Are you looking for a unique study abroad? Here, I’ll go over why it’s a fantastic idea to study in Belfast, as well as some of the things that you can do while you’re there.
Pro #1: Language
Belfast is a perfect location if you want to go abroad but don’t want to have to learn a new language. While learning a language is a gift and a beautiful way to spend your time, it might not be an interest of yours or something you have time for. Additionally, it’s certainly easier to feel more comfortable in a culture when you can communicate in your native tongue. This is often especially true if you’ve never been abroad, which was the case when I studied in Belfast at the end of my freshman year.
For example, if I had to ask a salesperson where the contact solution was in Belfast vs Barcelona, I’d feel more comfortable doing it in Belfast. I could ask the question in both languages, and I’d be able to understand enough Spanish. For me, however, it was a relief to have one area of commonality when everything else was so new. Especially if you’re not serious about language learning, this could be a great option.
Pro #2: $$$
Belfast is infinitely more affordable than London or most other popular destinations in the UK or Ireland. It does a fantastic job of making things affordable for students. For example, when I was there, I was able to get a sandwich, chips, and a water for £3.50 every day with my student ID. When I was in Dublin, a similar meal at a university was about €6. That’s still cheaper than most meals in the US, but Belfast’s accessibility to students really impressed me.
To get some good perspective on the cost of living, you can check out this website, which allows you to compare the cost of living in your home city with the cost of living in Belfast. Even with buying food at Tesco, eating out, going to local bars, and buying souvenirs, I never went over my budget. As strange as it sounds, life was cheaper for me in Belfast than it was in San Diego.
This is especially important if cost is a big factor in selecting your study abroad. A study in Belfast might not be as cheap as places like Eastern Europe, it gives you the ability to experience more popular study abroad locations for much, much less. It still helps to compare prices of living, and the tool linked above is very helpful for that. Overall, however, I found Belfast to be very affordable in all aspects for a study abroad student.
Pro #3: You Have Both the UK and Ireland at Your Fingertips
While the identity conflict brought about by the Troubles is constantly present in Northern Ireland, it also allows you to experience both nations. While you’re on the isle of Ireland, you’re technically inside the UK. Many people neglect to think of this when they consider the UK. You’re a short flight to England, Wales, or Scotland, and you can easily take a weekend trip to any of the above. The best part is that Flybe/Lufthansa/British Airways flights are super affordable. Your study in Belfast can very quickly connect you to many other cities.
You’re even closer to Ireland, and you would be shocked at how many times you can cross the border between the two countries in such a short time. When my friends and I went from Belfast to Dublin, it took about three hours by bus. For other cities, it’s a similar distance. Because public transportation is so good, it’s very easy to get around Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for a good price.
Of course, there’s always the option of exploring Northern Ireland itself. There is so much to see and do, and it can keep you occupied without having to leave its borders!
Pro #4: The People Are Fantastic
Northern Irish people, in my experience, were some of the friendliest, funniest people I’ve ever met. While they most certainly do have a black sense of humor about some things that will surprise people (be prepared for some jokes at Crumlin Road Gaol that would shock most Americans as irreverent), they are hilarious and welcoming. You will meet the most fantastic people in pubs, and you’ll get to hear their life stories and perspectives on Belfast. For me, this was far more valuable than time spent in a classroom. I learned so much from just sitting in pubs, which is a reason in itself to study in Belfast.
Belfast is well known for its “craic,” or having a good time. You see this attitude reflected with live music, with shopping on the streets, and with the way people treat you. While fantastic people can be found almost anywhere, the people in Belfast are unlike anywhere else because of their attitude, stories, and friendliness. That alone is a reason to visit!
Pro #5: A History You Won’t Find Elsewhere
Belfast has a unique history, and I don’t think anyone can deny that. Surprisingly, few people in the US know about the Troubles. For example, would you think that Belfast was home to the world’s most bombed hotel? I didn’t before I studied there, and I ended up living right across the street from the Europa. The history, while bloody and dark and turbulent, is etched into nearly every building, and a large portion of the population can still tell you about everything that you happened. While my sense is that many countries value their history and keep it alive, I don’t believe that all of them embody living history in the same way that people in Belfast do.
Because of its troubled history (hence the name, The Troubles), Northern Ireland’s identity is extremely complicated. However, it also gives you a very unique and multifaceted view of both countries (UK and Ireland). During my time there, I interacted with people who firmly believed Northern Ireland was rightfully a part of Ireland, people who firmly believed it was part of the UK, and people who were so over the years of fighting that it didn’t make a difference to them.
This kind of dynamic, as well as these rich perspectives, aren’t things you can experience anywhere else. As someone who was studying conflict resolution, the shadows of the Troubles was something that was very interesting to see, especially 20 years after the Good Friday Agreement.
Pro #6: You Can Go to School in a Castle (Almost)
This might be more common at European universities than American ones, but many of them look like actual castles. My university, Queen’s University Belfast, was a gorgeous work of architecture and felt so similar to a Harry Potter-like structure. It even had a Great Hall with gorgeous portraits and decorations! In the US, while we have many beautiful colleges, not all of them are like this. While this might be more trivial, it’s definitely a unique experience that you won’t forget.
If you want to check out my school from my study in Belfast, look at the featured image!
Pro #7: You Can Step Off the Beaten Path
In college, almost all of my classmates went to study abroad in Italy or Spain. Don’t get me wrong, I wish I had had the opportunity to go back and study abroad in one of those countries as well (thanks, pandemic). However, I feel that I had some unique experiences during my study in Belfast that not everyone got to have. Many people aren’t even aware that Northern Ireland exists, which means there is so much more to explore. You can go in with an open mind and an open heart. Having little or no expectations also sets you up to avoid Paris Syndrome and make the most of your time there. Besides, what’s more fun? Visiting and taking pictures in the same places that everyone else does, or discovering new locations all on your own? For me, the question answers itself.
Pro #8: The Scenery
It’s no secret that Ireland has some of the most breathtaking scenery that exists in the world. Northern Ireland is no different. With rolling green hills, castles that seemingly appear out of nowhere, and a beautiful ocean surrounding it, the island lacks nothing but a little sunlight. Most incredible of all is Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO site and “the eighth wonder of the world.” Seriously, if you haven’t seen it, you MUST. Due to volcanic lava settling and change rock shapes, piles upon piles of hexagonal rocks fit together. It looks man made, but it has literally been like that for millions of years, all thanks to nature. It’s one thing to see this on your computer; it’s another to climb on the rocks and look out at the great blue sea.
While Giant’s Causeway definitely takes the cake, there are so many gorgeous hikes and walks you can take closer to the city. In a ten minute taxi ride from my dorm, my roommates and I explored both a castle and a hill overlooking the entire city (Belfast Castle and Cavehill). In a ten minute walk into the city, we walked through exquisite rose gardens (Botanic Gardens) and saw views of the ocean (Waterfront Hall). For concerts and longer walks, Ormeau Park offered a great time. And these are just a few of the options!
Pro #9: There Are Always Things to Do
When I was in Belfast, I was never bored. There was always something to do, and the city was walkable enough to where it didn’t take much effort to do so. Even when my friends and I wanted to leave the city, the public transportation was good enough that it was easy to do so.
For pubs, you will never run out of options. With a few scattered on every block, you could try a new one each night. Ranging from chic and new to old and historic, you will have your pick. Some of my favorites were Pug Uglys and The Perch, which were located about three minutes from each other. Here, you’re certain to find friendly locals and amazing live music.
If you’re more interested in culture, there’s a brilliant (free) museum in the city, City Hall, and so many other sites. Belfast is also home to many churches, murals (although I’d recommend going with a guide so that you don’t accidentally walk into the wrong neighborhood), concert halls, and other works of art. On top of that, there’s tons of shopping. Victoria Square is your best bet, but if you want to get fresh food, handicrafts, and other unique gifts, you can check out St. George’s Market. And then food–don’t even get me started on all the different types of restaurants there are to explore.
This is just a sampling of what’s there, so you can imagine how much fun there is to be had!
A Final Word
A study in Belfast is a perfect option to explore and step off the beaten path while in college. Whether you want to roam around castles or study conflict, you will find something for you in Belfast. Have you been there? Let me know in the comments!
