Belfast. I encountered a wide variety of people during the rides – they are an inexpensive way to see parts of the city compared to a normal taxi ride or bus – for about 1 pound per person. 6 people at one time can fit inside. Also there is a taxi rank right near the beginning of the Falls Road / Divis Road area where you can queue for the taxis based on area you are visiting in West Belfast. You can also flag one down and get in the West Belfast area as well too.

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**Shopping (I did ALOT OF IT …. yes my suitcase was heavy by week’s end, and I did get some THORNTONS chocolates which are my favorites!!). The City Centre and high streets have a variety of places to suit all budgets and tastes ranging from the discount place Primark to high end places, and Castlecourt is NOT to be missed. Bring plenty of cash and credit cards, and pack lightly before your trip if you plan to do plenty of shopping!

**I went out clubbing a few times – if you like to go clubbing there are a variety of places to go to – my recommendations include Wetherspoon’s and the Globe. There are many different types of clubs and pubs to suit people, and some places do have dress codes (no trainers, track suits etc).

**I did Alot of WALKING as I didn’t want to rent a car, and attempt to drive on the other side of the road. I hurt my feet really bad (blisters and aches) and didn’t realize my trainers were really bad and with my best friend’s help, I bought myself a nice new pair of trainers at a shop in the city centre, and the old trainers were binned!!! I do recommend walking as much as you can – make sure you wear comfortable clothes, proper trainers, and keep yourself properly hydrated. Public transport is plentiful (taxis and buses) but the walking was good for me.

**I had an Indian meal for the 1st time at Gingeroot – it was pretty good and very filling. The service was great as well.

**I do recommend 1 time to have an Ulster fry – its not the most nutritious breakfast you will ever have – but its good, and if you are in Belfast – go to Bright’s in the city centre to have it there – great food and prices are reasonable too, plus there is a variety of food options. Bright’s has great service and it is often full – be patient when waiting for a table – its worth it.