US President Joe Biden arrives in Ireland tomorrow with Belfast his first stop so we asked ChatGPT to create an itinerary that would guarantee a visitor to the city saw everything there was to see, plus the itinerary for the perfect day in Northern Ireland, because maybe, just maybe, the president might enjoy a day off.
The AI tool had lots of suggestions and spat out two itineraries in seconds. Spolier alert: the Giant's Causeway didn't get a mention.
ChatGPT was optimistic about how much one person could cram into a day but the first citizen does travel on Air Force One and perhaps it was taking that into account when gauging distances. Biden might even need the private jet if he's to stay on schedule while criss-crossing the city of Belfast. The city itinerary has him popping into the Ulster Museum and the Crumlin Road Gaol in the afternoon after a morning spent touring political murals and exploring St George's Market. Better set your alarm early Joe.
Quiz: Test your knowledge of the presidents and Ireland
For the president's 'tour of the north' ChatGPT thought he would enjoy starting the day with a hearty breakfast in Belfast - although it left potato bread out when listing the component parts of a full Irish - and a tour of Titanic Belfast. It has him on Derry's Peace Bridge by lunch time and then expects him to bounce back to Belfast for an evening sporting fixture and a visit to a local pub or restaurant "where he can enjoy traditional Northern Irish food, drinks, and music, and engage with the locals in a relaxed and informal setting". And then fall, exhausted, into bed.
You have to admire AI's enthusiasm for all that Belfast and the north have to offer a tourist but with only 24 hours in a day Joe Biden might take a look at the itineraries and decide that, actually, being president of the United States of America is much less exhausting.
- Have your say: What question would you ask Joe Biden?
Here's how the AI tool suggested the president should spend a day in Northern Ireland
Morning:
Start the day with a hearty Ulster Fry breakfast, a traditional Northern Irish dish consisting of bacon, eggs, sausage, black and white pudding, tomato, and soda bread.
Visit the Titanic Belfast museum, which showcases the history and legacy of the Titanic, the famous ship built in Belfast. This museum is also a symbol of Northern Ireland's renewal and progress in recent years.
Afternoon:
Visit the historic city of Derry/Londonderry, where President Biden's ancestors came from. Walk along the city walls and learn about the city's complicated history of conflict and reconciliation.
Stop by the Peace Bridge, a beautiful pedestrian and cycle bridge that spans the River Foyle, connecting the two communities of the city. This bridge is a symbol of peace and unity in Northern Ireland.
Evening:
Attend a Gaelic football or hurling match, two traditional Irish sports that are popular in Northern Ireland. This would be a great opportunity for President Biden to connect with the local community and learn more about Northern Irish culture.
End the day with a dinner at a local pub or restaurant, where he can enjoy traditional Northern Irish food, drinks, and music, and engage with the locals in a relaxed and informal setting.
- Quiz: Test your knowledge of the presidents and Ireland
And here's what it proposed for the president's day as a tourist in Belfast
Morning:
Start the day with a tour of the political murals in the city, which showcase the history and culture of Northern Ireland. These murals are a reminder of the conflict that plagued the city for many years, and the steps that have been taken to promote peace and reconciliation.
Visit St George's Market, one of Belfast's oldest attractions, which offers a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of local food, drink, and crafts.
Afternoon:
Take a tour of the Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison that played a key role in the city's history, including the Troubles. This prison has been transformed into a museum, offering a glimpse into the city's past.
Visit the Ulster Museum, which offers a range of exhibits, including natural history, art, and culture. It is a great opportunity to learn about the rich history and heritage of Northern Ireland.
Evening:
Take a stroll along the River Lagan, which offers stunning views of the city and its landmarks, including the Harland and Wolff cranes and the Titanic Quarter.
End the day with a dinner at one of Belfast's fine dining restaurants, which offer a range of local and international cuisine. The city has a vibrant food scene and is known for its fresh seafood, among other dishes.
