Experience in Belfast, United Kingdom by Chris

What is it like to live in Belfast? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Belfast is an amazing city. It is small and easy to get around. It is filled with hidden gems, whether it be a traditional restaurant hidden down a dark alley, dimly lit with fairy lights, a stylish rooftop cocktail bar or one of the many contemporary art galleries the city has to offer. You will always have something to do!

Source

What is the student lifestyle like in Belfast?

The student lifestyle is entertaining. Belfast is full of Pubs and clubs, with a massive range of different scenes. There is a party night every night of the week, with most students going out weekdays rather than weekends (Mon-Fri). Drinks are cheap and there are often events going on all over the City.

How much does it cost to live in Belfast?

Belfast is quite expensive! Accommodation is usually quite overpriced for the quality you receive. It is cheap to travel around due to the small nature of the City, although the cost of eating / drinking / living can be expensive. I would suggest hunting for the best student ethos businesses as there is a lot of good deals to be found! (always ask for student discount)

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Belfast? Is there any advice you can give?

Accommodation is quite easy to find in Belfast. Most students live in the Holylands area or Botanic. This area is great for partying although can be rowdy at times! The houses are also quite old, but it is packed full of students due to its location beside Queens University. Stranmillis or the Lisburn Road would be suggestions for quieter but still student based areas.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

The food is amazing! Belfast is so culturally diverse that it is not just the traditional "Spuds n' Mince" anymore. For the best Mexican, you have to try Boojum, famously popular with hungover students. For the best Cuban Sandwich, try the Cuban Sandwich factory in City Centre, the staff is awesome and it has a real Cuban feel! Dirty Onion does a great student deal upstairs for their rotary Chicken! Made in Belfast does great food, with a contemporary vibe inside. I could list 100 places but I will stop there.

What places would you recommend visiting in Belfast?

Botanic Gardens, Hop on Hop off Bus tour, Lavery's Bar, Cabaret Super Club, The Mac, Odyssey, Cave Hill, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (Just outside Belfast), Ulster Museum.

Is it good to eat out in Belfast? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Boojum, Benidicts, Cuban Sandwich Factory, Wagamama, Dirty Onion, Sticks n Stones, James St South, Flame, Home (good veggie), Made in Belfast, Villa Italia, Salt Bistro, The great room in the Merchant, Failte. THERE ARE TOO MANY.

Is the nightlife good in Belfast? Where is good to go?

Limelight, Thompsons Garage, Lavery's bar, Boombox, Kremlin, Filthy Mc Nasty's, The Empire, Cathedral Quarter.

What advice would you give future students heading to Belfast?

Check out the many information websites available such as Visit Belfast, Love Belfast, etc. There are lots of reviews available. It's quite a safe and friendly City, although my advice would be to venture out of Belfast when you have a chance, to explore further the small island of Ireland! The coastal scenery is breathtaking, get out of the city and try surfing in the North or in the Emerald Coast!

Source