Belfast

A busy and bustling city, Belfast is thriving with Irish history. Visit the Ulster Museum with its items from the Spanish Armada wreck anda fine collection of traditional houses at the Ulster Folk Museum. Lose yourself in the awesome beauty of the Antrim Coast. Or hail a taxi and make a run for the Catholic Falls Road and the Protestant Shankill Road, site of "the Troubles."

Activities

• The Botanic Gardens Park, located between The Queen's University and Ulster Museum, features the Palm House and Tropical Ravine. Established in 1828, the gardens have been opened to the public since 1895.


• On the north coast is the geological phenomenon of the Giant's Causeway, where a volcanic eruption 60 million years ago formed columns of layered basalt. Ancient legend suggests this was the work of the giant Finn McCool, the Ulster warrior and commander of the king of Ireland's armies.

Food

Exploring some of the city's many and varied pubs is a way to take in the local culture, as well as some pints of Guinness, local Caffrey's Ale, Belfast Gin and dozens of varieties of Irish whiskey. Enjoy the best of Belfast craic, which locally means good conversation and banter. The Crown Bar is considered the most perfectly preserved Victorian pub interior in the province, and is owned by the National Trust.

Currency

The Euro is the only currency that is recognised as legal tender in the Republic of Ireland. On occasion shop-staff and hotels may accept sterling (GBP), however, this is not always the case. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate.

Cruise Lines	Oct	Nov	Dec	2009 Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep
Crystal
Holland America
Norwegian Cruise Line
Oceania
Princess
Royal Caribbean
Voyages of Discovery

Click to view sailings.