The idea to make Northern Ireland part of the UK trip was all Kevin's idea. We both had visited Dublin, but really, had not seen much more beyond a crazed, day trip to Glendalough. Plus, we didn't know anyone who had explored Northern Ireland and we figured we wanted to give it a try. I know--at least my whole lifetime--Belfast has been associated with violence and turmoil. So of course I was a little nervous. Looking back, I realize we followed a few simple rules:
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| Stunning cliffs, near Giant's Causeway, County Antrim. |
1. Do not discuss religion and politics. I think this rule should be followed all the time when traveling, but in a place like Northern Ireland it must be strictly observed. Stick to pleasantries--weather (it's a hot topic), sports, tips on the driving on the left, etc.
2. Do not visit residential neighborhoods in Belfast without an organized tour. Tensions are still easily on display with a wall cutting through the city, keeping the Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods apart. We chose a black cab tour to take us through these areas as learning the history from a local and seeing the separation and amazing murals are not to be missed.
3. Take some time to learn about "The Troubles." Kevin and I came away realizing we knew so little about the situation. I felt really ignorant. I was glad we kicked off our time in Belfast with a trip to the Ulster Museum, which breaks down the region's cultural and political history.
Northern Ireland is a lovely place to visit filled with beautiful countrysides and friendly people. If you practice common sense, you will be fine and thankful--as we are--that we had a chance to visit.
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