Tour of Belfast & Ards Peninsula

Hello fellow travellers I'm Lorraine, I'm 57 years old (I think) and a mother of two (that I'm totally sure of lol). I'm a seasoned guide with over a decade of professional experience showcasing the heart and soul of Belfast, my cherished hometown. Born and raised in one of the neighbourhoods most affected by "The Troubles, " an armed conflict which saw many people loose their lives from 1968-1998 and the war-torn streets divided into sectarian neighbourhoods, scars of which are still visible today, the iconic Peace-walls. Thankfully, I'm now blessed to witness the remarkable transformation of the city from conflict to a vibrant, cultural city with a confident future, a far cry from the days when such a transformation seemed implausible. The scars may still linger, but today, Belfast stands as a testament to resilience, offering a warm welcome to travellers from all corners of the globe. Growing up amidst the tumultuous strife, I developed a love for history and a fervent passion for politics. I will weave tales that seamlessly blend the past with the vibrant present but don't worry, I wont overwhelm you with too much information, you are on vacation after all. With more than 25 years in the tourism sector, my journey started in community development and gradually evolved into teaching and professional guiding. With a BA (HONS) Degree in Hotel & Tourism Management and a HND in Leisure Studies in my backpack, I've fine-tuned my understanding of hospitality and leisure to curate an experience tailored just for you. My OCN & Level 3 Diploma in Tour Guiding ensures that every step of your journey is infused with insight and enthusiasm. I've always enjoyed travelling myself and I've lived in many places like Dublin, London, Madrid and I've visited many more. I've cultivated a deep appreciation for exploration and the great outdoors. Now, I'm thrilled to share the rich heritage and breath-taking beauty of Ireland with you. As a local, I take pride in crafting personalized tours and tailored experiences that cater to all ages, abilities, and interests. My tours go beyond historical narratives, seamlessly integrating political and social insights with nature, sightseeing, and leisure. Picture strolls along rivers, hikes in the mountains, and evenings filled with the warm humour of locals in charming pubs, restaurants and museums. Let me be your guide to Belfast and Northern Ireland, offering an insider's perspective on cultural events, activities, and hidden gems. I'm not just here to showcase; I'm here to make your experience uniquely yours. Share your ideas and wishes, and I'll help turn them into memorable moments during your stay. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a delightful getaway, I'm here to ensure your journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Let's create memories that will last a lifetime. I look forward to hearing from you and being part of your Irish adventure! Warm regards, Lorraine I have a BA (HONS) Degree in Hotel & Tourism Management, a HND (Higher national Diploma) in Leisure Studies, an OCN & level 3 diploma in Tour Guiding. I have studied Spanish to Degree level and I'm currently studying 'A level' French. I am trained in First Aid and I'm world-host qualified and recognised by the N.Ireland Tourist Board, I'm also a certified PSV (Public Service Vehicle) Driver and I drive a 9 seat 2019 Ford Tourneo