However, life in modern Belfast couldn't be any further from the the images perpetuated the world over, by greedy paperazzi who pounce on any little piece of "news" that they can avidly turn into sexy T.V.

Any visitor who has been to Belfast recently will tell you that life in Ireland's second largest city is indeed a truly cosmopolitan affair.

The economy in Belfast has been growing faster than Dublin, it's more popular and illustrious neighbour.

Our message is come and be surprised.

Belfast is Buzzing.


Belfast is a city of surprises. It was here that one of the twentieth century's most famous icons, The Titanic, was built a hundred years ago.

The docks are still active today although not nearly as busy as when they were the largest and most important in the world.

Have a wander down there today and you will maybe, just maybe encounter a few ghosts of yesteryear.

A place where you will certainly be able to conjour up the ghosts of yesteryear more easily is the Crown Liquor Saloon. This city centre pub is about 150 years old and is exactly like you would expect it to have been over 100 years ago. People still linger away many an afternoon in it's magnificently preserved snugs. This old bar doesn't even have electric lighting, it still has it's original gas lights. Very atmospheric.

While you are out and about enjoying Belfast's fenetic nightlife you might hear Van Morrison on the jukebox, another of more famous exports that Belfast is not really famous for.