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Emerald Star  is offering a fantastic opportunity to book seven nights for the price of five on selected boating holidays departing in April, June and October 2024, when booked before 3 March 2024. Search for the perfect family holiday with Emerald Star and secure today.   Exploring the Thames, England: Unforgettable Family Escapes with Emerald Star A self-drive Thames  cruise allows holidaymakers to explore two sections of the river, the western and eastern end. Starting at Emerald Star’s  Benson  base, families can partake in an information trail around King Henry VIII’s home at Hampton Court, or visit Eton College, where 20 prime ministers were schooled, before settling at Michelin-starred pub, The Coach, in Marlow, which can entertain the most restless traveller.  The dreaming spires and universities of Oxford are a six-hour cruise to the west of Benson, or head east and in six hours guests can be in Henley-on-Thames, the home of British rowing.  Heading down to Emerald Star’s  Chertsey  base, guests will arrive in historic Windsor in no time, where the whole family can explore Windsor Castle, take a family audio tour, and soak up the town’s royal atmosphere. Fancy some fun? Legoland Windsor Resort and Thorpe Park are both a stone’s throw away, with their fun rides and live shows. There are countless things for the kids to do along the river, making the Thames a holiday they’ll remember forever.  A seven-night self-catered cruise on the River Thames, departing on 20 April 2024, starting and ending at Emerald Star’s base at Benson, on board a  Caprice  sleeping up to six, is priced from €1,419 / €236.5 pp (saving €580). Transport to and from the base is not included.     Exploring the Canal du Midi and Camargue, France: Family Bonding with Emerald Star Carcassone (Trèbes)  serves as an excellent starting point for families with children, conveniently located just a 5km taxi ride away from Lake Cavayère, offering a plethora of outdoor activities. Visitors can embark on a 6.5-hour cruise to Emerald Star’s base in  Homps , nestled next to the picturesque Lac de Jouarres featuring a delightful beach, ideal for a refreshing swim. The lake also provides an array of watersports that are sure to captivate children’s interests. Additionally, guests can enjoy onsite dining at a restaurant and snack bar. For families looking for adventure, kayaks and canoes are available for hire, offering a thrilling experience on the water after a leisurely cruise. For those seeking further action, a 12km bike ride from Homps to Minerve is an option. Minerve stands out as one of France’s most enchanting towns, boasting charming, cobbled streets, a labyrinth of narrow alleys, quaint residences, and a humble 12th-century church.   Guests can continue cruising to  Port Cassafières,  with the sandy beach of Portiragnes nearby, a perfect way to end the family holiday, and a 1hr cruise to the east awaits the fairgrounds, adventure golf and go-karts of Vias.  A seven-night self-catered stay on the  Canal Du Midi , starting and ending at Emerald Star’s base at Carcassone, on board a  Cirrus B , sleeping up to six, arriving 12 June 2024, is priced from €1,569 per boat / €261.50 pp (saving €580). Exploring Southeastern Ontario: Cruise the Rideau Canal, Canada with Emerald Star Boating on the Rideau Canal is the perfect way to see Southeastern Ontario and discover the beauty of the natural landscape. Starting at Emerald Star’s Smith Falls base, Families can head to  Seeley’s Bay  and visit the tepee in Centennial Park, a commemoration of the original tepee of ‘Granny Seely’, who traded with Aboriginals and European settlers during the 1800s. Before heading to Smiths Falls, families and friends should cruise to the historic town of Kingston which was Canada’s first capital city from 1841 to 1844. Since then, other cities have become the capital of Canada, but Kingston has certainly asserted itself as Canada’s culinary capital, with more restaurants per square capita than any other city in the country. Foodies will be spoiled for choice with fine dining experiences, public markets, food tours and world-class festivals.   The Rideau Canal has everything you need for the perfect family holiday. Make a splash with water sports on the Rideau, then discover all the adventure Canadian culture has to offer at the many towns and cities along the way.   A seven-night self-catered stay on the Rideau Canal, starting and ending at Emerald Star’s  Smiths Falls  base, on board a  Horizon 2 , sleeping up to six, arriving 4 October 2024, is priced from €1,947 / €324.5 pp (saving €210)  Subject to availability. Book by 3rd March 2024. Prices subject to change, visit www.emeraldstar.ie for full terms and conditions.

New research from  TUI  has confirmed a long-standing suspicion that the Irish prioritise their home comforts while travelling. According to the study, 52 % of respondents admit to packing tea bags, and 34% bring along coffee on their holidays. However, it’s not just beverages that find their way into Irish travellers’ bags. The survey reveals that 36 % can’t travel without their slippers, and 22 % insist on bringing their own pillow. Additionally, 12 % feel the need to have ketchup or sliced bread, and 11 % won’t leave the country without their favourite cereal! More than half (57 %) confess to feeling homesick during their holidays, and 42 % pack various items simply because they prefer to have familiar comforts around them to create a homey atmosphere while away. Despite Irish people being an organised bunch and packing as much as five days before the holiday starts, it’s no surprise that getting all our home comforts in our bags has resulted in packing being considered one of the most stressful parts of packing. One in four (24 %) admit that they like to get their suitcases packed and sorted well in advance of their departure date, with nearly a quarter (23 %) always overpacking as they are trying to get as much as they can in, to be ‘on the safe side’! “This research shows how much Irish travellers love their home comforts while on holidays,”  says  Craig Morgan, Head of Ireland for TUI .  “That’s why we’re increasing our luggage allowance for TUI Airways to 20kg as standard, with an extra 5kg for guests staying at TUI BLUE, Holiday Village and A La Carte hotels. With all that extra weight to play around with guests will have plenty of room to take along loads of teabags, photos of their pets and even a loaf or two of bread.” In fact, this passion for creature comforts has even resulted in one in ten (12 %) finding space for their hot water bottle and favourite blanket (11 %), as well as Cheddar cheese (10 %), their Kettle (8 %) and their favourite mug (7 %). When it comes to the most stressful aspects of a holiday, 27 % admit to feeling stressed about fitting everything into their bags, while 21 % experience pressure when checking if their bag meets the weight requirements. Other stress-inducing factors include getting to the airport (25 %), airport security (33 %), sorting out insurance and currency (23 %), and waiting around at the airport (21 %). More than half (58 %) confess to exceeding luggage allowances, with individuals in Ulster (69 %) and Leinster (62 %) being the biggest over-packers. About a third (32 %) willingly pay the additional cost, and 33 % share items from their bag with travel companions. Meanwhile, 16 % go to the extent of discarding items to reduce weight, and 35 % admit to wearing as many clothes as possible.

One Day is one of Ireland’s favourite new romance series, telling the 20-year love story between two friends. But it’s not just Dexter and Emma’s will-they-won’t-they storyline that’s tugging on viewers’ heartstrings. Set over 14 episodes, scenes were filmed in some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring locations, including Rome, Greece, London and Edinburgh, igniting wanderlust amongst its 5.3 million viewers and counting. One location that has particularly sparked interest is the lesser-known Greek island of Paros, where the couple holiday together in episode four. A small island located in the centre of the Aegean Sea, Paros is often overlooked – but with its white marble quarries and stunning beaches, it’s not one to miss. From a secret garden maisonnette in the pretty fishing village of Naousa in the north of the island to a summer breeze Cycladic apartment located on the cobbled streets of Parikia, Airbnb has rounded up some of the island’s most gorgeous homes – perfect for a truly One Day-inspired getaway. Located in the heart of Parokia town, this airy studio is just a five-minute walk from the main seafront and 20 minutes from the port. The Old Town is just a stone’s throw from the apartment, perfect for wandering and taking in the streets, or providing great connections to the rest of the island. Sueno Sunset Villa, Parikia Offering stunning sea views and a jacuzzi, this villa is perfect for taking in Paros’s beautiful sunsets. Located just metres from the Old Town, the capital town’s shops and nightlife are just on your doorstep. Villa Spitaki with sea view, Akili On the beautiful hill of Makria Muti, Spitaki House offers panoramic views of Alykis’ bay and the Aegean islands. It’s located just three minutes from the fishing village in Alyki, which is known for its stunning beaches and traditional cuisine. Seabreeze Apartment, Ambelas All the beauty of the Aegean is enclosed in this breathtaking second-level two-bedroom apartment, located on the beachfront in Ambelas. Perfect for family or friends, it overlooks the pure blue sea from its spacious balcony, creating the ideal scenery for dinners in the sunset or simply lounging in the mornings. Summer Breeze cycladic home, Parikia This spacious apartment, made out of thick stone walls, is situated on the top of a small hill by Parikia – offering unique views of the gulf of the capital town and stunning sunsets. The apartment also contains a traditional wood-fired oven, for guests to use. Dimitris Studios Blue III, Naousa Situated on the sandy beach of Agii Anargiri, guests are conveniently located just 600 metres away from the scenic village centre and old port of Naousa.

Berlin’s combination of glamour and grit is bound to mesmerise all those keen to explore its vibrant culture, cutting-edge architecture, fabulous food, intense parties, and tangible history. On a recent multi-generational family weekend in the ‘Grey City,’ Jo of the ITTN Group found that a city bus tour was the ideal foundation for a weekend. Jumping aboard the open-top bus allowed her family to see quintessential landmarks like the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, and Checkpoint Charlie, while also giving them the opportunity to discover other nooks and crannies. Food and Drink: Sphere Restaurant: In the rotating Sphere Restaurant, located 207 meters high, you’ll experience something truly unique: a complete 360-degree panoramic view of the city that rotates twice every hour. Enjoy lunch or dinner from a seasonally changing menu highlighting authentic and regional Berlin cuisine while the city revolves around you. Ice Bar: The renovated Berlin Ice Bar is the biggest ice bar in Europe. There, you will become part of the crew of the Hansa, one of Germany’s Polar Expedition exploration ships from 1869. You can meet your fellow crew members in the warm tavern before the captain calls you to board the ship. Spend up to 30 minutes in the freezing temperature enjoying an ice-cold selection of delicious cocktails, Heineken, or Desperados beer. (Berlin Icebar: the Coolest Bar near Alexanderplatz). Landmarks: The Berlin Hop-on Hop-Off Sightseeing Tours are the perfect way to experience all the major attractions. First up, you can’t miss Checkpoint Charlie. Probably the most famous Cold War crossing point, you can now visit a museum dedicated to the history of the checkpoint and the wall. Another great place to hop off is the Brandenburg Gate, which marks the memory of another wall, as there was once a gate into the city here. The spectacular 18th-century monument that stands on the site today is a symbol of the city and also a symbol of peace and unity for both Germany and Europe. For something completely different, hop off at the Computerspielemuseum and find out all about the history of video games. Hotel: Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt Berlin: Located 2.1 kilometres from shopping venues such as the historic square “Potsdamer Platz,” the 5-star Steigenberger Hotel Am Kanzleramt Berlin includes a restaurant and baggage storage. The hotel has an à la carte restaurant serving international cuisine and is situated within minutes of Berlin Central.

This journey through the behind-the-scenes magic of bringing the iconic JK Rowling’s books from page to screen will captivate fans, but watch out for additional expenses. What’s it About? Explore the very studio where the magic of all eight Harry Potter films was brought to life. Wander through a sprawling hangar housing iconic sets. After a guided tour of the Great Hall, you’re free to explore at your own pace, encountering memorable locations such as the Gryffindor common room, Dumbledore’s office with its intriguing cabinet of memories, Hagrid’s hut, the eerie Forbidden Forest, and the bustling streets of Diagon Alley. Refuel with lunch in the charming “backlot” outdoor area, surrounded by landmarks like Privet Drive- you can walk through number 4 and see Harry’s bedroom under the stairs. This is also an opportunity to sample the infamous ‘Butterbeer’; a big hit with the kids and the kids at heart! Next up is an exhibit showcasing the intricate artistry and design work behind the films. Best Part The sheer scale of the production, involving over 4,000 individuals across a decade of filmmaking is truly something to behold. From costume designers to make-up artists, each contributed to crafting the most successful movie series in history. Kids adore interactive experiences like wand practice and exploring the iconic Weasley’s flying Ford Anglia, while adults marvel at the meticulous attention to detail in every set and prop. Food& Drinks You can grab food at either the Studio Cafe or Backlot Cafe, offering a variety of sandwiches and hot dishes. Alternatively, bring your own snacks to enjoy during the tour. Definitely bring a water bottle. The tour is vast and quite thirsty work! By the way, there is no alcohol served in the cafe- worth noting if you are there in the evening and had planned to have a glass of wine at the mid-way point! The Gift Shop This is stuffed to the brim with all manner of merchandise from fluffy owls to different wands and t-shirts. It’s a good idea to have decided beforehand if you want to buy anything here as it is extremely enticing to little people and you may end up making a pretty expensive impulse buy! Getting there Accessible by a 15-minute shuttle bus ride from Watford Junction; this is the option my family took and the price is included in the ticket. It’s also an additional element of fun. The buses are run electrically on ‘muggle energy’. The lots are also easily reached from Euston station. Parking is complimentary for car travellers. Value for money With family saver tickets priced at €138 offering entry for two adults and two children or one adult and three children, the experience rivals a West End show or other premium London attractions. The tour is sprinkled with hidden extras though- like photographs, videos and posters, so watch out for this. You can take your own photos in most areas except the green rooms. Opening hours Timed entry ensures a smooth flow of visitors, with ample time to explore at your leisure. Tours commence at 9 am, with closing times varying. Closed on Christmas Day and Stephens’ Day. Verdict The experience exceeded my own, slightly sceptical expectations. In fact, they were blown out of the water. This is an incredible, magical and creative experience for all ages.

Get ready to discover South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana and Wyoming, from breathtaking national parks to diverse native cultures and the authentic Wild West. This region has some of America’s most famous national parks. From the otherworldly Badlands to the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, the iconic faces at Mount Rushmore, the pristine beauty of Glacier, and the awe-inspiring Theodore Roosevelt National Park – Prepare to marvel at the wonders of nature. And you can visit them all and more on our epic Icons & National Parks of America’s West RV Road Trip. Denver: Gateway to the Rockies Begin your RV adventure in Denver, Colorado, where the Rocky Mountains beckon with their majestic allure. Spend a night in the Mile High City, exploring its vibrant downtown, sampling local cuisine, and soaking in the arts and culture scene. Visit attractions like the Denver Art Museum, catch a performance at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, or take a leisurely stroll through the historic Larimer Square. South Dakota: Badlands and Black Hills After embracing Denver’s atmosphere, get ready for an exciting trip to the Black Hills of South Dakota! Prepare for an awe-inspiring adventure through a region rich in history and stunning landscapes. Explore the unique rock formations, deep canyons, and fossil-rich terrain at Badlands National Park. Drive along the scenic Badlands Loop Road, hike through the picturesque terrain, and witness breathtaking sunsets. Continuing westward, immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Black Hills region. Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where the faces of four iconic presidents are carved into the granite cliffs. Explore the nearby Crazy Horse Memorial, a tribute to Native American culture and leadership. Don’t miss the charming town of Deadwood, known for its Wild West history and vibrant atmosphere. This area is also known for its Hollywood pedigree. The scenic drive through Spearfish Canyon was the location for Kevin Costner’s winter scene in ‘Dances with Wolves’ and he fell in love with Deadwood while filming in the area so much so that he bought one of the many casinos in the historic town. North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt National Park As you journey northward, North Dakota welcomes you with its serene prairies and the rugged beauty of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Named after the 26th President of the United States, this park preserves the landscapes that once inspired Roosevelt’s conservation efforts. Explore the park’s scenic drives, hike amidst the colourful buttes and grasslands, and keep an eye out for bison, prairie dogs, and wild horses that roam freely in this wilderness sanctuary. Montana: Big Sky Country Continue your journey in Montana, where the expansive landscapes and untamed wilderness beckon. Explore Glacier National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its pristine lakes, towering peaks, and ancient glaciers. Embark on scenic drives along the Going-to-the-Sun Road, hike through alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers, and marvel at the breathtaking vistas around every turn. Wyoming: Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks Your RV adventure culminates in the wild west of Wyoming, the land of towering peaks, bubbling geysers, and vast plains. Explore Yellowstone National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to mesmerizing geothermal wonders such as Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Yellowstone Lake. Spend a couple of days exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems, hiking scenic trails, and keeping an eye out for wildlife encounters with bison and elk. Next, venture south to Grand Teton National Park, where jagged peaks rise dramatically against the sky. Enjoy activities like boating on Jackson Lake, hiking to Hidden Falls, or simply admiring the breathtaking vistas from various viewpoints along the park’s scenic drives. Salt Lake City: Urban Oasis Returning southward, conclude your journey with a night in Salt Lake City, Utah’s vibrant capital nestled against the backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. Explore Temple Square, the heart of the city and home to the iconic Salt Lake Temple. Discover the city’s rich history and cultural diversity, sample delicious cuisine, or take a scenic drive through nearby canyons for one last glimpse of natural splendour. Book now with American Holidays from €2009pp / £1729pp An RV holiday through South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana and Wyoming offers a captivating blend of natural wonders, cultural treasures, and outdoor adventures. From the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the serene prairies of the Great Plains, each destination invites exploration and discovery, promising memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and let the journey begin! What’s Included Flights to Denver and return from Salt Lake City One checked bag per person 11 nights RV rental with unlimited mileage 1 night in the Doubletree by Hilton **** (Denver) 1 NIGHT in Wyoming, 1 NIGHT in South Dakota, 1 NIGHT in Badlands National Park, 1 NIGHT in Spearfish Canyon, 1 NIGHT in North Dakota, 2 NIGHTS in Montana, 2 NIGHTS in Yellowstone National Park, 2 NIGHTS in Grand Teton National Park 1 night in the Little America Hotel **** (Salt Lake City) Based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing. Year-round dates are available. Quote reference number: 53261662 Visit the American Holidays website for more information or contact American Holidays on (01) 901 4429 and quote reference number 53261662 .

Celebrations for the 2024 Fallas are getting underway. Plan your visit to the Nino exhibit, take in a mascletá from a balcony, or book your guided visit and ticket to the fallas of the Special Section Valencia is already enjoying the 2024 Fallas. This unique and authentic celebration, declared an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO, is already being felt in the streets of the city, and you don’t have to wait for the big week (from March 16 to 19) to soak in the Fallas atmosphere. Visitors can spot various signs and events associated with this year’s fallas including the mascletá, a firework display taking place at the town hall, Plaza del Ayuntamiento, daily from this Friday at 2 pm. Here are the fallas experiences already on tap in the city: Ninot Exhibit :  This event provides a unique opportunity to see some of the  Ninot  statues from this year’s fallas up close, specifically those that are in the running for a pardon. Visitors can vote for their favourite to save it from the flames and preserve it for posterity in the Fallas Museum. Open from February 2 to March 15, at the Museum of Science, in the City of Arts and Sciences. La Crida :  On Sunday 3rd March at 7:00 pm, in front of the Serranos Towers, the senior fallas associations of Valencia make a universal call to enjoy the Fallas, inviting residents and visitors alike to join the party. There will also be music and fireworks, but first, at the usual time, a mascletá will be set off in Plaza del Ayuntamiento.  Daily mascletá:  From March 1 to 19, Plaza del Ayuntamiento will rumble (literally) every day at 2:00 pm with the mascletá, which is a pyrotechnic show like no other, one where the sound and rhythm of the explosions, and the smell of gunpowder, ramp up to an epic finale. The crowds are usually smaller in the first half of the month, especially on weekdays, and you can  book a balcony  from which to enjoy a different perspective. Pyrotechnic shows:  In addition to the mascletá, on weekends (March 2-3 and March 8-10) there are also nightly pyrotechnic shows in Plaza del Ayuntamiento. For those who prefer to come and enjoy the big week of the Fallas, now is the time to plan your visit to get the most out of it. You can book a  guided tour  to guarantee access to the best Fallas monuments while learning more about this tradition. You can also book tickets to visit the  fallas of the Special Section , which includes the most important commissions in the city. Whichever you choose, you can go inside the structures and see all their details up close. The festival schedule also includes music, pyrotechnic shows and the emotional offering of flowers to the Patroness of the city, as well as spectacular bonfires that consume the monuments erected in the streets and squares of Valencia on the night of March 19: the  cremá  that puts an end to the Fallas. The full program, as well as more information and suggestions for enjoying the party, can be found  here . About VISIT VALÈNCIA VISIT VALÈNCIA is a non-profit Foundation, in which the City Council of Valencia, the Chamber of Commerce, Feria València and the Valencian Business Confederation participate, together with most of the local companies in the tourism sector. Its objective is the strategic management and promotion of the city of Valencia in the field of tourism, with a professional and transversal approach that combines public and private interests. Since its creation in 1991, the Foundation has contributed to the evolution of tourism in the city, favouring employment, tourism development and an increase in economic impact, factors that have had a direct impact on the wellbeing of Valencian society. www.visitvalencia.com/en

In an era where staying connected while traveling is essential, Revolut, the globally renowned financial app, has once again innovated to meet the needs of its customers. On March 6th, 2024, Revolut proudly announced the launch of its eSIM service in Ireland, marking a significant milestone as the first financial institution in the country to offer this cutting-edge technology. With eSIM, Irish customers can now enjoy hassle-free access to global data plans in over 100 countries, eliminating the burden of unexpected roaming charges. The eSIM, embedded directly within the Revolut app, offers a host of benefits designed to enhance the travel experience. Here’s what Irish customers can look forward to: Seamless Installation and Management: Revolut’s eSIM can be installed digitally with just a few clicks, providing instant access to global data plans. Customers can conveniently top up their data directly within the Revolut app, ensuring they stay connected wherever they go. Simultaneous Usage with Physical SIM: Ideal for frequent travelers, the eSIM can be used alongside a physical SIM, allowing customers to effortlessly switch between networks. This flexibility ensures uninterrupted connectivity, even in remote locations. Exclusive Benefits for Ultra Plan Users: Customers subscribed to Revolut’s Ultra plan will enjoy exclusive access to 3GB of global data each month, ensuring they stay connected without constraints. Additionally, all Revolut customers in Ireland can benefit from an introductory offer of 100MB of mobile data at no cost. Access to Revolut App without Data Usage: Connecting the eSIM enables customers to access the Revolut app without consuming their mobile data allowance. This means even if customers run out of data on their eSIM, they can still manage their finances, top up their data, and utilise all app features seamlessly. The launch of eSIM underscores Revolut’s commitment to leveraging technology to simplify the lives of its customers. Elyas Sadou, Product Owner of eSIM at Revolut, emphasised the convenience and affordability of the eSIM, said “It offers seamless access to mobile data, eliminating the inconvenience of high prices or the need to buy and organize a physical SIM card.” Revolut has partnered with 1GLOBAL, a leading provider of worldwide mobile network connectivity and eSIM technology, to bring this innovative solution to its customers. Hakan Koç, founder and CEO of 1GLOBAL, highlighted the seamless integration of eSIM into the Revolut app and its compatibility with eSIM-enabled mobile devices. With the introduction of eSIM, Revolut ensures travelers are supported throughout their journey, from booking accommodation to enjoying exclusive benefits such as lounge access and emergency medical cover. Customers can now explore the world with peace of mind, knowing they can stay connected without the fear of exorbitant roaming charges. In a world where connectivity is key, Revolut’s eSIM sets a new standard for seamless, cost-effective global roaming. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities or remote landscapes, stay connected with Revolut’s eSIM and experience a new level of convenience in travel.

The best carry-on luggage isn’t just a bag to hold your gear, it’s a massive part of mastering the art of travel. A carrier from a luxury brand will just cause frustration if it fails to fit easily into an overhead bin, whereas that trendy tote you saw on Instagram may look fantastic until the zipper breaks two months into use.  Then there’s lifestyle considerations. Are you a frequent business traveller? A suitcase with wheels is probably the job when tearing through Terminal 1 in Dublin airport. Adventurous travellers who love exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, may want to invest in a durable backpack or duffle. These trusty companions should be able to squeeze into the tightest spaces, whether it’s the wing of a small propeller plane or the compact cargo holds of boats. On the other hand, if you’re planning a weekend getaway by car or train, opting for something easy to sling over your shoulder is the smartest move. Here we round up five of the best options for all style of travellers, starting with a nifty canvas tote from Dunnes Stores. The Soft Style: This inexpensive bag comes in plain black or leopard print and features a zippered main compartment, three slip pockets (one interior, two exterior), and two zippered pockets (one interior, one exterior). It also has carry handles and a contrast zipper pull. Dunnes Stores | Black Large Tote Bag The Easy Backpack: Jansport backpacks have been around for a long time and for good reason. They are durable, full of useful features. They have padded shoulder straps and back panels let you tote your bag from point A to any point B in comfort. Some of the backpacks come with a laptop sleeve to keep your technology safe and a water pouch to stay hydrated. Shop Popular Backpacks and Best Sellers Bags | JanSport Sustainable Chic: Lightweight, stylish, and seriously roomy our Grand Tour Duffle does both long weekends and far-flung trips beautifully. Made of our durable, spill-proof EcoCraft Canvas®, it looks sharp and is endlessly functional. Grand Tour Duffle (tourparavel.com) The Hard Case: Marks and Spencer has a slick hard shell suitcase from their Amalfi range. Packing straps and a zip-around divider keep belongings organised, while two internal pockets stow smaller items. Four double-wheels and a retractable pull handle ensure your case is easy to transport. Side grab handles and a PU grip top help with loading onto trolleys and conveyors. The reinforced zip has anti-burst technology and you can add your own padlock to the pullers for extra security. Amalfi 4 Wheel Hard Shell Cabin Suitcase | M&S Collection | M&S (marksandspencer.com) Classic Weekender: This one is a little more expensive but it’s a classic and very elegant. The Longchamps Le Pliage Xtra travel bag features a nap button, zip closure, detachable and adjustable shoulder strap and one inside flat pocket. Le Pliage Xtra S Travel bag Black – Leather | Longchamp IE

The Jeddah Corniche Circuit Main Stage will host superstar, musician, singer, songwriter and multi-Grammy-award winner Alicia Keys on Saturday, March 9th, 2024, as part of the Formula 1 STC Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2024. This is the first time that Keys will perform in Jeddah, and the third time she’s performed in Saudi Arabia. This time she’ll be on stage with the internationally known music icon Pharell Williams. The concert on March 9th, and accompanying intimate conversations on March 8th, is once again, brought to you by Good Intentions and MDLBEAST. In honour of International Women’s Day on Friday, March 8th, Keys will host the third edition of her initiative called Women to Women. The private event, hosted by MDLBEAST, will take place in Jeddah during Grand Prix week. Women to Women is a gathering of influential and impactful female trailblazers, who will hold a conversation about how women are pushing the culture forward in Saudi Arabia and around the world. The event shares perspectives and purpose from a cross section of women who are making significant changes in the Kingdom. Keys is no stranger to the country after visiting twice before, where she was captivated by the desert and the ancient civilizations who resided there. “I am thrilled to be back on stage, this time in Jeddah, performing in a place I have never performed in before, and in a way I never have in this region. I’m also so inspired to connect in a meaningful way with the amazing women there to discuss cultural, creative and boundary-pushing narratives we are collectively and individually leading. In light of International Women’s Day on March 8th, it’s the perfect time to discuss important issues affecting us.” Sixteen-time Grammy award winning Keys has sold more than 90 million records and is one of the world’s best-selling music artists of all time. A classically trained pianist, she started composing songs at age 12 and secured a record deal at 15 years old. Her 2001 debut album, Songs in A Minor, was a critical and commercial success, producing her first Billboard Hot 100 number-one single “Fallin.” Entrepreneur, activist, broadway lead producer of Hell’s Kitchen, New York Times best-selling author, Keys is also the founder of Keys Soulcare a beauty and wellness company with a purpose to uplift and inspire.  Concert tickets and more information can be found here – Formula 1 2023 – Music Festival in Jeddah | MDLBEAST

What’s the deal with taking kids out of school to go on holidays? With the cost of travel soaring during school holidays, the prospect of taking your children out of school to take advantage of cheaper holiday deals can be an appealing option for many Irish families. Yet, while the cost advantage of a cheaper holiday is a no-brainer for many, the decision to take your kids out of school before the end of term is not without its consequences. Cost savings It’s hard to argue against cost savings, which can be significant when it comes to booking a holiday, even for a single-child family. Prices for flights, accommodation and even holiday activities can be substantially lower outside of peak times, which inevitably coincide with school holidays. This price difference can make holidays more accessible for families on a tighter budget, allowing for experiences that might not otherwise be feasible. ITAA CEO Clare Dunne, who is also the founder and owner of The Travel Broker, says travel agents are acutely aware of the dilemma many parents face when trying to book a family holiday. “Sometimes where the price difference is considerable, (and it can be, particularly for primary school holidays),” she says, “parents are faced with the choice of a holiday in term time or no holiday at all.” Avoid the crowds! Another advantage of off-peak travel is fewer tourists and generally less crowded destinations. This can lead to a more enjoyable and relaxed holiday experience, with shorter queues for attractions – anyone who has experienced Orlando’s theme parks during peak holiday season will recognise the inherent value of not spending hours in line for a two-minute ride! Smaller crowds also means more availability in accommodations and a better opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture without the overwhelming presence of other tourists (I’m looking at you, Venice, Dubrovnik and pretty much every pretty beach along the Mediterranean basin!). It’s educational Should parents feel guilty about your kids missing out on school, they can console themselves that travel itself can be incredibly educational for children. It can offer them a chance to learn about new cultures, languages and histories in a way that cannot be replicated in a classroom setting. Clare Dunne agrees . “[T]ravel, by its very nature, is hugely educational and while a child may miss out on some academic learning which can be caught up with, they gain a wider social and environmental experience which greatly enhances their overall education.” Multiculturalism The demographic landscape of Irish schools has become increasingly diverse, and trips to visit family in their country of origin, particularly around important cultural festivals, don’t necessarily overlap with the Irish holiday calendar. This means striking a fine balance between nurturing their children’s academic needs with maintaining a connection to their family traditions, language and customs. Academic Impact Needless to say, missing school for a holiday can impact a child’s education, particularly if they miss significant amounts of school or if the absence coincides with key markers like exams or the completion of school projects. “Parents,” says Ms Dunne, “in my own experience both as a parent and a travel agent, do not take children out in exam years. In other years, if faced with the above choice, some do try to lessen the impact by talking to the teacher in advance and making arrangements for the child to catch up with missed lessons.” What does the law say? Under the terms of the Education (Welfare) Act 2000, if a child is absent without a valid reason for 20 days or more during the academic year, the school is legally obligated to report the absence to Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. Failure to comply can result in a fine for the parents. However, unlike other countries including the UK, a spirit of reasonable tolerance exists when dealing with school absences due to holidays, especially if the school has been informed of the reason for the absence. Working with parents Although primary responsibility for taking a child out of school for a holiday lies with the parents, travel agents will usually work with them to ensure that any holiday is booked with appropriate consideration for all factors, including informing the school of any potential absence. They might also recommend a booking with a flexible cancellation policy or travel insurance that covers cancellation for unavoidable reasons, should any issues arise with taking children out of school during term.

Want to experience the grand entertainment of Eurovision on the high seas? As the Eurovision 2024 sponsor, Royal Caribbean International have announced their March flash sale, with incredible offers to get you sailing on the clear blue seas and celebrating Eurovision in style. Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! a weekend getaway to the legendary city of Le Havre, near Paris, France: Sail onboard Anthem of the Seas Eurovision weekender sailing (10 May 2024) from just £299/ €409pp (2 nights – Southampton to Paris round trip). You can also add flights from Dublin for €389pp! Guests can enjoy walks along the Seine, while taking in the astounding architecture and marvel at the Eiffel Tower. The thrills are taken to new heights on board, too, with adrenaline-pumping experiences like the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator and the North Star glass observation capsule that can reach as high as 300 feet above the ocean. Eurovision sailings are also available on Explorer, Odyssey and Oasis of the Seas with more information available on the Royal Caribbean website here. The March flash sale also includes up to £600 off your stateroom or up to $600 onboard credit , with the deals alternating throughout the month of March. The sale is live until April 1st 2024 and covers select sailings. Also on offer are double rewards – earn up to £/€30 per booking on sailings May through to September 2024. These discounts are automatically applied at check-out.