Northern Ireland: How a complex past has brought out the best in humanity

Last month's Peace and Reconciliation tour in Northern Ireland was possibly one of the most powerful tours we've ever done, and for good reason. It's one of my favourite itineraries, as we dive into the peace process, hear from those that have played a part (and continue to do so) whilst also enjoying some of the real tourism highlights here. However this time around, things were a little different.

Just a week prior to the start of the tour, shocking scenes appeared on the news of rioting, a bus set alight and people fleeing from their homes in Belfast, following a brutal attack that took place in the city. It turned out that the very worst of all of this took place right beside the East Belfast Mission, one of our key visits on the tour due to the exceptional work they do in the community, and the opportunities it provides locally in one of the poorest communities in the UK. Hearing first hand about what was going on was not only incredibly powerful and insightful, but also an incredible reminder of how much good there is in the world and how powerful that can be. The fact that they were able to provide shelter at such short notice for so many in fear for their lives was truly remarkable. Seeing a burnt out Union flag hanging on a lamppost right outside the building was a very sobering reminder of what took place, as it was caused by the flames from the bus that was set alight.

Our group visit to Stormont - the home of the Northern Ireland Assembly. Our tour was then followed by a Q&A with Brian Kingston, a current member who has held office for a number of years and gave us a great insight into the political system

Whilst thankfully such incidents are few and far between, Northern Ireland has had a complex past with a lot of division, even after the Good Friday agreement. However there is so much being done to unite people, whether it's the way the Northern Ireland Assembly operates in a specific way to prevent one side having the upper hand, or the way that teaching Irish language has become a reminder that everybody there has that language in common (whether it's through place names, family names, or origins of English words and slang.) And whilst it is so fascinating learning about the history, there is so much more to do and experience there.

Learning about Irish lessons that are taught at the East Belfast Mission, which is a great way of bringing communities together

If you find yourself situated in the centre of Belfast, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink. Multiple bars will have live music and the opportunity to sing your heart out, whilst the food ranges from traditional pub grub to high quality Italian, delightful grills and steaks, to pan Asian delicacies. And that's before you've entered St George's Market, which although only open Friday to Sunday offers a range of sumptuous and fresh options. And then you have the must see sights, such as the Titanic Museum, and we highly recommend the McConnell's distillery at the iconic Crumlin Road Gaol.

Once you head out of the city, there are a number of great options to enjoy. Hillsborough Castle, the official Royal Residence in Northern Ireland is packed with history and the tours are both insightful and entertaining. For those interested in early Christianity in Ireland, visits to Saul Church, Down Cathedral as well as St Patrick's grave are essential. Gracehill Moravian settlement is a fascinating visit too, which is perfect to visit on the way to Derry / Londonderry.

Derry Girls is a very funny but at times poignant show on Netflix. The famous mural can be found at the end of our walking tour along the medieval walls

Derry / Londonderry (known as stroke city for obvious reasons) is a great destination to explore, whether it's a walk along the city walls, or a scenic stroll across the Peace Bridge over the Foyle River, you'll be sure to have a memorable time, especially with a good range of shops and bars on offer too.

The iconic Giant's Causeway, the most popular visitor attraction in the whole of Ireland

And finally a trip to Northern Ireland would not be complete without a trip to the Causeway Coast. Giant's Causeway is the number 1 visitor attraction in the whole of Ireland, and it is easy to see why. Learn all about the myths and legends at a simply stunning, natural rock formation. We always plan to get there as early as possible to avoid the big crowds. And the shuttle from the visitor centre down to the rocks and back also saves time. Last time we also included a visit to the Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge, and thankfully the weather wasn't too windy so it was a largely comfortable experience, although it may not be ideal for those with vertigo or fear of heights - the video below captures the experience nicely.

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/97dU6X8eDMM

Finish the day with a visit to Ballycastle before the scenic coastal route back to Belfast - it may be a long day but totally worthwhile for the stunning scenery and nature.

One thing is for certain, a visit to Northern Ireland will leave a huge positive impression on you. Whether it's the exceptional wit and humour from the locals, or the intriguing and complex history here, to the stunning scenery, a trip here is without doubt one you will never ever forget. To find out more about what we can offer on a trip here, get in touch with us today on info@globaldreamtravel.co.uk or call 347 748 1516