First Impressions in Northern Ireland: Clichés and Surprises

Northern Ireland conjured images of wild nature, isolation, and... cold! This first trip to the region, themed around Game Of Thrones, allowed me to discover its landscapes and its people. Here are my first impressions of Northern Ireland, filled with clichés and surprises...

Before a trip, we always imagine the destination based on images portrayed by the media, movies, and feedback from friends... In short, clichés! Not escaping this rule, I realized how, despite myself, my perceptions of Northern Ireland were numerous. Here are my first discoveries: > and a few > about this beautiful land.

Yes, some clichés do apply to the UK, and Northern Ireland is no exception when it comes to tea! Among the top trio of beverages consumed in the region, tea is served with sugar and, of course, milk!

Cinema is intertwined with the landscapes of Northern Ireland. Of course, the series Game Of Thrones (>) is present in every forest, hill, and cliff... But it's not the only one: many other productions have seemingly decorated the Irish scenery, some actually filmed here (like the recent Dracula Untold), and others whose spirit lingers in the air without their scenes being shot in the region. I thus found in the countryside little glimpses of Hobbiton (>), and in the neat towns and uniformed schoolgirls, a muggle ambiance (>).

Do you think the food is good in Northern Ireland? Many, inspired by clichés about UK cuisine, are convinced that the local food isn't worth the trip... or that it's enough to make you want to run away! But after a first stay in Scotland two years ago, we were certain we would eat well... And we were not disappointed! From meat and fish dishes to desserts, we were thrilled! Special mention from François for the Sirloin steak and salmon; and for my part, for the cheesecakes!

When meeting new people, especially abroad, everything plays out in the first few minutes. Will the contact go well? Will we understand each other?

The British of Northern Ireland do not fall short of their reputation: they are absolutely >! Welcoming, warm... and trusting. They easily give their trust and it shows in daily life. Like on the small island of Rathlin where cars and houses are always left open. Or in their ease of giving and sharing. I recall a striking example during a small motorboat outing: François was naturally handed the helm by the captain. It was only after about twenty seconds that the latter asked him:

Act first, think later: all about spontaneous generosity.

Ah, the humor >: a monument! Beneath very civilized airs (not to say >) hides a sharp humor and quick wit. We keep some memorable laughs...

Or again during an archery class:

Northern Ireland reminded us of Scotland many times. There are many similarities, such as the style of the landscape and whiskey (the second drink in the top trio!). We share this reflection with one of our hosts, who responds:

English humor, I tell you!

The Belgians are very well received in Northern Ireland. This surely stems, beyond their innate sense of hospitality, from the many commonalities we share: a love for cycling (thanks, Eddy Merckx!), the capricious weather... and a love for good beer (the third drink in the top trio)! Special mention from François for the Farmageddon tasted in Winterfell!

The Causeway Coastal Route... A road trip I will never forget! François at the wheel, I with the camera, switching from > to >:

A promise that, of course, I couldn't keep! No wonder we took so long, between the Giant's Causeway and Belfast. We have only one regret: not being able to stay on this road longer!

In addition to following the signs >>, we had followed Robin's directions, our kayaking instructor:

Thank you again, Robin, for that tip! We even pushed further, following a sign that indicated a viewpoint for several kilometers...

At every turn, a new scene worthy of a master painting appears, all amidst the roller coasters of this winding road: a true delight! For those seeking >, with more sheep than inhabitants, this road is a must-see!<

The postcard-worthy Ireland is precisely made of these typical landscapes: houses, valleys, cliffs... sheep!

I had a rather strange reflection during our first days in Northern Ireland: everything in the landscape, absolutely everything, seems to undulate!

These landscapes captivated me: serene lakes, wild cliffs, old stone houses... No wonder that Northern Ireland attracted attention for filming movies and series with medieval atmospheres. Time seems to have stood still in this part of the world.

When approaching travel with clichés, it can often be perceived very negatively: it's limiting, stereotyping... Yet, there are certain popular images that we expect before leaving and delight in (re)find on site. What would Brussels be without its beers and waffles? The Andes without llamas?... My encounter with Northern Ireland was all gentle, like its rounded hills. Many beautiful discoveries and especially many beautiful reunions with those dear British clichés!

I could also tell you about many other little things: driving on the left, the charming GPS with its delightful accent, amusing road signs... And I still have so much to share about our journey > and the sporting activities we did (for the curious, a video about sea kayaking has already been released)... Stay tuned!

To plan a trip to Northern Ireland, visit the Tourism Office Discover Northern Ireland and Visit Britain.

And you, have you ever explored Northern Ireland? What were your preconceived notions? And your first impressions?

To go further:

Northern Ireland and Game Of Thrones: From Set to Reality [Games of Thrones] The Day I Joined the Night's Watch Video 9 - Sea Kayaking in Northern Ireland How Sea Kayaking Took Us from Northern Ireland to Patagonia 14 Photos to Dream About Northern Ireland Experiencing Star Wars in Tunisia