Belfast and the Two Pennies
We checked out of our hotel and set off toward Belfast. Today we got the rolling tour of Belfast and our guide, Susie, helped us understand more of the history and events that occurred in various parts of the city. The history, with its volatile mix of religion and politics, Unionists and Nationalists; we saw famous sites like Shankill Road and Falls Road and the Peace Wall. We had lunch at the historic Crown Liquor Saloon built in 1849 – and situated across from Hotel Europa – the most bombed hotel in the world. No trip to Belfast would be complete without touching on the Titanic, which was built and launched from Belfast in 1911. We visited the Titanic Memorial where Susie shared her personal story of how her family’s history is tied to the Titanic – a story that is recounted in her book, “The Two Pennies.”
Back on the bus for the drive to Dublin where we checked in again to the Buswell Hotel for the night. We said our too-quick goodbyes to Dennis, our great driver, and we couldn't really believe that that time was already here. Later we met for our goodbye dinner at The Restaurant at Fallon & Byrne (on Exchequer Street). It doesn’t seem quite possible that 2 weeks have passed. Here we are in a room of once strangers, now friends – it has been great getting to know this diverse group from all parts of the US. After dinner a group of us duck into a nearby pub for a few more toasts…not quite ready to say goodbye. Slainte!
Back on the bus for the drive to Dublin where we checked in again to the Buswell Hotel for the night. We said our too-quick goodbyes to Dennis, our great driver, and we couldn't really believe that that time was already here. Later we met for our goodbye dinner at The Restaurant at Fallon & Byrne (on Exchequer Street). It doesn’t seem quite possible that 2 weeks have passed. Here we are in a room of once strangers, now friends – it has been great getting to know this diverse group from all parts of the US. After dinner a group of us duck into a nearby pub for a few more toasts…not quite ready to say goodbye. Slainte!