Laura and I are planning a cycling trip in Ireland late this summer. From an email from an Irish friend of a friend, filled with delightful advice, comes this gem:

avoid the (political) north unless you're doing it by car.... belfast city is a great place if you like grey skies, religious oppression and wee shits throwing bottles at your bike. catholics are more fun and they have better music, so stay in the (political) south.