One of our fans across the sheugh (that's the Irish Sea to the uninitiated - say 'shuck') has sent us this lovely little article extolling the virtues of our wee country. Don't believe us... believe this transfixed tourist...


Welcome to Belfast! I just love that announcement, especially as it’s not now accompanied by the triumphant Ryanair fanfare on the cabin PA. Yet again, a spectacular view of the city as we approach for landing. It’s great to be back.

 

I’d previously visited here a few times on business but only started coming regularly about 18 months ago, when colleagues became good friends. I have since done the tourist bit all over, in all seasons. 

Belfast itself has so much to see and such a buzz. I’ve been round the various quarters (highlight for me was seeing the dry dock, pictured, where Titanic was built – amazing even now!) and the City Hall (stunning refurbishment and excellent free tour). The Christmas market in the grounds of the City Hall was a real festive event. 

I’ve also now been much further afield – round the Ards peninsula (spectacular views, brilliant fresh fish in the local restaurants), down to Newcastle and the Mournes (atmospheric at every time of year and always different depending on the weather), Hillsborough Castle (not actually a castle and part of a chocolate-box village), Derry and Malin Head over the Border (including a walk round the Walls of course) and up North round Bushmills (best whiskey in the world) and the Giant’s Causeway (most spectacular rock formations in the world). I could also mention Armagh in December (skating rink installed for the Christmas season), the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum and much more…

 

But these are just names till you’ve been there. And it’s not just about the places; it’s about a unique history (good and bad), an accent that I just love – and the most friendly people I have ever met. No wonder people keep coming back; it’s a bug so common it now it has a name – Ulsteritis.

 

When I told a work colleague I was coming over a few months ago she said, ‘Isn’t that dangerous? Won’t you get shot?’ Such is the level of ignorance in some quarters and the sad legacy of the Troubles. The very clear message that I give in reply is (in local parlance) ‘Catch yourself on’. Frankly, I feel much safer here than many places ‘over the water’. It’s brilliant. There is so much to see and do and all of it highly impressive.  You will be amazed. Come and visit; stay!