My First Weekend

 13/09/24

This continues straight from where I left off on Friday after work. I ventured into the city centre of Belfast for the first time via the bus, the journey took about 30 mins and by the time I got into the centre it was dark. I got off the bus right outside the Cathedral, which was lit up with purple and blue lights, it looked really good. The city was bustling and busy but it was raining slightly so I looked for what seemed to be a nice, authentically Irish pub. I walked for about 10 minutes and went inside the Fibber Magee, it was a very old and traditional looking place so naturally I ordered a Guinness, it was a good choice as it was creamy and cold. Went down a treat. I stayed here for another pint as I could see a band setting up to play, there were two on the violin, one of which also played the keyboard, one guitar player, and a guy on the harmonica. They were a real crowd pleaser and did classic songs from Northern Ireland, Scotland, Dublin and others that everyone seemed to know apart from me. Honestly most of the crowd was at least 50 years old, I think it was fair to say that I was the youngest person in there at 21 😆 I still loved the vibe and had a great time. The last train back was at 11:25 pm so I stopped off at a couple more really nice pubs and had some interesting chats with a few locals then made my way home for the night. 

On Saturday I chilled at home to watch Man United vs Southampton and do some work, then went out into town in mid afternoon. This time I explored the shipyard area, so I went over the bridge onto the islands. I walked past the SSE arena and up to the Titanic museum, unfortunately I couldn't go inside the museum as it was too late and you needed to book (my plan for next Saturday), but I walked on the land where the Titanic was constructed and walked past the SS Nomadic. Without realising I had walked the Maritime Mile, which is a tourist attraction in itself, the sign saying that over 3 million visitors walk it every year. 

Today is Sunday the 15th of September, I am writing this from my flat in the evening. Today I went into the city earlier to see the centre properly in daylight, although at 2 pm I went into a sports bar to watch the North London derby, to my delight Arsenal won, albeit a slightly shaky performance. I then went out and explored the busy centre, there were many people about and the city really felt alive, I scouted out the best areas to shop and discovered Victoria Square, a huge mall. I also saw Albert's Clock Tower, which was built for Queen Victoria's husband, Albert, in 1869. However, renovations were done in the early 2000s and the tower still leans slightly, so it is also known as the leaning tower of Belfast. After grabbing some food and doing my shop in Lidl, I returned home via the bus.

All in all I had a good weekend, I didn't do too much but got my bearings and feel for the city, including its people. I am positive about the rest of my time here and just about ready for another weeks work. I will keep the blog updated with the continuing project and other things I may get up to.