Published at 12:53, Tuesday, 31 July 2012

Advertising feature. Convincing people that a trip to the Emerald Isle is a good idea is easy. Whether you decide to go to Dublin in the Republic of Ireland or Belfast in Northern Ireland, the warm welcome and joie de vivre of the people is an intoxicating experience. 

Flights from Flybe to the two cities run from multiple regions across England, Scotland and Wales and with some advanced planning prices are inexpensive. An exciting mixture of nightlife, culture and landscape make Ireland an inimitable destination for international travel.

Between Dublin’s nightlife and its famous Guinness Brewery and Belfast’s achingly beautiful Victorian architecture the twin destinations are a treat for cheap travel.

Cheap flights to Dublin are extremely popular and when you touch down in the capital of the Republic of Ireland it doesn’t take long to see why. Although it is hardly a city famed for striking landmarks, the people and the place certainly leave an impression.

First of all, any trip to Dublin means dealing with the elephant in the room: Guinness. You cannot visit without taking the brewery tour. Take in the history of one of the world’s most recognisable beverages before settling down for a ‘pint of the black stuff’ in the panoramic sky bar, which offers unparalleled views of the city.

Once the tour is out of the way your days are free to enjoy the hidden side that Dublin possesses. The hometown of Ulysses author, James Joyce, you can find the eponymous museum dedicated to him at the Martello Tower. Some of his most valued belongings sit with rare and antiquated first editions of his books and it isn’t only fans of literature that a visit will stir.

Clearly Dublin is a nightlife Mecca and the bars, restaurants and clubs of Temple Bar will welcome you with open arms. A traditional Irish stew is a delicacy (especially when it’s homemade) although the city has upmarket restaurants aplenty.

When the literature of Joyce and the joys of Guinness begin to wane there is always a visit to the Irish National Gallery. An underrated attraction, it is more than worth a visit to see paintings by Caravaggio among others.

Thirty years ago a trip to Belfast would not have been on the agenda. However, the city is thriving and a healthy music scene supports the city’s majestic architecture. Flights to Belfast can be purchased cheaply and there are few places as close to the UK that offer such an experience.

In the Cathedral quarter of the city, the sound of church bells have been washed away to be replaced with a vibrant nightlife scene inspired by the legacy of local hero Van Morrison.

Perhaps what is most striking of all about Belfast is the Victorian architecture. However, tear yourself away from the sights because Belfast is home to some amazing local walks. The Giants Ring trail is particularly special, taking in ancient monuments, lush woodland and a healthy amount of rare wildlife all on a route that is as gentle as it is beautiful.

While Dublin and Belfast remain two separate entities, they share the natural fun that Ireland seems to inspire across its borders. One other thing they share is the bonus of cheap flights to the UK mainland, so why not think about planning a trip to either one of them sooner rather than later.

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