Belfast
Belfast is a thriving modern city. Despite the current economic problems, there is a high level of confidence moving into the future and the city is a hotbed of investment, regeneration and development.
You’ll find the people to be warm and friendly and there’s no better place for a quiet drink and getting to know the locals. We’ll assume you know that the “Titanic” was built here.
But did you know that Northern Ireland was named as a "must see" destination for 2007 by Lonely Planet, one of the world's most influential travel guides?
The picture on the right is of Belfast City Hall and in the summer months the grounds are a magnet for hundreds of office workers who eat their lunch on the grass. The city has many open spaces and parks which provide an oasis of tranquillity just moments away from the hectic whirl of city life. The business life of the city sits easily with a full range of cafes, bistros, restaurants, museums, theatres and concert halls.
The area around the University has a real “village” feel to it and nearly every other shop is a coffee shop or restaurant. The city has many green spaces and parks, within minutes of the city centre. The Botanic Gardens are situated right beside Queen’s University and are ideal for a relaxing stroll while pondering the content of the conference.
There's been a settlement at Belfast since the Bronze Age and the city has a rich and diverse cultural life. Much of the city's past can be seen at the Ulster Museum which is also located right beside Queen's university and is nearing the completion of a multi-million pound refurbishment project, making it one of the most modern museums in the UK.
Here’s some links that will tell you more about Belfast and Northern Ireland:
www.discovernorthernireland.com
We've also included a lot of useful links in the "Links" page of this site that will give you a taste for the city, life here and plenty of things to do when you're here.
The ESTD Board looks forward to welcoming you to Belfast!