Belfast
"The countryside in Belfast is beautiful. No technical wizardry is needed to show quite
how glorious it is in its natural state." - Gwendoline Christie
On the Tour
The tour came to a close in Belfast. The Titanic Museum was definitely the best museum I have ever been to, with a wide variety of activities and exhibits tracing the path of the ill-fated ship from its construction to the pop culture references of today.
The local guide had a family connection to the Titanic, turning a famous historical moment into a deeply personal story. The guide also took us to the city's war memorial to learn about the Belfast Blitz and the other impacts of war on the city and its citizens.
We also had another performance from local musicians and dancers. This time, a few of the tour members learned the steps and energetically danced along with them!
On My Own
With my free afternoon in Belfast, I walked out toward the imposingly gothic Queen's University and popped into the Ulster Museum.
While all the accommodations on the trip were welcoming, comfortable, and ideally located, my hotel room in Belfast was certainly one of the most lavish ones, so I also took some time to luxuriate before our dinner together.
Tip for Shy Introverts
Remember: You're not the Only One
When shy introverts get caught up in their own heads and any accompanying insecurities, it can be difficult to remember other people on the tour might also be feeling shy and awkward. They too might find it uncomfortable to be the first to talk to others. Try to recognize those kindred souls and make an effort, even if you don't get much of a response at first. After all, you know how it feels! Depending on how shy any other introverts on your trip are, you may not connect with them as quickly or easily as your more extroverted fellow travelers. At the very least, though, you can show there is an opening to connect if they want to take it.
I was asked at the end if I'd do another solo trip, and without a doubt, the answer is yes. If I went with someone I knew, my introvert tendencies would have caused me to stick with my travel partner as much as possible. If you are traveling with someone, pretend at times as if you are by yourself! Going alone as a shy introvert pushed me out of my comfort zone, forced me to befriend strangers, and taught me more about myself, making this trip one of the best I have ever taken.
