> DOMESTIC
Images: © Northern Ireland Tourist Board
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If I say that the next three hours were intense, don’t let that put you off. They were, intensely entertaining, interesting and educational. Billy took me past the Titanic Studios where Game of Thrones is filmed, past the Belfast Waterfront Hall and the statue Beacon of Hope (known locally as the Thingy with the Ringy), past Michelinstarred Ox and the Bullitt Hotel, which models itself on the no-nonsense star of the famous film. The whole journey was filled with anecdotes and facts, shopping and eating recommendations, all delivered in Billy’s inimitable style. Then we drove on to West Belfast where we took a tour of the political murals and memorials of both sides of the Troubles, past the Crumlin Jail which is now a visitor attraction and wedding venue and the crumbling Court House. With Billy’s colourful narrative, it wasn’t difficult to imagine the strife and hardship even in these peaceful times. Then we stopped at the Peace Wall, which divides the Falls and Shankill Roads, and is now home to a huge colourful mural, to which visitors are encouraged to add their thoughts. We stopped briefly to allow me to sprint round the Ulster Museum (I recommend taking your time) to see the beautiful Game of Thrones tapestry, some beautiful 16th century gold jewellery from the Spanish Armada, and fossils from the sea floor 200 million years ago. The museum is set within the Botanical Gardens which contains the Tropical Ravine, a unique Victorian garden feature which is currently undergoing restoration. Sadly it was almost time for my flight from the George Best Belfast City Airport, only 15 minutes from the city centre. I already can’t wait to go back, there was so much to see and do, along with a definite feeling of new beginnings and hope for the future. Daily flights to Belfast City Airport are available with Flybe, for information visit: flybe.com visitbelfast.com titanichotelbelfast.com touringaroundbelfast.com