July 2022: It’s time to rethink your summer holidays by taking a short trip to Northern Ireland to awaken your inner explorer.
Go back in time to unlock mythical folklore, take in the beautiful views across the rugged coastlines and buzzing cityscapes, immerse yourself in unique cultural tours, as well as many more truly memorable experiences that are on offer this summer.
Research from Expedia has shown that travellers are craving the experience of new places and cultures: they want to step outside their comfort zone (22%) and immerse themselves in a destination that’s entirely different from their day-to-day (19%).*
With one in three adults (33%) in the Republic of Ireland claiming that they are now more adventurous than they were before the pandemic, and with almost half of the same population never having visited Northern Ireland**, it’s the perfect time to draw a line under old habits and explore a new adventure in the land of the giants.
Today, Discover Northern Ireland took to the heart of Dublin with well-known Northern Ireland based street-artist, Danni Simpson, to paint passers by a picture of Northern Ireland. Danni created a live, bespoke painting which included a snapshot of unique activities on offer in Northern Ireland as a guide to help tailor your itinerary for your summer break.
To inspire her artwork, Danni Simpson uncovered her sense of adventure by delving into some of the exciting experiences available. Danni said, “As an artist, I am passionate about the beauty and culture around me and have a great sense of adventure within. It was really fun to try some of the incredible activities so close to home, I especially enjoyed exploring Derry on a boom board with Far & Wild. My next trip will be to try the paddle boarding along the River Foyle.”
Fiona Cunningham, Tourism NI ROI Market Manager, commented;
“Northern Ireland is compact, meaning visitors can design a short break taking in plenty of experiences on land and by the sea within a short distance of each other, while also embracing accommodation offerings from glamping to luxury city stays. Over 24-48 hours you can cover many locations and really mix and match your itinerary to suit your personal sense of adventure.
“The past couple of years has shown an increase in the number of Republic of Ireland visitors to Northern Ireland and we want to encourage more people to visit. Much has yet to be explored in Northern Ireland by ROI visitors and key factors such as close proximity, value for money and unique experiences make it a perfect holiday destination on your doorstep.”
Whether it’s a day trip or for a longer stay, Northern Ireland has something suitable for every type of holiday maker.
Seaside lovers
If coastlines are your preference, navigate the ravines with Causeway Coast Kayaking, view life from a new angle on the Irish sea with Sailing in the Wake of Giants, both in County Antrim, or ride the waves at Benone Beach in County Derry with Long Line Surf School.
Chilled Adventurers
If you prefer more gentle experiences that still give you a unique sense of adventure, you can listen to Adam Turkington from Seedhead Arts guiding you through the funky street art including work by Danni Simpson on the cobbled streets of Cathedral Quarter in Belfast, or escape to the quiet countryside and learn about the universe beyond us with the Dark Sky Experience in the Sperrin Mountains in County Tyrone.
Food Fanatics
If your idea of adventure is to try the local cuisine, Northern Ireland has extremely popular food and drink experiences such as meandering around Belfast trying the delicious cuisines with Taste and Tour, taste the seasonal fare from local food producers with the Enniskillen Taste Experience in County Fermanagh or check out the Derry Girls Afternoon Tea and Tour in Derry.
With many places less than two hours from Dublin, you’re just a click away from a giant adventure in Northern Ireland.
It is essential to pre-book and to check availability directly with each provider and to be aware of each venue’s cancellation policy when booking.
Tourism Northern Ireland are offering a lucky pair the chance to win a giant adventure in Northern Ireland including a luxurious two night stay in Belfast this summer.
For further information on the competition, experiences, and to build you perfect summer getaway itinerary visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/
