Local Information

Derry, officially Londonderry, is the second-largest city in Northern Ireland.

Shopping: Most shops in Northern Ireland are closed on Sunday mornings, but large supermarkets and shopping malls are open in the afternoon for a few hours, usually from 1:00pm – 5:00pm. On weekdays, shops are usually open from 9:00am – 5:30pm, although some larger shops stay open later. There are lots of different types of shops: department stores, supermarkets, and grocery stores.

Eating out: Dining out in a local restaurant could cost between £6 - £7 for fast food ($8-$10), £5 for a sandwich at a pub, and £25 – 30 ($40-$50) for a three-course meal at a decent restaurant.

Transportation Costs: There is a good network of buses in Derry-Londonderry. However, public transport in Northern Ireland can be expensive. If you plan to travel on the weekends you should factor this additional cost into your budget for the semester. See the Translink website for further information about public transport: http://www.translink.co.uk/. 

Housing

You will live in student accommodation at the Ulster University Magee campus in Londonderry/Derry. Throughout your stay in student accommodation you can expect to have a private room and a shared bathroom, common room, and kitchen facilities. You will have access to a washer/dryer or launderette. All University accommodations have Internet access.

Food

When living in student accommodation you will cook your own meals. CGEE provides you with a £600 food stipend that Nigel will disburse in manageable amounts. The stipend is meant to cover the cost of groceries, not eating out. Northern Ireland is generally more expensive than the United States. Food prices will depend on where you do your shopping. Larger shops and supermarkets are usually cheaper.

Kitchen equipment

Kitchen equipment will be provided while living in student accommodation.

Cooking and recipes

You may not think about how much you like that delicious cookie recipe until you spend a few months across the ocean from it. Cooking with others may be a new experience, but it can be a very positive one that connects you more deeply with your flat mates and fellow program participants. Bring some favorite recipes and maybe key ingredients to share with people. Be prepared to adjust recipes to measure ingredients in litres or by weight.

Use the following site for making conversions: https://www.xe.com/en-gb/currencyconverter/ 

Eating out

Dining out in a local restaurant could cost between £7 - £10 for fast food, £6 for a sandwich at a pub, and £35 – 40 for a three-course meal at a decent restaurant.

Eating out on campus

Eating on campus cost between £5.50 for a light meal, such as a sandwich, and £7.50 for a hot meal.

Bedding

Bedding (including pillow, sheet, and quilt) will be provided at student accommodations, but you may want your own sheets. You will have the opportunity to purchase these items upon your arrival.

Towels

We recommend that you purchase towels when you get to Northern Ireland, especially if you are running low on space.

Medical Care

During the initial orientation in Northern Ireland, you will be directed as to how to access medical services should these be required.

Cell phones

You are required to have a cell phone during your program. Ask your mobile phone service provider if you can continue using your US-based plan in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Ask about domestic (in UK) and international service. Be sure to ask about additional charges or fees for calls, text messages, and data when using international service. These can be quite steep and add up quickly. Be sure to ask about the cost of both making and receiving calls and text messages.

Some providers have reasonably priced international calling plans that are separate from their US plans. You may also find cell phone carriers other than your primary carrier with good deals for international calling. Your phone may be compatible with a UK service provider,  which include Orange, O2, T- Mobile, and Vodafone.

Searching the Internet for travelers’ experiences with your provider when they were abroad or their experiences with other international calling/texting options may be helpful. You will need to use your judgment.

During the first week in Derry/Londonderry, you will have an opportunity to get a mobile phone. Because students are in different locations during the internship portion of the program, you are required to have a mobile phone that allows you to contact, and be contacted by, the program director and other members of the group. Because phones can be lost or damaged, the program director will encourage you to buy the cheapest handset and plan possible. You also are encouraged to consider purchasing phones as a group; if everyone in the group gets the same plan, texting among the group will be significantly cheaper or even free. Cell phones and minutes during the program generally cost $75 - $125.

International calls

Because international calls can be expensive, and people tend to use Skype, we suggest you consider a plan that allows you to receive international calls easily rather than a plan that allows you to make them cheaply. Most students find that a quick call home can be quickly followed by a longer return call from home. Some reference, some mobile phone providers in Northern Ireland are:

http://www.carphonewarehouse.com/

https://www.o2.co.uk/shop

Texting Apps

Apps like WhatsApp allow for free international texting and calling over wifi. These services only work if both parties have the app. If you want to try either of these services, look into them before you leave and make sure that the people you would like to text also have the app. Again, confirm that these services are, indeed, free.

Computers

We urge you to bring your laptop computer with you on the program. If you do not have a laptop, access to computer labs at the Ulster University Magee campus is available during the university’s open hours. All Ulster University housing has Internet connections.

NOTE: Beware of remaining too connected to the US. If you aren’t careful, you will find yourself glued to a computer every evening. Email, Facebook, and Skype can burn up hours, and they can have the effect of putting you in limbo – not quite in Northern Ireland, but also not at home. Of course, there will be people back home with whom you want to correspond frequently, but it is best not to let the computer become your primary hub of activity when you have free time. Communicate with people at home, but remember to live in Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland is a unique place with its own values, traditions and cultures. Geographically and culturally, you will notice differences from the US. Respect what you do not know. At times the conflict and its legacy may frustrate you, as people  may seem to look always to the past rather than the present or the future. You will investigate this as part of your coursework.

The culture’s pace may frustrate you at first. Buses don’t always run on time and people like to take tea breaks. It’s necessary to be flexible and open to these differences. You may find yourself enjoying them after a short time.

Many nightspots will not allow you to enter wearing team jerseys. Sectarianism has impacted aspects of sports in Northern Ireland.

Be prepared to answer questions about your thoughts on current affairs. You may find that people are very well informed about current issues and curious about the opinions of US citizens in particular.

Here are a few additional pointers from the Ulster University’s Guidelines for International Students:

• Politeness – ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and ‘sorry’ are some of the most commonly used words in Northern Ireland. It is advisable to use these, especially when in the company of strangers.

• If you are invited to someone’s house for a meal it is polite to bring a small gift (flowers or chocolates) to say thank you.

• Our sense of humour is based on sarcasm and irony. Therefore, you may find it difficult to understand when someone is joking and it may take you time to get used to this.

• Queuing or standing in line is of great importance, for example, waiting for the bus, waiting to pay for a product in a shop. Cutting into a queue is viewed as unacceptable behavior.

Language

While most everyone speaks the same language (English) in Northern Ireland, you should be aware that some communities have a cultural affinity for either the Irish language (Gaelic) or Ulster Scots, even if both are not widely spoken. You will also notice a comparable difference in the way language is phrased and the accents of people from different parts of Northern Ireland. Do not be afraid to ask people to clarify what they have said, it won’t cause any insult.

Diet

Irish food is traditionally heavy on meat and wheat in various forms. It can be fairly difficult to eat a vegan diet in Northern Ireland without adequate preparation (vegetarian and gluten-free diets are much easier to accommodate). If you follow a vegan diet, CGEE recommends that you consult with a nutritionist before traveling to determine how you will maintain adequate nutrient intake during the program. If you would like further guidance on these matters, CGEE Student Services may be able to put you in touch with past students who have successfully followed a vegan diet in Northern Ireland.

The Troubles

Northern Ireland’s history of violence is, at all times, something to respect. Conversations about the Troubles will be a constant throughout the program, and it is your responsibility to approach the subject with humility and sensitivity. While extremely important from a cultural standpoint, it is also necessary for keeping yourself safe. It is important to consider that your opinion may not resonate with the lived experiences of your conversation partner. It is also best to be invited into such conversations, rather than initiating them yourself.

As a CGEE student, you come to Northern Ireland as a learner. Your job during the program is to listen, analyze, and interact. The knowledge you gain from the people you meet will help others with whom you interact in the US better understand the challenges and opportunities facing Northern Ireland. Likewise, the moments you share with people in Northern Ireland will teach them about our own challenges and opportunities here in the US.

Sexuality

CGEE staff and faculty are deeply committed to supporting LGBTQI students. Although we can’t control what happens outside of the classroom, we promise to be advocates for our LGBTQI students, provide assistance with paperwork for trans students, and to hold space for all our students to process experiences abroad.

Some past students traveling with CGEE have found their experiences abroad challenging relative to sexuality. Specific gay and lesbian venues can be hard to find, but they do exist. It is important for everyone in the program to investigate the cultural and social views regarding gender and sexuality in Northern Ireland; you will receive more information from program staff upon arrival.

General Tips:

• When studying abroad it is important to understand that there are different criteria of what is acceptable behavior.

• Consider the proposition of being identified as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender in the host country.

• Before you leave the U.S., we encourage you to research the culture-specific norms of friendship and dating for relationships between people of any sexual

• orientation.

Race in Northern Ireland

CGEE strives to be an anti-racist, anti-colonialist organization. Our first priority is always to provide a supportive and comfortable classroom and home environment. Different countries have different relationships to perceived race and ethnicity based on their own history, and while we can’t control what happens on the street, we do promise to listen, provide active support, and trust the lived experiences of students of color.

Students have been exposed to an ever-widening spectrum of opinions, reactions, and perspectives on race. Each cultural and national context presents complex issues for US students, regardless of racial or ethnic background. Some situations may appear more benign than others. It is important to know not only race and ethnicity issues in your host country, but also how your own racial or ethnic identity may affect your daily experiences on the program.

Perhaps more than any other factor, your status as a US citizen (regardless of your outward appearance) will affect many of your daily interactions, both large and small. That said, people of color constitute a small percent of the population of Northern Ireland, and students of color may experience feelings of isolation or stereotyping. You will learn more about racial and ethnic issues during the program, however it is important for you to reflect on the perception of your “Americanness” and your racial appearance before your arrival.

Money During the Program    

You are advised to have access to ample spending money, but not to carry large amounts of cash. A check card (debit card) with a personal identification number (PIN) is the best way to withdraw local currency at cash machines. These can also be used widely to purchase goods in most shops. To avoid unexpected fees, carefully read the information below!

Currency: the British Pound    

Northern Ireland’s currency is the British pound (GBP - also known as Pound Sterling). All prices and costs tend to be higher in the UK than in the US.

Chip and PIN vs. Magnetic Strip Cards

Nearly all credit and debit cards in the UK use a “chip and PIN” technology rather than the magnetic stripe used in the US. US cards with the stripe are considered obsolete technology; some places may be able to “swipe” (not “slide”) your stripe card, but this is unlikely. If you can access cash at an ATM with a stripe card, the chip/ swipe issue should not be a problem. You can also change money in large banks, some post offices, and tourist information centers.

Accessing your money during the program      

 You will want to spend cash and use credit/debit cards while on the program. Both require  access to bank accounts in the US. Advice on having direct access to your US bank account(s) is below. American Express and Western Union may also be able to assist with overseas money transfers.

It is essential that you consult a travel specialist at your bank before you leave. Knowing exactly how to access money and what costs may be involved is important. Here are some things to keep in mind when communicating with your bank:

• Make sure your bank knows that you will be abroad and for how long. Out of concern for the security of your account, they may freeze your account when they see foreign withdrawals or purchases!

• Ask if they recommend a particular kind of credit/debit card or a pre-paid card. Make sure you can access money in the UK & Northern Ireland (pounds), and the Republic of Ireland (euros).

• Also ask if you can get a “chip/PIN” card if you don’t have one already.

• Ask if they have branches in the UK, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland, a “sister” bank, or reciprocity. If they do, confirm that they are able to wire- transfer money to you and that you can cash it as soon as it arrives.

• Ask your bank about “conversion fees” (an often-hidden fee, beyond ATM- use fees). Do not be afraid to ask them to carefully spell out all the costs you will incur if you withdraw cash in the UK using their debit or credit card.

- If you visit your bank in person, ask the representative you speak with to write down the policy or give you a printout. The information is often buried in Terms and Conditions agreements!

- Likewise, if you speak with a representative on the phone (in-person is better), ask for their name, record the date and time of the call, and request an emailed explanation.

• If your bank has large fees associated with international transactions, consider opening an account at another bank or credit union with better terms and conditions for the duration of your trip. This may save you a lot of money.

Exchange rates and fees

The exchange rate at the time of writing (May 2024) is £1 = US$1.27. You should regularly check for changes in the exchange rates. Note: Airport money exchanges in the US charge as much as 20% above the exchange rate. 

One reputable website for information on currency exchange, using credit/debit cards abroad, using ATMS, and discovering hidden fees is: https://europeforvisitors.com/europe/articles/index_money.htm.

Study trip to the Republic of Ireland: The Euro

The currency in the Republic of Ireland is the Euro. Be sure to research the exchange rate prior to your departure.

As of March 2024, the exchange rate was €1 - $1.09.

Personal Expenditures   

Students make many choices about spending money during the program. $1,600 is an average figure – some students spend much less and some spend more.

If you have a particular purchase in mind (for example, a hand knit sweater), see if you can find a price range on the internet. The prices might not be fully accurate when you get to Northern Ireland, but at least you will have an idea about how much to budget for the item you want. Think, too, about how much you want to spend on gifts for family and friends.

You likely will want to go out in the evenings or on weekends, so you need to budget for this. You will also likely will want to travel. Whether you are considering short, weekend outings; a longer trip during your weeklong break; or both, budget before you leave. Research approximate costs prior to your departure.

Northern Ireland's climate is temperate and maritime; most of its weather comes from the southwest in a series of low-pressure systems bringing the rain and clouds that often lend character to the landscape. Because Northern Ireland is near the central track of such lows, it often experiences high winds.

Atlantic weather fronts move relentlessly one after another over the country, resulting in a rapid succession of cloudiness and sunshine, rain showers and subsequent improvements. Days with completely clear skies are rare: the weather is more likely to be variable or unstable, and between one disturbance and another you can expect, rather than clear skies, clouds running in the sky.

The wind is frequent and lively, although it is generally stronger between late autumn and early spring.

Rainfall is frequent, even though it is not very abundant, because the bulk of the rains is discharged on the hills of Donegal, in the Republic of Ireland. Rainfall amounts to 860 mm (33.9 inches) per year in Derry, in the north, and 940 mm (37 in) in Belfast, in the north-east, while it exceeds 1,000 mm (40 in) in the west 

A relatively dry spring gives way to a wet summer and a wetter winter. Daily conditions generally are highly changeable, but there are no extremes of heat and cold. Average January temperatures vary from 38 °F (3.3 °C) on the north coast to 35 °F (1.7 °C) in the east; in July temperatures of 65 °F (18.3 °C) are common. In late spring and early summer the east has slightly lower temperatures accompanied by coastal fog. These mild and humid climatic conditions have, in sum, made Northern Ireland a green country in all seasons. 

Ulster University - Derry~Londonderry

The campus is set in the vibrant city of Derry~Londonderry, providing students with a cultural experience you won’t get anywhere else. 

Overlooking the River Foyle, the main building of our beautiful Derry~Londonderry campus is surrounded by state of the art buildings, housing laboratories, workshops, lecture theatres and performance studios. 

Living on campus gives you access to the on-site restaurant, cafes and cash machines.

The sports facilities include a multi-purpose sports hall and fitness studio, as well as superb grass and synthetic sports pitches next to the student halls of residence at the Duncreggan Student Village.