Posted on February 17, 2012 by Fiona Hilliard

 

Are you thinking of taking a family trip in the UK ? If so you might want to consider visiting Northern Ireland with Belfast car rental. For a lot of people when they think of Northern Ireland their minds automatically turn to the troubles that marred the country from the 1970s right through to 1990s. There is no denying that this was a time of great political turmoil and social unrest however the country and its population have turned their back on violence and it has embraced the 21^st century with a new lease of life. The new Northern Ireland has so much to offer tourists and here are a few ways to explore this beautiful and vibrant country.

Check Out A Natural Wonder

 

 

When you get to Northern Ireland you should be sure to visit the north coast as there you will find one of the most impressive natural wonders of the world, the Giant’s Causeway. This extraordinary piece of coastline was formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity and the mark it has left has fascinated tourists for years. In 1986 the Causeway was declared a world heritage site which means that it is protected. The causeway is shrouded in myth and legend as it was said to be built by a giant called Finn McCool to allow him to reach Scotland to face his Scottish rival. This only adds to the experience and excitement of visitors to the site.

Be Amazed

 

 

Belfast’s W5 at the Odyssey complex is a collection of over 250 interactive exhibits that will guarantee family fun and intrigue. You can spend the whole day discovering new information and enjoying the challenging exhibitions such as the tug of w

ar challenge, or the lie detector. W5 offers a mixture of fun and education and it is a fun way for children to enjoy the day. The Odyssey arena has much more to offer such as bars, restaurants and a cinema.

See The Stars

 

 

From Belfast you can take a trip south to the ancient city of Armagh. Armagh is one of Northern Ireland’s most culturally and historically rich cities and it boasts the country’s only public planetarium.  There are a range of shows and exhibits on display that are sure to thrill visitors of all ages. Just lie back and gaze at the star filled images that surround you as you learn the secrets of the universe. The shows that you can see include ‘Experience the Aurora’, ‘Legends of the Night Sky’ and ‘Ice Worlds’ amongst many more. A trip to the planetarium is a once in a lifetime experience that you will never forget.

Take In Some Street Art

 

It’s no secret that Northern Ireland has had a troubled past and there are monuments to remind you of this all over Belfast. You can take special mural tours in most Belfast city airport taxi services or Belfast cabs. You will be taken on a tour of the neighbourhoods that were at the heart of the troubles and witness the incredible murals that depict the troubles through the eyes of the communities that lived through it. The Shankill Road and Falls Road murals will give you an insight into the personal and political stories behind the violence and you will be sure to learn more about the conflict.

Are you planning on visiting Northern Ireland in the near future? If so why not try out some of the attractions suggested in this list, you won’t be disappointed.

Excerpt: Are you considering taking a trip to Northern Ireland? If so then here are some of the best ways to explore this beautiful and interesting country.

Andy Belleview is a Belfast city airport taxi driver and he often takes tourists to see the murals. You can see the cities murals too by taking a tour with specialist Belfast cabs.