I really like Belfast and intend to get back there again; Derry is my favorite city in Ireland.  We were there just last month, and found the people as hospitable as anywhere else on the island.  If those I talked with about the issue are any indication, there is a determination not to permit a return of the bad, old days -- I found it rather inspiring, really.  I wish them well, and hope many of you will consider giving NI a vote of confidence next time you plan a trip.

I was in Belfast for a good while in the early 80's. Even then troubles were limited mainly to specific areas in specific places. There were places that I wouldn't venture with my (Yorkshire) accent but that was restricted to known trouble spots. The nearest I came to anything dangerous was in Manchester UK and my cousin was slightly injured in London. Both a long way from Belfast and Derry (or Londonderry depending on who asked).

Northern Ireland is now a wonderful and very safe place to visit there are no restrictions on freedom of movement, the people are amongst the most friendly anyone could hope meet. Unfortunately as has been the case over the past 90+ years the press love to exaggerate the slightest incident into breaking world news.