Location is probably the most important factor to consider when choosing where to study abroad. 

Different places suit different students, depending on what you are hoping to achieve and what type of experience you are looking for. 

Foyle International is located in a unique and fairly unexplored English-speaking destination: Derry, Northern Ireland! 

The north eastern province of Ireland, known as Ulster, is actually governed by the UK, so in many respects we have the “best of both worlds” – we have the best of British education and healthcare, but with all the culture, literature, hospitality and stunning landscapes for which Ireland is famous. 

1. Derry is a friendly city with a rich culture 

The people here are famous for their warmth and friendliness – something our students comment about all the time. People in Derry just love to talk so you’ll find yourself probably talking more in Derry than you’ve ever done before! 

Derry is one of the finest Walled Cities in Europe with walls dating back to the 17th century. In the Bogside area of Derry, there is a street which illustrates the history of 30 years of conflict, known as The Troubles, through wall murals. 

Derry was voted the UK’s first every City of Culture and is affectionately nicknamed Ireland’s “City of Song” Derry is home to many talented musicians and artists.

There’s a real feeling of community in the city and, by the end of their stay – be it long or short – our students feel they’ve become part of that community. 

2. It’s cheap and affordable 

Northern Irish cities are the most afforable in the UK, with Derry ranking as the #1 most affordable city in 2019 (Lloyds Bank 2019). Its also considerably cheaper to other major cities in the Republic, such as Dublin and Galway. 

3. Ideal location to improve your English 

Many students, when going to learn English for the first time, choose a big city such as London, New York, Sydney etc. However, in big cities, it can be difficult to actually meet and talk to locals (and therefore native speakers) as there are such large numbers of language students, tourists and transient workers. 

If you are trying to learn a language, there is only one way to do it.. and that’s to meet and talk with native speakers, and immerse yourself in the culture! It’s all about communication, and the more you use your English, the more fluent and confident you become! 

4. A buzzing food and drink scene

Our region of Ireland boasts some of the best produce in the country. Derry’s close proximity to the coast (you are never more than 15 minutes from a beach!) and being surrounded by fields and greenery, it’s not surprising the quality of the food is great and fresh. 

Derry is a great “foodie” destination, with many of the local restaurants focusing on scouring local ingredients as much as possible. There is a range of fine dining, relaxed restaurants and street food options available across the town. 

Derry also has a vibrant nightlife, with an abundance of bars in the city centre, many of which provide live music and entertainment on the weekends. 

5. Derry is an ideal base to explore the rest of the region 

Derry is the ideal base to explore the North West region of Ireland. To the East of the city lies the stunning North Antrim Coast, home to the Giant’s Causeway. To the West, you will find the stunning natural beauty and wilderness of County Donegal, famously voted “Coolest Place on Earth”. (National Geographic 2017) 

To travel to the other main cities is also easy from Derry – it’s a 1.5 hr bus journey to Belfast, or 3.5 hrs to Dublin. 

You can also fly to other parts of the UK and Europe from Derry and Belfast – ideal for a city break weekend to relax from your studies!