Belfast

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Visit the birthplace of the Titanic :
Thrown open to the public on January 31, 2012, the towering silver structure of Titanic Belfast, shaped like the ship’s bows, is home to nine galleries that tell you the story of RMS Titanic. Titanic Belfast is located in the heart of Belfast, right beside the historic site of this world-famous ship’s construction. You can learn about her conception in Belfast in the early 1900s, the construction and launch, the famous maiden voyage and tragic end.
You can also hear stories about the survivors and watch footage on the discovery of the Titanic’s at its resting place about 4,000 m below sea level. Also visit, SS Nomadic, the vessel that transferred passengers from Cherbourg Harbour to RMS Titanic, which, due to its size, was obliged to anchor well off shore.
Go pub hopping
Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter is the area for a great night out, offering a range of lively pubs and restaurants. Located in Great Victoria Street, The Crown Liquor Saloon is a traditional little pub. Don’t miss the mosaic crown on the floor at the entrance to the pub; once you enter settle down in one of the 10 booths or take a seat at the bar, relax and try their stew or probably a pie. Nestled in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter, if you head up to the first floor of the Spaniard, you might wonder if you’ve rightly tepped into a pub or into a church. Sit down and enjoy a drink, surrounded by holy pictures and relics. Some of the other pubs worth visiting include Duke of York, The Dirty Onion, The Harp Bar and The John Hewitt.
Shop till you drop
Head to the city’s main shopping areas, which includes Donegall Place, Royal Avenue and Cornmarket, where you will find well-known brands including Marks and Spencer, Next, Boots, Debenhams, House of Fraser and French Connection. If it’s malls you’re looking for, make your way to Victoria Square Shopping Centre and Castle Court on Royal Avenue, which are home to brands such as H&M, Tio Shop, River Island, Urban Outfitters, Hugo Boss, Dorothy Perkins and more. For art and craft shops selling one-off pieces, check out Donegall Arcade and Dublin road, or Queen’s Arcade if you’re interested in jewellery. n
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