Northern Ireland

Eco-friendly travel guide to Northern Ireland advises how to be a responsible tourist. Learn how to travel in a sustainable way and how to respect the local people and culture. Make your trip green by supporting locally owned hotels, organic restaurants and other businesses. Read more on how to protect the environment by making conscientious choices and how to travel green in Northern Ireland, United kingdom.

HMS Belfast and Tower Bridge before sunrise

Air quality: 4 / 5

Bus connections: 3.5 / 5

Train connections: 3.5 / 5

Hitchhiking: 3 / 5

National parks: 4 / 5

Outdoor activities: 4 / 5

Locals' English level: 4 / 5

Safety: 4.5 / 5

Accommodation: US$75 - $200

Budget per day: US$140 - $250

Responsible Travel

Northern Ireland is one of the finest countries to travel and explore the beautiful trail of nature, amazing delicacies, and rich culture. Widely known as Norn Iron, which is derived from Northern Ireland's pronunciation, is well known for the spectacular view of nature it offers. Literally translated to Tuaisceart Éireann in Irish or sometimes known as Na Sé Chontae 'The Six Counties, the country is one place that welcomes ecotourism widely.

The land covered with the white shining ice sheets and the place that has been home to HBO and Game of Thrones for 10 years, the atmospheric heritage and stunning locations is uncanny. The temperate climate is one the most common climate spread over the majority of Northern Ireland. Although the weather is a bit unpredictable, the average temperature is considerably soothing.

The country originally consists of six historic counties, namely, County Antrim, County Armagh, County Down, County Fermanagh, County Londonderry, and County Tyrone. Now there are eleven districts in Northern Ireland which make it distinct and vibrant in all respects.

While the country is one of the major tourist destinations, the country offers a mix of Ireland's culture and the culture of the United Kingdom, all in one place. With over 356 marine algae species, the country is home to some unique flora and fauna. Northern Ireland is a perfect blend of beauty, technical know-how, and friendly people with the most industrialized economy.

While exploring the awe-inspiring destinations of the country, some of the points that one needs to adhere to for a successful and responsible trip, the best eco-friendly practices to adapt to are:

Being a tourist destination and one with industrialization growing at a great pace, pollution is a concern. Make sure to use eco-friendly ways of traveling like walking or using a bicycle or even booking an eco-friendly vehicle to reduce the carbon trail.

While staying in Northern Ireland, opt for the eco-friendly options of accommodation like green hotels, hostels, guest houses, Couchsurfing, camping, and rental apartments. Try to ensure that these use localized and substantially produced inputs to offer the services and amenities to the visitors.

While exploring the country's trails, try on the local and traditional delicacies instead of the fast food. This will boost the economy and offer some of the most unique and lip-smacking fusion of taste.

Trips are incomplete without gifts and souvenirs for friends and family. Select from the wide range of locally produced art and hand-made items from artisans and craftsmen and boost the economy. Refrain from bargaining as art demands patience and a high level of skills.

Avoid and reduce the use of plastic to the maximum extent possible. This will not only help to save nature but also reduce carbon footprints.

While staying in the country, be considerate about the electricity usage. Make sure to switch off lights and fans while you leave the premises you reside in.

The people of the country are warm and friendly. Make sure to dress well and respect the ethnicity. There might be a few places with a photograph restriction, so respect it and not sneak in to click one.

Ensure not to litter and ruin the beauty of the tourist spots. Use the garbage bins installed at various places for disposing of waste. Follow the set guidelines to ensure that the recyclable material is kept separate.

To be a responsible traveler make sure to let fellow travelers know about ecotourism. A small step can lead to a greater and more sustainable change.

Air Quality and Pollution

Pollution is one of the major concerns that has been growing around. According to IQAir's 2019 World Air Quality Report, Belfast, the capital city of Northern Ireland is recorded to be the third most polluted city of the UK for PM2.5 statistics. Being one of the major industrial-based countries and one with many people visiting for tourism every year, the level of pollution is rising.

Pollution Index – 33.48
Pollution Exp Scale – 55.88

One of the major constituents of air pollution in Northern Ireland is solid burning. Also, the levels of nitrogen, especially in the capital city, is off the charts. As a matter of fact, the list of the top 5 cities exceeding the WHO's guideline of an annual mean concentration of 10 μg/m3, includes two from Northern Ireland.

The government takes various measures to maintain the air pollution level and offer a better environment to the locals. Being a responsible traveler, it is the pristine responsibility to show kindness and awareness towards nature and reduce the country's littering. Reduce the carbon trails, and make your stay memorable.

Respect the Culture

The culture of Northern Ireland is one with the influence of Culture of Ulster and the United Kingdom's culture. One can find various heritage sites, literature, and art influenced by past culture. One can find the perfect blend of taste and food that will mesmerize and make everyone happy.

A perfect country with cities exhibiting the uncanny mic of modernization and rich culture, and with friendly and welcoming people, Northern Ireland's culture is vibrant and unforgettable. There are basically two recognizable languages spoken in the country: Irish and Scots, apart from English. While in the country, some of the considerations to remember to respect the culture are:

Respect the traditions and customs of the religious places. For example when visiting a church or a mosque, wear modest clothing and don't be loud or use offensive language. Seek help for locals if you are unaware of the same.

The art is deep-rooted, and one can see a wide range of handicrafts here. Each piece has cultural importance, so get to know about it. Appreciate the work of local artists and artisans and try to learn more about the techniques employed by them while creating their art. This shows that you are genuinely interested and respect the local craft.

The food in the country is greatly influenced by the culture. There are various traditional dishes, enjoy them while exploring the trails. They key is to have an open pallet and even if you do not like anything then don't display your displeasure in front of everyone.

There are a few traditional songs which hold prime importance. Avoid making any harsh comment or use them in an improper sense.

Being a country with a rich tradition that is deeply rooted, people pay importance to dressing up. Make sure to dress most appropriately while exploring the trails.

St. Patrick's Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm. If you are in the country during the period, participate with zeal and zest.

August Craft Month organized by Craft Northern Ireland displays craft makers' work, enjoy the event if you get a chance.

Top 10 Places to Visit

One of the most incredible places, Northern Ireland, is one with valleys, rugged coastlines, beautiful castles, and cities. With numerous places to travel and cities filled with some great areas to explore, Northern Ireland is really an amazing place. Some of the most amazing places and tourist spots to explore while you are here are listed down for you. So, let us have a look at them.

Giant's Causeway, County Antrim: A UNESCO World Heritage Site formed millions of years ago from some volcanic eruption, is one with over 40,000 columns. Known to the Irish as the 8th wonder of the world, this place is one with an amazing view of neatly packed columns of hexagonal basalt rocks just next to the ocean.

Titanic Belfast: One of the most engaging exhibitions of reconstructions, special effects, and interactive features that help you experience the Titanic journey from the docks, to the decks, and even to the bottom of the Atlantic, this is amazing. With over nine different galleries showcasing everything about titanic, the whole thing is pretty spectacular.

Carrickfergus Castle, Carrickfergus: One of the most stunning castles, this is a well preserved medieval castle that demands a few hours of your time in order to explore it properly. Known to have been built by the Scots, Irish, English, and French, the castle played an important military role until the early 20th century and remains to be one of the most beautiful castles to date.

The Derry Walls, Derry: An historic landmark and the only remaining complete city walls in Northern Ireland, this is approximately 1.5km in circumference. Built-in around the 17th century, this preserves a Renaissance-style street plan to the present day.

Rathlin Island, County Antrim: If you are looking to travel to somewhere less mainstream and a little off-grid, this is perfect for you. The small six-mile-long island with a small amount of accommodation, along with a pub, restaurant, and a community shop, is the perfect spot to explore the scenic beauty.

Dunluce Castle, County Antrim: A now-ruined medieval castle on the north coast, and the former seat of the MacDonnell Clan, this is located on the edge of a basalt outcropping. Built around the 13th century, this has been a part of some of the most marvelous historical events.

Downhill Demesne, Coleraine: With the stunning view, this is an 18th Century mansion built by Earl Bishop. The open grounds include gardens, woodlands, and "Hezlett House," one of the oldest thatched cottages in the region.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Ballintoy: The most famous rope bridge, the Carrick-a-Rede, which is close to Ballintoy in County Antrim. It connects the mainland to the small island of Carrick A Rede. Located 30 meters above the rock, this is 20 meters wide, offers an amazing scenic beauty.

Kilkeel & Mourne Mountains, County Down: Jewelled with ancient ruins, winding streets, terraced shops, and more, Kilkeel is a wonderful place to explore. Mourne mountains, located near the small town, are among the highest mountain ranges that offer amazing scenic beauty and the opportunity to hike.

Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, County Fermanagh: Also known as Ireland's Stairway to heaven, this is truly the best place to visit. The amazing trail outside Enniskillen, climbing the steep staircase, and arriving at the viewing platform on Cuilcagh Mountain is a breathtaking experience.

An amazing and mesmerizing place, Northern Ireland is one with so much to explore and exhibit. With every county jeweled with castles and natural beauty, the place is going to thrill you. The breathtaking view and the calming nature makes the trip to Northern Ireland not only memorable but an experience to relax and rejuvenate.

Carrickfergus Castle

Explore

With the perfect resorts resting by the seaside, ancient mosques, and beautiful architectural sites, the country is a perfect blend of historical beauty with modernization. A charming tourist destination blessed with a rich culture, captivating parks to relax, astounding beaches to enjoy, bewitched landmarks to explore, and magnificent museums to know about the past, Northern Ireland is beautiful.

City Parks

To keep the environment clean and the surroundings beautiful, Northern Ireland has built amazing parks. Loaded with lush green plants and beautiful flowers, these are quite relaxing and comfortable. While there are various parks in the country to visit, a few prominent ones are:

Carnfunnock Country Park, County Antrim
The People's Park, Ballymena
St. Columb's Park, Derry
Peatlands Park, County Armagh
Delamont Country Park, County Down
Dromore Town Park, Dromore
Clement Wilson Park, Belfast
Queen Elizabeth Playing Fields, Lisburn
Northwood Linear Park, Belfast
Rowallane Garden, Saintfield, County Down

The lush green Carnfunnock Country Park

National Parks

The bridge in the Tollymore Forest Park

Northern Ireland, a country famous for its beaches and castles, is a pristine location to explore the forests and green areas. While there are no National Parks in the country, there are innumerable Forest Parks to explore. Some of the finest Forest Parks that meets all the criteria of a national park and offers an unforgettable experience are:

Glenariff Forest Park, County Antrim
Randalstown Forest, County Antrim
Gosford Forest Park, County Armagh
Loughgall Forest, County Armagh
Tollymore Forest Park, County Down
Belvoir Park Forest, Belfast
Florence Court Forest Park, County Fermanagh
Glenshane Forest, County Londonderry
Carrickaholten Forest, County Tyrone
Ness Country Park, Derry/Londonderry

Beaches

Looking for your feet to get immersed in water? Northern Ireland has a great collection of beaches. With over 31 beaches listed in Northern Ireland, you will not run out of beaches to visit in the city. Decorated with the white sands, the beautiful waters, and the opportunity to participate in beach sports, some of the best beaches to explore are:

Murlough Beach, Newcastle
Ballycastle Beach, Ballycastle
Cranfield Beach, Kilkeel
Castlerock Beach, Ulster
Portrush Whiterocks, Portrush
Downhill Strand (Benone), County Londonderry
Tyrella Beach, County Down
Helen’s Bay, Crawfordsburn Country Park
Waterfoot Beach, Glens of Antrim
Ballintoy Harbour Beach, County Antrim

Murlough Beach

Landmarks

An amazing country that holds history and traditions with some of the finest modern monuments is one with impressive landmarks to explore. While there are hundreds of landmarks to visit in Northern Ireland, a few notable ones are: County Fermanagh:

Marble Arch Caves
Noon’s Hole
Shannon Cave
Drumskinny stone circle
Castle Coole

County Derry

Burntollet Falls in Ness,
Drenagh
St Columb’s Cathedral
Mussenden Temple

County Tyrone

Caledon Giant Sequoia
Killymoon Castle

County Antrim

Florencecourt Yew
Glenariff Falls
Great Arch near Portrush
Giant’s Ring in Belfast
Saint Malachy’s Church
Albert Memorial Clock

County Down

Audleystown Court Cairn
Goward Dolmen
Ballynoe Stone Circle
Bangor Abbey
Ruins of Nendrum Monastery
Down Cathedral
Scrabo Tower
Gosford Castle in County, Armagh St Patrick’s Cathedral Armagh

Waterfall on the Burntollet river The Burntollet river falls through a gorge in the Ness Wood Country Park. The water is brown from recent rains

Museums

There is no place better than a museum to learn about the traditions, culture, and history of a place. While you wish to know about the history, the best museums in Northern Ireland to visit are:

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, Cultra
Tower Museum, Derry
W5, Belfast
Ulster Museum, Belfast
Irish Linen Centre and Lisburn Museum, Lisburn
Inniskillings Museum, Enniskillen
Crumlin Road Gaol, Belfast
Navan Centre, Fort, and King Stables, Armagh
Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre, Belleek
Apprentice Boys Museum and Exhibition, Derry

Ulster Folk and Transport Museum

Eat

When you travel to a new place, the most interesting and curiosity inducing thing is to taste the unique blend of spices and food that the place offers. Northern Ireland is a blend of different cultures, offers some of the finest dishes to try on.

From the variety of vegan, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian options, the street food and local delicacies offered in Northern Ireland are lip-smacking. The most common and staple food in Northern Ireland is bread and potato.

Some of the best dishes to try in Northern Ireland include The Comber Potato, Abernethy Butter, Dulse, Pasties, Yellowman, Soda Bread, and many more.

With the perfect flavors and numerous street food options in Northern Ireland, the amazing and high-class restaurants, the organic and vegan food options, and the local market for raw ingredients to cook your own meal, staying here are perfect.

Pasty is a large to medium-sized battered round of minced meat and vegetables common to Northern Ireland

Drink

Having drink with a meal is kind of inevitablel. While there are various drinks from fresh fruit juices to alcoholic beverages, the selection is totally dependent on you.

If you are looking for some Northern Irish drinks, then the best options to go for are Irish whiskey, beer, tea, Craft Apple Juice, and Hard Cider, Irish Gin, and a lot more. You would also see soft drinks in the country, so you choose from an array of options.

Tap-water

Tap Water offered in Northern Ireland is completely safe to drink. Still, while traveling, it is advisable to go for the packaged water to avoid any adverse health effects. Even if you go for consuming tap water, then opting for the boiling first is important. Since the overall Drinking-Water Quality and Accessibility is moderate at 73.07, whereas the overall Water Quality is relatively low at 63.27, the water is completely drinkable.

Being a responsible traveler, use the water judiciously and utilize the reusable bottles to carry water along with you while exploring the trails of the country. Ensure not to pollute the water sources or waste water in any way.

Activities

A beautiful country with amazing nature, beaches, parks, forests, and various other places to explore, Northern Ireland is just breath-taking. Some of these activities are usually dependent on water bodies, such as fishing and kayaking.

Apart, there are few other activities that one can participate in include snorkeling, hiking, trekking, cycling, mountain biking, forest expeditions, and a lot more. Apart there are opportunities to participate in Yoga throughout the country.

If you are a beginner, the studios usually have instructors to help out. You might be wary of other new people for a while, but we are sure that you will make new friends. Participate in any activity with a group of people to make new friends and have a better experience.

Accommodation

Choose from a range of hotels, hostels, guesthouses, camping sites, or just book the facility of couchsurfer in Northern Ireland. A beautiful country with the most amazing stay facilities that range from basic to highly luxurious and offer all the amenities to have a comfortable stay in the most affordable range, Northern Ireland is an uncanny travel destination. With the pre-booking facility and voice to view locations online, one can easily make the booking on time. English being one of the most fluently spoken languages, one can easily communicate while enjoying the stay.

Look beyond the normal as some uncanny destinations offer the stay options that will astonish you. From the castles to live in rooms with amazing views and experiential escapes, and historical setting, Northern Ireland is mesmerizing with pristine accommodations.

Green Hotels

Offering the basic stay amenities so that no negative impact is being placed on nature and the environment is the idea on which the eco-accommodation is based. One can easily book from the luxurious resorts to the very different kind of stay like the bubble dome in Finn Lough, which offers pristine amenities with a focus on sustainability. Using eco-friendly and renewable energy options, focus on organic products, recycled items, reusable clothes, localized staff, and various other related facilities, these hotels can be booked online quickly and easily.

While ensuring that the visitors are offered all the apex amenities, the eco-friendly hotels here ensure keeping the spaces clean, reusable products, and ensuring the utmost hygiene and safety at the most user-friendly prices.

Hostels and Guest Houses

If you are a solo traveler looking forward to a budget-friendly and economical stay without any compromise on the facilities, then booking a hostel or guest house is a better option. However, guesthouses are more comfortable when in a group or with family; one can also book while traveling alone. Offering all the well-maintained facilities like the kitchen, Wi-Fi, washing area, peaceful common area, and the gardens, hostels, and guesthouses are best matched for people looking for budget-friendly options and making new friends.

Offering all the facilities to rent the space temporarily and with pre-installed pieces of equipment to make the stay experience surreal and fun, the guesthouses are one of the finest stay options with amazing security attached to them. With the beautiful and astounding natural locations and amazing pocket-friendly stay options for young solo travelers, the place is being the most sought-after. Staying at the hostel or guesthouse offers a great way of interacting with fellow travelers and learning about their experiences.

Apartments

With the facility to book the service apartment or go for AirBnB, booking the home-like and tranquil environment, the serviced apartments offer the facilities that include the pantry, parking space, washing area, Wi-Fi, and relaxing area is finest. One can book a single room in an apartment or a full apartment, depending on the need and economy. Cooking your own meal and staying without outside interruptions, service apartments are the most budget-friendly options for people looking to stay for an extended period. Unquestionably, the level of solitude and safety they offer is excellent and will also help you gain self-dependence.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is one of the best options for solo travelers looking forward to a comfortable stay and the opportunity to know about the country's culture and traditions. Usually, when a tourist opts for the Couchsurfing facility, the host offers the facility to stay as a couchsurfer without making any payment but providing small household services to the family one is staying with. While one can book Couchsurfing online, it is essential to know about the host and the underlying stay conditions before confirming. It will ensure a better stay with no hassle. A win-win stay situation is a great way to exchange cultural insights and experience the traditions.

Camping

If you are a nature lover who loves to stay and spend some time with nature, then the camping grounds available in Northern Ireland are amazing. The amazing beauty of nature and soothing climate staying in camping grounds is a uniquely beautiful experience. There are various eco-tour companies or camping planners that help travelers plan the camping to pristine natural locations. Usually, there are trips arranged every week that allow you to explore the untouched nature with similar natured travelers. There are multiple camps to book for a fun camping weekend. The best way to meet nature and relieve the heat, camping in Northern Ireland, is one unforgettable experience.

Regions

Regions of Northern Ireland

County Antrim
Belfast is situated in County Antrim, as is the stunning North Coast and Giant's Causeway.

County Armagh

County Derry
The city of Derry is located here.

County Down
The beautiful coastal resort of Bangor is found here.

County Fermanagh

County Tyrone

Cities

Belfast ("mouth of the riverbank") - the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland. It is also the second-largest city on the island of Ireland (after Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland), and the fifteenth largest in the United Kingdom. Shattered by more than three decades of paramilitary conflict, Belfast has undergone a renaissance in recent years and is now a vibrant, modern city. It has been voted the fourth best city in the U.K. for a city break in the Guardian/Observer travel awards.

Derry, or Londonderry ("the Maiden City") - On the banks of the Foyle River is the second city of Northern Ireland.

Armagh - ecclesiastical capital of Ireland.

Bangor - a beautiful coastal resort in North Down, home to the island's largest marina and good shopping.

Coleraine

Enniskillen

Lisburn

Newry

Omagh

Getting There and Moving Around

Northern Ireland is a place that shows the amazing trails of urbanization with beautiful nature blended in. With the perfect cities to visit and streets to explore, the country offers an enthralling experience to every traveler visiting here. For any traveler, the biggest concern while exploring any new country is its connectivity and travel opportunities. Well, in that case, too, Northern Ireland is ready to amaze and mesmerize you.

A place that offers immense opportunities for tourists to explore is also completely safe. With a well-connected transport network and warm people, traveling in the country is a wonderful experience. One can choose from wide options like public transport, private taxi, ferries, flights, eclectic vehicles, and a lot more to travel to different places of the country or even in just one city.

The public transport system is quite reliable and well-maintained. As a tourist in Northern Ireland, one can rent a car, bike, or even e-car to explore the country. Self-driving needs to have a valid international driver's permit and confirm the guideline related to driving. So, while in the country, make sure to be a responsible traveler and make you're traveling eco-friendly and sustainable. Go for public transport and e-vehicles as it will reduce the carbon emission. Explore the country to the fullest and enjoy the enticing locations.

Air

For connectivity to the rest of the world, there are five main airports in the country. Belfast International Airport and George Best Belfast City Airport are the busiest ones with over 8 million visitors every year. The proximity of the airports makes them one of the most surreal options for connectivity. The main airports are:

Belfast International Airport, County Antrim
George Best Belfast City Airport, County Down
City of Derry Airport, County Londonderry
Enniskillen/St Angelo Airport, County Fermanagh
Newtownards Airport, County Down

One can easily book tickets online from any of the major cities to Northern Ireland. With the fairly acceptable price band, it is easy to book flights but book one with a lesser or rather one-stop to reduce time consumption and cause less pollution. So, be a responsible traveler and select the best budget with the least carbon emission flight to Northern Ireland.

Outside the George Best Belfast City Airport

Bus

For the bus connectivity, few options run from Dublin, England, and other places to Northern Ireland. Although there are not numerous buses running between the countries, the budget-friendly ticket and comfortable coaches make the buses one of the finest options. While in Northern Ireland, the bus service is quite surreal.

Ulsterbus is the most responsible and widespread bus service in the country, with over 20 bus stations. Goldline is the inter-bus service between major cities in Northern Ireland and cross-border services into the Republic of Ireland. The Metro Network and Glider are few other remarkable transport providers that connect Belfast to the rest of the country.

The easy to book facility of the travel ticket online and the complete timetable's availability makes sure that the traveling is not hindered. Ensure to book before a few days to avoid a rush as the tickets tend to be tight during the festive periods. Do carry comfort supports, if any, to have the best traveling experience.

Ulsterbus, nationalised bus operator responsible for running most public tranpsort bus services across Northern Ireland.

Train

Simultaneous departures from Belfast Central

The cross-border rail service is also available when a person is looking forward to traveling to Northern Ireland. Some of the major connectivity that runs in the country are Belfast–Dublin, Belfast–Portadown, Belfast–Bangor, Belfast–Larne, Belfast–Londonderry, Coleraine–Portrush, and Lisburn–Antrim line. Belfast–Dublin can be booked from Translink that takes just two hours of travel time.

One of the most pocket-friendly and comfortable options to travel, selecting the rail option is the best. With the opportunity to have views of nature on the way and the chance to meet similar kinds of travelers, traveling by train is really amazing. While planning to travel by train, make sure to book tickets before avoiding any hassle at the last moment.

Hitchhiking

Hitchhiking is found to be quite common in Northern Ireland. With the warm people and amazing connectivity, one can easily get hitchhiked to reach their destination. While planning to get a lift, make sure to know about the destination you are willing to get the most appropriate lift. Staying on the major roads offer a chance of getting a lift. Make sure to let your host aware of the monetary offering, if any, you are willing to make. It is advisable to be aware of the surroundings and destinations to avoid being pointed by the goons. Be at your best as this may be a chance to befriend a local and have a surreal holiday experience ahead.

Others

While these are primary ways to reach Northern Ireland, one can also book a ferry to get here. Northern Ireland has first-class ferry connections with Scotland, England, and the Isle of Man. The new, high-speed, enhanced, and attractive vehicles run on the path to ensure a better traveling experience.

Additionally, while in the country, one can also book a long-distance taxi to travel within the country. This will offer the uncanny chance to view the natural beauty on the way. One can also book an e-vehicle while traveling in the country. With the beautiful trails and landscapes, a few cities and counties offer the opportunity to travel to one of the cities on foot or by bicycle.

Being a responsible traveler, do prefer to book an eco-friendly personal cab or taxi to reduce the carbon trail while exploring the country. If you get an opportunity, travel the trails by e-vehicles and help the country maintain its high level of cleanliness and neatness.

Sustainable Shopping

With the increasing concern of the environment, the idea of sustainable shopping is also rising at a whopping rate. The idea behind the concept is to use naturally produced material to design and develop consumer use goods. It includes reusing the plastic to remake it into usable material, clothes, and jewelry made from recycled products.

The local flea market, thrift stores, and food market allow travelers to choose from a wide range of locally produced sustainable goods for consumption. The food market offers fresh aromatic spices and ingredients to make meals. Northern Ireland is one of the finest countries if you are looking for a sustainable souvenir.

Various brands like Earth Made, Sustainable Folk, and others are all involved in creating handmade gifts and items in Northern Ireland from 100% recycled materials. The idea of the zero-waste 'scoop' shop Refill Quarter in Belfast encourages people to buy groceries as much as needed leading to no wastage.

So, while you are in Northern Ireland, make sure to get sustainably and locally produced goods as this will help boost the economy and the idea of sustainable shopping. Be a responsible traveler and buy eco-friendly gifts and souvenirs to make your trip to Northern Ireland memorable and sustainable.

Recycling

Recycling is one of the most beautiful and fantastic concepts. It involves reusing the used products like plastic, metal, cloth, rubber, or any other such material to produce new products that can be used by the consumers. The idea is to reduce waste generation and increase environmental health overall. The concept is gaining widespread recognition globally.

All councils in Northern Ireland offer kerbside recycling. They collect materials from boxes or wheelie bins outside the home. One can recycle paper, glass, and plastics, and some also collect metal and organic waste. With the help of localities, the council is putting in large efforts to make recycling a better way of living. So, while in the country, make sure to follow the waste management and recycling guidelines to reduce the waste and assist in the recycling.

Waste

Waste is something that is no longer of any use. It can be a pile of paper or cloth, anything that the person is not looking forward to using is considered a waste. The household waste recycling rate of 51.9 percent has met the Northern Ireland Waste Management Strategy target to recycle 50 percent of household waste by 2020. With the government's efforts and the locals' help, waste management has been possible to a great extent. So, while in the country, make sure to dispose of waste and follow the guidelines to reduce the carbon trail. Also, avoid littering the aesthetics of the country while exploring the tourist spots. Use the separate bins installed for waste disposal and also make your fellow travelers aware of the same. Be sure to act responsibly while traveling through the country.

Work and Study Abroad

There are numerous options for studying or working in Northern Ireland for foreigners. The students who visit the country for the graduation or post-graduation degree are allowed to work part-time to earn while learning. Simultaneously, there are numerous job opportunities available for the graduates that offer work permits and sponsor visas. The career that is highly in demand in the country is Business and finance, and engineering. There is also a wide opportunity for hospitality students in the country. One can easily find the opportunities online or even in papers published in the country, and even get assistance from the placement agencies.

Exchange Student

Northern Ireland is the right destination for various students, given its good programs, reasonable fees, and culture and history. Few institutes offer the exchange students the opportunity as the financial aids allow the students to arrange the fees more quickly. The direct admission facility allows the students to get easily through the college.

Northern Ireland is one of the finest countries with rich culture and warm people; studying here is one of the finest opportunities that open the door to a better and brighter future. Applying through the exchange student program is helped by the education counselors at the universities, approaching even better.

Au Pair

Staying as the Au pair is one of the finest opportunities to know more about a place's local traditions and culture. More suited for the singles and students, the Au pair's facility offers the opportunity to know about the local lifestyle. There are various opportunities in Northern Ireland to book the staying facility of an Au pair, but make sure to know the host and the underlying guidelines before confirming the stay.

Since the host and the Au pair are supposed to share the same facility, knowing the stay conditions is important. Also, while staying with the locals, make sure to be at your best and learn the local traditions with real experience.

Volunteering

Volunteering is the finest opportunity to use the skills you have to give back to society. With the use of the skills and knowledge you have acquired, volunteering offers the finest opportunity to offer undivided service to the locals. It can one of the many options like teaching, serving the community, nature conservation, animal rescue, and many more.

There are numerous volunteering organizations in Northern Ireland that allow you to participate as a volunteer. But before applying, make sure to know the basic guidelines and documentary requirements for the same. Some of the organizations are:

Volunteer Now
Volunteer Now Fermanagh
The Conservation Volunteers
Magherafelt Volunteer Centre
Youthaction Northern Ireland

Enjoy your stay as a responsible traveler while you are in the city and leave a positive trail. Use your skills and time and return with memories and positivity of working as a volunteer.