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Athens now comes in three flavours thanks to Grecotel’s latest spruce-up - townhouse chic at THE DOLLI , Riviera resort living at Cape Sounio , and new to the line-up boutique lake-side cool at The Roc Club . Pick one, pair two or hop between all three for a holiday that lets you taste the capital from every angle. THE DOLLI at Acropolis Previously featured, still irresistible. A 1920s mansion in Plaka turned 46-key hotel-maison, layered with Picasso sketches and ancient artefacts. The heated rooftop pool pours straight into the Acropolis, while the new Gymnasium and after-hours museum tours keep culture-hungry guests on their toes. July mid-week rates found online begin around €790 for a Bijou Room, higher-category suites top €2,400. Cape Sounio Forty minutes down the coast, this pine-scented resort has emerged from a head-to-toe refresh. Expect a slick new pool deck, open-kitchen dining and a 400 m² spa, all framed by sunsets over the Temple of Poseidon. High-summer rooms currently list from €200 a night for a Garden View bungalow, rising to around €650 for waterfront suites. The Roc Club Brand-new this season, The Roc Club tucks 34 rooms into the rocks beside Lake Vouliagmeni, every one facing the water or Astir Marina. The club has a grey-marble overflow pool carved into the cliff, yoga terraces in the pines and a rooftop restaurant that makes breakfast feel like a Riviera film set. Walk to Blue Flag beaches, yacht-watch along the marina promenade or swim year-round in the lake’s warm, spring-fed waters. High-summer rooms at The Roc Club  currently start from about €630 per night for a Sea-View Deluxe Room , with early-July availability on major booking sites showing entry rates around €628 to €719. Ready to pick your Athens adventure? Townhouse or beach, Grecotel now lets you have both!

You can now find one corner of Paris wrapped up like a huge Louis Vuitton steamer trunk. The silver-and-leather façade is not an art project but the disguise for what will become the maison’s first hotel, scheduled to welcome guests in 2026 at numbers 103-111 of Champs-Élysées avenue. The monumental cover keeps renovation dust at bay, and it also doubles as marketing theatre, reminding passers-by that Louis Vuitton’s story began with luggage and that the next chapter will again revolve around travel. A Building with Stories to Tell Long before HSBC cubicles filled its rooms, the address was the opulent Elysée Palace Hotel , completed in 1896. Legend has it that Mata Hari was arrested here in 1917; the walls have seen spies, bankers and now fashion executives come and go. By reincarnating the site as a hotel, Louis Vuitton is, quite literally, returning the property to hospitality after a century-long detour. The building’s notable features are: Footprint:  roughly 6,000 m², five times the size of the existing Louis Vuitton flagship next door. Sight-lines:  upper-storey windows reportedly frame both the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower (CEO Pietro Beccari calls it “the most spectacular view in the world”). For Irish travellers, the location could hardly be more convenient: Charles-de-Gaulle is a 90-minute hop from Dublin, and the RER B/Metro 9 link drops you two blocks from the future lobby. Expect plenty of Aer Lingus and Ryanair fare wars once opening dates firm up. Booking Timeline & Rates The brand has yet to release room counts, opening quarter or tariffs. Cheval Blanc debuted at €1,500+ per night; industry watchers forecast Vuitton to nudge that higher, especially for suites whose windows align with the Eiffel Tower sparkle-show. Our advice - register for the LV newsletter and keep an eye on soft-opening packages. traditionally a sweet spot for early adopters. Getting There from Ireland Direct flights operate daily from Dublin to both CDG and Orly (average 2 hrs 05 mins). Hop on the RER B to Châtelet–Les Halles , switch to Metro 1 westbound and exit at George V . You’ll surface 120 metres from the hotel entrance.  If your luggage is a bit too heavy, pre-book a fixed-fare taxi (€55 CDG) or, in full Vuitton style, an electric bateau  along the Seine to Pont de l’Alma followed by a vintage Citroën DS transfer.

It’s nearly International Yoga Day, and to celebrate we’ve compiled a guide to some of the best yoga retreats around the globe! It’s International Yoga Day, and to celebrate we’ve compiled a guide to some of the best yoga retreats around the globe! In an increasingly busy world, yoga retreats offer a sort of oasis, providing the perfect environment for rest, rejuvenation, and self-discovery. We’ve found retreats that combine beautiful natural settings, expert guidance, and comprehensive wellness programs to help you deepen your practice and find true inner peace! 1. Ananda in the Himalayas, India Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, Ananda offers a luxurious blend of traditional Indian wellness practices, including Ayurveda, Yoga, and Vedanta, combined with international therapies. Programs: Ananda’s yoga offerings include Hatha, Gati, and Kriya yoga, suitable for practitioners at all levels. Price: Packages start at around €460 per night, which includes accommodation, meals, yoga sessions, and wellness consultations. 2. Yoga Barn, Bali, Indonesia Set in the spiritual heart of Bali, Yoga Barn is a community center offering a wide variety of yoga classes, workshops, and holistic healing therapies. The lush, tropical surroundings and a strong sense of community make it a favourite among travelers. Programs: The retreat offers classes in Vinyasa flow, Hatha, Yin, and more, alongside workshops on topics like meditation and ecstatic dance. Price: Classes are priced individually, starting at around €9 per session. Multi-day retreat packages start at approximately €735 for a week, including accommodation and some meals. Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, Bahamas Sivananda Ashram Yoga Retreat, is part of the global Sivananda network, known for its structured and authentic approach to yoga and spirituality. Situated on a stunning beach, Sivananda offers a one-of-a-kind immersive experience. Programs: The daily schedule includes yoga classes, meditation sessions, and lectures on yoga philosophy. Price: Dormitory accommodation starts at €92 per night, including meals and all yoga programs. Private rooms and beachfront cottages are available at higher rates. Como Shambhala Estate, Bali, Indonesia Known for its luxurious approach to wellness, Como Shambhala Estate offers a tailored experience with a focus on holistic health. The retreat is set in a lush jungle with natural springs, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and rejuvenation! Programs: Guests can choose from a variety of yoga styles, detox programs, and wellness consultations. The retreat also offers bespoke wellness programs tailored to individual needs. Price: Rates start at approximately €550 per night, which includes accommodation, meals, and daily wellness activities. Personalized wellness programs are priced separately. 5. Blue Spirit, Costa Rica Located on a hilltop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Blue Spirit offers a quiet environment for yoga and meditation. The retreat is known for its commitment to sustainability and its beautiful, natural surroundings. Programs: Blue Spirit hosts a variety of yoga retreats throughout the year, led by renowned international instructors. The programs often include workshops on spirituality and holistic health. Price: Weekly retreat packages start at around €1,650, including accommodation, meals, and all yoga sessions. Kalani Oceanside Retreat, Hawaii, USA Kalani is an educational retreat center that offers a mix of yoga, dance, and Hawaiian culture. Located on the Big Island, it provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature while deepening your yoga practice. Programs: The retreat offers daily yoga classes, workshops on Hawaiian culture, and wellness activities such as massage and Watsu. Price: Rates start at €110 per night for shared accommodation, including meals and most activities. Private accommodations are available at higher rates. 7. Samahita Retreat, Thailand Samahita Retreat is a beachfront wellness center that focuses on yoga, detox, and fitness programs. The location and comprehensive wellness offerings make it a popular choice for those seeking a holistic retreat experience. Programs: Samahita offers a range of yoga styles, including Ashtanga and Vinyasa, alongside detox and fitness programs. Price: Retreat packages start at around €1,375 for a week, including accommodation, meals, and all activities.

No matter how well-planned your family holiday is, the reality of a road trip can test even the most patient parents. Long hours in the car, restless kids, and patchy signal can turn the journey into a slog, unless you’ve packed a few clever distractions. The good news? You don’t need gadgets or Wi-Fi. Sometimes, the best way to make the miles fly by is with old-school road trip games that everyone can join in on. Here are 8 screen-free games  that bring back the fun and actually get the whole car talking. 1. The Licence Plate Challenge Best for: Kids who like collecting things How it works: Each passenger tries to spot licence plates from different counties or countries, depending on where you’re driving. In Ireland, you can tick off counties (DL for Donegal, MH for Meath, and so on); abroad, keep an eye out for international plates. Tip: Set a time limit or add bonus points for rare plates. 2. Would You Rather? Best for: Stirring up laughter and debate How it works: One person asks a “Would you rather…” question (e.g. “Would you rather have a pet dinosaur or a flying carpet?”), and everyone in the car answers and explains why. It’s fun, often ridiculous, and sparks conversations that last longer than the questions. Tip: Let kids take turns coming up with their own. 3. The Alphabet Game Best for: All ages How it works: Players race to find words on road signs, billboards, or shop fronts that begin with each letter of the alphabet, from A to Z. The first to complete the set wins. Tip: Limit it to one category, like animals, foods, or countries, or go backwards from Z to A for a tougher challenge. 4. Name That Tune Best for: Music-loving families How it works: One person hums or whistles a song, and everyone else tries to guess the title. If you have a Bluetooth speaker or pre-downloaded playlist, you can also play snippets and race to name the song and artist. Tip: Make it a tournament! Keep score over the course of the trip and crown a winner by the time you arrive. 5. 20 Questions Best for: Sharp thinkers How it works: One person thinks of a person, place, or thing. The others ask up to 20 yes-or-no questions to figure out what it is. The catch? They have to guess correctly before question 20. Tip: Stick to a theme, like holiday destinations or animals, to keep it fresh. 6. Road Trip Bingo Best for: Younger kids How it works: Create bingo cards before the trip with common sights (tractor, roundabout, wind turbine, cow, yellow car). Kids check off boxes as they see them. First to get five in a row shouts “Bingo!” Tip: No printer? Use a notebook and list items manually. They’ll enjoy helping you come up with ideas. 7. Story Chain Best for: Creative types How it works: One person starts a story with a sentence (“Once upon a time, in a town full of goats...”), then each person adds a sentence to continue the tale. It gets wild quickly, and the more dramatic the better. Tip: Set a timer and try to reach a satisfying ending before the clock runs out. 8. The Quiet Game  Best for: When everyone needs a breather How it works: Challenge everyone to stay silent for as long as possible. The first to talk loses. Surprisingly effective, especially if there’s a small prize for the winner. Tip: After an hour of story chains and singalongs, silence can feel like a luxury. Before your next family adventure, tuck these ideas into the glovebox. You might find that the journey becomes the best part of the holiday.

When Ryanair launched flights to Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, few saw it as a hiking opportunity. But for those willing to look beyond the typical Balkan itineraries, this small city unlocks access to one of Europe’s most underappreciated landscapes - the Dinaric Alps. And just 45 minutes from the city centre is one of the most remarkable half-day hikes you can do in Europe, without crowds, ski lifts, or packaged tours - Rikavac Fortress and the Old Road to Lake Skadar. The Hike - Old Road to Lake Skadar via Rikavac Start from the old town of Virpazar, a tiny lakeside village that can be reached easily by train or bus from Podgorica. From there, a series of old Roman and Ottoman trade paths head uphill past olive groves and stone ruins to Rikavac Fortress, a remote, crumbling 19th-century outpost with a panoramic view over Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans. The route is about 10km round trip, and while it’s not technically difficult, the heat and elevation change (around 500m) make it a satisfying challenge. You'll pass goats and the occasional shepherd - and more than likely, no other hikers. Descending to the lake, you’ll end your walk in Virpazar, where you can cool off with a boat ride or a glass of local Vranac wine at one of the floating cafés. What to Do in Podgorica Podgorica itself is small. It’s not polished - and that’s what makes it interesting. There are boutique shops and a stunning old town quarter, alongside brutalist architecture, Ottoman bridges, and locals drinking Turkish coffee. Notable stops: Stara Varoš: The old Ottoman quarter, with cobbled streets and a handful of still-operating mosques. Niagara Falls (yes, really): A surprisingly impressive waterfall on the Cijevna River just outside the city. Duklja Ruins: The remains of a Roman settlement, scattered across a hill just 10 minutes from downtown. Where to Stay In Podgorica, Hotel Hemera is a stylish boutique option in the city centre, with strong espresso, smart design, and a very good in-house restaurant. For a more nature-focused stay, book a lakeside guesthouse near Virpazar like Eco Resort Cermeniza , run by a local winemaking family with easy trail access. Getting There with Ryanair Ryanair flies direct to Podgorica from Dublin, with flight times around 3 hours. Fares can dip as low as €40 return, making it one of the most affordable routes to a completely off-radar European destination. The airport is just 15 minutes from the city centre, and Virpazar can be reached in another 30 minutes by local train, making it simple, scenic, and perfect for a hiking base.

Skiing is often seen as a group trip with shared chalets, long lunches with friends, and après-ski with a crowd. But what if you flipped the script? Could you go skiing in the Alps solo and actually enjoy it? The short answer: absolutely. Skiing on your own offers something different - more freedom, more focus, and a chance to move entirely at your own pace. A solo ski trip can be one of the most rewarding winter experiences. But not all ski resorts are built for it. You need somewhere easy to navigate, with a good mix of slopes, a solid solo-friendly atmosphere, and accommodation that doesn’t assume you're arriving in a group of 4. And perhaps most importantly, somewhere you can find good food and friendly faces when you want them. One place that ticks all those boxes? Méribel , in the French Alps. Why Méribel Works for Solo Skiers Located in Les Trois Vallées , Méribel is perfectly positioned - right in the middle of the largest connected ski area in the world. With 600km of pistes  linking Courchevel, Val Thorens, and more, you can cover serious ground without ever repeating a run. But its central location isn’t the only reason it works for solo skiers. Méribel has a compact, well-organised village with reliable ski lift connections, plenty of ski-in/ski-out accommodation, and an international crowd that makes it easy to blend in. It’s lively without being overwhelming, and there’s a strong English-speaking presence in both the ski schools and the hospitality sector. Most importantly, Méribel’s slopes cater to every ability. If you're looking to push yourself, you can drop into the steeper slopes of Mont Vallon or explore the off-piste runs with a local guide. Prefer something more chill? Cruise the wide blues in the Altiport area! Where to Stay -  Hotel Le Savoy For solo travellers, Hotel Le Savoy  strikes the right balance between style and comfort without the sense that you're paying for space you won’t use. Centrally located in Méribel village, this four-star boutique hotel is just a short walk to the ski lifts and has excellent service. The rooms are well-sized (even the singles), the décor is tastefully alpine without being twee, and there’s a cosy library lounge with a fireplace that’s ideal for reading or unwinding after a day on the slopes. The hotel also has a small wellness area with a sauna and steam room - perfect for solo downtime. Staff are friendly and genuinely helpful, especially for those skiing alone, helping arrange lift passes or recommending quieter trails. They go beyond the usual check-in formalities. Where to Eat -  L'Igloo Restaurant Dining alone in a ski resort can feel awkward if you're stuck between communal tables filled with ski parties. L'Igloo  on the other hand is a stylish, low-lit restaurant located in the centre of Méribel that’s as comfortable for a party of one as it is for a group. Their menu leans into local Savoyard classics with a lighter twist, grilled fish, seasonal soups, and tartiflette. The bar area has counter seating, ideal for solo diners who want a drink and a proper meal. The wine list is also huge, with local bottles by the glass. Getting There and Getting Around Getting to Méribel is relatively straightforward. From Ireland, fly into Geneva , Lyon , or Chambéry . Geneva typically offers the most flight options, with Aer Lingus  and Ryanair  running frequent services from Dublin. From the airport, Méribel is around 2.5 hours by car or transfer . Several shuttle services run directly from Geneva, such as Ben’s Bus and Altibus, which cater well to solo travellers and make the transfer hassle-free. Alternatively, if you're confident on the road, hire a car - Méribel has plenty of parking, especially if you're staying centrally. Once in the resort, everything is walkable, and regular local buses connect different parts of the village. Lift passes cover the entire Trois Vallées, and ski schools (like Oxygène  or ESF Méribel ) offer one-on-one coaching or group lessons that welcome solo skiers. Without anyone to wait for or catch up with, you ski at your own speed. Take that extra run. Skip lunch. Linger over coffee! Skiing solo is more than possible, especially in such a fantastic solo-friendly location like Méribel.

The Stedelijk is not the most famous museum in Amsterdam, but it may be the most important if you want to understand the ideas shaping our time. Located in Museumplein , alongside the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, the Stedelijk stands out for anyone interested in modern and contemporary art, design, and visual culture. A Museum That’s Always in Motion The Stedelijk (Dutch for “municipal”) first opened in 1895, but the museum’s identity as a home for modern art truly came into focus in the early 20th century. It was among the first in Europe to collect works from then-unknown artists like Kandinsky, Malevich, and Mondrian. Today, it holds over 90,000 works spanning painting, sculpture, photography, film, digital art, graphic design, and even performance. The Stedelijk’s reputation comes not just from its collection, but its curation. This is a museum that, over the years, has constantly asked viewers to think, not just admire. Exhibits change frequently and tend to mix media, eras, and ideas. A retrospective of a post-war painter might be shown alongside video installations, or mid-century graphic design placed in dialogue with street art and protest posters. The Building  The museum’s original red-brick building now sits beside a striking extension known locally as “The Bathtub” - a white structure designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects that caused plenty of controversy when it opened in 2012.  Inside, the spaces are open and adaptable. There is plenty of light in the upper galleries, while lower levels have darker, moodier installations. This is deliberate to how exhibits are staged. What to See While exhibitions rotate regularly, there are a few permanent fixtures and highlights that showcase the museum’s range: De Stijl Movement: The Stedelijk owns one of the world’s most important collections of work by Piet Mondrian and Theo van Doesburg, pioneers of the abstract De Stijl movement. Bauhaus: From László Moholy-Nagy to Marcel Breuer, the museum’s design and furniture collection is deeply rooted in modernism’s most influential schools. Photography and Time-Based Media: The Stedelijk was ahead of the curve in collecting photography and film, with works by artists like Nan Goldin, Rineke Dijkstra, and Steve McQueen. Post-War Rebels: American and European artists who redefined visual art in the mid-20th century - Barnett Newman, Ellsworth Kelly, and Jean Dubuffet feature prominently. Current and recent exhibitions often focus on urgent contemporary issues: migration, digital surveillance, climate, identity politics. The museum does not shy away from the messy! Practical Details The Stedelijk Museum is open daily, including weekends, and late on Fridays. It's just a few tram stops from Amsterdam Centraal, or a 30-minute walk along the canals. Tickets are €20 for adults, and free for visitors under 18, making it one of the more accessible major museums in the city. There’s also an excellent café and shop selling everything from limited-edition art books to design pieces. Getting There with Aer Lingus Travelling to Amsterdam from Ireland is fast and easy, with Aer Lingus offering multiple daily direct flights from Dublin to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport . The flight takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes . From Schiphol, the Stedelijk Museum  is just a 20-minute train and tram ride  away. Take a train to Amsterdam Zuid or Centraal and transfer to Tram 5 or 12, which stop right at Museumplein. Return fares with Aer Lingus typically range from €90 to €180 , depending on the season and how early you book.

While many travellers once knew it only for beach resorts, Tunisia has matured into something far more compelling - a destination full of luxurious comfort with history and fantastic hospitality. If you’re looking for a different kind of Mediterranean escape, Tunisia delivers far more than expected. Where to Stay - Sidi Bou Said Located right above the Gulf of Tunis, Sidi Bou Said is Tunisia’s most photogenic village, and one of its most best places to stay. Buildings here have classic Whitewashed walls, blue shutters, bougainvillea-draped balconies, and alleys which make it feel like a North African Santorini, only with fewer crowds. This is where artists, writers, and thinkers came to recharge - Paul Klee, Simone de Beauvoir, and André Gide among them. The village still draws a creative crowd, but it's also a great base for exploring the capital and nearby ruins. Hotel Pick - La Villa Bleue Located on a hillside with views of the sea, La Villa Bleue is a boutique hotel that mixes traditional Tunisian design with luxury. The interior has arched doorways, handcrafted tilework, and private terraces that open out onto the Mediterranean. It’s tailor-made for guests who want immersion without sacrificing comfort. There’s also an excellent in-house spa, and the staff can arrange everything from private guides to local cooking classes. You’re a short walk from the heart of Sidi Bou Said, but far enough to sleep without a single disruption. Where to Eat - Dar Zarrouk Just a short walk away from La Villa Bleue, Dar Zarrouk serves some of the best food in the region with one of the most enviable views. The menu is full of local ingredients - grilled fish fresh from the gulf, traditional couscous with lamb or octopus, and inventive desserts using dates, pistachios, and orange blossom. It’s popular with locals so reservations are smart, especially for a table on the terrace at sunset. What to Do Start with a visit to the Bardo Museum in Tunis, just a 30-minute drive from Sidi Bou Said. It houses one of the world’s finest collections of Roman mosaics, many excavated from Tunisia’s archaeological sites. Next, take a half-day to explore the ruins of Carthage - the ancient Phoenician city that was once Rome’s fiercest rival. The remains are scattered, with highlights including the Antonine Baths and the Byrsa Hill acropolis, which overlooks the sea. Back in Sidi Bou Said, spend time just walking around. Visit Ennejma Ezzahra, a palace-turned-museum built by a wealthy French musicologist, showcasing traditional Tunisian design and hosting occasional concerts. Then finish your day with mint tea and pine nuts at Café des Nattes. Tunisia offers the Mediterranean without the crowds, and Sidi Bou Said is the ideal base for both relaxing and exploring! Getting There with Aer Lingus Reaching Tunisia from Ireland is increasingly convenient, especially during the spring and summer months. Aer Lingus offers seasonal direct flights from Dublin to Tunis-Carthage International Airport , typically operating several times per week. The flight takes just under three and a half hours , making it a relatively short hop to North Africa. For those visiting Sidi Bou Said, the village is less than a 30-minute drive from the airport. Return fares generally range between €180 and €280 , depending on the season and how early you book.

If you're dreaming of a travel experience that’s both adventurous and social, this last-minute sailing holiday from Solos  might be exactly what you're looking for. Solos is currently offering a €235 discount  on its exclusive seven-night Turkish gulet sailing adventure  along the country’s stunning southwest coast. Designed specifically for solo travellers, this is a unique opportunity to explore the Aegean by traditional wooden boat in the company of like-minded guests. Departing from Fethiye  on 14 June 2025 , the itinerary takes you to a string of spectacular bays and islands including Red Island , Panco Bay , Binlik Bay , Bedirahmi Bay , Yassica Island , and Boynuz Bay . These are places known not for crowds or nightlife, but for their untouched beauty with crystal-clear water, shaded coves, and anchorages perfect for swimming, reading, or simply doing nothing at all. Guests stay aboard a traditional gulet , a type of handcrafted wooden sailing boat, complete with a full crew and a dedicated Solos Tour Leader . You’ll have your own private cabin, all meals included (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and the kind of laid-back luxury that’s hard to find on a traditional group tour. The full package now costs €2,300 per person  (was €2,535), and includes: Return flights and transfers Airport taxes and charges Solo-use cabin aboard the gulet Full-board dining (breakfast daily, plus lunch and dinner) Welcome drink and information meeting Services of a captain, crew, and Solos Tour Leader throughout the trip With limited cabins available and just weeks to go before departure, this is a standout opportunity for solo travellers who want to meet people, see the world, and still have space to unwind. To book, contact Solos  on 020 8951 2900  or visit www.solosholidays.com .

If you're dreaming of sunny family fun, we’ve got just the deal! This fantastic package from Cassidy Travel includes flights, accommodation, and luggage, and is designed to keep things simple and affordable for families prices at just €1865. What’s Included in the Package Cassidy Travel’s Family Sun  deal takes you to the beautiful resort town of Palma, Majorca  for a full week of sun and leisure. Here’s what you can expect: Travel Date : 26th June 2025 – ideal for an early summer break just as the school holidays begin. Duration : 7 Nights. Accommodation : Stay at the charming 3 Globales Apartamentos Nova *, a family-friendly apartment complex perched by the soft sands of Son Matías Beach . Board Basis : Self-Catering – perfect if you like the freedom to explore local eateries or prepare meals your way. Inclusions : Return flights for four 20kg checked-in luggage per person Seven nights’ accommodation in a family apartment This package is available for 2 adults and 2 kids , with prices starting at just €1,865 total . That’s just over €66 per person, per night – with flights and luggage included! Where You’ll Be Staying The Globales Apartamentos Nova   official site here  is perfectly located in Palma Nova , one of Majorca’s most beloved family destinations. It offers: Family-friendly apartments with balconies and kitchenettes A gorgeous outdoor pool A poolside bar  (you’re on holiday too, after all) Beautiful landscaped gardens Just steps from the golden sands of Son Matías Beach You’ll be surrounded by restaurants, shops, and fun activities! What To Do in Palma Palma isn’t just about beaches – though they are spectacular. Here are some top picks for family fun during your stay: Marineland Mallorca : See dolphins, sea lions, and exotic birds up close. Katmandu Park : A theme park packed with mini-golf, laser games, and a 4D cinema – a huge hit with kids. Palma Aquarium : Discover over 700 species of marine life in one of Europe’s top aquariums. Historical Palma : Take a short trip to the city centre to see the La Seu Cathedral  and walk through the Old Town. Price & Booking Total Price : From €1,865 (for 2 adults + 2 children) Inclusions : Return flights, luggage, 7 nights’ accommodation (self-catering) Travel Date : 26th June 2025 How to Book : Visit   cassidytravel.ie . This deal is a fantastic value for a family of four, with sun, sea, and space to unwind without the hassle of DIY bookings!

The days are getting longer, temperatures are rising and there’s no better time to trade grey skies for golden beaches. Fancy the sun-soaked shores of Santa Ponsa, the beachside buzz of Benidorm or the picture-perfect charm of Santorini? Your perfect Spring break awaits with these special deals from Cassidy Travel! SANTA PONÇA Travel 26th April 2025 5 Night Package 4* Reverence Life Hotel (Adults Only) Flights, 10kg Luggage & Transfers Included Prices from €405pp based on 2 sharing Stunning beachfront resort with 4 outdoor pools, swim-up areas & free spa and wellness centre.   SANTORINI Travel 2nd May 2025 7 Night Package 3* Villa Livadaros Direct Flights from Dublin Prices from €359pp based on 2 sharing Family-owned village guesthouse with beautiful swimming pool, sun terrace and gardens.   BENIDORM Travel 25th May 2025 7 Night Package 4* La Estación Return Flights and Accommodation Included Prices from €455pp based on 2 sharing Modern hotel with stunning city and mountain views, freshwater swimming pool, sun terrace and gym. To book, visit Cassidytravel.ie .

Portugal National Day, officially known as Dia de Portugal, de Camões e das Comunidades Portuguesas , is held every year on June 10  as a celebration of national pride, culture, language, and the Portuguese diaspora around the world. It honours the death of Luís de Camões , the country’s greatest poet and author of Os Lusíadas , a sweeping epic of exploration and empire. While it’s marked with official ceremonies and speeches, Portugal’s National Day is also about food, music, and local celebrations that bring communities together. Here’s how to experience June 10 like a local - and skip the tourist version! Lisbon Lisbon is the heart of National Day’s official events. Every year, the Portuguese President leads a state ceremony that includes military parades, the raising of the flag, and the awarding of honors to distinguished citizens. These events often rotate locations, but Belém  and the Jerónimos Monastery  are common focal points due to their national significance. Once the formalities are over, the capital comes alive. Head to the Alfama  or Bairro Alto  neighbourhoods for live fado music, street food, and an electric atmosphere. Restaurants serve up patriotic specials, with bacalhau in its many forms, grilled sardines, and pastéis de nata straight from the oven!  Don’t leave without watching the sun set over the Tagus River from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte . Locals will be up there with a bottle of vinho verde and nowhere to be. Porto In Porto, the celebrations tend to lean more local and relaxed. The waterfront terraces along the Ribeira will be packed , and there will be pop-up stages with traditional folk music plus plenty of port wine flowing by the glass. While the big crowds hit Lisbon, Porto is a more intimate look at Portuguese pride! Make a visit to the Casa de Camilo , dedicated to writer Camilo Castelo Branco, who, alongside Camões, helped shape Portuguese literature. It’s a reminder that this is a cultural holiday as much as a national one. In the evening, locals spill out along the Douro River , and unofficial fireworks often light up the night sky. The Algarve If you’re in the Algarve on June 10, don’t expect huge processions. Small towns like Lagos , Tavira , and Faro  host their own events, including open-air concerts, local crafts markets, and community feasts featuring everything from cataplana seafood stews to freshly baked pão de ló. This is a great way to see the slower, community-focused side of Portugal.  We recommend to find a seaside town with a local taverna and stay for dinner. Chances are, you’ll end up in a festival atmosphere without trying. Getting There with Aer Lingus Reaching Portugal for National Day is simple and stress-free with Aer Lingus, which offers direct flights from Dublin to both Lisbon and Faro, with seasonal services also available to Porto. Flight time clocks in at just under three hours, making it an easy long weekend getaway. Return fares typically range from €120 to €220, depending on how early you book and your travel dates. If you're in Portugal on June 10, don’t just observe - join in!