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Looking for a festive getaway? We’ve got two fantastic offers ready for you – whether you want to take a cruise to Antarctica or visit the Maldives, you’re set to save over €1000pp with these deals! Save €1100 pp on a trip to Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu in the Maldives with Tropical Sky Flanked by pristine, sugary beaches and lush tropical scenery,  Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu  offers an escape in the Maldivian landscape. This secluded hideaway invites guests to immerse themselves in its atmosphere, where relaxation and stunning views take centre stage. Whether one prefers unwinding by the pool, indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or embracing the thrill of windsurfing, the resort presents endless opportunities to both relax and stay active in perfect balance. Book a trip to Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu by 31 October 2024 and receive savings of up to € 1100 pp, plus a free upgrade from half-board to all-inclusive for travel between now and 26 December 2024. A seven night stay at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is priced from € 2,495 pp (was € 3,575pp saving € 1100pp) based on two sharing a Beach Villa on an all-inclusive basis, this includes return flights and transfers. Tropical Sky (01342 331795,  www.tropicalsky.co.uk ) Save over 30% on a cruise around the Antarctic this Christmas, with Swan Hellenic  The Antarctic Peninsula Discovery is a round-trip starting and ending in Ushuaia, navigating the infamous Drake Passage to uncover the frozen wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula. Guests will spend time cruising through crystal-clear fjords, gliding past towering icebergs and glaciers, and delving into Antarctica’s rich history of explorers, whalers, and scientists. Be prepared to witness a diverse array of wildlife, from kelp gulls and breaching humpback whales to Adélie penguins and snoozing leopard seals. Antarctica’s untouched environment offers a unique opportunity to connect deeply with nature. A ten-night  Antarctic Peninsula Discovery , on board SH Diana, departing 3 December 2023, costs from € 10,640 pp (was €15,200 pp – saving 38%) for two sharing a Balcony room, and includes regional flights to the port of embarkation and/or disembarkation, group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port, one night pre-cruise hotel, all meals, 24-hour room service, selected drinks 24-hours a day, lecture programmes by experienced expedition team and guests speakers, branded expedition parka and use of rubber boots in Polar Regions, standard Wi-Fi, and selected shore excursions/expeditions.   Swan Hellenic (0207 846 0271,  www.swanhellenic.com )

You’ve been dreaming about that getaway for months, longing for some downtime to just relax, soak up the sun, and finally read that novel you’ve been wanting to get to for the last few months. But, as the holiday planning kicks into gear, it becomes clear that the only person sweating over the details is… you. Flights? Check. Accommodation? Check. Itinerary? You bet. Welcome to the exhausting world of weaponised incompetence, a sneaky form of sabotage that shifts the bulk of holiday planning and organising onto the shoulders of women. It’s a reality many women face, not just in daily life but also in one of the places where relaxation should be the goal: vacations. Instead of enjoying the holiday, women find themselves managing it all while their partners stay blissfully unaware or inept when it comes to even the simplest tasks. This insidious form of incompetence isn’t accidental—it’s deliberate. Let’s dive into how this frustrating phenomenon plays out and why it’s time to unpack the baggage that comes with it. What Exactly is Weaponised Incompetence? Weaponised incompetence is when someone—often men in a relationship—pretends they don’t know how to do something in order to avoid responsibility. Whether it’s cleaning the house, managing the kids, or, in this case, planning a holiday, they act as though they’re incapable of doing these tasks to an acceptable standard. The result? The task gets shifted onto someone else, typically their female partner, who then has to carry the load. It’s more than just being a bit lazy or forgetful. Weaponised incompetence is strategic. It’s a way to sidestep responsibilities while keeping the appearance of helplessness. And nowhere is this more prevalent than when planning a vacation—a time when both partners should be equally involved so everyone can unwind. Unfortunately, weaponised incompetence makes sure that the burden falls squarely on one person. The Weight of Holiday Planning on Women’s Shoulders Planning a holiday should be exciting, but for many women, it’s like to a full-time job. From booking flights and hotels to researching activities and making sure everyone has packed appropriately, it’s a long list that often only gets longer as the departure date comes around. For example, a woman might ask her partner to book the flights. But instead of taking charge, he might claim he doesn’t understand how to find the best deals, is confused about the timings, or simply doesn’t know where to start. He’ll mess up so obviously, booking flights at the worst possible times or choosing inconvenient connections, that she’s forced to step in and fix it. And it doesn’t stop at flights. It could be packing for the kids, remembering to check the expiry dates on passports, or ensuring someone has house-sat the cat while they’re away. Women often find themselves micromanaging every last detail while their partner remains blissfully unaware of the logistics involved. By the time the holiday rolls around, she’s mentally and physically exhausted. And to add insult to injury, once they arrive at the destination, he’ll ask, “So, what are we doing today?” as if she hasn’t already pre-arranged the entire week down to dinner reservations. Real-Life Examples – Women Doing the Heavy Lifting Let’s take a common holiday scenario. Sarah and Jack are heading on a two-week beach holiday to Spain. Sarah spends weeks researching hotels, reading reviews, and booking the perfect seaside apartment with ocean views. She combs the internet for family-friendly activities, makes dinner reservations, and makes sure their kids have everything they need for the trip. Jack? He’s simply excited to go along for the ride. Sarah, on the other hand, hasn’t just planned the trip—she’s planned every day, down to which sandals everyone should pack. And as they land in Spain, Jack asks, “So, what’s the plan for today?” completely unaware of the effort that’s gone into making this a seamless experience. While he dives into relaxation mode, she’s still coordinating. Sure, Jack might offer to carry the luggage, but when it comes to the mental load of keeping the holiday on track? That’s all Sarah. Then there’s Emma and Mike. They’re backpacking through Southeast Asia. While Mike is happy to follow along, Emma does all the groundwork—plotting out routes, researching border crossings, and ensuring they’ve got the necessary visas. Mike might not even know which country they’re entering next because he’s relied on Emma to figure it all out. He’ll ask, “Did you sort out the bus tickets?” without a second thought, because in his mind, that’s just “her thing.” The Mental Load – Why Women Can’t Truly Relax One of the biggest effects of weaponised incompetence in holiday planning is that women can never truly relax. They may be on a beach with a cocktail in hand, but mentally they’re still ticking off tasks. Is the transfer to the airport booked? Are the tickets for the museum confirmed? Does the restaurant have vegetarian options for the kids? The relaxation that should come with a holiday is robbed by the endless responsibilities they still carry. The weight of this invisible labor can make vacations more exhausting than rejuvenating for women. It’s ironic because holidays are supposed to be a time to unplug, yet they often find themselves plugged into every small detail of the trip, acting as a project manager rather than a fellow traveler. Even on vacation, women rarely get a break. How to Address the Problem Recognizing weaponised incompetence is the first step toward tackling it. Both partners need to have an honest conversation about their roles in holiday planning, acknowledging the imbalance. If your partner isn’t pulling their weight, it’s not about their lack of skills—it’s about their reluctance to learn. Here are some ways to start shifting the responsibility: Divide tasks clearly : Instead of “helping out,” partners should take ownership of specific tasks, like booking flights or organizing an activity. If they do it wrong, let them handle the consequences—don’t swoop in to fix things. Share the mental load : Partners should contribute to the mental planning, not just the physical tasks. If you’re thinking about every detail of the trip, your partner should be, too. Set expectations : Before planning begins, establish clear expectations for each person’s role. If both parties understand their responsibilities, there’s less chance of one person doing all the work. Redefining Vacation Roles Holidays should be about rest, relaxation, and enjoying time together—not about one person silently taking on all the responsibilities. Weaponised incompetence in men often leads to women taking on the heavy lifting not only in holiday planning, but in day-to-day responsibilites when it comes to the kids, groceries or the laundry. But this trend doesn’t have to continue. By calling out these behaviors and encouraging shared responsibility, you can create a more balanced approach to vacations and home life. So, the next time you plan a holiday, make sure the journey to relaxation doesn’t begin and end with you. It’s time to pack light—mentally, as well as physically!

Looking to travel to Portugal during the off-peak season? A new study identifies the cheapest destinations across Portugal using Skyscanner, Numbeo and Booking.com! The Results Silves has been identified as the most affordable destination in Portugal during the off-peak season in a new study conducted by travel experts at  Lisbon Tickets & Tours . The study examined the average cost of flights, hotels, food, beer, and taxis during the off-peak season. These factors were combined into a weighted overall score out of 100 to determine which destinations were the most affordable. Travelling during the off-peak season has its pros and cons. While smaller crowds and lower costs can be enticing, travellers must contend with cooler weather and the possibility that more attractions and facilities may be closed during this time.  Silves , a city in the Algarve region, ranks first, scoring  61.34  out of 100. The average flight cost from the UK is £49.60, the average nightly hotel cost is £73.16, and a beer costs around £2.50. Vila Real de Santo António , a city and civil parish in the Algarve, ranks second with a score of  61.02  out of 100. On average, a flight from the UK costs £49.60, a hotel costs £67.85 per night, and a beer costs around £2.50. Ponta Delgada , the largest municipality in the Azores region, ranks third with an overall score of  58.69  out of 100. The average cost of a flight from the UK is £82.65, a hotel costs an average of £81.28 per night, and a beer would cost just £1.33. Lagos , one of the most visited destinations in the Algarve, ranks fourth with a score of  58.59  out of 100. The average cost for a flight from the UK is £49.60, the average cost of a hotel is £79.22 per night, and a beer would cost an average of £1.67. Porto , the second-largest city in Portugal, is fifth with a score of  58.20  out of 100. A flight from the UK costs an average of £62.70, a hotel costs an average of £88 per night, and a beer costs an average of £2.50. The top ten most affordable holiday destinations in Portugal during the off-peak season Braga , a city in the far north of Portugal, ranks sixth with a score of  56.99 out of 100 . A flight from the UK costs an average of £62.70, the average cost of a hotel is £73.07, and a beer would cost an average of £1.88. Ranking seventh is  Coimbra , a riverfront city in central Portugal, with a score of  53.74  out of 100. The average cost of a flight from the UK is £64.38, a hotel is an average of £72.58, and a beer costs an average of £1.67. Gerês , a national park located in the northwest of Portugal, ranks eighth with a score of  53.54  out of 100. A flight from the UK costs an average of £62.70, a hotel costs an average of £73.93, and a beer costs around £1.88. Faro  ranks ninth with a score of  52.95  out of 100 .  The average cost of a flight from the UK is £49.57, a hotel is an average of £91.42 per night, and a beer costs an average of £1.67. Finally,  Évora,  the capital city of the Alentejo  region,  ranks tenth with a score of  51.11  out of 100. A flight from the UK costs an average of £64.38, a hotel costs an average of £80.72, and a beer would cost just £0.83.  Commenting on the findings, Magdalena Petrusic, travel expert from  Lisbon Tickets & Tours , said: “Portugal offers a range of affordable destinations to visit during the off-peak season, making it a great choice for budget-conscious travellers. This study highlights the cost-effective appeal of these locations while also showcasing some picturesque places to visit. “By analysing aspects like accommodation, dining options, and overall travel expenses, the findings provide valuable insights for budget travellers and trip planners, showcasing which destinations offer the most enjoyable and memorable experiences in Portugal at a fraction of the usual price.”

Cassidy Travel, Ireland’s leading and multi-award-winning travel agent, has reported increased interest in Japan this year and in response to this demand, has released a new brochure dedicated to exploring this incredible destination. This beautifully crafted guide offers in-depth information on the country’s most iconic cities, hidden gems, and a range of touring options to suit every type of holidaymaker. Whether you’re planning a city escape to Tokyo, want to soak up the traditional culture of Kyoto or discover the majestic beauty of Mount Fuji, Cassidy Travel’s brochure is your essential guide. Inside, readers will discover all the most popular destinations, including major cities such as  Tokyo ,  Osaka ,  Kyoto ,  Hiroshima , and many more. With features such as  Sapporo ,  Matsumoto , and the tranquil  Okinawa Islands , this invaluable yet completely free resource ensures adventure seekers won’t miss a single aspect of Japan’s diverse beauty. Tailored Travel Experiences for Every Budget and Taste Cassidy Travel’s Japan offering has a a variety of travel options tailored to your needs. Choose from  Escorted Tours  for a worry-free experience with expert guides, or  Self-Guided Tours  for those who prefer to explore Japan at their own pace. For a unique perspective of the country, the guide also covers  Cruising of Japan , offering visitors the chance to experience Japan’s coastal beauty. In addition to travel guides and tour options, Cassidy Travel have InsiderTips & Tricks  to help tourists navigate Japan with ease – from cultural etiquette and dining tips to transportation advice and must-see attractions. Trail by Rail – 10 Day Self-Guided Tour Travel 8 th  May 2025 (Various departure dates available) Tokyo – Hakone – Kyoto – Hiroshima & Miyajima Island – Tokyo All accommodation and transfers included. Checked luggage allowance. Prices from €4459pp Japan Unrivalled – 13 Day Escorted Tour 20 th  June 2025 (Various departure dates available) Tokyo – Hakone – Isawa – Matsumoto – Tayakama – Hiroshima – Miyajima – Kyoto – Koyasan – Osaka All accommodation and transfers included. Checked luggage allowance. Prices from €4925pp Hokkaido Blooms – 11 Day Small Group Tour 9 th  May 2025 (Various departure dates available) Sapporo – Furano & Biei – Daisetsuzan National Park – Abashiri – Shiretoko Peninsula – Lake Akan – Tomamu – Sapporo All accommodation and transfers included. Checked luggage allowance. Price from €5865pp Ancient Trails – 14 Day Small Group Walking Tour Tokyo – Kawaguchiko – Kyoto – Kumano Kodo – Nagoya – Tsumago & Magome – Tokyo 15 th  May 2025 (Various departure dates available.) All accommodation and transfers included. Checked luggage allowance. Prices from €6790pp For more information, visit  www.cassidytravel.ie

Looking for casino nights, world-class entertainment, or luxurious accommodations? Look no further than the bright lights of Las Vegas, now even better with a direct DUB-LAS Aer Lingus route! From the dazzling lights of the Strip to the natural wonders of nearby national parks, your dream Vegas getaway can start with just one click. 5-night Las Vegas breaks this November from €659pp From €659 per person  for the  4* The Linq Hotel Las Vegas  Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel the November 2024.  Price includes:  ·        Direct Return flights from Dublin to Las Vegas  ·        5 nights in the  4* The Linq Hotel Las Vegas ·        On a Room Only basis  ·        Airport taxes & charges   Link to offer here. 5-night Las Vegas breaks this November from €699pp From €699 per person  for the  4* New York New York Hotel & Casino.  Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel the November 2024.  Price includes:  ·        Direct Return flights from Dublin to Las Vegas  ·        5 nights in the  4* New York New York Hotel & Casino ·        On a Room Only basis  ·       Airport taxes & charges   Link to offer here. 5-night Las Vegas Breaks in February 2025 from €759pp From €759 per person  for the  4* Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino  Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel the February 2025.  Price includes:  ·        Direct Return flights from Dublin to Las Vegas  ·        5 nights in the  4* Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino ·        On a Room Only basis  ·       Airport taxes & charges   Link to offer here. 5 Star Las Vegas breaks in January 2025 from €1,039pp From €1,039 per person  for the  5* Bellagio Hotel.  Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel the January 2025.  Price includes:  ·        Direct Return flights from Dublin to Las Vegas  ·        5 nights in the  5* Bellagio Hotel ·        On a Room Only basis  ·       Airport taxes & charges   Link to offer here.

Looking for a sunny escape this November? Why not head to PortoBay Falésia in the Algarve for a 7 night stay, now with a discount of €600pp! PortoBay Falésia PortoBay Falésia  sits majestically above the stunning 8km Falésia Beach, with direct access via wooden steps at the side of the hotel. Guests who opt to stay around the pool area are treated to beautifully manicured grounds, complete with ample sunbeds and seating, many offering views of the cliffs and beach below. The resort is well-positioned, just 10 minutes from the lively town of Albufeira and 15 minutes from Vilamoura, known for its marina and championship golf courses. The hotel boasts two restaurants: the Madeira Restaurant, which offers buffet-style meals, and Il Basilico Algarve, serving à la carte dishes. Breakfast is served at the Madeira Restaurant, featuring a selection of cold meats, cheeses, fruits, and hot food. Guests on a bed-and-breakfast plan can either dine at Il Basilico Algarve or explore nearby Olhos de Água, a charming oceanfront village just a 10-minute walk away, offering a variety of local restaurants. Offer Details Book a trip to PortoBay Falésia by 31 October 2024 and receive savings of up to €600pp for travel between 01 November 2024 and 31 October 2025. A seven night stay at PortoBay Falésia is priced from €900pp (was €1,500pp saving €600pp) based on two sharing a twin room on a B&B basis, this includes return flights and transfers. Visit tropicalsky.co.uk for more information and to book.

Winter Sun and wellness go hand-in-hand. This winter and spring, follow 23  Setouchi Journeys  multi-day itineraries and immerse yourself in wholesome offerings in Japan’s Setouchi region! Inspired by the country’s well-known wellness traditions from  shinrin-yoku  (forest bathing) and  qi  spots to Kon Mari, the destination offers plenty of activities and attractions that inspire travellers to reconnect with themselves and their inner peace. Setouchi DMO  is inviting visitors to explore a slice of Japan at a more leisurely pace. The destination, formed by seven prefectures including Okayama, Kagawa and Hiroshima, has launched a series of 23 curated thematic itineraries –  Setouchi Journeys , lasting between 3-5 nights, designed to introduce travellers to slow travel and to encourage them to explore fascinating highlights rich in centuries-old culture, iconic Japanese cuisine, and idyllic island landscapes. The Setouchi Region is located in western Japan and surrounds Japan’s largest inland sea. To access the region from the UK there are direct flights to Tokyo from London Heathrow with British Airways and Japan Airlines, from there it is a 4.5 – 5 hour journey via Shinkansen to stations in the region including Shin-Kobe, Himeji, Okayama, Hiroshima and Shin-Yamaguchi. Experience a Sake-Brewing Inspired Wellness Ritual Amid Nature’s Bounty in Mitoyo City! Chichibugahama Beach in Mitoyo City, Kagawa Prefuncture  is a popular bathing spot, best known for a dazzling natural phenomenon, the Mirror of the Heavens,  ocurring at low tide when tide pools and the sky blends into each other seamlessly in a still evening.  As above, so below, travellers who dare to climb to the summit 352 metres above sea level at the top of  Mt Shiude will be rewarded with the phenomenal view of being amid  hydrangeas in summer and cherry blossoms in the spring.  For a unique cultural immersion book a stay at the  Mitoyotsuru TOJI ,  a private guesthouse in a Sake Brewery that was founded in 1877. Guests are invited  to ‘Brew a New You’ following a wellness ritual that mimics the sake-making process . The experience includes husking (undressing), rinsing in a steaming bath, fermenting in bath salts made from sake lees in the Grand Brewing Bath that’s still fed by the same mountain-sourced groundwater, soaking in converted barrels, relaxing in the sauna, and then ageing, or getting a good night’s sleep! Guests can also sample various sakes during their stay. Rejuvenate at Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring resort Combining fitness with proper pampering, pay a visit to  Dogo Onsen Honkan  in Matsuyama in this  5-day curated itinerary  through Seto inland sea, completed this July after an elaborate five-year restoration. Visitors can expect to unwind with a sacred Japanese ritual in this symbolic bathhouse, the main attraction of the wider Dogo Onsen area which dates back around 3,000 years. The bathing experience here is fed by 18 naturally flowing hot springs whose soothing alkaline waters are ideal for skin care, alongside the many other therapeutic benefits of balneotherapy. In this main bathhouse there are two public bath options – the main Kami no Yu (Bath of the Gods) and the smaller Tama no Yu (Bath of the Spirits), with four bathing courses to follow in separate male and female areas. After a refreshing onsen, you can relax in a traditional yukata robe, tour the Yushinden ,  the Japanese Imperial Family’s private bathroom, with calming sounds of the Toki Taikodrum from the building’s turret, which has been around since 1894. The area includes two additional smaller bathhouses, temples, a Park set in the grounds of the former Yuzuki Castle and a Sky Walk where visitors can enjoy a footbath with a view.  Cycling holiday through Shimanami Kaido sea road The  Shimanami Kaido  is a scenic cycle route that opened in 1999 connecting Onomichi city in Hiroshima prefecture and Imabari in Ehime and has been cited as one of the best cycling spots in the world. Traversing six islands in the Seto Inland Sea, known for their Mediterranean climate, quiet fishing villages and temples and each offer something a little different – from Oshima’s pirate history and the 700 Buddha statues on Innoshima, to Ikuchijima’s lemon groves and the fruit-forward craft beers and thalassotherapy of Omishima. The route  can be enjoyed in either direction with bike rentals available from either Shimanami Rental Cycle at Onomichi Port or Imabari Central Cycling Terminal in Imabari city and there are around 140 cycle oases along the route offering rest stops and guest houses. For experienced cyclists the whole route can be completed in around four hours, however, most people take at least two days before returning to their starting place by ferry. Ominichi Port is open between 7am-7pm (March to November) and 8am-6pm (December to February). Imabari Central Cycling Terminal is open between 8am-8pm (March to November) and 8am-6pm (December to February).

Welcome 2025 somewhere different this New Year’s Eve. Ireland’s premier online travel company, Click&Go Holidays, has a variety of Europe’s favourite city destinations available. Enjoy a three night stay, taking in New Year’s Eve, in either a 4 or 5 star hotel with flights from just €479! Every city has its own special way to celebrate the beginning of a new year. Fireworks, champagne, light shows, parties and parades which only happen once a year. Discover all these quirky New Year traditions at the very best cities around Europe. New Years Eve in Lisbon – 3-night Lisbon City Break from €479pp From €479 per person  for the  4* Hotel 3K Madrid.   Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel on 30 December 2024.  Price includes:  ·         Return flights from Dublin to Lisbon    ·         3 nights in the  4* Hotel 3K Madrid, Lisbon ·         On a Room Only basis  ·         Airport taxes & charges   ·          Link to offer here. New Years Eve in Berlin – 3-night Berlin City Break from €499pp From €499 per person  for the  4* Ku’damm 101 Hotel.   Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel on 30 December 2024.  Price includes:  ·         Return flights from Dublin to Berlin    ·         3 nights in the  4* Ku’damm 101 Hotel ,  Berlin ·         On a Room Only basis  ·         Airport taxes & charges   ·          Link to offer here. New Years Eve in Amsterdam – 3-night Amsterdam City Break from €559pp From €559 per person  for the  4* WestCord Fashion Hotel.   Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel on 30 December 2024.  Price includes:  ·         Return flights from Dublin to Amsterdam    ·         3 nights in the  4* WestCord Fashion Hotel, Amsterdam ·         On a Bed & Breakfast basis  ·         Airport taxes & charges   ·          Link to offer here. Luxury New Years Eve in Krakow – 3-night Krakow City Break from €599pp From €599 per person  for the  5* Niebieski Art Hotel & Spa.   Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing for travel on 30 December 2024.  Price includes:  ·         Return flights from Dublin to Krakow    ·         3 nights in the  5* Niebieski Art Hotel & Spa, Krakow ·         On a Bed & Breakfast basis  ·         Airport taxes & charges   ·          Link to offer here.

When it comes to a warm getaway packed with both adventure and relaxation, Tenerife is a prime spot. Located in Puerto de la Cruz, this special 7-night stay at the 4* Alua Tenerife hotel promises a fantastic escape. Here’s a look at what you can expect from this holiday package. What’s Included in Your Tenerife Holiday Package Stay at the Alua Tenerife Hotel The Alua Tenerife Hotel offers comfort and style for a relaxing retreat. Here, you’ll enjoy spacious rooms, inviting common areas, and direct access to plenty of local attractions. The hotel’s gardens and refreshing pool areas make for a great holiday. Rooms: Choose from various accommodation types, each offering modern amenities, cosy beds, and fantastic views. Dining: Alua Tenerife serves up a range of local and international dishes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Facilities: Relax by the pool, work out in the fitness center, or unwind at the spa. There’s even a dedicated kids’ club to keep young ones entertained. Puerto de la Cruz This town on Tenerife’s northern coast is known for its black-sand beaches, volcanic landscapes, and cobblestone streets. From botanical gardens to the world-renowned Loro Parque zoo, Puerto de la Cruz provides endless exploration opportunities. What to Do in Puerto de la Cruz With a week to explore, you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy Puerto de la Cruz’s top attractions: Loro Parque – Home to exotic animals and colorful shows, this wildlife park is ideal for a family outing. Playa Jardin Beach – Relax on black volcanic sands, with easy access to beachside cafes. Botanical Gardens – These gardens are a must-see for any plant lover, with rare species and tropical blooms from around the world. La Orotava – Just a short drive away, this town offers historic sites, colonial architecture, and scenic views. Additional Information Duration: 7 nights Location: Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife, Canary Islands Departure: Multiple options available Rooms: Options for different room setups for couples, families, and groups. Pricing and Booking This Love Holidays package is designed to offer a great value holiday experience. Prices start at €379pp for a 7 night stay this December, with return flights, luggage and breakfast included. Visit loveholidays.ie to book.

Located on a tropical island in the Noonu Atoll, Maldives,  Sun Siyam Iru Fushi  offers a retreat inspired by its gorgeous surroundings. With water villas stretching over the lagoon and thatched-roofed suites with bright, airy decor, the resort embodies a true Indian Ocean paradise. Guests can choose from a variety of luxurious villas and retreats, like the cosy Beach Villas ideal for families, or the Sunset Horizon Water Villa with breathtaking sunset views. For larger gatherings, the Celebrity Retreat provides exclusive amenities, including a private pool, three bedrooms, and a billiards room for groups of up to ten. Days here are filled with relaxation and adventure, from water sports to unwinding in the pool. A selection of restaurants caters to every taste, with Islander’s Grill serving grilled seafood and offering elegant dining with a lagoon view. For ultimate relaxation, the award-winning Spa by Thalgo invites guests to experience true comfort with treatments inspired by nature. Just a short boat ride away lies Siyam World, another family-friendly resort, making it easy to combine stays for the perfect Sun Siyam escape. Book a trip to Sun Siyam Iru Fushi by 5 November 2024 and receive savings of €1100 pp for travel between now and 31 October 2025. A seven night stay at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is priced from €3000pp (was €4100pp saving €1100pp) based on two sharing a Deluxe Beach Villa on an all-inclusive basis, this includes return flights and transfers. Visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk for more information.

TUI’s exciting one-day adventure to  Lapland  is packed with festive activities from start to finish for the whole family, including a meeting with Santa himself! We’ve prepared the best deals so you can visit this winter wonderland yourself. The day will take place at the beautiful Kittila’s Snow Village, with a huge choice of things to do. Children can experience all the fun of the snow slide, or learn how to drive a miniature skidoo. Short husky-led sleigh rides are also on offer, and the day trip offers the chance to see the village’s ice-built bar and chapel as well. There’s also plenty of arty activities on-hand in the huts to get you out of the cold weather, and when it’s your time to meet with Santa himself, you’ll visit his log cabin deep in the woods. 7-December-2024, Dublin to Lapland, one-day trip, €759pp Head on a winter escape – Winter 2025 deals: 10-December-2024, Dublin to Amsterdam,  Hotel Artemis Amsterdam , 4*, RO, 2 nights from €239pps 20-December-2024, Dublin to Tenerife,  TUI SUNEO Tamaimo Tropical , 3*, Puerto de Santiago, SC, 7 nights from €799pps 16-January-2025, Dublin to Lanzarote,  Tabiba  , 3*, Costa Teguise, SC, 7 nights from €479pps Marella Cruise – 11-January-2025, Dublin to Tenerife, Atlantic Islands on board  Marella Explorer,  AI, 7 nights from €999pps

This joyful and festive season,  Quinta do Lago  invites guests to experience a luxury holiday escape, celebrating Christmas with friends and family in the beautiful Algarve! The high-end resort is offering an enchanting array of events and activities for all to create magical memories going into the new year. From festive culinary delights, live music and entertainment and a Christmas Light Switch On, this year’s Christmas getaway at Quinta do Lago is a truly sparkling occasion for all the family. Here’s What’s On Advent Sunday Roast  1st December- 22nd December from 12:00-16:00 at  Dano’s Sports Bar & Restaurant To commence the start of the yuletide season, every Sunday from the 1st December, Quinta do Lago is hosting a delicious Advent Sunday Roast. The countdown is on for Christmas with mouth-watering roasts complete with fresh seasonal vegetables grown on site, finishing the festive meal with delectable desserts. Christmas Lights Switch On and Christmas Market  1st December from 16:00-23:00 at Dano’s Sports Bar & Restaurant Watch the grand lighting of the resort’s Christmas tree and immerse in the festivities with live music from 20:00. Explore the market with fairy-light lined stalls showcasing handcrafted gifts, regional treats and of course tasty food and wine offerings. Christmas Lunch  25th December from 12:30-16:00 at  Bovino Steakhouse On Christmas Day the resort presents guests with classic holiday favourites for a magical dining experience, along with entertainment for little ones and live music. See the Christmas menu here Boxing Day  26th December from 12:00-17:00 at Dano’s Sports Bar & Restaurant Continuing the celebrations into Boxing Day, families and little guests are welcome to Dano’s sports bar for live music, entertainment and activities such as; movie screenings and face painting. For adults, it’s the perfect place to raise a glass to the festivities and look forward to a joyful  new year ahead.  A 7 night stay in the boutique Magnolia hotel is priced at just €830 for 2 people sharing. For further information on Quinta do Lago, please visit  https://www.quintadolago.com/en .