Belfast, Ireland
There are a multitude of interesting things to do in see and we will cover just a few in this post.
Belfast has a rich history as a seaport as well as serving the modern-day cruise ships. The port was home to the Harland and Wolff shipyard where the Titanic and other White Star ships such as the Olympia and Britannic were built and launched. The site of the old shipyard has been designated the Titanic Quarter and houses several points of interest including the Titanic Belfast Museum. Visitors can view elements from the iconic ship and is multi-sensory way, propelling them back in time.
Another museum to check out is the Ulster Museum which houses an amazing array of exhibits from dinosaurs and jewelry from a wrecked Spanish Galleon to paintings and Egyptian mummies, spanning history from Neolithic times to the Troubles in recent years.
To admire some natural beauty, take a stroll through the Botanical Gardens. A must see there is the Palm House, the large curved glass house which anchors the gardens and is home to some ancient and otherwise beautiful plants. Also take in the Tropical Ravine featuring an indoor sunken garden and birds of paradise among other tropical plants.
For those of you who like a darker edge to your history, you might find a visit to the Crumlin Road Gaol (gaol meaning jail in English). For over 150 years until about 1996, this building has imprisoned murders, suffragettes and even terrorists from both sides of the Troubles. When you tour, you will even pass through the tunnel linking the jail to the courthouse on the other side of the street.
You might find yourself a bit thirsty and in the mood for a pint at some point. Head over to the Crown Liquor Saloon for a nice beverage and a feast for the eyes. The Victorian gin palace dates back to the 1880s and features a clash of styles such as detailed wood carvings on the ceiling and six booths as well as Hindu-style plasterwork in the columns by the bar.
Still very much in use today, join the crowd and raise a glass to your time in Belfast!
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