Last week, I had the opportunity to travel to Belfast—a trip that inspired and rejuvenated me. We were fortunate enough to be staying in a hotel (as opposed to a hostel), and I cannot emphasize enough how grateful I was for this. A decent night’s sleep made a world of difference as we spent our days taking in all that this historically and naturally beautiful area had to offer.
The standout of my time in Belfast was, without a doubt, a visit to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. As a nature lover and fan of scenic landscapes, this was an experience I will never forget. The bridge itself creaked a little in the wind as we made our way across turquoise waters below, but it was the view from the cliffs that left me breathless. Rolling green hills gave way to dramatic coastlines, and for a few seconds, everything was still. It was a reminder of how centering it is to be immersed in nature—a contrast from the bustle of city life in Dublin.
Another highlight I was not expecting was being able to hold baby sheep. Surprisingly, I had never been so close to farm animals before, and it was quite emotional. These little, soft animals were so delicate and innocent. It made me value Ireland’s countryside appeal and how close to farming and tradition many of the locals still are. During our time in Belfast, we also did a black taxi tour. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, but it ended up being one of the most rewarding aspects of the trip. Our guide told us personal anecdotes and gave us historical background on the Troubles as we saw murals and memorials that made the city’s complicated history come alive. It was a reminder that the beauty of a location isn’t necessarily in its scenery but in the strength and tales of its people.
Apart from tourism, this weekend was also an opportunity for me to develop socially. I met several students from other programs who are also residing at UCD, and we formed fast friendships over communal meals and late-night chats. I also felt as though I became a lot closer to my colleagues, which I hadn’t expected but enjoyed. Being on the road together meant that we got to view one another in different ways—curious, silly, contemplative—and it made our dynamic feel more human and connected.
I returned from Belfast with more than photographs. I returned with a revived sense of appreciation—for nature, for deep conversations, and for the opportunity to see a new face of Ireland.
