The most desired time of the year has arrived, and summer is giving us the sunniest and most spectacular days in Belfast. Believe me, it has been difficult, because I have to write my dissertation and concentrate on my studies, but every day I feel like the world outside my bedroom calls me and says, “Come, enjoy the day lying on the grass sunbathing.”

I need help, I know, but fortunately I have been able to manage the balance between fulfilling my responsibilities and enjoying the joy that warm, sunny days bring me. Belfast is a wonderful city, and with this weather it is worth enjoying it 100%. These are some of the things I have done that have allowed me to take advantage of the sun.

My bedroom window telling me to go out and enjoy the day

Lay down on the grass, just because

There is no specific reason to lie on the grass. Just do it because, it doesn't matter if you are alone or with someone, do it as if you were a plant doing photosynthesis. Recharge yourself with the vitamin D that winter took away from you and lie down on the grass. It is the activity I have done most frequently these days, and it is undoubtedly the most economical.

Belfast certainly offers many spaces to do this, such as the gardens of City Hall, or Botanic Gardens next to the university. I have done it alone while meditating, reading a book, and even doing assignments. When I do it with my friends it is also spectacular, we take the opportunity to talk, share time together, have a drink or a small picnic. At the same time, we can play cards outdoors, twister, with a ball or a frisbee.

Having fun in Botanic

Rooftops

We are in the perfect season to take advantage of bar rooftops. It can be a little expensive, but you're in luck if one of your friends has a rooftop in their accommodation. My best friend is the favourite friend of the group, her accommodation is incredible and offers a rooftop to share as a group, here we can sunbathe, do our work and make our own cocktails. It's wonderful as we can also see the sun set at 10pm!

Doing photosynthesis on my friend's phenomenal rooftop 

Ride a bike along the river and through the city

I don't have a bike, but the public bikes around the city are the best option for exploring, and even better in this weather. It is a very economical way to get to know Belfast and get some exercise at the same time. Don't waste it, it is also an activity that you can do alone or in the company of your friends.

I drove to the port, and I was able to get to Victoria Park, which I didn't know of. You just have to download the city bikes application to your mobile and the rates are very fair. For almost two hours riding a bicycle, you pay only £3.

It was amazing to ride a bike around Belfast

Running is my favourite hobby

There will be those who shy away from the sun but I don't want to waste it, and one of the things I like to do most is run, so it can be more wonderful running with the sun. I really enjoy this activity, and I like to do it near the harbour. With sunlight everything looks better and it is easier to appreciate things, from time to time I stop at the road and contemplate the landscape. It really is like therapy, only free.

Contemplating the beauty of Belfast city after a run

Just walk around the city

Walk around the city while the day is sunny. Go through downtown or near Queen's walking down Botanic Avenue, take advantage of the sunny days and become that outdoor person that you have always wanted to be.

There are so many places all around the city where you can stop and enjoy a drink on the terrace, or you can just sit outside a coffee shop in front of the city hall while you drink your iced coffee. Just don't waste the weather and explore the city! It is important that you also pay attention to the calendar of activities taking place in and around the city.

I'm walking on sunshine, wooah...

Many events are being organised by the mayor's office, such as fairs and markets, and it is wonderful to take advantage of these types of events to better immerse ourselves in the local culture, meet people and enjoy the weather.

Find out more

Things to do in Belfast

More blogs about Belfast and NI

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 currently pursuing my master's in Violence, Terrorism and Security at Queen’s. 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!