If I were to visit Belfast would my religious beliefs ever be questioned?

Question

I understand that religion plays a small part in the tensions between northern and southern Ireland. If I were to visit Belfast, would I have any problems there being that I’m Catholic? It lookes like a lovely place to take a holiday.

Answer 1

The religious differences in Northern Ireland (or Ulster, depending on your political sympathies) are emphasized in the media. However, the real differences are political and need to be understood in terms of the British Empire.

The Catholic population of Northern Ireland would like to see their country united with the rest of the republic of Ireland while the Protestant population is loyal to the crown. "Loyalists" support British occupation of the area while "Republicans" seek to unify the country.

You do not have to worry about people asking you about your religion - no one cares because you're not from the area. If you're an American, THAT is how people will see you. People might be curious about your political opinions but in all likelihood, they would be interested in your opinions with regard to US foreign policy.

In fact, they may not care to hear your opinion about their situation.

To really enjoy Belfast, you would be well served by visiting your local library and reading up on the history of Ireland. Even travel guides will give you a brief rundown on the history of the country and "the troubles" as the political conflict is commonly known.

Belfast is a very interesting area, which as you might know, is largely divided by "the peace line" a long, desolate alley that seperates the Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods. I spent several days in Belfast, walking between the two communities and I never had a problem. The people I met in the street, in both communities, were very kind to me and always happy to provide directions.

There are also no shortage of murals in the respective communities which reflect their individual political viewpoints. In the Catholic area you'll find tributes to hunger strikers like Bobby Sands, as well as murals honoring JFK, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. There are also murals honoring IRA fighters and prisoners in H Block, a Belfast prison. In the Protestant area, you'll find murals honoring UDA militias and their various campaigns. Some of these murals look pretty creepy with masked gunmen posing menacingly.

The best thing to do is to treat the neighborhoods and their residents with the utmost respect. And remember, political allegiances in areas like this are fragile things. Someone could be very moderate until a loved one is killed by a government soldier or a rebel bomb - then they might become more partisan.

So be careful about offering unsolicited opinions (or even solicited opinions if you're not in an area where you feel comfortable).

Answer 2

I am a mother of an 11 year old girl we live in northern Ireland. She was 10 tears old and asked what a catlick was. She has no hatred and that is the way a lot of people are.
I was blown up by a bomb and my father who was a police man was murdered.
I am not bitter.

You will have a great time and be welcomed by all. There is more to NI than Belfast take your time and tour.

Answer 3

Northern Ireland is a great place to visit. Yes, it wasnt too good when there was a lot of tension there but it has just about diminished now. Obviously when any of us go on holiday we have no need to advertise or inform others about our different religious beliefs, just enjoy your holiday, religion doesnt need to come into it. Go up the Antrim coast road, visit Portrush and Port Stewart, the Giants Causeway. If you can get into the country the mountains of Mourne are absolutely gorgeous. The Irish people are very hospitable, dont mention religion, they will just take you as you are. If you get to Dublin one day you will love that also, hire a car if poss and go down to Limerick, Cork, Kilkenny, over to Blarney Castle and up to Dingle on the west coast, thats where they made the movie Ryans Daughter and the Waking of Ned Devine. The people are also very hospitable and friendly there. Have a great trip and enjoy.

Answer 4

I live in Downpatrick (about 22 miles s. of Belfast) and all visitors are made welcome in N Ireland, so have no worries on that score. There are certain areas of Belfast and some of the big towns that I would not want to be in late at night, but the same can be said for most places nowadays. I have met many visitors who have had a great time, so don't worry - just come over and see us. Your religious beliefs wont be questioned.

Answer 5

Yes, it would a great place for you to come to for a holiday! I doubt if your religious beliefs would be questioned if you came here. I've lived here all my life, and I admit there are some people who are suspicious of people who come from a different Christian background, but as far as visitors are concerned, they couldn't care less! The tourist scene is not affected at all, its mainly politicians, ignorant people who have not been brought up to respect other people's values (ASBOs?) and religious zealots who are immersed in their own propaganda who give the place a bad name! Please come and see the place for yourself, you'll love it! The scenery around the coast is fantastic, though the weather can be a bit unreliable!

Answer 6

Yeah on your way into Northern Ireland you may be forced over to the side of the road and strip searched the authorities will be looking for things like little blue medals etc Roman catholic tattoes but if you pass this OK and they find nothing they may release you and you can continue your journey thru NI

Answer 7

I have never being to belfast but i dont think you should have any problems unless you bring it on yourself.

Answer 8

Eric R is absolutley right. It's a lovely city and you will have no problems with religion

Answer 9

Don't let that prohibit you from visiting, its a nice place - interesting.

Answer 10

No matter where you go in the world, your religion will be questioned.