Words and photos by Nicole Bernache, who studied abroad with ASA in Seville, Spain, during the Spring semester of 2025.
When I first planned my trip to Ireland, I pictured Dublin’s colorful streets, inviting pubs, and
centuries-old history. Belfast wasn’t really on my radar until I saw that a singer I really like
(Alessi Rose) had a concert there! Belfast then became the starting point of mine and my friends and Irish adventure, and little did I know it would show me a whole different side of the island.
We came for a concert, but Belfast gave us so much more than that. The show itself was a great time, and I’m so glad my friends agreed to go with me! Live music always has a way of pulling people together, and this night was no exception.
Outside of the venue, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed simply wandering Belfast, which is the capital of Northern Ireland. There’s a friendliness to the city that feels unforced. A mix of modern life with hints of its complex history in every street and mural. We didn’t have a packed itinerary here, and maybe that’s what made it so special...the freedom to discover little coffee shops, side streets, and corners of the city we wouldn’t have found otherwise!
Dublin welcomed us with a vibrant mix of rich history and lively energy. One of the highlights was visiting the Guinness Storehouse, where you are able to tour the factory and learn about the history of Guinness and its relevance to Irish culture.
But the heart of Dublin for me was its historic sites. St. Patrick’s Cathedral stood tall with its
stunning Gothic architecture, and walking through the cathedral’s vast, peaceful interior, I felt connected to the centuries-old stories held within its walls. It is a little mind-boggling to think about how many versions of the city of Dublin these landmarks have seen over the hundreds, and sometimes close to thousands, of years they’ve been standing.
Not far from there, Dublin Castle offered a glimpse into the city’s complex past. Exploring its elegant halls and grounds was like stepping into a historical fiction novel, where power and tradition have shaped the story of Ireland’s capital.
To balance the historic city scenes, we also visited the National Botanic Gardens. The gardens were a serene escape filled with vibrant plants and winding paths that felt like a hidden gem. There were also a few large greenhouses to explore, with even more plants to see! Spending time there allowed me to slow down and appreciate a different kind of Irish beauty—one rooted in nature.
Belfast and Dublin are just a couple of hours apart, but they couldn’t feel more different. Belfast felt quieter and a bit more laid-back, with its history visible in the streets and murals around town. Dublin was busier and more energetic, full of people exploring its famous landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods.
Seeing both gave me a better sense of how varied Ireland really is. Each city has its own personality and stories, but both share that unmistakable Irish charm.
Even though our trip was short, I came away with a lot. Belfast surprised me, and it’s a city that definitely deserves more attention and time. Dublin offered a mix of history and green spaces that made the city feel alive in a different way. More than anything, the trip reminded me that travel isn’t just about ticking off sights. Sometimes, it’s about showing up, exploring without a strict plan, and letting the experience unfold naturally. That’s how I ended up with memories I didn’t expect, but won’t forget!
Thanks, Nicole!