From Belfast, and have to say that this was a fantastic and very thoughtfully expressed list. Great to see our country, really appreciate your videos on NI.
Very well informed and respectfully done. Great job, and probably the best advice I've heard for travelling in Norn Iron. You're all very welcome here, and I'm certain you'll love it
Glad you enjoyed our wee country. Your advice was pretty much spot on all around, the only caveat I'd add regarding the flashing of overly British clothes - that goes the same for Irish stuff, flags, etc. Not a problem in town and city centres but in rural areas especially it's not encouraged. Basically look at the flags in the area to gauge.
Agreed. Someone else in the comments put it best: Do some research on the history of the troubles before you arrive, and then don't talk about them at all, however tempted you are. If someone else brings it up in conversation, be respectful and engage, but don't offer your own opinion.
In almost all cases nobody in NI will be upset about any honest question. If you have something to ask please do. Some answers will take longer to explain than others. Those few days when the sun breaks are just wonderful. People appear from nowhere. You have a good series with sound advice.
When I went to Ireland they had asked us if we tried whiskey before and we had said "yes we've had lots of Scottish whisky" and the response we got was "so you haven't tried real whiskey"😂 loved Ireland and the people there so much! Also the tours we did in Ireland were all incredible! So glad they got a shout out here!
As someone from Belfast, honestly, great tips. Especially about saying you're irish if you wern't born here, its one of our pet peeves when North Americans say they are irish by their great great grandmother's dog.
To be fair, a lot of Americans take pride in their ancestral roots. We have traditions in my family that are definitely Italian but we also have ancestors from many other European countries, including Ireland. Then South of the border it is Estadounidense or nord americano or gringo 😆
@@histochronos yeah the problem is though is that they make out that they are Irish and not the fact that their ancestors may have been Irish. Noone is saying you're not allowed to be interested in your ancestral roots, just that when you come here, don't say "I'm Irish" unless you were literally born/raised here, say "I have Irish roots" if you feel the need to tell people.
@@nikkiglasgow6197 I think it's because Irish-Americans, Italian-Americans, German-Americans, etc, ended up dropping "American" because it stood to reason they were all US citizens... so they ended up as white Americans, saying I'm Irish, Italian, German... instead of I'm Irish-American etc. and this habit stuck, especially with older generations like Joe Biden.
As a Scot with family over in Northern Ireland I have to say it is so refreshing to see a tourist (if you'll forgive me saying so, particularly an American) show such deft diplomacy when talking about the history of the place. My grandmother is from Co. Antrim and mum recalls going over to visit aunts in the 70s and 80s as basically flying into a war zone. I was 5 when the good Friday agreement was signed so my family visits over the years have been considerably more peaceful.
Wolter, as a born and raised Belfast guy this is the best summary of our culture for a tourist. You've done a better job than any local could do haha. I've subscribed to your channel, I look forward to seeing what else you put out. If you're ever back in Belfast I'll buy you a Guinness (no Irish carbombs)
Yay!! You were in the town I live!!! So cool, I just moved in December so this video helps me too!! Such amazing people and places here! Enjoy the rest of your journey around if you’re still travelling 🙂
As a Northern Irishman, I am so glad you based your filming in the Giant's Causeway. The North Coast in general is just a hole different world. There really is nowhere quite like it and it is my little patch of heaven.
Aye I remember making my way to glenariff and was astonished at hour much of the North Coast looks like something out a fantasy world, then again it was in game of thrones as well.
@@tomyt2083 for real, and as someone who’s from Dunloy, the place is so lovely-like, and its a small world there, if your from there then ye must know about everyone that goes around the GAA pitch 😂
@@Operation_Doomsday08 Unfortunately I am not from there, I live in Belfast but I can't wait to make my way back again as well as sometime going to silent valley in County Down, it's another place that looks like it could be in a movie.
@@tomyt2083 oh, i’ve never actually been there before, it’s not talked about in my area nearly as much as it should be, but down does seem like a nice place to visit
My mother is from Northern Ireland and my father from the Republic. My friends couldn't always understand my parents saying they talk to fast. As a young child I was somewhat confused when kids called me derogatory names which resulted in me asking my mother whether I was Irish. She said Teresa as you were born in England you are indeed English but never forget you have Irish blood coursing through your veins.
Not really a visitor but more of an immigrant worker here in NI, and I am loving it here. One thing I can say is that Londonderry Halloween is one of the best that I had witnessed in my life.
This is one of the pitfalls people can fall into. If you're not sure call it Derry/Londonderry and you won't go too far wrong. There will always be people on both sides who are arses about it, pay them no mind.
I’ve been in Northern Ireland this summer, after so many years that I wanted to visit it I fell in love instantly with these wonderful landscapes and locations. It may seem exaggerated to say, but this holiday was the most wonderful of my life, from the people I met to the wonders I discovered. Thank you Emerald Isle.
Very good video! It covers a lot of topics that should help inform visitors and also makes a good case about why people would want to visit. As an American I had to learn everything the hard way by marrying into NI 26 years ago. We moved from the US 2 years ago to the north coast of NI and want my friends back home to visit my new home. This video is perfect to give them an idea of what to expect in NI.
Harriet and i enjoyed Northern Ireland immensely. Your tips again were spot on. We visited Belfast, Londonderry and Armagh. The people were so friendly, the food so good. We rode on The Black Cab tour in Belfast. Managed to get to The Giant's Causeway. Your'e right Mark, stay away from the politics . Great Memories for us. Thanks for resurrecting those memories. 😊😊 Jim and Harriet.
Another great video on my home Mark! Very well done, you're far more educated on social etiquette etc than most travel vloggers and UA-camrs. Very pleased you enjoyed your stay again and, as I mentioned before, if ever visiting again please drop me a message and I'll show you more locally known spots
Excellent advice all-round, but when I saw you were getting an Ulster fry with both black AND white pudding I realised I was watching someone who truly gets our country.
@@laurenj3625 It does in the west Midlands where I sometimes go also it's called potato cakes over here not bread, lots of Irish and Scots in the west Midlands.
Im from Northern Ireland. This is a very good review. The only thing i will say is about the 12th, i have found growing up here the parades on that day to be very location dependent for example the ones in the cities are very much intimidating and lets put it this way there is badness from both parties but the more country ones are a lot more friendly atmosphere and community orientated. They even stopped to play a couple tunes for my granny when they heard she was unwell and she loved it she passed away 2 months later. Though note everywhere you go there are always those people in all communities that let the community down.
I was there three weeks ago along West Atlantic Way. Bring the rain parka at all times like one that packs in a handy bag. It will rain,sprinkle fog and sun shines now and then. Credit cards work everywhere. I never bothered with much cash. Only it used for tips. The pub food is tasty and reasonable. Great beers. Very friendly even to me an older lady having a young man at the bar say welcome. Try Irish crisps and great teas. Lovely wools. The wool industry is having a hard time right now. Of course sheep everywhere even on a golf course. Great summary....
"Ulster" is one of the 4 ancient Irish provinces. The name comes from the Irish Gaelic "Uladh". It contains 9 counties, one third, or 3 big counties of Ulster are in the Irish Republic, the other 6 are in the north. Love the videos by the way.
Tyrone is as far back to where my family has been tracked that I know of. Might be farther but I don’t know how far back other elder cousins have traced.
Unionists also name this place "Ulster", and a lot of Unionist/Northern Irish things have Ulster in them. Includes Ulster Scots, the Royal Ulster Constabulary, or the Ulster Defence Association, all of which are (or in the latter two, were) found in Northern Ireland.
I live in Northern Ireland for 15 years now and I love it , friendly people is the number one here I agree , places are stunning all around here, and great food is bonus can't beat breakfast Fry's...
Great video next time you are here take a wee skite around carlingford lough on a good day the views are unbelievable kilbroney park is where C.S. Lewis got the inspiration to write the book The Lion The witch and The Wardrobe it's amazing here 👌
I'm from Northern Ireland, born and rared. Be careful on the roads, but would advise the same everywhere. There are very few trains, be prepared for that. Buses are fine, but don't expect trains. Marching is best avoided, regardless what side it's on (yep, we have lots and lots of marches for various different things). Also Belfast and Derry/Londonderry are fantastic cities. Also Omagh have amazing people.
Also don’t skip the counties of Ulster that aren’t in Northern Ireland (predominantly thinking of Donegal here). Can make more sense to visit Donegal from flying into Belfast than Dublin Airport. Especially if you go to Derry, some lovely parts of Donegal are just so close.
Derry has an airport. If you are coming from various UK location. It is a breath of fresh air because, it is like a bus stop, there none of the hassle of larger airports. It is often cheaper to get a BnB in Doengal. If you're visiting Derry stay in Muff, you can explore Inishowen, with some of the best beaches in Ireland, and you are right the city of Derry. Ulster is actually 9 counties not 6. It is a common misconception that Ulster is the same as NI. Ulster is one of the four provinces of the island of Ireland.
Donegal's geography puts it in a tough spot because 90%+ of it's border is with NI. Hell the left bank of Lough Foyle remains disputed between the UK and The Republic. Lots of people work in Tyrone or County Londonderry and live in Donegal and vice versa. I doubt the impact of Brexit is fully realized by Donegal especially as well as all border communities.
@@SerialChiller1000 Yep I live in Donegal. I live very close to the North , I remeber out teacher showing us a song about how you can be friends with protestents(and im 15).
Spent only a day and a half in the North back in 1988, and I hope to return some day. While the worst of The Troubles had passed, things were still kind of strained. We wouldn't spend any time in Belfast, so there and Derry will be on the next visit. The Antrim Coast has one gorgeous view after another, including the Giant's Causeway. We were brave enough to cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge! Thanks for the video.
Very nice and enthusiastic video. I think that you overstated the availability of public transport though. It's not much use to get around County Fermanagh.
I did an all day bus tour of Northern Ireland back in 2018, I highly recommend it if you don’t want to rent a car, also it was way cheaper than any day tour I took while in England.
What you saw in L/Derry was probably the Shutting of the Gates parade on the first Saturday of December, commemorating the start of Derry's Siege in the 1690's. I know some people who ring the Cathedral bells for it. They always burn an effigy of Col. Lundy, who prepared the City for the siege but later defected to the Jacobites, and is remembered as a traitor for it.
Love your videos. We are doing our first European trip from the US this September and visiting Southern Ireland. Coming into Dublin, heading to Galway, down to Killarney and then up the black mountains to Dublin. What we’re looking for is a good source that tells us what castles or ancient sites we can visit as we drive. Do you have a site or suggestion? A source for great pubs along the way would also be great. Thanks for your help.
Definitely give Kilkenny castle a look! 100% worth visiting. Dublin castle also not too bad. In dublin Temple Bar is good for the culture but definitely not for actually wanting to sit down and have pints maybe one and a picture but move on after
Wolter, that was a great informative video, with a lot of very sensible advice on visiting our beautiful little country, where it doesn’t rain all the time 😜! But only one little mistake there, at the beginning you say you can have ‘a craic’ - no mate, you can have ‘a bit o’ craic’ or ‘some craic’. Or, if you prefer, ‘the craic’s great’, or ‘the craic’s mighty’, or ‘the craic’s 90!’ (not quite 100 but pretty much as good as it can get!). Thank you for visiting (more than once) and being respectful of our little country. We are very proud of it, despite the troubles we have had. Best wishes from the Giant’s Causeway coast. 😄✌️☘️
Great video. Northern Ireland is awesome, although was a bit of a culture (and temperature shock) coming right from Ibiza. Certainly a place I hope to get back to.
I would call it Northern Ireland as Ulster includes Enya's and my maternal ancestral home of Donegal in the Republic of Ireland. With our kids done with college now I hope to visit both very soon!
In Northern Island show your knowledge of the troubles by saying you've watched that superb documentary on the subject: Patriot Games with Harrison Ford & Sean Bean.
Great video as always! We visited Ireland a few years ago and the people there were the nicest of all our travels. Also, we rented a car and I was scared to death at first but got the hang of it fairly quick. We did Uber a few times and the drivers always brought up politics. We didn't really respond to that. thanks again for the tips!
When i went to belfast with my friends (we are austrian), we met some very political loyalists and i was a bit worried at first but they were super friendly and we had a nice small talk and they even bought us some beer, so from my experience, as long as u dont bring up politics urself, the ppl are nice
I am so glad you enjoyed your visit to Northern Ireland. Despite what the press would have you believe loyalists are very good people who only want the best for us all.
A tip for those visiting the Giant's Causeway. Stay off the black rocks!!! As someone from Northern Ireland, you are spot on with all of these sir! Also the main marching parade is on July 12th not 13th
Excellent - I feel like you should have issued a health warning regarding the Ulster fry, calories are not counted, but the best breakfast you'll ever have.
Don't: forget to strike out west to Tyrone & the Sperrins. Do: remember to strike south to the Mournes, Spelga, Silent Valley, Rostrevor & Warrenpoint. There's another great legend thereabouts regarding a Giant & a very large stone.
My beloved Husband was one of the famous exports from N. Ireland. Downpatrick. Ian Mitchell - from the Bay City Rollers. He died a proud America but never forgot his roots. And yeah...no go on the Union Jack in our house in S. Orange County, CA, or...even when we lived in London. Oh, and the first time we met and he asked me out on the spot---"What are you doing tomorrow?"...I thought he asked, "How old are you?". LOL That's ok...*we got used to each others N. Irish and American accents over the 30 years. :) I plan to go back soon to see my in-laws again...so beautiful there!
So sorry about Ian passing very sad when I heard. I must say though they were my everything when I was young...albums, magazines, posters, and Ian was my favorite.
@@michelleheslep8877 ---- Thank you so much! He was my favorite too...I think we picked a very cute Roller! I miss him more than words can say, so when I come across a video like this...I can smile for a bit. :)
As a Northern lrish man I'd say there's some good points in this video, I'm glad you've advised to not say "my great great grandparents cousins were Irish" I've had people try to say that to me and it's so annoying, I don't know why people think they need to mention that. In Northern Ireland not only will a majority of people not care about that, it can also be considered an insult due to our political history I've told people I'm Northern lrish not Irish and then they either don't understand or completely ignore what I just said and continue to call me Irish when I'm not.
@@awestruckbeaver3344 I've only ever been called it once by someone in a UA-cam comment not long ago, it's not something I had heard before so I was a bit confused myself. My guess is it's someone who claims they're Irish when they're not. The thing is I don't even consider myself Irish. I think whoever it was said it to me because I said I'm Northern lrish not Irish, so they probably considered Northern Irish as a none Paddy (plastic - fake). I thought it was silly because I guess you could say I agree with them 😆, but from their perspective they're probably thinking Northern Irish doesn't exist. In Northern Ireland we are entitled to dual Nationality meaning I could own both a British and Irish passport, this is due to our complicated history. I only say Northern Irish because the country is called Northern Ireland and we don't have an official Nationality other than those 2. So some people will probably say "you're either British or Irish" which in my opinion these are the people who hold our country back from moving on from our dark past. My interpretation of a plastic paddy would be someone who is of a different nationality but wants and claims that they're Irish (like a lot of Americans for example, they claim they're Irish because of one distant ancestor when they're not) as for me I'm not claiming I'm Irish as I see Northern Irish and Irish as 2 separate things
I'm from Northern Ireland, particularly a small town called kilkeel in Co. down. This was a great video, I would say if you want to see the whole country and maybe abit of the Republic too (there's no physical boarder so you can just drive across) the car is essential. Also Wolter you're completely correct to avoid the country during parade days. I do the same and I'm from here. In terms of not knowing how to be politically correct here, just avoid the conversation altogether. Most people don't care either way how you refer to some things but some people care alot. Lastly I'd like to recommend the are where I'm from... the Mournes for some beautiful and easy hiking. As well as that smaller town feel. Particularly Newcastle and Rostrevor are lovely to visit for a day trip. I live in Belfast for 4 years during uni and these are my favourite places to eat: Barking dog (beef shin burger wow) Ora (Amazing Tapas) Bao Bun (Gourmet fast food) Madam Pho (best pho I've ever had, and I've been all over Vietnam) Ginger Bistro Monte Carlo (great fast food -taco mince chip is awesome) I hope you enjoy this beautiful country.
Is it possible to find shells there and bring one home or not so much? If I wanted to stop along the coast and I’m driving a rental is it ok to pull off; is there a designated spot for that anywhere or is there a tour that stops on any beach like there are in the US?
I loved Northern Ireland!!! The nicest people I have ever met! I stayed at an Airbnb in Belfast where the host was an extra in Game of Thrones! I drove and it was fine! Also, started in Republic of Ireland where we rented a car and drove to Northern Ireland and the car was in Kilometers but it did switch to MPH signs in Northern Ireland which threw us off 😂. Loved Northern Ireland so much! Giants causeway is incredible and so was the coast the castles and Belfast ❤️
As a British citizen resident in England I find your comments at 9m 55s regarding lack of boarder checks between the Republic and Northern Ireland somewhat strange. It is not 'sad' that no--one looks at let alone stamps your passport. It is a situation most UK and Irish citizens want retained, Brexit notwithstanding.
I hear what you're saying. He's saying it from the perspective of someone collecting passport stamps but yes overall I agree it's not at all sad but to be celebrated. I imagine he also filmed this pre pandemic before Brexit took effect. I would be surprised if it's not a little more difficult to cross the border now as I thought goods might be harder to pass through now? I don't know for sure, I'm an American who regularly followed the Brexit discussion on the TLDR channel where they discussed the Backstop in detail.
It's from a tourist who likes stamps in their passport perspective which I thought I alluded to. Yes you are right border check free travel is way better
Was it ever the intention of brexit to remove the lack of a border between Ireland and NI? If it was surely the good Friday agreement would’ve been annulled for a newer treaty to reflect this.
You maybe ain’t a golfer so don’t think of this, but if you play, don’t forget to bring the clubs. Some of the oldest and finest golf courses in the world here. And don’t be put off by “cheap” tee times. Outside portrush/portstewart and royal Co Down, some courses have actually had to put fees up to convince American golfers that they are worth playing as good golf is so expensive in the states.
Have to say all internationals I have known, potato bread has been something generally liked or loved by them. Don't know why its not more common around the world and pretty unique to here for the most part.
You can buy it here if it’s the same potato loaf bread sold for diabetics and I haven’t made it but have a recipe saved to make from an internet Irish recipe blog. We don’t eat much bread in my household except for occasionally good old Southern cornbread or sometimes weekend pancakes.
Very good video! I've been to both the Republic of Ireland (various locations) and Northern Ireland (Belfast and Derry/Londonderry - I know exactly what you mean about the "what name to call it" thing!! I keep using both Derry and Londonderry but usually people always know what I'm referring to.). Went with a tour group so it was mostly buses and no cars. Saw the Giants Causeway and the Titanic Museum (which I'm actually surprised didn't make it onto this list!). I also went to a reading at Queens University Belfast, so we were there too but normally it wouldn't be a stop. If I remember correctly we also had a guide talking about The Troubles and had a tour of the city murals. Been about a decade and would love to go back. Only had 2 days in Northern Ireland, so maybe a few more wouldn't hurt the next time around.
Hi, I was born 23rd May 1968, am from bushmills,,! Have family from both sides,! Though I was brought up as a protestant,! My family says that we just want to stay in the UK, ! You have a whisky on me pal,,! God Bless from northern Ireland UK
One of 1 million alternative suggestions that I’m sure you receive would be stay in Belfast and take one of their excellent coastal tours via bus. I did and we had two excellent driver/guides which equaled a very enjoyable day.
There's a gag about that a lot of Irish people leave NI and Belfast in and around The Twelfth. Personally, I often did. The whole holiday is a bit ridiculous and you're really not missing out on much by skipping it. Far better off exploring the rural parts as Belfast and Derry city centre will be absolutely packed, as recommended. Might even be less crowded, then. A third of Ulster is in the Republic of Ireland, so Northern Ireland is definitely the most-neutral name, as is Derry/Londonderry. The vid gives a good reflection of the area. Enjoy.
As a local this is all on point. So far anyway, I'm half way through the video. Public transport here is not as easy to navigate as it is in many European cities. Drivers aren't mad though so might be worth taking on driving on the left.
I've lived here my whole life of almost 60 years.
You did a great job of telling people about where I've lived 👏
Much respect wolter
I would love to visit northern Ireland. It would be great to see where my family came from. Your post means a lot to me.
@@byronjordan6882 definitely visit mate. It is great over here. Where is your family from overhere?
Mark, hats off, as an Irishman your tips accuracy is on point, Sir!
Thank you John. I appreciate it! All the best!
Another one is Flegs are a poisoned chalice
@@woltersworld Doubt many Scots are into the Union Jack these days.
@@woltersworld Many cars speedos are in both units
@@woltersworld There are great breweries in Northern Ireland. The soldiers you mentioned are members of the PSNI. The Crown saloon has hilden on tap.
From Belfast, and have to say that this was a fantastic and very thoughtfully expressed list.
Great to see our country, really appreciate your videos on NI.
Very well informed and respectfully done. Great job, and probably the best advice I've heard for travelling in Norn Iron.
You're all very welcome here, and I'm certain you'll love it
Glad you enjoyed our wee country.
Your advice was pretty much spot on all around, the only caveat I'd add regarding the flashing of overly British clothes - that goes the same for Irish stuff, flags, etc. Not a problem in town and city centres but in rural areas especially it's not encouraged. Basically look at the flags in the area to gauge.
Agreed. Someone else in the comments put it best: Do some research on the history of the troubles before you arrive, and then don't talk about them at all, however tempted you are. If someone else brings it up in conversation, be respectful and engage, but don't offer your own opinion.
Yeah he
@@jmlsa439 Nonsense, as a tourist you should dress fully in Union flag clothes and walk into the bogside area of Derry
Flegs are a poisoned chalice
@@oscarosullivan4513 What's a "fleg?"
Loved this video. Politics aside, Northern Ireland is a spectacular place to be.
I agree, but only problem is, you cant take the politics aside
@@FiannaUladh unfortunately
I'm an English ex-pat living in Northern Ireland. I must say that life is so much slower and friendlier in N.I.
Do you like the Republic of Ireland?
@@itsme-sn5gi love it, especially Dublin and Donegal.
@@itsme-sn5gi The Republic and the North have had a violent complex history but we don’t have blood boiling hatred for one another.
You're not an expat you're an immigrant
@@Paul-hu7xx hes neither he is living in his own country the UK all be a different part of it
In almost all cases nobody in NI will be upset about any honest question. If you have something to ask please do. Some answers will take longer to explain than others. Those few days when the sun breaks are just wonderful. People appear from nowhere. You have a good series with sound advice.
When I went to Ireland they had asked us if we tried whiskey before and we had said "yes we've had lots of Scottish whisky" and the response we got was "so you haven't tried real whiskey"😂 loved Ireland and the people there so much!
Also the tours we did in Ireland were all incredible! So glad they got a shout out here!
I've had that same conversation :)
Whisky comes from the galic word Uisce meaning water the irish word for Whisky is uisce beatha meaning the water of life.
As a Northern Irish man I think the Scottish make better whisky 😆
@@josephfisher6745 Uisce beatha also translates into Fire Water.
@@nickyforsythe wise up Nicky! What about bushmills'
Thank you for this wonderful advert for Northern Ireland. Really appreciate it. So glad you love this wee country!
This video has made me very nostalgic and even more excited going back to NI soon, thanks! Fantastic coverage
As someone from Belfast, honestly, great tips. Especially about saying you're irish if you wern't born here, its one of our pet peeves when North Americans say they are irish by their great great grandmother's dog.
President Biden keeps saying he's Irish.... I've noticed other Americans doing the same. Oh well... c'est la vie, as they say in Ireland 🤪
To be fair, a lot of Americans take pride in their ancestral roots. We have traditions in my family that are definitely Italian but we also have ancestors from many other European countries, including Ireland.
Then South of the border it is Estadounidense or nord americano or gringo 😆
@@histochronos yeah the problem is though is that they make out that they are Irish and not the fact that their ancestors may have been Irish. Noone is saying you're not allowed to be interested in your ancestral roots, just that when you come here, don't say "I'm Irish" unless you were literally born/raised here, say "I have Irish roots" if you feel the need to tell people.
@@clavichord Biden thinks he's in the RA 😂
@@nikkiglasgow6197 I think it's because Irish-Americans, Italian-Americans, German-Americans, etc, ended up dropping "American" because it stood to reason they were all US citizens... so they ended up as white Americans, saying I'm Irish, Italian, German... instead of I'm Irish-American etc. and this habit stuck, especially with older generations like Joe Biden.
As a Scot with family over in Northern Ireland I have to say it is so refreshing to see a tourist (if you'll forgive me saying so, particularly an American) show such deft diplomacy when talking about the history of the place.
My grandmother is from Co. Antrim and mum recalls going over to visit aunts in the 70s and 80s as basically flying into a war zone.
I was 5 when the good Friday agreement was signed so my family visits over the years have been considerably more peaceful.
Wolter, as a born and raised Belfast guy this is the best summary of our culture for a tourist. You've done a better job than any local could do haha.
I've subscribed to your channel, I look forward to seeing what else you put out.
If you're ever back in Belfast I'll buy you a Guinness (no Irish carbombs)
Yay!! You were in the town I live!!! So cool, I just moved in December so this video helps me too!! Such amazing people and places here! Enjoy the rest of your journey around if you’re still travelling 🙂
My man! I’ve been watching your videos for years. Love them all. Keep doing your thing, Mark!!
Thank you Carlos!
As a Northern Irishman, I am so glad you based your filming in the Giant's Causeway. The North Coast in general is just a hole different world. There really is nowhere quite like it and it is my little patch of heaven.
Aye I remember making my way to glenariff and was astonished at hour much of the North Coast looks like something out a fantasy world, then again it was in game of thrones as well.
@@tomyt2083 for real, and as someone who’s from Dunloy, the place is so lovely-like, and its a small world there, if your from there then ye must know about everyone that goes around the GAA pitch 😂
@@Operation_Doomsday08 Unfortunately I am not from there, I live in Belfast but I can't wait to make my way back again as well as sometime going to silent valley in County Down, it's another place that looks like it could be in a movie.
@@tomyt2083 oh, i’ve never actually been there before, it’s not talked about in my area nearly as much as it should be, but down does seem like a nice place to visit
My mother is from Northern Ireland and my father from the Republic.
My friends couldn't always understand my parents saying they talk to fast.
As a young child I was somewhat confused when kids called me derogatory names which resulted in me asking my mother whether I was Irish.
She said Teresa as you were born in England you are indeed English but never forget you have Irish blood coursing through your veins.
I'm from Donegal , and even people from other parts of donegal (more away from the border) don't understand me half the timeee😪😅
@@cloudlymars3627 Pardon? 😜
your Irish not english.
I dont know anyone born in England to Irish parents who call themselves "English" by choice!😅
"Don't worry about having *a* craic"
Aw Wolter that's so adorable :p
Not really a visitor but more of an immigrant worker here in NI, and I am loving it here.
One thing I can say is that Londonderry Halloween is one of the best that I had witnessed in my life.
That’s great to hear. Glad you’re enjoying our country. 🇬🇧👍
Londonderry is a great city!🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧
Aye, ive actually been to derry a couple a times and really enjoyed it! Love Ireland so much 🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪
This is one of the pitfalls people can fall into. If you're not sure call it Derry/Londonderry and you won't go too far wrong. There will always be people on both sides who are arses about it, pay them no mind.
Well done mate, showing some respect to the Country you are visiting 👌🙏
As a Dutchie I had to oppurtunity to live in Portrush for a year. The hikes to the Giant's Causeway were absolutely gorgeous!
I’ve been in Northern Ireland this summer, after so many years that I wanted to visit it I fell in love instantly with these wonderful landscapes and locations. It may seem exaggerated to say, but this holiday was the most wonderful of my life, from the people I met to the wonders I discovered. Thank you Emerald Isle.
Very good video! It covers a lot of topics that should help inform visitors and also makes a good case about why people would want to visit. As an American I had to learn everything the hard way by marrying into NI 26 years ago. We moved from the US 2 years ago to the north coast of NI and want my friends back home to visit my new home. This video is perfect to give them an idea of what to expect in NI.
Hey Mark, my family went to Northern Ireland last summer and it was the best summer vacation ever.
Harriet and i enjoyed Northern Ireland immensely. Your tips again were spot on. We visited Belfast, Londonderry and Armagh. The people were so friendly, the food so good. We rode on The Black
Cab tour in Belfast. Managed to get to The Giant's Causeway. Your'e right Mark, stay away from the politics . Great Memories for us. Thanks for resurrecting those memories. 😊😊 Jim and Harriet.
you are very welcome!
Another great video on my home Mark! Very well done, you're far more educated on social etiquette etc than most travel vloggers and UA-camrs. Very pleased you enjoyed your stay again and, as I mentioned before, if ever visiting again please drop me a message and I'll show you more locally known spots
Excellent advice all-round, but when I saw you were getting an Ulster fry with both black AND white pudding I realised I was watching someone who truly gets our country.
thank you :) we loved our time
You get the same with most full English breakfasts too 👍🏻
@@Legionnaire7777 English breakfast doesn't have soda bread or potato bread though which is the best bit 😘😂
@@laurenj3625 It does in the west Midlands where I sometimes go also it's called potato cakes over here not bread, lots of Irish and Scots in the west Midlands.
Really enjoyed this. I recommend they show this video on every flight from USA to Ireland, be it north or south 👍👍
Northern Ireland is a beautiful place, more than I though...thanks for sharing.
😍😍🥰🥰 love this so much! Thanks for all the great advice for one of my favorite places on Earth! It’s all so true. Great video 🤩🤩🤩
Thank you Jenn
@@woltersworld thank YOUSE! It was so nice to see that gorgeousness again 🥰
Im from Northern Ireland. This is a very good review. The only thing i will say is about the 12th, i have found growing up here the parades on that day to be very location dependent for example the ones in the cities are very much intimidating and lets put it this way there is badness from both parties but the more country ones are a lot more friendly atmosphere and community orientated. They even stopped to play a couple tunes for my granny when they heard she was unwell and she loved it she passed away 2 months later. Though note everywhere you go there are always those people in all communities that let the community down.
As long as people enjoy their traditions are inclusive and respectful I have no problem with them example the orange day parade in rosnowla donegal.
I don't really celebrate it myself but I find it cool how we have our own celebration like that, it gives us more culture.
I was there three weeks ago along West Atlantic Way. Bring the rain parka at all times like one that packs in a handy bag. It will rain,sprinkle fog and sun shines now and then. Credit cards work everywhere. I never bothered with much cash. Only it used for tips. The pub food is tasty and reasonable. Great beers. Very friendly even to me an older lady having a young man at the bar say welcome. Try Irish crisps and great teas. Lovely wools. The wool industry is having a hard time right now. Of course sheep everywhere even on a golf course. Great summary....
"Ulster" is one of the 4 ancient Irish provinces. The name comes from the Irish Gaelic "Uladh". It contains 9 counties, one third, or 3 big counties of Ulster are in the Irish Republic, the other 6 are in the north. Love the videos by the way.
Tyrone is as far back to where my family has been tracked that I know of. Might be farther but I don’t know how far back other elder cousins have traced.
Unionists also name this place "Ulster", and a lot of Unionist/Northern Irish things have Ulster in them. Includes Ulster Scots, the Royal Ulster Constabulary, or the Ulster Defence Association, all of which are (or in the latter two, were) found in Northern Ireland.
Loved Northern Ireland. Probably the best thing we did up there was go on a black taxi ride incredible experience
I live in Northern Ireland for 15 years now and I love it , friendly people is the number one here I agree , places are stunning all around here, and great food is bonus can't beat breakfast Fry's...
Thank you for describing Northern Ireland so well, I love our wee country and love people to see how nice and friendly it really is
Great video next time you are here take a wee skite around carlingford lough on a good day the views are unbelievable kilbroney park is where C.S. Lewis got the inspiration to write the book The Lion The witch and The Wardrobe it's amazing here 👌
Well done! I'm heading to NI for my 26th visit (yes, that's right)...home away from home as my Dad was born and raised there. A very special place.
Born there. Spent all my working life there. Best thing I ever did was leave. Have lived in a few places since. All with much higher quality of life.
i love my country so blessed to be growing up heree
Awesome vlog !
I'm from Northern Ireland, born and rared. Be careful on the roads, but would advise the same everywhere.
There are very few trains, be prepared for that. Buses are fine, but don't expect trains.
Marching is best avoided, regardless what side it's on (yep, we have lots and lots of marches for various different things).
Also Belfast and Derry/Londonderry are fantastic cities. Also Omagh have amazing people.
Thank you for showing off our lovely wee country
Also don’t skip the counties of Ulster that aren’t in Northern Ireland (predominantly thinking of Donegal here). Can make more sense to visit Donegal from flying into Belfast than Dublin Airport. Especially if you go to Derry, some lovely parts of Donegal are just so close.
Very true. I visited that area years ago and loved it (pre Wolters world)
Yes! Derry was the capital of Donegal
Derry has an airport. If you are coming from various UK location. It is a breath of fresh air because, it is like a bus stop, there none of the hassle of larger airports.
It is often cheaper to get a BnB in Doengal. If you're visiting Derry stay in Muff, you can explore Inishowen, with some of the best beaches in Ireland, and you are right the city of Derry.
Ulster is actually 9 counties not 6. It is a common misconception that Ulster is the same as NI. Ulster is one of the four provinces of the island of Ireland.
Donegal's geography puts it in a tough spot because 90%+ of it's border is with NI. Hell the left bank of Lough Foyle remains disputed between the UK and The Republic. Lots of people work in Tyrone or County Londonderry and live in Donegal and vice versa. I doubt the impact of Brexit is fully realized by Donegal especially as well as all border communities.
@@SerialChiller1000 Yep I live in Donegal. I live very close to the North , I remeber out teacher showing us a song about how you can be friends with protestents(and im 15).
Tnx for the wonderful vlog.
Spent only a day and a half in the North back in 1988, and I hope to return some day. While the worst of The Troubles had passed, things were still kind of strained. We wouldn't spend any time in Belfast, so there and Derry will be on the next visit. The Antrim Coast has one gorgeous view after another, including the Giant's Causeway. We were brave enough to cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge! Thanks for the video.
Very nice and enthusiastic video. I think that you overstated the availability of public transport though. It's not much use to get around County Fermanagh.
I did an all day bus tour of Northern Ireland back in 2018, I highly recommend it if you don’t want to rent a car, also it was way cheaper than any day tour I took while in England.
Cus the country is far poorer lol.
What you saw in L/Derry was probably the Shutting of the Gates parade on the first Saturday of December, commemorating the start of Derry's Siege in the 1690's. I know some people who ring the Cathedral bells for it. They always burn an effigy of Col. Lundy, who prepared the City for the siege but later defected to the Jacobites, and is remembered as a traitor for it.
Great timing for your latest video! I'm leaving for my first visit to Ireland (Republic and Northern) in 16 days!
have fun!
Excited to go later this year, thanks for the advice!
Love your videos. We are doing our first European trip from the US this September and visiting Southern Ireland. Coming into Dublin, heading to Galway, down to Killarney and then up the black mountains to Dublin. What we’re looking for is a good source that tells us what castles or ancient sites we can visit as we drive. Do you have a site or suggestion? A source for great pubs along the way would also be great. Thanks for your help.
Definitely give Kilkenny castle a look! 100% worth visiting. Dublin castle also not too bad. In dublin Temple Bar is good for the culture but definitely not for actually wanting to sit down and have pints maybe one and a picture but move on after
Wolter, that was a great informative video, with a lot of very sensible advice on visiting our beautiful little country, where it doesn’t rain all the time 😜! But only one little mistake there, at the beginning you say you can have ‘a craic’ - no mate, you can have ‘a bit o’ craic’ or ‘some craic’. Or, if you prefer, ‘the craic’s great’, or ‘the craic’s mighty’, or ‘the craic’s 90!’ (not quite 100 but pretty much as good as it can get!). Thank you for visiting (more than once) and being respectful of our little country. We are very proud of it, despite the troubles we have had. Best wishes from the Giant’s Causeway coast. 😄✌️☘️
thanks for the video wolter!!
You are very welcome
Very good 👍
Great video. Northern Ireland is awesome, although was a bit of a culture (and temperature shock) coming right from Ibiza.
Certainly a place I hope to get back to.
AWESOME. I'll be there in June 😍
Awesome Leo!
THANKS SO MUCH FOR MAKING THIS VIDEO IM FROM NOTHERN IRELAND!! (YOU SAID JULY 13 WE HAVE OUR Parades and bonfires on the 12th of July)
Don’t miss out on the gobbins as well, beautiful cliff walk. Same with Crumlin road gaol
Hinch distillery is open and it is worth a trip to its a very nice distillery to go to and just outside belfast
I would call it Northern Ireland as Ulster includes Enya's and my maternal ancestral home of Donegal in the Republic of Ireland. With our kids done with college now I hope to visit both very soon!
Donegal is also my maternal ancestral home.
learn and cultivate gaelic language to give respect to your ancestors
@@Slashplite my mother (Maher) speaks some. Also the language is called Irish, not Gaelic.
@@timmmahhhh, Gaelic means Irish!
Crolly, the home of Enya is a fab spot. Her parents bar is great.
My great grandpa was born in Belfast, I really want to visit one day
It's a wonderful place to visit
Visit the Mourne Mountains for some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, just be prepared for a hike!
I'm from Bangor Northern Ireland....very well said and true.
In Northern Island show your knowledge of the troubles by saying you've watched that superb documentary on the subject: Patriot Games with Harrison Ford & Sean Bean.
Great video as always! We visited Ireland a few years ago and the people there were the nicest of all our travels. Also, we rented a car and I was scared to death at first but got the hang of it fairly quick. We did Uber a few times and the drivers always brought up politics. We didn't really respond to that. thanks again for the tips!
When i went to belfast with my friends (we are austrian), we met some very political loyalists and i was a bit worried at first but they were super friendly and we had a nice small talk and they even bought us some beer, so from my experience, as long as u dont bring up politics urself, the ppl are nice
I am so glad you enjoyed your visit to Northern Ireland. Despite what the press would have you believe loyalists are very good people who only want the best for us all.
Unionists have no issues with Austrians why would you be scared we aren't thugs lol
@@oran9519 too bad Boris sold you out to the EU I guess the motherland is now on your issue list
Good tips, thanks. That’s my next destination ✈️
Love Marks videos. I live in the south 40mins from the "border" and he is always right with his advice.
A tip for those visiting the Giant's Causeway. Stay off the black rocks!!! As someone from Northern Ireland, you are spot on with all of these sir! Also the main marching parade is on July 12th not 13th
Why stay off the black rocks?
@@Nature_with_Peter_Kane the rocks turn black when wet. Wet rocks are slippy. Nobody wants to fall and get hurt. Safety first!!!
@@veritateminquirendam2403 ah yes of course ! I thought it was something else.
@@Nature_with_Peter_Kane the rocks are black because they are wet so you are likely to get wet
@@mattycarleton Okay your point has been noted. Thanks
Wolter I'm from belfast..... You're advice is spot on..... I mean your experience shines through..... Btw you never bought me a pint back 😜😜😜😜
Excellent - I feel like you should have issued a health warning regarding the Ulster fry, calories are not counted, but the best breakfast you'll ever have.
Just got home from Northern Ireland .. this is exactly what how it is 👍🏻👍🏻
Don't: forget to strike out west to Tyrone & the Sperrins. Do: remember to strike south to the Mournes, Spelga, Silent Valley, Rostrevor & Warrenpoint. There's another great legend thereabouts regarding a Giant & a very large stone.
i live in Northern ireland and iam watching this
I've been to the giant's causeway and it was amazing
My beloved Husband was one of the famous exports from N. Ireland. Downpatrick. Ian Mitchell - from the Bay City Rollers. He died a proud America but never forgot his roots. And yeah...no go on the Union Jack in our house in S. Orange County, CA, or...even when we lived in London.
Oh, and the first time we met and he asked me out on the spot---"What are you doing tomorrow?"...I thought he asked, "How old are you?". LOL That's ok...*we got used to each others N. Irish and American accents over the 30 years. :)
I plan to go back soon to see my in-laws again...so beautiful there!
So sorry about Ian passing very sad when I heard. I must say though they were my everything when I was young...albums, magazines, posters, and Ian was my favorite.
@@michelleheslep8877 ---- Thank you so much! He was my favorite too...I think we picked a very cute Roller!
I miss him more than words can say, so when I come across a video like this...I can smile for a bit. :)
As a Northern lrish man I'd say there's some good points in this video, I'm glad you've advised to not say "my great great grandparents cousins were Irish" I've had people try to say that to me and it's so annoying, I don't know why people think they need to mention that. In Northern Ireland not only will a majority of people not care about that, it can also be considered an insult due to our political history
I've told people I'm Northern lrish not Irish and then they either don't understand or completely ignore what I just said and continue to call me Irish when I'm not.
I've heard the term plastic paddy is that a real thing? I'm not any form of Irish but have heard that term thrown around
@@awestruckbeaver3344 I've only ever been called it once by someone in a UA-cam comment not long ago, it's not something I had heard before so I was a bit confused myself. My guess is it's someone who claims they're Irish when they're not. The thing is I don't even consider myself Irish. I think whoever it was said it to me because I said I'm Northern lrish not Irish, so they probably considered Northern Irish as a none Paddy (plastic - fake). I thought it was silly because I guess you could say I agree with them 😆, but from their perspective they're probably thinking Northern Irish doesn't exist. In Northern Ireland we are entitled to dual Nationality meaning I could own both a British and Irish passport, this is due to our complicated history. I only say Northern Irish because the country is called Northern Ireland and we don't have an official Nationality other than those 2. So some people will probably say "you're either British or Irish" which in my opinion these are the people who hold our country back from moving on from our dark past.
My interpretation of a plastic paddy would be someone who is of a different nationality but wants and claims that they're Irish (like a lot of Americans for example, they claim they're Irish because of one distant ancestor when they're not) as for me I'm not claiming I'm Irish as I see Northern Irish and Irish as 2 separate things
Great tips.....My mums family were from Co Down......I'll be back in April visiting cousins...
I'm from Northern Ireland, particularly a small town called kilkeel in Co. down.
This was a great video, I would say if you want to see the whole country and maybe abit of the Republic too (there's no physical boarder so you can just drive across) the car is essential.
Also Wolter you're completely correct to avoid the country during parade days. I do the same and I'm from here. In terms of not knowing how to be politically correct here, just avoid the conversation altogether. Most people don't care either way how you refer to some things but some people care alot.
Lastly I'd like to recommend the are where I'm from... the Mournes for some beautiful and easy hiking. As well as that smaller town feel. Particularly Newcastle and Rostrevor are lovely to visit for a day trip.
I live in Belfast for 4 years during uni and these are my favourite places to eat:
Barking dog (beef shin burger wow)
Ora (Amazing Tapas)
Bao Bun (Gourmet fast food)
Madam Pho (best pho I've ever had, and I've been all over Vietnam)
Ginger Bistro
Monte Carlo (great fast food -taco mince chip is awesome)
I hope you enjoy this beautiful country.
I'm from Northern Ireland, and I've only been to Bao Bun, gonna give the rest a go, cheers!
@@KermitSupreme you won't be disappointed
Is it possible to find shells there and bring one home or not so much? If I wanted to stop along the coast and I’m driving a rental is it ok to pull off; is there a designated spot for that anywhere or is there a tour that stops on any beach like there are in the US?
I loved Northern Ireland!!! The nicest people I have ever met! I stayed at an Airbnb in Belfast where the host was an extra in Game of Thrones! I drove and it was fine! Also, started in Republic of Ireland where we rented a car and drove to Northern Ireland and the car was in Kilometers but it did switch to MPH signs in Northern Ireland which threw us off 😂. Loved Northern Ireland so much! Giants causeway is incredible and so was the coast the castles and Belfast ❤️
As a British citizen resident in England I find your comments at 9m 55s regarding lack of boarder checks between the Republic and Northern Ireland somewhat strange. It is not 'sad' that no--one looks at let alone stamps your passport. It is a situation most UK and Irish citizens want retained, Brexit notwithstanding.
I hear what you're saying. He's saying it from the perspective of someone collecting passport stamps but yes overall I agree it's not at all sad but to be celebrated. I imagine he also filmed this pre pandemic before Brexit took effect. I would be surprised if it's not a little more difficult to cross the border now as I thought goods might be harder to pass through now? I don't know for sure, I'm an American who regularly followed the Brexit discussion on the TLDR channel where they discussed the Backstop in detail.
@@timmmahhhh still no checks whatsoever if you’re a passenger crossing the border-I’ve never been 100% on freight situation post-Brexit
It's from a tourist who likes stamps in their passport perspective which I thought I alluded to. Yes you are right border check free travel is way better
@@mypradasatthecleanerss good to hear thanks.
Was it ever the intention of brexit to remove the lack of a border between Ireland and NI? If it was surely the good Friday agreement would’ve been annulled for a newer treaty to reflect this.
The “hey this is a little secret I wanna let you in on” hand gesture is happening a bit too often 😂
This is awesome info. Thank you
From a local this video was very good. Well explained 👏
You maybe ain’t a golfer so don’t think of this, but if you play, don’t forget to bring the clubs. Some of the oldest and finest golf courses in the world here.
And don’t be put off by “cheap” tee times. Outside portrush/portstewart and royal Co Down, some courses have actually had to put fees up to convince American golfers that they are worth playing as good golf is so expensive in the states.
Make sure you go up to the lads in the tracksuits and offer them a fair dig,they'll take you to the neatest pub for a pint.
Thank you for your sharing about northern ireland
Have to say all internationals I have known, potato bread has been something generally liked or loved by them. Don't know why its not more common around the world and pretty unique to here for the most part.
My wife, in Arkansas,USA, makes potato bread. We love it!
You can buy it here if it’s the same potato loaf bread sold for diabetics and I haven’t made it but have a recipe saved to make from an internet Irish recipe blog. We don’t eat much bread in my household except for occasionally good old Southern cornbread or sometimes weekend pancakes.
Very good video! I've been to both the Republic of Ireland (various locations) and Northern Ireland (Belfast and Derry/Londonderry - I know exactly what you mean about the "what name to call it" thing!! I keep using both Derry and Londonderry but usually people always know what I'm referring to.). Went with a tour group so it was mostly buses and no cars. Saw the Giants Causeway and the Titanic Museum (which I'm actually surprised didn't make it onto this list!). I also went to a reading at Queens University Belfast, so we were there too but normally it wouldn't be a stop. If I remember correctly we also had a guide talking about The Troubles and had a tour of the city murals. Been about a decade and would love to go back. Only had 2 days in Northern Ireland, so maybe a few more wouldn't hurt the next time around.
Spot on with the tips! Only one, maybe, would be about the public transport, especially when you leave Belfast and perhaps Derry.
Hi, I was born 23rd May 1968, am from bushmills,,! Have family from both sides,! Though I was brought up as a protestant,! My family says that we just want to stay in the UK, ! You have a whisky on me pal,,! God Bless from northern Ireland UK
One of 1 million alternative suggestions that I’m sure you receive would be stay in Belfast and take one of their excellent coastal tours via bus. I did and we had two excellent driver/guides which equaled a very enjoyable day.
How do you tell someone is a food lover? He gets extra animated when talking about food 😂
There's a gag about that a lot of Irish people leave NI and Belfast in and around The Twelfth. Personally, I often did. The whole holiday is a bit ridiculous and you're really not missing out on much by skipping it.
Far better off exploring the rural parts as Belfast and Derry city centre will be absolutely packed, as recommended. Might even be less crowded, then.
A third of Ulster is in the Republic of Ireland, so Northern Ireland is definitely the most-neutral name, as is Derry/Londonderry.
The vid gives a good reflection of the area. Enjoy.
You can get a bus ticket for a week which is really really cheap and covers the whole of Ulster.
In Eire, they have something similar.
As a local to the country this is spot on thank you 😊
As a local this is all on point. So far anyway, I'm half way through the video.
Public transport here is not as easy to navigate as it is in many European cities. Drivers aren't mad though so might be worth taking on driving on the left.
Ps as a local it's no less awkward trying to figure out how to talk about this country. Best avoided 😂