Take the hassle out of Christmas shopping with a trip to Belfast

With crowds of people battling their way down the high street and manic shoppers jostling with each other to grab the last gifts sets, it is no wonder many view Christmas shopping as a nightmare. Indeed, the last thing you want to do after a busy day at work is hit the town desperately seeking the perfect presents for your friends and family, and then having to go home and prepare the dinner.

However, with a bit of forward planning, your Christmas shopping doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. In fact, you can turn what is a potential shopping disaster into a fun trip away, for either you and your friends, or the entire family.

With so many seasonal activities springing up, in addition to the many Christmas markets that open their stalls, winter can be a great time to get away from all the stresses of home. Not only that, but you can complete your Christmas shopping in a relaxed environment, whilst enjoying some of the festivities on offer, such as live entertainment and mulled wine.

Take Belfast as a prime example. The capital of Northern Ireland, the city has flourished in recent years thanks to new investment and developments. As a result, it has a lot to offer any visitor who decides they need a vacation to get away from it all.

For instance, the Continental Christmas Market is renowned for its variety of international offerings and is definitely a good starting point for Christmas shoppers. Boasting an array of both local produce and European wares, there are many unique gifts to be found.

Located in the grounds of Belfast City Hall - a stunning Edwardian building - the market is divided into different villages, all of which have their own distinct style. These include goods from France, Holland, Germany and Spain. And, in addition to the handmade crafts and knick knacks available to buy, visitors can also experience the delicious array of goodies, from French cakes and Spanish paella to Dutch cheeses and German beer.

There is also a range of entertainment on offer, so that when you have finished with the shopping, you can indulge in some real festive fun. The children are also well catered for, with a Christmas Carousel, face painting, a big wheel and live music.

The St George Christmas Craft Fair is another must see. Having won numerous local and national awards for its regular market, which offers such produce as fruit, vegetables and fish, it is one of Belfast’s oldest attractions. Indeed, during the first weekend in December, the market turns into a yuletide haven, with extra stalls offering Christmas goodies.

It is also good to know that with two nearby airports, a ferry port and numerous hotels in Belfast, you will not find it too difficult to get to there, or indeed to find accommodation. So, if you can’t face the thought of Christmas shopping at your own local high street, it may be an exciting experience to tackle the festive delights somewhere different.