Last week I had to go to Belfast with work. I often have to visit various places in the UK but I'd never been to Belfast before, or indeed the island of Ireland.

I wasn't sure what to expect. I had heard that it has received a lot of investment over the last few years. Well, I thought it was great!

Belfast City Airport is only 10 mins outside of the centre, near the River Lagan. The first things I noticed were the huge yellow H&W cranes in the the shipyards (where the Titanic was built, the taxi driver told me) against the backdrop of some beautiful mountains - I wasn't expecting those. The taxi driver also told me about the tour buses that will take you to the peace lines to see the murals.

The centre of town has some lovely old buildings and down by the riverside are some glamourous new structures.

Unfortunately, I spent most of my time in offices and meetings, but the few people I met really made an impression. It sounds cliched, but I couldn't get over how friendly they were... the taxi drivers, receptionists and hotel staff. They looked me in the eye and spoke to me like they meant every lovely word. I can't remember the last time I was impressed like this (if ever) by such good manners and good service.

I will definitely go back. It would be an ideal weekend break.

Labels: travel