Belfast

Murals are aplenty in Belfast.
Murals are aplenty in Belfast.
One such mural depicts the Liverpudlian gift of friendship.
Terraces near our Airbnb.
Terraces near our Airbnb.
The Causeway Coast, located northeast of Northern Ireland.
The Causeway Coast, located northeast of Northern Ireland.
The interlocking basalt columns.
The interlocking basalt columns.
At the tip of the coastline.
At the tip of the coastline.
The Rope Bridge, which I had no guts to cross.
The Rope Bridge, which I had no guts to cross.

Out of all the capital cities in the UK, I feel that Belfast seemed to be a lot more industrialised and thus lacked the “global city” appeal unlike its Welsh, Scottish and English counterparts. It is as though the country is still rebuilding itself from the political, social and religious turmoil of the 1960s, as seen by its numerous murals around the city.

Untainted by the mid-20th century bloodshed is the Giant’s Causeway, located northeast of the country. These basalt columns – mostly hexagonal – were formed millions of years ago as a result of intense volcanic activity. Legend has it that a giant named Fionn was challenged to a fight by another giant called Benandonner. Fionn then built these columns as a path so the two of them could meet. Then Fionn defeated Benandonner. The end.

I digress.

Even with strong winds beating against the unfit body (AKA me), I spent a meaningful day appreciating such picturesque views painted on Nature’s canvas.

Lastly, did I mention I am absolutely dreadful at deciphering Irish-accented English?

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