Being an international student can be a very lonely adventure at times; it is normal that before coming to Belfast, we will have certain expectations about the bonds that we are going to build, the friendships that this experience is going to leave us, or why not, a romance that we can have.

If you allow yourself, you will have several friends and be open to meeting different people from different cultures. Regarding your love life, I don't know, it will depend on how interested you are in meeting a possible partner, going on dates or even being willing to reply to the text message that person sends you!

Check out this student's guide to the city!

However, you cannot lose sight of the fact that the most important relationship you must build during your time living abroad is the relationship you have with yourself, the way you treat yourself and how you take care of yourself. Remember that even though it is yourself who is living this experience, you are also at the same time becoming a new person that you are starting to get to know, a version of yourself abroad who also deserves opportunities and time.

That is why in this blog, I am going to give you some ideas so that you can spend time with yourself while you live in Belfast, things you can do to reflect, get to know yourself and always reconcile with the version of yourself that this island allowed you to be.

Go for a walk

It sounds easy and obvious, but for a Latin American who is not used to walking-friendly cities, walking has become one of the most regular activities for me. Belfast is a beautiful city, and there are many places you can explore on foot, or where you can stop to sit for a while and enjoy the atmosphere and your own company.

Walking around the city

I love walking through the city centre, stopping at a café, and taking a latte to go to continue walking to the river and cross the bridge that will leave me near the marina. It is an incredible walk, which helps me clear my mind, reflect, relax and simply enjoy my own company while I explore hidden places in the city or my new favourites.

Go to a cafe, bring your book and eat a dessert

I can read a book from the comfort of my home, I know. But it's always good to change space and environment, and to do so we don't necessarily have to have someone's company. We can always diversify the spaces in which we do our daily activities and thus allow ourselves to enjoy new things while spending time with ourselves.

Every time I try to distract myself from some academic activity that I am doing, I try to go out for a drink and I take my iPad with me to continue some reading that I have pending, watch an episode of a series that I like, or simply listen to music with my headphones while I observe what is happening around me.

Reading a book in a cafe

Become a foodie

Believe me, I live here on a somewhat restricted budget as an international student, but that hasn't stopped me from meeting and visiting different restaurants in Belfast and having my favourites. I understand that going to restaurants can be a bit expensive, but not all restaurants require you to order the main dish. You can eat an appetizer, a dessert or enjoy a coffee while you get to know the atmosphere and concept of the place, which is also part of this type of experience.

With this, you can also get to know the menu and decide if you want to return to give it a full try alone or with someone. It is one of my favourite plans, and they make me feel like I am a local in the city. You can also take cool photos of these places and become a foodie on Instagram.

In a nice coffee shop

QFT and Ulster Museum

Enjoy a solo date at the Queen's Film Theatre (QFT) and the Ulster Museum in Belfast. Start with an independent film at the QFT, an intimate cinema with a curated selection of international films. Then, head to the Ulster Museum to explore its rich collection of art, history and natural sciences at your own pace. This tour offers you a deep cultural experience and moments of personal reflection in two of the city's most iconic places.

Exploring Belfast alone is a rewarding adventure that allows you to connect deeply with the city and with yourself. From strolling through fascinating museums and enjoying an independent film at the QFT, to discovering charming cafes and quiet parks, every corner of Belfast offers something special for the solo traveller.

Take yourself on a solo date to the cinema!

These experiences not only enrich your knowledge and appreciation of the city, but also provide you with valuable moments of introspection and freedom. Don't hesitate to embark on a single date; you will be surprised at how much you can enjoy and discover on your own.

Find out more

Living in Belfast

Also by Isa: The Most Instagrammable Places in Northern Ireland

Study Violence, Terrorism and Security at Queen's

Information for students from Colombia

Isabella Barros De La Rosa Violence, Terrorism and Security | Postgraduate Student | Colombia Hello, my name is Isabella Barros, I am 24 years old and I am from a beautiful city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia called Barranquilla.  I am very into running and outdoor activities. That's why Belfast is so amazing to live in, because of the landscapes, and the spaces for this kind of hobby. Besides running and studying, you can find me in any bookstore, wandering around the city, or enjoying a pleasant coffee in a cute cafe!