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Many people book their summer holidays by February. This is indeed the best time to book, as it offers the best accommodation options – at the best prices – with low booking deposits from €1 per person, with Monthly payment options. To help Irish holidaymakers organise their perfect sun-soaked getaway, Click&Go Holidays is offering exclusive May Sun Deals, based on two sharing! 4-Star Holiday Deals Lanzarote from €549 per person Stay at the 4-star Ilunion Costa Sal  in Puerto del Carmen , one of Lanzarote’s most popular holiday spots. This resort is perfect for both families and couples, with a peaceful setting just minutes away from the beach and the town centre. The apartments are spacious and modern, with well-equipped kitchens for a comfortable self-catering experience. The resort also features outdoor swimming pools, a poolside bar, a restaurant, and a wellness centre. Ilunion Costa Sal What’s included: Return flights from Dublin to Lanzarote Seven nights at the 4-star Ilunion Costa Sal Self-catering accommodation Book this deal here Algarve from €389 per person The 4-star Vitor’s Plaza  in Alvor  is a fantastic choice for those looking for both relaxation and adventure. This resort-style complex is surrounded by gardens and offers top-class facilities, including a large outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a gym, and a tennis court. The apartments are stylish and spacious, perfect for self-catering. Alvor is a charming town with a mix of traditional Portuguese streets, excellent seafood restaurants, and some of the best beaches in the Algarve. Vitor's Plaza What’s included: Return flights from Dublin to The Algarve Seven nights at the 4-star Vitor’s Plaza Self-catering accommodation Book this deal here Costa del Sol from €599 per person The 4-star Sunset Beach Club  in Benalmádena  is a top pick for a lively yet relaxing Costa del Sol getaway. Located right on the seafront, this hotel has everything you need for a fantastic beach holiday, including multiple swimming pools, a fitness centre, a sauna, and a variety of bars and restaurants. The apartments are well-furnished with kitchenettes, making self-catering easy. Benalmádena is known for its marina, family-friendly attractions, and a buzzing nightlife scene. Sunset Beach Club What’s included: Return flights from Dublin to Malaga Seven nights at the 4-star Sunset Beach Club Self-catering accommodation Book this deal here 5-Star Luxury Getaways Gran Canaria from €739 per person For those looking for a luxury escape, the 5-star Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Mogan  in Gran Canaria  is an excellent choice. This modern resort is located in the picturesque fishing village of Mogan, known for its colourful buildings and canals. The hotel has spacious, elegantly designed rooms, several outdoor pools, a world-class spa, and gourmet dining options. It’s just a short walk from the beach and marina, making it ideal for both relaxation and exploring.   5-star Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Mogan What’s included: Return flights from Dublin to Gran Canaria Seven nights at the 5-star Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Mogan Bed & Breakfast accommodation Book this deal here Croatia from €599 per person Stay at the 5-star Hotel Croatia  in Cavtat , a stunning coastal town just south of Dubrovnik. This hotel offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, with elegant rooms and premium facilities, including a private beach, a luxurious spa, and several fine-dining restaurants. Cavtat is a quieter alternative to Dubrovnik, with beautiful seaside promenades, charming old streets, and excellent seafood restaurants.   5-star Hotel Croatia What’s included: Return flights from Dublin to Dubrovnik Seven nights at the 5-star Hotel Croatia Bed & Breakfast accommodation Book this deal here All-Inclusive Escapes Kusadasi, Turkey from €689 per person If you prefer an all-inclusive holiday, the 4-star Palmin Hotel  in Kusadasi  is a great option. This hotel is located close to the famous Ladies Beach and features spacious rooms, a large outdoor pool, a spa, and various entertainment options. With an all-inclusive package, you can enjoy buffet-style meals, snacks, and drinks throughout your stay. Kusadasi is also home to fantastic shopping, lively nightlife, and easy access to the ancient ruins of Ephesus. 4-star Palmin Hotel What’s included: Return flights from Dublin to Kusadasi Seven nights at the 4-star Palmin Hotel All-inclusive accommodation Book this deal here Book now and start counting down to your next adventure.

Looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion? Greece has something for everyone. Rhodes, Mykonos and Samos are three islands featuring Casa Cook’s properties for a laidback luxe stay this summer. There is no better stay in Greece than at Casa Cook  – these properties are design-led portfolio of adults-only hotels across the Greek isles. Architecturally inspired by local surroundings of the idyllic locations in which they are set, Casa Cook is designed for travellers looking for personal connection to people and cultures, who celebrate downtime as much as new encounters. Warm and welcoming, Casa Cook hotels offer laid-back luxury where design is subtle and down-to-earth, echoing the simplicity of life on the island, or by the beach. Here are their top Greek properties: Historical Wonders at Casa Cook Rhodes Casa Cook Rhodes  – This boho chic retreat offers the ideal location for exploring the local villages and towns nearby, discovering the authentic local life within remote villages and  discovering the historical and culturally rich charm of The Old Town.  Known for it’s ancient ruins, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese Islands, and is the perfect place to uncover the history of the island encased by it’s beautiful, coastal landscape. Starting room rates, including breakfast, at Casa Cook Rhodes are EUR 300 per night, depending on the booking period. For more information on Casa Cook North Coast, please visit  www.casacook.com Undiscovered Greece at Casa Cook Samos Casa Cook Samos  – Enjoy laid-back luxury within Casa Cook’s Samos property, which offers the ideal destination for relaxation as a hidden gem in Greece.  Nearby villages lined with cobbled streets create quaint and magical places to explore upon this peaceful, untouched island, rich in culture and archaeological wonders.  Room rates, including breakfast, at Casa Cook Samos, start from EUR 300 per night. The rate depends on the dates and booking period. For more information, please visit   www.casacook.com Enduring Party Island at Casa Cook Mykonos Casa Cook Mykonos –  Tradition meets trend at Casa Cook Mykonos as an island of beauty which comes to life at night for celebrations and parties, offering beach clubs and social hotspots not to miss. This inviting island with it’s enchanting spirit is the perfect destination to create memories from sunrise to sunset. Starting room rates, including breakfast, at Casa Cook Mykonos are EUR €500 per night, depending on the booking period. For more information, please visit Casa Cook Mykonos at  www.casacook.com

Travel is no longer just about reaching a destination; it’s about the journey itself. With the rise of the ‘preppy’ travel trend, it’s time to embrace a style that’s both sophisticated and effortlessly chic. Whether you’re jet-setting to a coastal retreat or embarking on a city adventure, these luxurious yet affordable preppy essentials will elevate your travel experience to new heights! Headphones When you’re getting on the plane, the last thing you want to hear is the roar of the engines or chatty passengers – so why not indulge in superior sound quality and style? Our pick are the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones. These wireless noise-canceling headphones are designed for the traveller who values both aesthetics and performance. The plush ear cushions and sleek design ensure comfort during long flights, while the advanced noise cancellation technology lets you escape into your favorite tunes or podcasts without interruption. Shop here . Sunglasses From strolling through sun-drenched streets to lounging by the pool, a good pair of sunglasses is a preppy holiday must-have! Protect your eyes and perfect your look with a pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarer sunglasses. These iconic shades offer a timeless style that complements any outfit, while the high-quality lenses provide superior UV protection. Ideal for exploring sunny destinations, they add an air of sophistication to your holiday outfits. Shop here . Sleepmask Long flights and layovers can be exhausting, so making sure you feel rejuvenated and ready to explore upon arrival is super important. You can transform any travel scenario into a restful retreat with a silk sleepmask – our choice? Slip! Made from the highest grade mulberry silk, this sleep mask is incredibly gentle on the skin and helps reduce friction, ensuring you wake up looking refreshed. Perfect for long-haul flights or napping in transit, it’s the ideal preppy, indulgent way to ensure you arrive at your destination well-rested. Shop here . Fancy Sunscreen Nothing ruins a holiday like a sunburn. Keeping your skin protected and hydrated will allow you to enjoy sunny adventures without a worry! Stay protected in style with La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-in Milk Sunscreen SPF 60. This luxurious sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection while moisturizing the skin, leaving it feeling silky smooth. Its lightweight, fast-absorbing formula is perfect for everyday use, ensuring you stay sun-safe without compromising on comfort or elegance. Best of all? No white-cast. Shop here . Hydrating Mist Travel can take a toll on your skin, but a quick spritz of a good hydrating mist can offer a refreshing boost, keeping your skin radiant and moisturized throughout your journey. We recommend to revitalize your skin on the go with the Caudalie Grape Water Hydrating Mist. This refreshing spray is infused with organic grape water, providing an instant burst of hydration. It’s perfect for combatting the drying effects of air travel or refreshing your complexion during a day of sightseeing. Keep it in your carry-on for an instant pick-me-up. Shop here . Travel Luggage Set Efficient packing and easy navigation through airports are essential for stress-free travel, making every aspect of your journey smoother and more preppy. We recommend to travel in style with the Beis Luggage Set! This elegant collection is designed for the modern traveller, featuring durable materials, spacious interiors, and thoughtful details like 360-degree spinner wheels and expandable zippers. Whether you’re packing for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Beis luggage ensures your belongings are transported with both security and prep. Shop here . Books: Top 3 Holiday Reads There’s nothing like getting lost in a good book while travelling! Enjoy slow-travel entertainment with these top holiday reads: 1. “Funny Story” by Emily Henry – Henry is the queen of the funny romance read. Happy Place was a terrific beach read, and her latest, Funny Story , follows Daphne as she meets her dream man, Peter, falls in love with him, and moves back to his small hometown, only for her fiancé to realise that he’s actually in love with his childhood best friend – Petra. With limited funds, Daphne proposes that Miles (Petra’s ex) move in with her in a dastardly plan to make their exes jealous. Will the plan work? (DUH!) I’m so excited for this beach read in 2024! 2. ”The Whispers” by Audrey Audrain – An unnamed man returns home from a romantic rendezvous, opts not to join his wife in bed, and settles in the spare room. Hours later he wakes to a phone call from a woman who tells him, “Something terrible has happened”. And with that, we’re off, piecing together the puzzle in Ashley Audrain’s highly anticipated second novel, The Whispers. The story spins out over the course of one week, in the alternating voices of the women who live in close proximity to one another while a child on their road lies in a coma in the hospital. This is a story that explores the quiet sacrifices of motherhood, the intuitions that we silence and the complexities of our closest friendships. 3. “This Could Be Everything” by Eva Rice From the author of the modern classic The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets comes a feel-good novel about hope, love, and the powerful bond between sisters. It’s 1990. The Happy Mondays are in the charts, a 15-year-old called Kate Moss is on the cover of The Face magazine, and Julia Roberts wears thigh-high boots for the poster of a new movie called Pretty Woman . This Could Be Everything is a coming-of-age story with its roots under the pavements of a pre-Richard Curtis-era Notting Hill that has all but vanished. It’s about what happens when you start looking after something more important than yourself. These selections are perfect companions for relaxing days on the beach or cozy evenings in a hotel lounge – for more recommendations, check out our 2024 holiday read guide here. Shop here . Sandals Comfort is key when exploring new destinations! Stay preppy and comfy in a pair of Birkenstock Arizona Sandals. These classic sandals feature a contoured footbed that supports your arches and promotes natural movement, making them ideal for long walks or casual strolls. Their timeless design ensures they pair beautifully with any outfit, from casual beachwear to chic evening ensembles. Shop here . Cardigan for Chilly Evenings Ward off the evening chill with the COS Lightweight Wool Cardigan. Made from high-quality wool, this cardigan is the epitome of luxury and comfort. Its classic design and lightweight warmth make it a versatile piece that can be layered over any outfit, so can you stay cozy and stylish no matter the destination. Shop here . Fragrance – Signature Scent A signature scent can enhance your travel memories, making each adventure more memorable! Complete your travel ensemble with the Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne. This fresh, sophisticated scent captures the essence of coastal air and rugged cliffs, making it an ideal travel companion. Its compact size ensures it’s easy to pack, allowing you to carry a touch of elegance wherever you go. If you’re looking for just a touch of something sweet, the Gisou hair perfume is a great choice to spritz on throughout the day. Additionally, Sol de Janeiro jet-sets are perfect to throw into your carry-on, with a mix of scented shower gel, cream and body spray. Shop here . Happy preppy travels!

What better way to spend the summer than at a gorgeous chalet in the mountains? Priesteregg , a premium eco resort in the Austrian mountains, has opened 3 stunning Lake Chalets. Known as ‘Seehütten’, the Lake Chalets offer the perfect combination of mountain, forest and lake views, all of which you can take advantage of now. Nestled in the Pinzgau region, yet under an hour’s drive from Salzburg airport, Priesteregg is a very impressive resort known for its warm hospitality in a stunning natural environment. 3 New Chalets The 3 new  Lake Chalets , which opened on 1st July 2024, offer maximum privacy and a living experience second to none. Hidden from the world, they are an exquisite retreat dedicated to peace and quiet. Lake Chalets have exclusive access to the 120m long natural lake, and a private jetty from which to dive into the crystal-clear spring water. They have a private bay with a panoramic glass sauna, a hot tub, wood-heated riverside bathtub right on the jetty, and a relaxation terrace with cosy sun loungers from which to enjoy the grounding view of the forest and the monumental Leogang Mountains. Each Lake Chalet sleeps up to 4 people, and has floor to ceiling glass windows which flood the rooms with natural light, highlighting the bespoke craftsmanship and stylish interiors. The open plan kitchen-living room has a designer stove and dining table, there’s a relaxation area that can be converted into a second bedroom, a bathroom and separate toilet, and upstairs there’s a bright, glazed bedroom with ensuite bathroom and high-tech shower.  Four more Lake Chalets will follow in Summer 2025. Pricing Prices from €675 BB per person per night in a Lake Chalet (based on 2 sharing). Each additional guest from €170 pppn. To book or for more information visit  www.priesteregg.at

American Holidays is offering a chance for families to create unforgettable memories with their loved ones across Vancouver, Daytona Beach and Los Angeles. Take advantage of an exclusive €100 discount on each child under 16 years when you book before July 31st. This fantastic offer is valid for travel departures up to December 31, 2025. Vancouver and Whistler from €1529pp Imagine a family getaway where city life and mountain landscapes collide. Vancouver and Whistler offer just that. Start your journey in Vancouver, a city known for its stunning natural beauty and cosmopolitan charm. From the bustling Granville Island Market to the Vancouver Aquarium, there’s something for every family member. Don’t miss the chance to explore Stanley Park’s scenic trails or the iconic Capilano Suspension Bridge. Fall is an excellent time to visit Whistler, offering a range of activities perfect for families. Take a thrilling zipline adventure through the treetops or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along local trails. The beautiful lakes, such as Lost Lake, are ideal for walks or picnics. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including black bears preparing for winter. Whistler’s village provides opportunities to relax and savour local cuisine after a day of exploration. Full offer details  here . Daytona Beach from €1074pp For those craving sun-soaked beaches and coastal fun, Daytona Beach is the perfect destination. Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, Daytona Beach is famous for its wide, sandy shores and boardwalk. It’s an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy a classic beach holiday with plenty of activities suitable for all ages. Kids will love the Daytona Lagoon, a water park with slides, wave pools, and a lazy river, while the entire family can enjoy a day at the beach, building sandcastles or taking a dip in the ocean. For a dose of local culture, visit the nearby Daytona Beach Boardwalk and Pier or take a drive along the picturesque coastline. With a variety of dining and entertainment options, Daytona Beach guarantees endless fun for everyone. Full offer details  here .  Los Angeles from €1092pp Los Angeles, the City of Angels, offers an exciting blend of Hollywood glamour and family-friendly attractions. Start your adventure by exploring iconic landmarks such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the historic TCL Chinese Theatre. Don’t miss a visit to the Griffith Observatory for city views and fascinating exhibits. Families will be thrilled with LA’s world-class theme parks. Disneyland Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood provide amazing rides, beloved characters, and entertainment that will delight both kids and adults. Additionally, the California Science Center and the Natural History Museum offer educational experiences that are both fun and informative. Los Angeles is a destination that promises a memorable holiday for the whole family. Full offer details  here . Book Now and Save! Don’t miss out on this limited time offer from American Holidays. Book your family holiday to Vancouver and Whistler, Daytona Beach, or Los Angeles before July 31st to enjoy a €100/£100 discount on each child under 16 years. This offer is valid for travel up to December 31, 2025, so you have plenty of time to plan your dream getaway. Whether you’re drawn to the cosmopolitan allure of Vancouver, the sunny shores of Daytona Beach, or the star-studded excitement of Los Angeles, American Holidays has the perfect holiday package for you. For more details and to book your trip, visit the  American Holidays website  or contact one of their dedicated personal travel planners.

Brighten up your October with a Brazilian Coastline cruise for just €999, including return group transfers from the airport to the cruise port, pre-cruise accommodation and more! The Cruise This Swan Hellenic voyage unveils a mosaic of gorgeous cities: Belem’s Amazonian allure, Fortaleza’s sun-kissed shores, Natal’s majestic dunes, Recife’s riverine charm, and Salvador de Bahia’s rhythmic heartbeat. Guests can immerse themselves in Brazil’s captivating history, savour exotic flavors and dance to the rhythms of Afro-Brazilian beats. Beginning in Salvador, capital of Bahia, guests will visit Itacare, Abrolhos Archipelago and Morro de Sao Paulo, Ponta Do Curral, before heading back to Salvador De Bahia. Pricing & Additional Information Departing 31 October 2024, the four night  Charms of Brazil’s Coastline  expedition cruise costs €999 pp (was €2,380 pp, saving 58%). This includes return group transfers from the airport to the cruise port, one pre-night cruise accommodation with breakfast in a four/five star hotel or onboard, all meals on board, onboard accommodation in a stateroom selected category, 24-hour room service, drinks available 24-hours per day, lecture programmes by experienced expedition team and guest speakers, one selected short excursion per port of call, standard Wi-Fi, onboard gratuities and port taxes.  For more information and to book, visit www.swanhellenic.co.uk .

Originally created for pilgrimages, facilitating trade, or guiding livestock to the best pastures, many ancient roads wind through the Canary Islands. Today, these paths reveal the authentic beauty and secrets of the archipelago to those who explore them. These routes make for amazing hiking, all year long. The Way of the Gracioseros On the small and particularly isolated island of  La Graciosa , residents often needed to cross the sea to reach  Lanzarote . The  Camino de los Gracioseros was the route taken by coastal inhabitants to reach the villages where markets were held. This 4.5-kilometer trail, primarily traversed by women, winds through the steep cliffs of Famara in northern Lanzarote. It was a vital route for trade at the time, allowing them to transport dried fish, which they exchanged for agricultural products. Camino de La Faya The  Camino de La Faya  crosses the eastern part of  La Palma , offering breathtaking views. This path, which travels through diverse ecosystems, leads hikers from the majestic pine forests of El Paso to the lush green landscapes that characterize the island’s western side. Along the way, travelers encounter numerous viewpoints, such as the  Mirador Astronómico del Llano del Jable,  where they can enjoy magnificent panoramic views of  La Palma’s  east coast. With a maximum altitude of 1,530 meters above sea level and a journey lasting more than five hours, the Camino de La Faya is an ideal day-long excursion for active explorers on the island. The Camino de Santiago This 66-kilometer journey invites travelers to explore the golden dunes, volcanic landscapes, nature reserves, and enchanting archaeological sites of  Gran Canaria . According to legend, the path was first marked out in the 15th century by Galician sailors inspired by Saint James himself, who wished to build a hermitage on the heights of Tirajana after surviving a terrible storm. The Camino de Santiago begins at the dunes of Maspalomas in the south of  Gran Canaria  and first stops in the white village of  Fataga , nestled in a natural gorge known as the Valley of a Thousand Palm Trees. After passing through  Tunte , the path continues to Cruz de Tejeda, where the peaks of  Gran Canaria  reveal their full splendor. The final stretch, from Cruz de Tejeda to Gáldar, is perhaps the most captivating, winding through spectacular volcanic formations and picturesque agricultural landscapes, dotted with charming rural settlements. Along this section, travelers can admire the  Risco Caído  and the sacred mountains of  Gran Canaria , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Way of the Virgin This route leads visitors deep into the heart of  El Hierro , following ancient paths once used by shepherds and their livestock. It crosses unique natural environments, allowing hikers to observe the island’s diverse forests: juniper, pine, and laurel. The 27-kilometer path can be walked in several stages, making it more accessible. This route holds significant cultural importance for the island’s inhabitants, retracing transhumance paths and passing by the Monument to the Peasant by artist Tony Gallardo, symbolizing human labor. It is also a route for religious pilgrimage, passing the hermitage of Dehesa and the church of  Valverde , key stops in local pilgrimages. El Camino de La Plata This challenging path stretches along a mountain ridge in the heart of  Gran Canaria  and was once used by shepherds and early inhabitants to lead their cattle to greener pastures. The  Camino de la  Plata 15 kilometers, following steep steps and old mule tracks. Surrounded by pine forests, broom, tajinastes, and verodes, this trail offers a journey through the island’s wild and untouched beauty. From the  Degollada  de Becerra to the Garañón via the La Plata pass, every step reveals breathtaking landscapes and the raw beauty of Gran Canaria.

Brat Summer is over, and according to a flash TikTok trend “Demure Autumn” is set to take its place. R Collection’s five star luxury properties in Lake Como and Portofino tick all the boxes for the demure, mindful & considerate visitor! The key features of becoming a demure Autumn traveller are: Learn the basics of the local language to ease the relationship:  Luckily, Italian is one of the least demanding (and better known) languages when it comes to the basics – ciao, grazie, si, no and scusi are familiar and cover most ground. You’ll be the epitome of demure using these! Clue up on the local culture and try traditional food:  Grand Hotel Victoria ’s Garden Package includes a boat tour exploring the incredible villas and gardens of Lake Como with a picnic packed with local delicacies, and entry to the Villa Cipressi botanical gardens. How cutesy! Support small businesses:  While it’s known for designer shops, there are plenty of gems like Nives Portofino specialising in traditional, finely crafted linen and tableware just a short boat ride from  Grand Hotel Bristol  and 100% local. Very mindful. Be mindful of noise and intoxication:  R Collection’s laid back beach clubs –  Victoria Beach , Lake Como, and  Marina di Bardi , Portofino – are the perfect way to relax, enjoy local food, and soak up the Autumn rays. Both are part of the hotel grounds, convenient for a short stroll back to your room after a sunset aperitivo. So considerate! Grand Hotel Victoria Grand Hotel Victoria is a 19th century property with stunning lake and garden-views, gourmet restaurants and extensive spa. Rooms from €950 per night this Autumn. Victoria Beach from €50 for two sunbeds, towels and water; gazebos (up to three people) from €220 including champagne, fruit platter, towels, water and seating area next to the gazebo. Grand Hotel Bristol Grand Hotel Bristol is a picture perfect boutique property overlooking Portofino and the entire Gulf of Tigullio, complete with rooftop restaurant, brasserie and spa. Rooms from €305 per night this Autumn. Marina Di Bardi beach club from €95 for two sunbeds.  Both destinations are perfect for the demure, mindful and considerate traveller!

Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences has recently unveiled its 2024 Festive Programme, featuring unique events from 3rd December to New Year’s Day! Here’s everything you need to know. From the magical Tree Lighting Ceremony to the glamorous New Year’s Eve Gala, guests will be treated to unforgettable experiences, blending Caribbean charm with holiday cheer. Expect VIP appearances, cultural performances, live entertainment, and festive dining, all set against the stunning St. Lucia backdrop. Highlights include: A magical Tree Lighting Ceremony on 3rd December – A sparkling evening where the resort will light their magnificent tree. This event, set on the Pool Deck, is complimentary for all guests. Enjoy a cocktail-style gathering under the stars, enhanced by the magic of fireworks. Enjoy the soothing melodies of floating singers or other live entertainment, creating a festive atmosphere for everyone. Celebrations for St. Lucia National Day on 13th December – Celebrate the culture of St. Lucia with a captivating cultural performance that showcases the island’s rich heritage and traditions. A festive Holiday Market on 19th December – Explore the Windjammer Holiday Market on the scenic ski dock, where guests can indulge in a fish fry and browse a selection of holiday treats and crafts. Christmas Eve Parade – Witness the magic of the Daytime Christmas Eve Parade and book a charming train ride for added fun. Enjoy a bonfire and s’mores for kids from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, followed by a heartwarming reading of “Twas The Night Before Christmas.” Adults can revel in the Christmas Eve Santa Red Hat Party from 8:30 PM to 10:00 PM, featuring a live band for an unforgettable evening Christmas Day Helicopter Arrival from Santa – Witness the grand arrival of Santa via a helicopter transfer, participate in festive cake decorating and sand castle building competitions, and make cherished memories with loved ones. Boxing Day Brunch – Guests can enjoy the smooth sounds of live jazz and savour a delightful brunch. A glamorous New Year’s Eve Gala featuring a Tropical Hollywood Masquerade theme – Guests can ring in the New Year with our grand Tropical Hollywood Masquerade: A Caribbean Carnival New Year’s Eve. Experience a night where Hollywood glamour meets Caribbean carnival. Enjoy an exquisite gala buffet and a special children’s dinner, all while being entertained by live performances. At midnight, revel in a breathtaking fireworks display that perfectly marries Caribbean colour and Hollywood allure, ensuring an unforgettable start to the new year. Windjammer Landing Resort and Residences ( www.windjammer-landing.com ) offers Hilltop 2 Bedroom villas with pool from €600/night on a B&B basis or starting at €900/night for a premium all-inclusive (kids 11 and under eat for free).

As the year comes to a close, there’s no better way to welcome 2025 than by indulging in the ultimate luxury escape at  InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort . This festive season, the resort invites guests to experience an enchanting blend of culinary delights, holistic wellness, and thrilling adventures, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Indian Ocean. This year the resort will host an exclusive culinary journey led by Michelin-starred Chef Thanos Feskos. Guests will be treated to an extraordinary dining experience, featuring a specially curated menu that showcases the finest ingredients and exquisite flavours. Holistic practitioner Yoko Kawaguchi will offer Zen Meditation guidance, helping guests find inner peace amidst the serene island surroundings. It’s a perfect opportunity to rejuvenate both body and soul as we transition into the new year. For younger guests, the festive season will be filled with excitement as Planet Trekkers collaborates with the renowned ‘fun experts’  Sharky & George . From outdoor activities to creative escapades, children will have endless opportunities to explore and create unforgettable memories. Rates start from €2700 in a Water Pool Villa including breakfast for two in December 2024. Festive Gala Dinners on 24 and 31 December 2024 will be applicable to all guests.  For more information visit  www.windjammer-landing.com .

There’s no better way to start off the New Year than a January ski trip! January is usually one of the coldest months of the year and one of the quietest months on the slopes. Yes, this means shorter lift queues and plenty of space to practice your turns or cruise down slope by slope. Secure your spot on the January slopes and check out these ski deals: Dublin – Bulgaria Depart 18th January 2025. Staying at 3*  Hotel Mura , Bansko for 7 nights on a bed & breakfast basis from €475pps or bring the family from €1,395 (2 adults + 1 child) Dublin – Italy Depart 4th January 2025. Staying at 2*  Residence Rosa Delle Dolomiti , Pinzolo for 7 nights on a self-catered basis from €529pps or bring the family from €1,335 (2 adults + 1 child) or €1,555 (2 adults + 2 children) Dublin – Bulgaria Depart 11th January 2025. Staying at 3*  MPM Family Hotel Merryan , Pamporovo for 7 nights on a half-board basis from €539pps or bring the family from €1565 (2 adults + 1 child) Dublin – Andorra Depart 19th January 2025. Staying at 3*  Poblado Apartments , Arinsal for 7 nights on a self-catered basis for the family from €1929 (2 adults + 1 child) or €2,319 (2 adults + 2 children) All include flights, 20kg luggage and transfers. Book online at crystalski.ie, visit your local TUI store or travel agent, or give our team of experts a call on 01 653 3504.

Getting into the city  On arrival go to the Tourist desk in the Arrivals Hall and ask the staff to order a taxi for you. They will call a taxi and take payment; it costs around €20 to the city centre. The staff will give you a voucher and show you where to meet the taxi. This is the best way to get into the city, no queuing or being hustled. Pasteis de Nata  You cannot go anywhere in Lisbon without seeing or having the famous custard tarts.  The most famous ones come from  Belem , which is a short tram ride outside the city. You can visit the factory these and other pastries are made. However, there are many bakeries around the city and a box of six costs around €6. The other favourite food in Lisbon is anchovies, judging by the number of shops selling them. Tram 28  Unlike other cities, Lisbon has retained the classic old trams and the yellow No. 28 is the most famous. It is also a local tram so you are not paying guided tour prices. Hop on downtown and get a seat if you can. It climbs up and up and up and finally gets to almost the highest point in the city. It is great to lean out the window and watch the city go by.  Timeout Food market  This food market is brilliant, I wish we had something like this in Dublin. The vast market building has been renovated to be a temple to food and drink. Around the sides are dozens of restaurants and bars. You can browse and eat from different places. Around the outside there are restaurants with waiter service. You can buy wine, luxury drinks and lots of tasty treats to take home. This market also has a culinary school.  Placa du Comercio  This beautiful square is a classic example of a country that has seen riches. The beautiful architecture is symmetrical and painted mainly yellow. It glows in the sunshine. On three sides of the square are lovely restaurants. The open side faces the sea and the huge stone arch leads to the main shopping district around Rua Augusta.  Santa Justa Lift  This lift is pure turn of the 20 th  with its classic ironwork in the style of the Eiffel Tower and is reminiscent of elevators you would see in New York. Queue up for the experience and the views of the city from 47m. At the top there is a small restaurant, ideal for a pastel de nata and strong coffee. You can walk down the steps to the stone cathedral, and wander out into another older part of the city.  Cortes Ingles  Why would you go to a Spanish department store in Lisbon, why not, it’s enormous. This huge store is almost like a town it’s so big. If you like shopping this is the place to go.  Every brand of makeup, perfume, handbags, shoes, clothes are here. Along with a supermarket that would make foodies wish they brought a trunk. Imagine your local Aldi with one of everything, then multiply it by at least ten brands for every product. On the lower ground floor there are about 20 restaurants of all type of food from fast to classic Portuguese and international brands like Starbucks and McDonalds. You could spend the whole day here.    Museums  If you ever had any doubt about the might of the Portuguese empire, than pay a visit to Lisbon’s Military Museum. Here in this beautiful building is the might of the Portuguese army and navy. Massive bronze cannons fill lavishly painted room. Ornately decorated walls and ceiling house cases of mementoes of the various wars. And voyages undertaken by the Portuguese, from China to South America and lands in between. It is worth going to this museum just to see the extravagant Baroque decoration. It’s free in and is in front of the Santa Apolónia Station Day trip to Cascais  The seaside town of Cascais is about 40-minute from Lisbon by train. There are regular services all day.  There is a lovely shallow sandy beach in the town and it is perfect for relaxing. The town of Cascais has a lot of nice restaurants, and even two Irish bars.  The shopping street has a lot of nice design shops and is lovely to wander around. We ate in the Flamingo Restaurant and the food was excellent, lovely fresh seafood and the service attentive.   Boat Trip on the Tagus  As Lisbon is a city on a big river leading to the sea, a sight-seeing trip from the water is a great way to explore the city. There are a large number of river tours in all types of craft to suit everyone from party boats to discovering Lisbon under sail. All are easily accessible from the city centre.    When planning a trip to Lisbon, see the official tourism website for the city here.