Belfast Went By Too Fast

Hi, everyone! I’m mad at myself that I got off track with this blog. Forgive me for my past few weeks off. I really wanted to finish chronicling my Irish journeys while I was still actually in Ireland, but that unfortunately didn’t happen. Even though I’m back in America now, I’m going to see this blog through! So, without further ado, here is what I was up to for my last two weeks abroad:

On the second to last Thursday before I departed, our program leader Aoife put together one last event for us. We got to see “The Artistocrats” at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin! She had connections and was able to get us seats right at the front of the auditorium. It was a really fun way to end our experience with FIE, and I’m grateful to have had a final hurrah to hang out with everyone. Also, another program from New York had just gotten into town, so they were there also! It was kind of cool getting to chat with them, as they were brand new to the city and we were on our way out. It was crazy for me to think about how far I’d come in only two short months.

Anyway, the play was really good. I enjoyed getting to watch the local actors and actresses and hear their gorgeous Irish accents! Thanks again, Aoife, for organizing a great night out on the town! :)

The following Friday (The Fourth of July, actually!) I hopped on a train to Belfast in Northern Ireland. I was headed to see some extended family (I talked about them in my blog in early June) for the weekend. What was especially cool about this weekend venture was that my tour was being guided by the local people. Laurence and Elaine really knew their way around and it was so amazing to stay with them, eat with them, see their favorite places and just chat. I felt like I got the most true experience possible since I was able to get a real feel for their everyday lives.

The train ride from Dublin to Belfast was only about two hours—not bad!—and I didn’t even have to show my passport. I brought it expecting I’d have to use it because I was technically entering a different country. That wasn’t the case though, and I arrived in Northern Ireland without much hassle!

I got there around noon, and Laurence and Elaine were busy with appointments and such until about 2pm. Since I had a few hours to kill, Laurence pointed me in the direction of a farmer’s market called Saint George’s Market. I moseyed on in, happy to be out of the rain and also perfectly content to lose myself in all of the little vendors for a few hours. After all, my motto is: there's only one thing better than a farmers market…an indoor farmers market! It makes sense, too, what with all of the rain there! Anyway, the market was lovely and I easily wasted the time I needed to. The day’s spoils were a cupcake, two necklaces, a bracelet, a cup of tea, and some flowers. I also got lunch at a stand that was self-titled “The best burger joint in Belfast.” I’d have to agree.

Oh, and I must brag…I’m perfecting my haggling skills! With a little skill I was able to barter 9 pounds off my jewelry. Are you guys proud or what?

I found myself wishing I had a market like this near home because everything looked so fresh. The meat was red and marbled, the fruit right off the tree. All of it that I could see was locally sourced and I really appreciated that! Come to think of it, there’s just nothing I don’t appreciate about Farmer’s Markets.

When 2 o’clock rolled around, I found Laurence and Elaine easily enough. I was so happy to see them, and proud of myself for getting to the right place without any trouble. Laurence helped me bring my luggage to the car and off we went! It was still early, and they had a full day planned for us. No time for being tired! :)

First, they took me to City Hall. It was so elegant! The whole thing was just over the top posh and gorgeous. From the architecture to the furniture, I was amazed in every room! I even got to try on some of the garb. ;)

After City Hall, Laurence and Elaine showed me around the city center of Belfast. We went in a few shops (Primark, yay!) and then found our way to Avoca for dinner. Avoca is this really cute shop that sells lots of touristy gifts, but also has a restaurant/cafe upstairs. We got a light dinner of some salad and lasagna, then set off to fulfill our evening’s agenda: The Titanic Exhibit.

Titanic was amazing. Before I studied abroad, I didn’t even know that the Titanic was built and founded in Belfast. It amazed me that I was standing right near where that infamous ship once was. The exhibit itself was very technological and informative. I liked how all of the different displays used modern technology to get the facts across. For example, in one room, you walk in and all of the walls around you become a movie screen. You are shown around the Titanic and it feels like you are really there and seeing the ship for yourself because of peripheral vision. Also, it was very neat to see inside the ship.

Something I feel I should admit is that I have never truly grasped how much of a tragedy the sinking was. The only thing I’d ever really thought about in regards to The Titanic is the movie and the (fictional!) love story between Rose and Jack. It made me focus on all the wrong things. Luckily, that extraordinary exhibition set me straight. For the first time, I thought about how many people lost their lives—1,503—and how they are done an injustice with the movie focusing less on the travesty as a whole. It’s so sad to think about all the families that were torn apart, all the children that didn’t get to live out long lives, all the employees that died while simply doing their jobs and all the pain and suffering in general. It’s such a terrible shame. I was glad to kind of see the bigger picture and to honor those poor people.

After Titanic, we decided to stop in a pub before going home. It was the Fourth of July, after all, and I needed to at least have one drink for America! :) The pub was called The Dirty Duck and it was adorable! First of all, the view was amazing, sitting right on the water. Also, in celebration of the USA, there were American flags everywhere. It almost felt like home! We sat down, ordered some drinks and some bar food, and had a great hour or two just chatting and listening to live music. Although I was the tiniest bit bummed about missing the fourth in America, I wouldn’t have traded that day or night for the world. It was great company, and a memory I’ll have forever.

I was the only one who thought this was weird! A hard boiled egg with your beer? Yuck!

We hit the ground running on Saturday, waking up early, showering and all sitting down for a nice homemade breakfast. Elaine prepared some delicious, traditional Irish food—tomatoes, mushrooms, potato bread, bacon, and a poached egg! I so enjoyed having a hot meal, as I rarely had time to make myself breakfast before work in Dublin. Plus, Elaine is a good cook and she really spoiled me all weekend. :)

After getting ready, we left the house and set off for a day of outdoor adventures. First, we journeyed to Dunluce Castle, which has been standing since the 1500s. It was pretty amazing to see how much of the structure was still intact—it’s true that things just aren’t built with such integrity nowadays. The Castle sits right on the water and the views were amazing. Also, neat little handheld devices allowed us to tune in at different spots throughout the property to listen to some background information about the rooms and their purposes. It was a really enjoyable way to begin the day!

Next up was Giant’s Causeway. It’s a popular tourist destination that was essentially created from a volcano. However, it got the nickname Giant’s Causeway because legend says that the rock formations were actually created by giants. No matter how they got there, they sure were beautiful! The honeycomb structure was unreal, and everyone climbs all over just to get a picture with it. For the journey, Elaine packed cute little snacks of waters, bananas, and Twix for us. With a gentle breeze, some sunshine and amazing company, we got to walk to the very edge of the Causeway and back. Just like most of this summer, the day was all about nature and exploring its features. As corny as it sounds, the two months in Ireland were really refreshing in general because I didn’t always have my phone with me. It forced me to really sit back and enjoy what was in front of me. Also, most of the famous tourist destinations were outdoors in remote locations, so it was overall just great for the soul. :)

Laurence posing on the honeycomb formations!

Elaine and I at the Causeway!

Our last venture on Saturday was to the famous Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. It’s honestly just this rickety old bridge, but everyone visits it to say they’ve walked across! It’s funny how mankind is always in constant pursuit of adventure and excitement. I will say though that it’s a gorgeous, hidden sight. I can totally see the appeal of wanting to travel to this little bridge and take on the small danger and the fun of getting to cross to the island. Overall, I’d say that it was worth it. It definitely sends a chill up your spine! See for yourself in the pictures below. Would you do it?

To finish off the night, Elaine and Laurence took me to eat at The Harbour Bar and Bistro. If I had to describe it in one word, it would be: amazing. Hands down, it was the best meal I had all summer! Laurence even told me that people travel from all over Northern Ireland just to eat there. It was a really interesting system—after waiting for an hour on average, your name is called, you walk in the main restaurant and order your food at the bar, pay, and have a seat. Then, within about twenty minutes the food is on your table. It’s definitely an unusual practice, paying before you even eat, but they do it for efficiency. The place is so busy that it probably couldn’t function any other way! One thing that I instantly liked about the atmosphere/culture of the bar was a sign hanging on their wall: “No wifi. Talk to your friends.” It definitely had personality. I would go back to The Harbor Bar in a heartbeat!

Also, Laurence taught me a funny saying they have in their family: “Stretch or starve” meaning help yourself when the food comes out or you won’t get any. I LOVE it. I’ll be keeping that phrase. ;)

After dinner, we journeyed the two hours home and enjoyed a cup of tea while watching some TV. I laughed to myself that Elaine watches more American shows than I do, although we did have Once Upon a Time in common! Interestingly, I was a season or two ahead of her because they delay shows abroad. Anyway, within only a few minutes of watching Modern Family, she got me hooked! It’s hilarious and I can’t wait to continue watching it here in the U.S.

Sunday morning we all slept in and took our time getting ready. Truthfully, we were worn out from the long day we had had on Saturday. After eating something small for fuel, we left to go hike to Scrabo Tower nearby Laurence and Elaine’s house. It was quite a walk uphill, but I was proud when we finally made it to the top. You could see for miles both land and water. There’s nothing like the fresh air paired with a view like that. And of course, the tower itself was neat. The history was rich and again I was astounded by the architecture. These structures hold up so well for so long!

After the hike!

After we got home from our hike, Elaine made us a breakfast of pancakes and fruit. We all ate together, reminiscing about how fun of a weekend it had been. We had almost the entire day on Sunday to still be together, but I could feel myself already missing them and Belfast! Time passes too quickly.

We spent Sunday visiting one of Laurence and Elaine’s friends, travelling across a harbor using a ferry (my first time on a ferry boat!), doing some shopping, and going out to eat once more. It was a great last day. That weekend is close to my heart and ranks high on my list of favorite memories.

Sadly, 6 o’clock rolled around and it came time to catch my train back to Dublin. Elaine and Laurence dropped me off at the train station, and a wall of grief washed over me as I found my platform. I didn’t want to leave Belfast, and even further, I didn’t want to leave Ireland! What a fun summer it had been. All of the people that helped me along the way really shaped what an awesome experience I had. I’ve only been home for one week and I already can’t wait to go back!

Anyway, I found my train right away that evening, and took the seat that was assigned to me. After I sat down, though, I heard this weird noise from a few rows in front of me. It turned out to be a man with an electric razor shaving his beard! In public. Right there on the train. How weird! Am I right? That’s not normal! He didn’t even care about the hair that was getting everywhere…he just shaved away.

I happened to catch the eyesight of a boy my age sitting near me and we both made a WTF gesture to each other and started laughing. Oh, the things you see.

In sum, my journey to Northern Ireland was more than enjoyable. I learned and saw so much, and I really got to know Laurence and Elaine. The whole thing was such great fun and I wish I had it to do over! Can’t wait for my return trip! :)

Thanks for sticking with me guys! I plan to do one last post—so stayed tuned!

Xox,

Alyssa 

Put a Cork in it

Hey lads! Isn't that cute? It just sounds so much better than "guys." Lol. Hope you're enjoying the Florida heat! I must admit that I missed that this past weekend. I was freezing for three days straight and all I could think about was getting back to go to the beach! :)

Anyway, let me start with last Monday! I work right across the street from the Bord Gais Energy Theatre. It's this amazing building with really clever architecture that hosts renowned shows such as Wicked. By a stroke of luck, I happened to obtain some tickets through the hotel! I jumped at the opportunity because I had heard nothing but good things about the theatre in general. I didn't even know what the show was, but I didn't mind. Fun is fun, right? So, my friends and I set off to go see Black Coffee. It's an Agatha Christie book, if you've ever heard of her. She's an English writer who apparently does murder mysteries. The show was really cheesy but still cute. I loved the easy punch lines and corny jokes. It was honestly just a G rated, relaxed and enjoyable evening. Those kinds of nights are great in my book! I'm glad I got to experience the Bord Gais (Pronounced gosh) during my stay here.

The rest of the week was pretty ordinary. Friday evening, though, my coworker Shauna invited me to travel to her town and watch a hurling match! Her boyfriend, Daniel, plays for the team and she thought I might enjoy seeing an Irish sport in action! She was right, as it was definitely unlike anything I had ever watched! Essentially, the sport is a mix between so many others. It's like basketball because you can only take a certain amount of steps while holding the ball. It's like football because it's played on a large grassy field with goals on both ends. It's like soccer because you can kick the ball when it's on the ground. It's like baseball because the players have wooden sticks called hurlers that they use to smack the ball around the field or into the goals. It's very interesting! Also, no one wears any padding whatsoever, with the exception of a helmet. When I asked Shauna about it, she laughingly said that a guy who walks out on the field with shin guards would probably become an instant target.

It was a good time listening to all of the cheering and yelling from the sidelines. It seemed that the team had lots of supporters, and I loved being in the action with them. Also, I got to meet one of Shauna’s friends, Yvonne, and it was really cool for me hang out with the two of them. It's so incredibly fun getting to blend in with the culture, and I could really envision myself fitting in for more than a temporary period.

After the game (or match? I'm not sure what they say), the plan was for Shauna to drive me back to Dublin, about an hour away. When we were in the car though, Shauna and Yvonne were telling me about how, usually, the hurling team goes for drinks at the pub in town. Shauna described it as compulsory, which I thought was hilarious and accurately describes boys and their beer. Anyway, she asked me if I’d like to join them and we spontaneously decided to go! I think we said we'd stay for an hour--but you know how that goes! It was a really fun evening talking to some locals and swapping stories. I spoke to one guy who shears sheep for a living, and he told me that if you don’t shear your sheep for a year, they’ll die. Of course my next question was: well, what about the wild ones? His response: They’re dead.

Oh, ok then.

It was a fun, hilarious and memorable time. We were there until after midnight and Shauna offered to let me stay the night at her apartment, saying she would drive me home in the morning. Happily, I agreed--the best times are often completely unplanned. After the pub before we headed home, we went to a "chipper" in town, which is what people call a restaurant that serves fish and chips. Don't worry though guys, they had other things besides seafood ;) I got chicken fingers and fries, and the food was almost as good as the company!

The famous Boggans. How cool is that thatch roof?

In the morning, Shauna took me to the breakfast place in town that everyone loves called Streetside Café. We joked that I got the truest Enfield experience--a hurling match, the pub, a chipper and then Streetside. It was great fun and I'm so glad I got to explore that cute town. Thanks for the opportunity, Shauna! :) Now come to Florida and let me return the favor!

Saturday was a pretty lazy day. The girls and I ended up going out that night, trying to take every opportunity to experience Dublin while we still can. It was a late night, and I was so tired the next morning! I had to wake up by 7:30am and it was rough to say the least. You may be wondering why I had to wake up so early on Sunday. Well, I was given a free voucher for a two day stay in cork, so I cashed that in for Sunday and Monday! Exciting stuff, but I have to say I was exhausted.

So, Sunday morning, running on barely three hours of sleep, I got up and set out for the train all by myself!

When I arrived at the station, I figured I should get some tea to help me wake up. I read straight from the menu while ordering. I wanted the number 3 that said toast with tea or coffee.

Me: "Could I please have toast with tea or coffee?"
Cashier: While giving me a weird look, "Sure...... Would you like tea or coffee?"

It took me a few seconds to actually understand what I'd said and why she thought it was weird. Whoops. I knew I wanted tea in my head, but evidently I was too tired to specify that in my order. Definitely just have to laugh that one off.

The journey was about three hours, so luckily I was able to take a long nap. I woke feeling a bit more rested in Cork. Since it was nearly lunch time, I set off to find a little restaurant named Tara's Tea Room. I previously read about it on trip adviser and it had amazing reviews. Plus, I couldn't check in to my hotel until 2. Instead of walking with a purpose, I just moseyed around, allowing myself to be lost. I eventually found it, no taxi necessary, and had to smile to myself. I've come a long way with my ability to navigate. It's funny to me because my dad has suggested for years that I trade my GPS for an actual map. I would always say, “Dad...show me a day that I won't have my phone to give me directions. Then I'll learn to navigate on my own.” Well, folks... That day has come. I can only use my phone here when I have Wi-Fi, which is less than half of the time. Joke's on me. So, daddy, consider this my white flag. You were right all along. ;) Can't wait to impress you with my amazing sense of direction! LOOK AT ME NOW!!!

Ok, sorry. I got carried away. Back to what I was saying: I loved Tara's Tea Room. It was adorable, and I felt like I nailed it finding a hole-in-the-wall place. Vintage mismatched chairs and tables lined the place with bookshelves for walls and mason jars for condiments. Ah-dorable! I enjoyed the atmosphere and the food, as well as the chat I had with the owner. She was so down to earth and helpful that I wrote a Trip Adviser review less than an hour after I left. #payitforward

Also, at the table over, I heard a hilarious conversation between a dad and his sassy seven-ish year old daughter. She was remarking about hostesses and their greetings. In a mocking tone, she goes, "Would you like a table?" Then answers herself, saying, "No we will eat on the floor, thank you. Carpet for two, please!"

Kids, man.

I also eavesdropped on another party (idk, maybe listening is just something you do more when you travel alone?) who was confused about an item on the menu. They were looking at the chicken goujons and wondering what the word meant. It made me laugh to myself because a.) I actually knew the answer—they’re chicken fingers—and b.) I had the same exact question when I first got here. Even though it was a small thing, it just kind of reaffirmed that I’ve already settled in and I’m understanding their terminology more and more. I’m going to miss Ireland so much.

After lunch, I went to check in to the hotel. It was so nice! The staff was accommodating and the room felt like a little slice of heaven! I'll never take having a TV for granted again!

Once I got all settled at the hotel, I left my stuff and set out to find the bus station. I’d already bought my ticket to Blarney in advance to save the hassle, and I could hop on any outward bus of my choosing to go see the famous castle. With lucky timing, there was a bus leaving only five minutes after I arrived at the stop! I hopped on happily and grabbed a window seat as we set off.

I didn’t do much research about the Blarney Stone, if I’m being honest! The only thing I knew about it was that it was located in Blarney castle and a lot of people kiss it. So, when I got there, I was surprised about a few things which I will share now.

1. The line to get to the actual stone is so long. I waited for more than an hour!   
2. To get to the blarney stone, you must first climb a stone spiral staircase of 100 steps to get to the roof of the castle. The staircase is so narrow that it is single file on the way up. There is another staircase once you get to the top that you use to exit. The further you ascend, the more narrow the walls get. At one point, I wasn't sure I was going to make it anymore! The only thing that kept me moving forward was that there were loads of people behind me… 
3. You have to lie on your back and tilt your head upside down to kiss the stone. There are two employees there around the clock to help out. One to help you scoot back/hold onto you while you plant your smooch, and the other to take a professional photograph. They've totally exploited this thing for all it's worth!

Overall, I’m glad I did it. Admittedly though, I should probably research things a little better in the future so I know what to expect. ;) Anyway, I kissed the stone, so YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS! According to legend, I now have the gift of gab. Watch out, world.

Yikes.

This is not the winding staircase. This is a staircase that leads to the staircase. So. Much. Waiting.

The next morning on Monday, I allowed myself to sleep in. That’s been unusual here! It’s always go, go, go with travelling and sightseeing. I think I needed to catch up! When I finally resurfaced, I took my time getting ready and thinking about what I wanted to do that day. That’s the beauty of travelling alone: you only have to account for yourself. You truly do whatever it is that you want to do, and I appreciated that. I also learned the downside of travelling alone, which is not having anyone to experience things with. I genuinely missed being able to turn to one of the girls to laugh at something. I suppose there are pros and cons to both sides!

The first thing I decided to do was experience the local cinema. I ended up going to see How to Train Your Dragon 2 because the daytime movies are only four euro, and because I’m five years old. Obviously!

Afterwards, I found the English Market in town, which is one of my highlights of Cork, hands down. It’s basically an indoor farmer’s market with tons of different stands. There was fresh fruit, tea, coffee, meat—you name it, they had it. I stumbled upon an antique shop as well and ended up spending 45 minutes in there alone. There were so many things to look through, and even the bookshelves and tables holding the stuff were for sale. I bought some jewelry and a teapot.

I spent a little bit more of the afternoon shopping around town, even finding a TK Maxx, which I’m sure you can guess is our equivalent of a TJ Maxx. But guys…you have to pay for carts. Isn’t that crazy? I kept trying to yank a cart out of the metal corral, wondering why it wouldn’t release. That’s when I noticed that there was a slot to insert one euro before the cart would come out. Ugh! Rather annoying. Also, I was less than pleased to find that our department stores seem to have much better deals. Isn’t the point of TJ’s the cheap prices? I found the whole thing to be underwhelming, but I’m still happy I saw it nonetheless. Just another experience to tuck in my back pocket!

I still had the whole evening ahead of me, so I ventured over to FOTA wildlife park. It’s unlike any zoo I’ve ever been to! It’s set up to be more like a safari, and it lives up to its positive reputation. I stood five feet away from giraffes and zebras. I got to watch monkeys and pet a kangaroo. Also, I witnessed a seal being fed and playing hide 'n seek with the park rangers. The entire place just has a very natural and outdoorsy feel to it, and I enjoyed experiencing that type of environment.

Alright, I have to tell you about a few cute highlights! For starters, this little boy was standing near me when the seal was being fed, and he witnessed the ranger throwing in a whole fish to her. He looks up and asks in all seriousness, “Mommy, when the fish gets in the water will it be alive again?” The mom tried to conceal her laugh, but it was just too adorable (especially for me with his wittle Irish accent).

At another point, this brother and sister were arguing. The older one, a little girl probably under ten, said, “Mum! I am so wrecked with him!”

The mom let out an exasperated sigh and said, “Oh, you two, put a cork in it!”

The little brother pipes in and goes, “Hey, we're in Cork mum. Good one!”

I just love family banter. Plus, the little guy had a point! Touché!

Eventually, as the day started to unwind, I made my way back to the hotel to watch some TV and relax. I decided to spoil myself a little bit, especially since I was fortunate enough to not have to pay for my accommodation. So, I dialed up room service and placed my order. What a great way to end an equally as great weekend!

That’s about it! Tuesday  morning, I woke up pretty early and checked out. I had a train to catch, and as soon as I got back to Dublin I was expected in to work. Suitcases and all, I made it to the office a little after twelve! :) Though I was tired, I really didn’t mind. I’m trying to soak up all the time I can in that office, as I’ll miss my coworkers when I have to go back to the states. I am in such complete shock that I leave in just over a week. I’m torn; I love Dublin so much, but I also miss my family and the familiarity of Florida in general. And a sidenote: I’m mildly bummed about missing the Fourth of July in America but I also wouldn't want to shed a week off my trip. Someone is setting off fireworks with me on July 12^th! Who’s it gonna be?!?!

One last thing, because I can’t resist. Yesterday, I got an email from US Airways saying my flight home is overbooked and calling for flexible travelers to change their flights. I read that once over and thought to myself: this smells like an upgrade!!! Sure enough, I was right. Needless to say, you can catch me in first class next Saturday. ;) Life. Is. Good.

Thanks for reading, friends! I really can’t wait to see you all in such a short time. Keep a spot open on the beach for me!

For my last weekend in town, I’m heading off to Belfast in Northern Ireland! Stay tuned for a post. :)

Xox,

Alyssa