Luxe Beat Magazine Special Edition Put a Pin in It! | Page 18

that was established here as part
of the Plantation of Ulster. As you
stroll, you’ll learn the names and
significance of the various bastions
and gates, as well as get a glimpse
of famed St. Columb’s Cathedral.
Like Belfast, Derry was also the
scene of political strife for many
years, and it, too, has murals
depicting the issues and events of
the times, including the infamous
Bloody Sunday. Murals cover the
buildings within the Bogside (Irish
Republican section) and throughout
the Loyalist-occupied areas of town.
Of note is the Peace Mural, found
on the Bogside, which represents
the peace process and negotiations
that have helped bring an end to
the terrible violence of the past.
Walking and taxi tours are available
for those interested in learning
more about this turbulent history
and its effects on the populace.
Derry’s Craft Village is a well-known
mecca for visitors and locals alike,
and has often been described as a
hidden jewel in the city’s crown.
This cultural oasis is an eclectic mix
of artisan craft shops, charming
cafes and balconied apartments.
Dickensian in appearance, with
a thatched cottage to boot, it
encapsulates a sense of times gone

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by. The place also serves as a venue
for concerts, weddings, conferences
and crafts workshops.
If you’re a “Game of Thrones” fan
or a “thronie,” you’ll be in good
company in Northern Ireland, as
there are multitudes of visitors
coming from all over the world to
indulge their fascination with this
popular show. There are numerous
sites sprinkled throughout the area
that have been used to film the
award-winning series. You can follow
in the footsteps of the stars and
plot a path through the dramatic
scenery, taking you to where some
of the pivotal scenes were shot,
including Winterfell, Robb Stark’s
Camp, the Haunted Forest and Inch
Abbey. Though the sites are easily
accessible for those who wish to
explore on their own, there are also
several different tour companies
which offer various “Game of
Thrones” experiences.
No matter what you see or do
during your stay in this fair country,
remember to take the time to savor
each experience one bite at a time.
And as they say in Gaelic, “Ithe
Sásta,” or “Bon Appetit!”
For all things Northern Ireland,
visit: www.tourismni.com