Travel and Explore with Joan Scales, September 2023
Destination Anywhere - on Dublinsouthfm - 18 September, listen back here
Dublin Airport joins top 20 best connected world airports
Dublin Airport has been ranked in the top 20 airports in the world in terms of the number of unique destinations offered to passengers. Research by Simon Calder for the Independent newspaper has found that a total of 193 destinations around the globe can now be reached from Dublin Airport. The top five airports are Istanbul (302), Frankfurt (274), Amsterdam (261) Paris CDG (259), Dubai and Dallas tied for fifth place with 251 destinations. Dallas was the only US airport to make top of the list.
DUB - also take the slot as best Airport Casual Dining
The Fallow Kitchen & Bar in Terminal 2 after it was named Airport Casual Dining Restaurant of the Year (Europe) at the 2023 Airport Food & Beverage (FAB) + Hospitality Awards in Bangkok.
Christmas Market Time is Coming Up
The Cassidy Travel new Christmas Markets Brochure is in the shops now and and there are some incredible deals to European cities under €200.
Dominican Republic
American Holidays - if you ever fancied a holiday in the Caribbean. read the reasons to go to the Dominican Republic - here.
Jordan - what is it like to visit this ancient country - Tony Flynn tells us
The Tanaiste Michael Martin was in Israel and Jordan recently and I thought I would be interesting to hear what Jordan is like. We do have a four times weekly flight to Tel Aviv in Israel with El El, but Tony how to people get to Jordan?
I asked Tony Flynn vice president of NEBO Tours to tell us all about this fascinating country in the Middle East where it has always been peaceful. Listen to Part Two to hear more.
I asked Tony Flynn vice president of NEBO Tours to tell us all about this fascinating country in the Middle East where it has always been peaceful. Listen to Part Two to hear more.
Ireland News - The Donegal Camino, Glamping in NI and Culture Night
The Donegal Camino – what it was like to climb Errigal at night and visit Tory Island where it was like the Caribbean.
Culture Night– what’s on in Dublin South
I picked three events that would appeal to our listeners in Dublin South.
. Join Dodder Valley Cycling for a history and heritage tour along the banks of the Dodder. A unique cycling tours for everyone to try. Begins at City Weir in Firhouse, Templeogue at 6.00pm
. Take a tour of Rathfarnham Castle After Hours from 4 – 8.30pm Learn the history of this Elizabethan Castle and about the people who lived here.
. Escape into the blissful haven in the Secret Garden between Tallaght Library and Red Rua. The Soft Space is curated for neurodivergent adults and children and will include sensory lighting installations, chill-out soundscapes, relaxation zones and virtual reality meditation experience. There will be dance, music, and art classes. From 4 – 10 pm. You can see all the events on culturenight.ie
Glamping for Mid Term in Northern Ireland – Camping, Caravanning and Glamping are very big in Northern Ireland and there is a huge range of places to stay. Many of the sites have outdoor hot tubs and great playgrounds for children, check out midterm breaks on discovernorthernireland.com.
Christmas theme
News that Santa’s Gingerbread house tickets are on sale for Winterval in Waterford. One of the biggest Christmas festivals in the country is well worth putting on your calendar for this December. Waterford is less than two hours from Dublin South. Book here.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, TwitterX and my website joanscales.com and listen to Destination Anywhere on DublinsouthFM.com
Culture Night– what’s on in Dublin South
I picked three events that would appeal to our listeners in Dublin South.
. Join Dodder Valley Cycling for a history and heritage tour along the banks of the Dodder. A unique cycling tours for everyone to try. Begins at City Weir in Firhouse, Templeogue at 6.00pm
. Take a tour of Rathfarnham Castle After Hours from 4 – 8.30pm Learn the history of this Elizabethan Castle and about the people who lived here.
. Escape into the blissful haven in the Secret Garden between Tallaght Library and Red Rua. The Soft Space is curated for neurodivergent adults and children and will include sensory lighting installations, chill-out soundscapes, relaxation zones and virtual reality meditation experience. There will be dance, music, and art classes. From 4 – 10 pm. You can see all the events on culturenight.ie
Glamping for Mid Term in Northern Ireland – Camping, Caravanning and Glamping are very big in Northern Ireland and there is a huge range of places to stay. Many of the sites have outdoor hot tubs and great playgrounds for children, check out midterm breaks on discovernorthernireland.com.
Christmas theme
News that Santa’s Gingerbread house tickets are on sale for Winterval in Waterford. One of the biggest Christmas festivals in the country is well worth putting on your calendar for this December. Waterford is less than two hours from Dublin South. Book here.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, TwitterX and my website joanscales.com and listen to Destination Anywhere on DublinsouthFM.com
The Home Show - What's the Story with Street Art 2 September, 2023
Interview with Sinead Ryan on the Home Show, Newstalk
Listen back here
Have you noticed an increase in street art in our cities and towns. Far from being graffiti, street art can enhance a neighbourhood and engage citizens in social and political issues and enliven the local surroundings.
Mural or Street Art has become more mainstream in recent years. The main difference between graffiti and street art is that graffiti is a name-based art aimed at an audience of other graffiti artists. Also known as tagging.
Good examples of this are in Liberty Lane in Dublin, behind Wexford Street where the taggers take turns to show their talent to each other. This is unlike street art which is instead based on words, images and symbols aimed at a public audience.
In recent years Street Art has been given more of a platform by councils and local governments, where it can encourage the regeneration of cities and towns. Bristol was one of the first cities to recognise the value of street art, particularly as one of the most famous street artists, Banksy, put it on the map with his “girl with balloons” mural. The city that had suffered from race riots in the 1980s and is now a hub for street art lovers and has an annual festival Interview with of street art. Conor Harrington, an Irish artist’s piece is still on the walls of Bristol ten years later.
See Youtube video from nine years ago here.
Waterford Walls Project – the biggest in Ireland
Waterford Walls is organised by the Walls Project – a company that brings together councils, artists, property owners and sponsors to develop and produce street art. Waterford city has the most murals of any city in Ireland with over 200 now on view. This year they added 52 new pieces of mural art.
The Walls Project has also worked with Limerick, on the Tipperary town regeneration project and currently with Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Council on the Anseo Project. https://www.dlrcoco.ie/meet-artists
In Dundalk, the SEEK festival is transforming what was a border town into one with stunning artwork and is now in its sixth year. I visited both places this summer during their festivals and it is fascinating to see the artists at work. Cork and Galway are also active with street art. See my Instagram and Tiktok Accounts @joanscalestravel
Street Art and the Law in Ireland
Street art installation in Ireland needs planning permission and that can add to the time and cost. Some city and country councils are more involved in street art and will actively help.
For example, Waterford has been running the Waterford Walls Street art festival for nine years. There is a team of staff dedicated to making it happen every year. Following the recent Waterford Walls Festival last month the city now has more than 200 pieces of mural art.
Sinn Fein TD, Eoin Ó Broin is seeking to change the law in this area. He hopes to make it less cumbersome for artists to create street art Public Art Mural Bill. He introduced a Bill to the Dail on the 3rd of February titled, “Public Art Mural (Exempted Development) Bill 2023.” The Bill is currently at the second stage of debates.
If enacted, the Bill will allow artists to create street art, without acquiring planning permission from their local councils.
However it might also mean that people who do graffiti could not be prosecuted – one man’s art is another council’s graffiti. In some cases, owners of buildings will be happy to allow street artists to transform them. Joe Caslin, one of Ireland’s most prolific artists tells of asking the owner of the old Ard Ri Hotel in Waterford – it was a landmark in its time standing high above the Suir River.
He contacted him every week… for a very long time until eventually he gave in and the deserted Ard Ri building how has a beautiful mural called Ar Scáth a Chéile a Mhaireann na Daoine (Under the Shelter of Each Other, People Survive). It is six stories high and 100 metres wide.
See link here.
Dublin City Council and Street Art
Dublin City Council did pursue the artist collective Subset over the murals of David Attenborough on Longwood Avenue, the muralsof Horse Boy in Smithfield and the Think and Wonder mural at Camden Place off Grantham St. The action was finally dropped in February this year, thoughSubset did pay the legal costs.
Dublin City Council does encouage visual arts with the Dublin Canvas project. Artists can apply to paint a street traffic box, those boring grey things on every street corner. It started in 2011 as a small project and is now extended to all three councils.
People can apply to be considered and the boxes are then painted in spring and summer. I have already seen a tranche of new images appearing across the city. DCC provides the chosen artists with the materials in a handy wheely case and a fee of €250. Or €300 if you supply your own materials.
Check out Dublincanvas for the criteria and guidelines. The council does engage with artists and building owners, but the rigorous planning process can take time. There currently no large-scale art works in progress, but there are some in at the early planning stages.
Street Art and Tourism
Another city that has seen significant increase in tourism with its murals is Derry City. The mural of the famous Derry Girls is a huge attraction for the city and is still drawing people to the Walled City.
Who would have thought the people who be queuing up to tour East Belfast – but the murals of the Troubles were a significant form of communication at that time. Belfast has embraced street art and all over the city there are fabulous examples of art. Again, walking tours are bringing people to the city and off the beaten track.
Internationally
Street Art is worldwide – there is hardly a city that does not display social and political messages. Berlin was a hotbed for street art and graffiti. You can browse Instagram to see examples of street art. One of my favourites is Lisbon, where there is an incredible variety of top-class work on view.
There is also an input from corporate sponsorship – Beyond Walls is a non-profit agency that uses a creative lens to address community needs. They have done installations in Brooklyn, Philadelphia and Kings Cross in London. To name a few.
Luxury brands have also taken to street art to get their message out. Christian Laboutin, of the very pricy shoes, had an installation in Great Eastern Street in London, and Gucci took over walls in Milan, Amsterdam, London and New York.
So keep you eyes open when you visit cities and towns to spot the local artwork.
Listen back here
Have you noticed an increase in street art in our cities and towns. Far from being graffiti, street art can enhance a neighbourhood and engage citizens in social and political issues and enliven the local surroundings.
Mural or Street Art has become more mainstream in recent years. The main difference between graffiti and street art is that graffiti is a name-based art aimed at an audience of other graffiti artists. Also known as tagging.
Good examples of this are in Liberty Lane in Dublin, behind Wexford Street where the taggers take turns to show their talent to each other. This is unlike street art which is instead based on words, images and symbols aimed at a public audience.
In recent years Street Art has been given more of a platform by councils and local governments, where it can encourage the regeneration of cities and towns. Bristol was one of the first cities to recognise the value of street art, particularly as one of the most famous street artists, Banksy, put it on the map with his “girl with balloons” mural. The city that had suffered from race riots in the 1980s and is now a hub for street art lovers and has an annual festival Interview with of street art. Conor Harrington, an Irish artist’s piece is still on the walls of Bristol ten years later.
See Youtube video from nine years ago here.
Waterford Walls Project – the biggest in Ireland
Waterford Walls is organised by the Walls Project – a company that brings together councils, artists, property owners and sponsors to develop and produce street art. Waterford city has the most murals of any city in Ireland with over 200 now on view. This year they added 52 new pieces of mural art.
The Walls Project has also worked with Limerick, on the Tipperary town regeneration project and currently with Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Council on the Anseo Project. https://www.dlrcoco.ie/meet-artists
In Dundalk, the SEEK festival is transforming what was a border town into one with stunning artwork and is now in its sixth year. I visited both places this summer during their festivals and it is fascinating to see the artists at work. Cork and Galway are also active with street art. See my Instagram and Tiktok Accounts @joanscalestravel
Street Art and the Law in Ireland
Street art installation in Ireland needs planning permission and that can add to the time and cost. Some city and country councils are more involved in street art and will actively help.
For example, Waterford has been running the Waterford Walls Street art festival for nine years. There is a team of staff dedicated to making it happen every year. Following the recent Waterford Walls Festival last month the city now has more than 200 pieces of mural art.
Sinn Fein TD, Eoin Ó Broin is seeking to change the law in this area. He hopes to make it less cumbersome for artists to create street art Public Art Mural Bill. He introduced a Bill to the Dail on the 3rd of February titled, “Public Art Mural (Exempted Development) Bill 2023.” The Bill is currently at the second stage of debates.
If enacted, the Bill will allow artists to create street art, without acquiring planning permission from their local councils.
However it might also mean that people who do graffiti could not be prosecuted – one man’s art is another council’s graffiti. In some cases, owners of buildings will be happy to allow street artists to transform them. Joe Caslin, one of Ireland’s most prolific artists tells of asking the owner of the old Ard Ri Hotel in Waterford – it was a landmark in its time standing high above the Suir River.
He contacted him every week… for a very long time until eventually he gave in and the deserted Ard Ri building how has a beautiful mural called Ar Scáth a Chéile a Mhaireann na Daoine (Under the Shelter of Each Other, People Survive). It is six stories high and 100 metres wide.
See link here.
Dublin City Council and Street Art
Dublin City Council did pursue the artist collective Subset over the murals of David Attenborough on Longwood Avenue, the muralsof Horse Boy in Smithfield and the Think and Wonder mural at Camden Place off Grantham St. The action was finally dropped in February this year, thoughSubset did pay the legal costs.
Dublin City Council does encouage visual arts with the Dublin Canvas project. Artists can apply to paint a street traffic box, those boring grey things on every street corner. It started in 2011 as a small project and is now extended to all three councils.
People can apply to be considered and the boxes are then painted in spring and summer. I have already seen a tranche of new images appearing across the city. DCC provides the chosen artists with the materials in a handy wheely case and a fee of €250. Or €300 if you supply your own materials.
Check out Dublincanvas for the criteria and guidelines. The council does engage with artists and building owners, but the rigorous planning process can take time. There currently no large-scale art works in progress, but there are some in at the early planning stages.
Street Art and Tourism
Another city that has seen significant increase in tourism with its murals is Derry City. The mural of the famous Derry Girls is a huge attraction for the city and is still drawing people to the Walled City.
Who would have thought the people who be queuing up to tour East Belfast – but the murals of the Troubles were a significant form of communication at that time. Belfast has embraced street art and all over the city there are fabulous examples of art. Again, walking tours are bringing people to the city and off the beaten track.
Internationally
Street Art is worldwide – there is hardly a city that does not display social and political messages. Berlin was a hotbed for street art and graffiti. You can browse Instagram to see examples of street art. One of my favourites is Lisbon, where there is an incredible variety of top-class work on view.
There is also an input from corporate sponsorship – Beyond Walls is a non-profit agency that uses a creative lens to address community needs. They have done installations in Brooklyn, Philadelphia and Kings Cross in London. To name a few.
Luxury brands have also taken to street art to get their message out. Christian Laboutin, of the very pricy shoes, had an installation in Great Eastern Street in London, and Gucci took over walls in Milan, Amsterdam, London and New York.
So keep you eyes open when you visit cities and towns to spot the local artwork.
Travel and Explore with Joan Scales - September, 2023
Destination Anywhere - DublinSouthFM - 4 September
Listen back here
Travel News - What a crazy summer - ETIAS – European Travel Information and Authorisation System
This comes into effect for the many people living in Ireland with passports other than European Union, including British and there are many, particularly working in the tech and pharma industries.
ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of these 30 European countries. It is linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation.
With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays - normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions.
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
Sports Travel – how important it is and the types of sports people follow, football, rugby, horse-racing etc. Include Cassidy Travel Rugby Ambassador – Bernard Jackman.
This comes into effect for the many people living in Ireland with passports other than European Union, including British and there are many, particularly working in the tech and pharma industries.
ETIAS travel authorisation is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to any of these 30 European countries. It is linked to a traveller’s passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorisation.
With a valid ETIAS travel authorisation, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays - normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions.
https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
Sports Travel – how important it is and the types of sports people follow, football, rugby, horse-racing etc. Include Cassidy Travel Rugby Ambassador – Bernard Jackman.
The Travel Department 2024 Brochure Launch in Saba Dublin
Sara Zimmerman, Managing Director of the Travel Department talked about the destinations for 2024 and gave an overview of what travellers can expect from their extensive range of holidays.
CLIA Visit to Dublin
The Cruise Line Industry Association met with travel agents and media in Dublin this week. The cruise business has bounced back from the pandemic and there are more cruise ships than ever. Ocean-going member cruise lines of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the largest cruise industry trade association, have committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and to reducing carbon rates by 40% by 2030 (as compared to 2008 levels).
The cruise industry transported nearly 30 million passengers and contributed over $154 billion to the global economy pre-pandemic, in 2019; despite the hiccups of the pandemic, it’s on track to surpass those numbers by year’s end. Cruise proponents say that cruising can be a force for good, by supporting local economies and inspiring cruisers’ sense of environmental and cultural awareness. Cruise week will run from 18 -. 24 September.
The Cruise Line Industry Association met with travel agents and media in Dublin this week. The cruise business has bounced back from the pandemic and there are more cruise ships than ever. Ocean-going member cruise lines of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the largest cruise industry trade association, have committed to reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, and to reducing carbon rates by 40% by 2030 (as compared to 2008 levels).
The cruise industry transported nearly 30 million passengers and contributed over $154 billion to the global economy pre-pandemic, in 2019; despite the hiccups of the pandemic, it’s on track to surpass those numbers by year’s end. Cruise proponents say that cruising can be a force for good, by supporting local economies and inspiring cruisers’ sense of environmental and cultural awareness. Cruise week will run from 18 -. 24 September.
Daycations - Focus on Kildare
You may have heard and seen the campaign from Fáilte Ireland calling for people to explore their own area on a Daycation. So today we will have a look at some interesting things to do in Kildare and I have some great special offers for listeners.
Kildare is the home of Irish horse-racing and the national stud and Japanese Gardens is a fantastic day out for all the family. You can learn all about horses, have lunch and the kids can play in the play-zone. https://irishnationalstud.ie/
Fashionistas will love the Irish Museum of Style Icons at the Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre. There you can see dresses and costumes worn by some of the world’s most famous women, like Princess Diana, Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe.
Johnstown Estate and Spa - Autumn Ease package, €240 for two people, is available from September to November – Sunday – Thursday dinner, bed breakfast and use of the thermal spa facilities. For bookings, call 00 353 (0)46 954 0000 or email reservations@thejohnstownestate.com.
Lawlors of Naas - Take a midweek break with a relaxing night away, This one night stay includes dinner in The Bistro Restaurant and shopping discounts at Kildare Village and partner boutiques in Naas town from €229 for two. www.lawlors.ie
Goffs - If you’re missing L’Ecrivain and its delicious food, then you will be delighted to hear that Derry and Sallyanne Clarke are now the chef and host at The Club at Goffs in Kildare. The home of Irish thoroughbred horses is now taking guests for dinner and stays. From €240 for two for an unforgettable ight. https://www.clubhotel.ie/stay/
Question from listener Larry
We are a family of four, two young children (6yrs & 3.5yrs); and wish to go on holidays to Mallorca for one week in either late Sept or early to mid-Oct. My wife has done some research (via love holidays), focusing on Port de Pollenca and Alcudia, looking at hotel apartments accommodation only having access to hotel facilities. Maybe there are other areas in Mallorca which would be as good and less expensive? Are there any other recommendations you have?
My Reply to Larry - When my children were young we stayed in Alcudia - the Eden Resort and they loved it. Alcudia has a great selection of resorts that would suit your family. The beach at Alcudia is long and sandy and shallow, ideal for children paddling, though mine spent almost every hour in the pool.
Alcudia and Port de Pollenca are lovely areas of Mallorca and are dedicated holiday resorts. They are ideal for family holidays. Lately, I have stayed in Can Pastilla, which is close to Palma, about 20 minutes away, and near the airport. The beaches are lovely and there's good walking and cycling in this area.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, TwitterX and my website joanscales.com and listen to Destination Anywhere on DublinsouthFM.com
We are a family of four, two young children (6yrs & 3.5yrs); and wish to go on holidays to Mallorca for one week in either late Sept or early to mid-Oct. My wife has done some research (via love holidays), focusing on Port de Pollenca and Alcudia, looking at hotel apartments accommodation only having access to hotel facilities. Maybe there are other areas in Mallorca which would be as good and less expensive? Are there any other recommendations you have?
My Reply to Larry - When my children were young we stayed in Alcudia - the Eden Resort and they loved it. Alcudia has a great selection of resorts that would suit your family. The beach at Alcudia is long and sandy and shallow, ideal for children paddling, though mine spent almost every hour in the pool.
Alcudia and Port de Pollenca are lovely areas of Mallorca and are dedicated holiday resorts. They are ideal for family holidays. Lately, I have stayed in Can Pastilla, which is close to Palma, about 20 minutes away, and near the airport. The beaches are lovely and there's good walking and cycling in this area.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, TwitterX and my website joanscales.com and listen to Destination Anywhere on DublinsouthFM.com
Travel and Explore with Joan Scales
Destination Anywhere - DublinSouthFM.ie, 21 August 2023
Listen back to the show on DublinSouthFM here.
Travel News
News from Aer Lingus for next spring of the launch of two more Transatlantic flights, to Denver and Minneapolis St. Paul. Delta Airlines also announced a Dublin to Denver service. It will mean great access to the mid and west of the United States. Denver, known as the mile-high city, is a very big hub for onward traffic.
Reunitetag, an Irish company, has developed a way to find lost luggage, passports, phones, and any personal items. The tags have a unique number and a website where found property can be reunited with its owners. It has already saved the holidays of four passengers who dropped their passports in the a taxi at Dublin Airport.
Heatwaves and fires – What about insurance – what is your position if you want to cancel. We discuss this thorny summer issue.
The Donegal Camino 3-9 September, has a few days available for walkers the Tory Island overnight is full but you can go for the day– a great way to explore this magical county, and raise funds for Cancer Care West. Last year I found there was a lot of lone walkers, women and men onm their own and it was the great to be to join a group and meet new people.
Autumn Breaks – Where to Go
Paul Hackett of Clickandgo Travel joined us to talk about ideas for autumn breaks. He and John described a lot of great places to see and some great offers.
One surprising place Paul talked about was the Christmas Market in Lisbon. He happened to be there last December and aid it was fabulous.
He also told us about his TikTok presence where he answers questions from people about holidays. Some of the videos have gone viral and you can check out his videos here.
Travel News
News from Aer Lingus for next spring of the launch of two more Transatlantic flights, to Denver and Minneapolis St. Paul. Delta Airlines also announced a Dublin to Denver service. It will mean great access to the mid and west of the United States. Denver, known as the mile-high city, is a very big hub for onward traffic.
Reunitetag, an Irish company, has developed a way to find lost luggage, passports, phones, and any personal items. The tags have a unique number and a website where found property can be reunited with its owners. It has already saved the holidays of four passengers who dropped their passports in the a taxi at Dublin Airport.
Heatwaves and fires – What about insurance – what is your position if you want to cancel. We discuss this thorny summer issue.
The Donegal Camino 3-9 September, has a few days available for walkers the Tory Island overnight is full but you can go for the day– a great way to explore this magical county, and raise funds for Cancer Care West. Last year I found there was a lot of lone walkers, women and men onm their own and it was the great to be to join a group and meet new people.
Autumn Breaks – Where to Go
Paul Hackett of Clickandgo Travel joined us to talk about ideas for autumn breaks. He and John described a lot of great places to see and some great offers.
One surprising place Paul talked about was the Christmas Market in Lisbon. He happened to be there last December and aid it was fabulous.
He also told us about his TikTok presence where he answers questions from people about holidays. Some of the videos have gone viral and you can check out his videos here.
Ireland Daycations
Fáilte Ireland are encouraging people to explore Ireland by taking Daycations, day trips up to 90 minutes from home called Let’s Do something different.
In that vein I have taken a short trip to Co Meath, and I even surprised myself with all the things I did in a day. I started with a tour of the Hill of Tara (free) then visited Trim Castle – amazing and only €5 and €3 for kids. You get to go right up on the roof and the views are fantastic All the OPW sites and, there are many, are free on the first Wednesday of the month.
We lunched in the new Bective Tea Rooms – on the grounds of the Bective house and Stud. There’s 5km woodland walk around the estate. A beautiful restaurant.
In the afternoon I visited the Boyne Activities Centre in Trim where you can rent kayaks and explore the river or play pitch and putt. There’s also a lovely café, overlooking the river.
On the way home I dropped into the Station House Hotel in Kilmessan. Though it was closed for a wedding I did get to explore the beautiful gardens and had a lovely surprise, the woodlands were all lit up for the wedding ceremony and it was magical. Videos of my trip are on Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok, so have a look and be inspired by Ireland.
Fáilte Ireland are encouraging people to explore Ireland by taking Daycations, day trips up to 90 minutes from home called Let’s Do something different.
In that vein I have taken a short trip to Co Meath, and I even surprised myself with all the things I did in a day. I started with a tour of the Hill of Tara (free) then visited Trim Castle – amazing and only €5 and €3 for kids. You get to go right up on the roof and the views are fantastic All the OPW sites and, there are many, are free on the first Wednesday of the month.
We lunched in the new Bective Tea Rooms – on the grounds of the Bective house and Stud. There’s 5km woodland walk around the estate. A beautiful restaurant.
In the afternoon I visited the Boyne Activities Centre in Trim where you can rent kayaks and explore the river or play pitch and putt. There’s also a lovely café, overlooking the river.
On the way home I dropped into the Station House Hotel in Kilmessan. Though it was closed for a wedding I did get to explore the beautiful gardens and had a lovely surprise, the woodlands were all lit up for the wedding ceremony and it was magical. Videos of my trip are on Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok, so have a look and be inspired by Ireland.
Holiday Deals
Enjoy €100 off all twin and multi-centre holidays and other deals with American Holidays, see here.
Cassidy Travel have a special offer to see Andrea Bocelli in New York with four days accommodation and flights, see here.
Enjoy €100 off all twin and multi-centre holidays and other deals with American Holidays, see here.
Cassidy Travel have a special offer to see Andrea Bocelli in New York with four days accommodation and flights, see here.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, TwitterX and my website joanscales.com and listen to Destination Anywhere on DublinsouthFM.com
So Far It Has Been the Summer of Weather Record Breaking, 15 August 2023
Highest temperatures ever in Europe 46.5c in Greece and wettest July in Ireland with more than double the amount of rainfall. The extended weather forecast for August as we head into the last few weeks of the summer is not great, with higher-than-average rainfall and temperatures around the normal range. Temperatures in Southern Europe, where most of us like to holiday have returned to normal for August – still quite hot, in the 30s.Temperatures like this summer are causing many people to consider where they should holiday in the future.
Data from the European Travel Commission, found that the popularity of Mediterranean holiday destinations dropped by 10% compared with last year in the search period for June to November
Though not affecting Spain which is the most popular travel destination, with 8% of respondents planning a holiday there. Spain is on track to pass 300m visitors this year, eight times its population and seven percent up on last year.
Destinations like Ireland, Czech Republic, Denmark and Bulgaria have meanwhile seen a spike in interest from holidaymakers.
What is the answer to these extraordinary temperatures?
We may see some flattening out of the usual holiday curve with more people considering holidays earlier or later in the season to avoid the heat.
The boss of TUI Holidays said last week that heatwaves and climate change could prompt people to take their holidays in spring or autumn and choose cooler destinations.
Sebastian Ebel, chief executive, said holidaymakers might choose to travel to Greece in November. Destinations such as the Belgian or Polish coast might become more popular, he added.
Mr Ebel said the company was set to broaden the number of destinations it offered to mitigate against similar risks in the future. Countries with more moderate temperatures, such as the Nordic countries, could become popular travel destinations, but Mr Ebel said the Mediterranean region remained one of the top places for holidaymakers.
A “Scandi summer” trend is evident among summer holiday home renters too, according to Expedia Group.
German travellers are shifting their holiday home searches on Vrbo (Vacation Rental By Owner) northward, with interest in southern Norway rising 35% in the first two weeks of July from the same period in June, according to Expedia Group.
Highest temperatures ever in Europe 46.5c in Greece and wettest July in Ireland with more than double the amount of rainfall. The extended weather forecast for August as we head into the last few weeks of the summer is not great, with higher-than-average rainfall and temperatures around the normal range. Temperatures in Southern Europe, where most of us like to holiday have returned to normal for August – still quite hot, in the 30s.Temperatures like this summer are causing many people to consider where they should holiday in the future.
Data from the European Travel Commission, found that the popularity of Mediterranean holiday destinations dropped by 10% compared with last year in the search period for June to November
Though not affecting Spain which is the most popular travel destination, with 8% of respondents planning a holiday there. Spain is on track to pass 300m visitors this year, eight times its population and seven percent up on last year.
Destinations like Ireland, Czech Republic, Denmark and Bulgaria have meanwhile seen a spike in interest from holidaymakers.
What is the answer to these extraordinary temperatures?
We may see some flattening out of the usual holiday curve with more people considering holidays earlier or later in the season to avoid the heat.
The boss of TUI Holidays said last week that heatwaves and climate change could prompt people to take their holidays in spring or autumn and choose cooler destinations.
Sebastian Ebel, chief executive, said holidaymakers might choose to travel to Greece in November. Destinations such as the Belgian or Polish coast might become more popular, he added.
Mr Ebel said the company was set to broaden the number of destinations it offered to mitigate against similar risks in the future. Countries with more moderate temperatures, such as the Nordic countries, could become popular travel destinations, but Mr Ebel said the Mediterranean region remained one of the top places for holidaymakers.
A “Scandi summer” trend is evident among summer holiday home renters too, according to Expedia Group.
German travellers are shifting their holiday home searches on Vrbo (Vacation Rental By Owner) northward, with interest in southern Norway rising 35% in the first two weeks of July from the same period in June, according to Expedia Group.
Ireland as a mainstream holiday destination?
This country is in a good position to use the temperature changes to encourage more visitors to Ireland. This country has always been known as a wet and wild place, and the marketing of the Wild Atlantic Way is a great example to using our natural environment to great effect.
Most visitors coming to Ireland from overseas, do not come here expecting fine weather – if its good, then it is a bonus. They usually come prepared, with the right clothes and footwear.
New Tourism Developments
Even during Covid a huge amount of work has been done to bring new tourism projects on stream. These include Beyond the Trees in Avondale – an amazing treetop walk that is accessible to everyone.
In Westport the development of the Westport House and the Pirate Adventure Park brought new activities to the town. The 7km Youghal boardwalk opened! in 2021 making it a great attraction for the seaside town. If you can get a bed!
This month Failte Ireland are encouraging people to take Daycations – visit somewhere locally and see what is on offer. I spent last Tuesday in Co Meath and walked the Hill of Tara – no charge for the tour. I climbed to the top of Trim Castle, scene of Braveheart €5 and €3 for children. Then had lunch is the beautiful Bective Tea Rooms on the Bective Estate where there’s a 5km woodland walk to enjoy too, no charge for that.
This country is in a good position to use the temperature changes to encourage more visitors to Ireland. This country has always been known as a wet and wild place, and the marketing of the Wild Atlantic Way is a great example to using our natural environment to great effect.
Most visitors coming to Ireland from overseas, do not come here expecting fine weather – if its good, then it is a bonus. They usually come prepared, with the right clothes and footwear.
New Tourism Developments
Even during Covid a huge amount of work has been done to bring new tourism projects on stream. These include Beyond the Trees in Avondale – an amazing treetop walk that is accessible to everyone.
In Westport the development of the Westport House and the Pirate Adventure Park brought new activities to the town. The 7km Youghal boardwalk opened! in 2021 making it a great attraction for the seaside town. If you can get a bed!
This month Failte Ireland are encouraging people to take Daycations – visit somewhere locally and see what is on offer. I spent last Tuesday in Co Meath and walked the Hill of Tara – no charge for the tour. I climbed to the top of Trim Castle, scene of Braveheart €5 and €3 for children. Then had lunch is the beautiful Bective Tea Rooms on the Bective Estate where there’s a 5km woodland walk to enjoy too, no charge for that.
Northern Spain as the new Costas
I was in Asturias Northern Spain the last week in July, staying in Gijon on the coast and Oviedo the capital of Asturias. A glass of Albarino wine cost from €1- €2, A beer is €2.20, dearest meal we had was in a famous cider restaurant -Terra Astur, cost €50 for two. A beer is around €7 and wine usually €8.50 here. No competition.
Ireland needs to relook at the value for money aspect of holidays here. We do win out in providing access to our national museums and galleries for free, but that is about it.
Climate change will only benefit Ireland if we can also provide value for money.
I was in Asturias Northern Spain the last week in July, staying in Gijon on the coast and Oviedo the capital of Asturias. A glass of Albarino wine cost from €1- €2, A beer is €2.20, dearest meal we had was in a famous cider restaurant -Terra Astur, cost €50 for two. A beer is around €7 and wine usually €8.50 here. No competition.
Ireland needs to relook at the value for money aspect of holidays here. We do win out in providing access to our national museums and galleries for free, but that is about it.
Climate change will only benefit Ireland if we can also provide value for money.
Culture change in the Balearics
The big holiday news earlier in the season was that Balearic Islands Government, which include, Mallorca, and Ibiza, have banned happy hours, pub crawls and two-for-one drink offers, prohibits the sale of alcohol in shops between 9.30pm and 8am and forbids advertising party boats in designated areas.
It will apply to San Antonio on Ibiza and El Arenal and Magaluf on Mallorca, after initial concerns that it would cover the whole of the islands. The main party resorts. Under the new regulations, a limit of three drinks at both dinner and lunch can be served to each guest but if guests want to drink any more during the day, they will need to pay for it themselves.
The big holiday news earlier in the season was that Balearic Islands Government, which include, Mallorca, and Ibiza, have banned happy hours, pub crawls and two-for-one drink offers, prohibits the sale of alcohol in shops between 9.30pm and 8am and forbids advertising party boats in designated areas.
It will apply to San Antonio on Ibiza and El Arenal and Magaluf on Mallorca, after initial concerns that it would cover the whole of the islands. The main party resorts. Under the new regulations, a limit of three drinks at both dinner and lunch can be served to each guest but if guests want to drink any more during the day, they will need to pay for it themselves.
Travel and Explore with Joan Scales
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, TwitterX and my website joanscales.com
The soaring temperatures across southern Europe could see a lasting change in tourism on the continent – with more travellers choosing colder destinations like Ireland and the Nordic countries. Newstalk Breakfast, 11 August, 2023
A recent survey from the European Travel Commission found that Mediterranean destinations have seen a 10% drop in enquiries this year, with countries like Ireland, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria and Denmark seeing a “surge in popularity”.
On Newstalk Breakfast this morning, travel writer Joan Scales said the searing heat is definitely making people think twice about where they want to go – although places like Spain are still seeing huge numbers of tourists.
She said many people are looking at the cooler parts of Spain instead of the traditional hotspot in the south.
“Most people will go to the south of Spain because they traditionally always went to Andalucia and the Balearics,” she said.
“Recently, I went to Asturias in northern Spain. It was fabulous. Do you know what, the temperature was 22C to 24C and apart from the fabulous weather, I mean Gijon was fabulous, a beautiful beach in town and Oviedo was a beautiful city – I loved it."
She said she “hardly heard an English voice” during the trip – and there was incredible value to be had.
“Unbelievably cheap,” she said. “You are paying between €1 and €2 for a glass of Alberino, a beer was €2 and the most expensive meal we had, we went to a kind a sidreria - a cider restaurant - and that was €50.
Ms Scales said the changes in tourism habits offer great opportunities to Ireland – but we have a major battle on our hands when it comes to value.
“People don’t come to Ireland specifically for the weather but if our weather does change then it certainly would encourage more people,” she said.
“I do think we have a battle on our hands with prices because we are very expensive compared to the rest of Europe.
“I mean, I’m telling you about €1 and €2 for beers and wines in Spain but you’re talking about €7, €8 and €9 here for the same thing.”
You can listen back here:
Destination Anywhere, DublinSouthFM, 7 August, 2023
Destination Anywhere this week was a lively show with lots of chat with Muriel Bolger and John Spollen, about Northern Spain, the pitfalls of senior travel, our favourite places to visit in Ireland and lots of great deals from Cassidytravel, expecially to the places we talked about in Northern Spain. Listen back here.
Travel News from Ireland
The Visit USA Network event in the Shelbourne saw more than 200 travel trade staff and media attend. Speakers included the US Ambassador, Claire Cronin and Chairperson of the Visit USA Committee Jenny Rafter of Aer Lingus Both referred to the increase in airlift to the United States from Ireland and how the figures are back up around 2019 figures. There are now 16 cities connected directly to Ireland including newcomer Cleveland, Ohio. Strong consumer demand is expected to continue in 2024. The Ambassador also referred to the popular J1 visa and the fact students are returning and making those deep memories.
Vincent Harrison (Managing Director – Dublin Airport DAA) shared statistics on Ireland’s busiest airport and how it is benefiting from faster security times due to the new security machines in Dublin Airport. Terminal 1 has the new scanners at Lane 3 & 4. A staggering 3.25 million passengers travelling on almost 22,000 flights passed through Dublin Airport in June of this year. 98% of passengers passed through security in less than 20 minutes, and 78% in less than 10 minutes. The event was sponsored by Connecticut Tourism Office, Visit New Jersey - Dublin Airport, Bradley International Airport in Connecticut, and Brand USA – the US tourism organisation.
Aer Lingus Future Pilot intake – the airline will be recruiting 90 trainees over the next five years. Full training will be given and the details are on aerlingus.com and the closing date is 16th August see here.
Muriel Bolger – Journalist, Author and Artist Muriel talked about the pitfalls and successes of organised tours based on her own experiences. She has travelled extensively around Europe and had some great stories to share.
Travel News from Ireland
The Visit USA Network event in the Shelbourne saw more than 200 travel trade staff and media attend. Speakers included the US Ambassador, Claire Cronin and Chairperson of the Visit USA Committee Jenny Rafter of Aer Lingus Both referred to the increase in airlift to the United States from Ireland and how the figures are back up around 2019 figures. There are now 16 cities connected directly to Ireland including newcomer Cleveland, Ohio. Strong consumer demand is expected to continue in 2024. The Ambassador also referred to the popular J1 visa and the fact students are returning and making those deep memories.
Vincent Harrison (Managing Director – Dublin Airport DAA) shared statistics on Ireland’s busiest airport and how it is benefiting from faster security times due to the new security machines in Dublin Airport. Terminal 1 has the new scanners at Lane 3 & 4. A staggering 3.25 million passengers travelling on almost 22,000 flights passed through Dublin Airport in June of this year. 98% of passengers passed through security in less than 20 minutes, and 78% in less than 10 minutes. The event was sponsored by Connecticut Tourism Office, Visit New Jersey - Dublin Airport, Bradley International Airport in Connecticut, and Brand USA – the US tourism organisation.
Aer Lingus Future Pilot intake – the airline will be recruiting 90 trainees over the next five years. Full training will be given and the details are on aerlingus.com and the closing date is 16th August see here.
Muriel Bolger – Journalist, Author and Artist Muriel talked about the pitfalls and successes of organised tours based on her own experiences. She has travelled extensively around Europe and had some great stories to share.
Asturias
Getting to this part of northern Spain has become easy this year with direct flights from Dublin to Asturias with Ryanair. The Kingdom of Asturias as it was, is also known as Green Spain. Which was perfect for my visit, while the south of Spain baked in 40+-degree heat, we had a pleasant 22- 25 degrees and some cloud. Flying into Asturias it looks quite like Ireland with fields, hedgerows, and pine forests.
As it is a new route from Ryanair fares were also lower than the south – I paid €90 return in July. The flight was full of Spaniards, lots of students coming and going from trips to Ireland. Like Dublin Airport, Asturias Airport has no train service so there are buses to the nearest cities of Aviles, Gijon and Oviedo.
Getting to this part of northern Spain has become easy this year with direct flights from Dublin to Asturias with Ryanair. The Kingdom of Asturias as it was, is also known as Green Spain. Which was perfect for my visit, while the south of Spain baked in 40+-degree heat, we had a pleasant 22- 25 degrees and some cloud. Flying into Asturias it looks quite like Ireland with fields, hedgerows, and pine forests.
As it is a new route from Ryanair fares were also lower than the south – I paid €90 return in July. The flight was full of Spaniards, lots of students coming and going from trips to Ireland. Like Dublin Airport, Asturias Airport has no train service so there are buses to the nearest cities of Aviles, Gijon and Oviedo.
Gijon - a coastal city
The city of Gijon in the far north of Spain was a major industrial centre for mining and engineering. In recent years the city has become more focused on tourism, and it is no surprise as it has beautiful beaches in the city.
We sent two days here and exploring and walking the city. There is a great dinosaur exhibition Dino-Expo on until the end of August and you can see some photos on my Instagram. The main beach is 1.7km and is sandy and has cute little tents you can rent. Our walk also took us through the Santa Catalina Park with great views over the Cantabrian Sea and the Bay of Biscay. There are a few interesting sculptures along the walk.
The old town or Cimevilla is where all the action is, with great restaurants, the famous Gijon red sign, and several interesting museums. There was an exhibition to the Templars on while we were there. I would recommend staying in or around the Cimevilla to enjoy the city.
There was ani nteresting exhibition on one of the plazas by the sea called Pole to Pole. It is a series of beautiful nature photographs from National Geographic showing flora and fauna from the Arctic to the Antarctic sponsored by Caixa Bank.
A big attraction in the city for families, is the summer Dino Expo ,an exhibition of almost life-size creatures from the past. The Museo de Jurasico is abou 40 minutes from Gijon if you want to see even more dinosaurs in an outdoor and indoor setting.
As this is Green Spain, apples grow well here, and the favourite drink is cider. We had our first taste of Asturian cider at a bar beside the port. Cider is sold in litre bottles and is poured from a height to enhance the bubbles and you drink a small amount quickly. Its delicious and easy to drink. There is massive sculpture at Gijon port of the green cider bottles. Look at the photos and try to guess how many in this monument.
The train from Gijon to Oviedo takes about 40 minutes and passes through some interesting industrial landscapes as well as green mountainous scenery.
The city of Gijon in the far north of Spain was a major industrial centre for mining and engineering. In recent years the city has become more focused on tourism, and it is no surprise as it has beautiful beaches in the city.
We sent two days here and exploring and walking the city. There is a great dinosaur exhibition Dino-Expo on until the end of August and you can see some photos on my Instagram. The main beach is 1.7km and is sandy and has cute little tents you can rent. Our walk also took us through the Santa Catalina Park with great views over the Cantabrian Sea and the Bay of Biscay. There are a few interesting sculptures along the walk.
The old town or Cimevilla is where all the action is, with great restaurants, the famous Gijon red sign, and several interesting museums. There was an exhibition to the Templars on while we were there. I would recommend staying in or around the Cimevilla to enjoy the city.
There was ani nteresting exhibition on one of the plazas by the sea called Pole to Pole. It is a series of beautiful nature photographs from National Geographic showing flora and fauna from the Arctic to the Antarctic sponsored by Caixa Bank.
A big attraction in the city for families, is the summer Dino Expo ,an exhibition of almost life-size creatures from the past. The Museo de Jurasico is abou 40 minutes from Gijon if you want to see even more dinosaurs in an outdoor and indoor setting.
As this is Green Spain, apples grow well here, and the favourite drink is cider. We had our first taste of Asturian cider at a bar beside the port. Cider is sold in litre bottles and is poured from a height to enhance the bubbles and you drink a small amount quickly. Its delicious and easy to drink. There is massive sculpture at Gijon port of the green cider bottles. Look at the photos and try to guess how many in this monument.
The train from Gijon to Oviedo takes about 40 minutes and passes through some interesting industrial landscapes as well as green mountainous scenery.
Oviedo
Though this city doesn’t have the coast as Gijon does, it is full of interesting things to see and do. We stayed in the old town near the cathedral, and it was perfect for exploring. The city is paved with polished flagstones, and you can feel the age. The Romans were here and there are remains all around the city. There are dozens of interesting scultpures all around the city, and it's fun finding them.
Oviedo is the capital of Asturias and the origin of the Camino de Santiago. There are images to remind you of this all around, including brass shells set into the flagstones. As it was the capital, there are quite a few stunning churches, castles, mansions, townhouses, bastions, and fabulous architecture everywhere. The city of Oviedo loves art and dotted all around are interesting bronze sculptures. See my Instagram video for some highlights of these.
While we were there, the summer festival was on and there was music and entertainment every day at Plaza de Porlier. On Thursdsay the market at El Fonten was on and we enjoyed exploring it. It is a food and vegetable market and also stalls selling a range of clothes, shoes, art, nightwear, flowers, and my a favourite a stall selling beautiful silk scarves with the images of famous paintings. They were 100 percent silk and cost only €12.
On the last evening we went to a street we called Cider Street, all the restaurants were Siderias, they specialised in the local cider and BBQ food. We had a whopping amount of grilled food and cider for €50 and that was the most expensive meal we had all week. It was all delicious. While waiting for a table we had a beer and a glass of Albarino and it cost €3.30. That is a good example of the great value to be had in Asturias.
After spending five days in Asturias, my friend and I made a list of all the things we noticed.
Things we noticed in Asturias
No drunkenness in the streets
No obviously stoned people or smell of weed
Hardly anyone speaks English it’s mainly Spaniards that holiday here.
We only saw three beggars in five days and no homeless people.
It feels safe and we were comfortable walking around at night
It’s incredibly good value – I had a Mojito in the five-star Barcelo Cervantes Hotel in Oviedo and it cost €6, breakfast of toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, coffee and orange juice was €11 for two.
Though this city doesn’t have the coast as Gijon does, it is full of interesting things to see and do. We stayed in the old town near the cathedral, and it was perfect for exploring. The city is paved with polished flagstones, and you can feel the age. The Romans were here and there are remains all around the city. There are dozens of interesting scultpures all around the city, and it's fun finding them.
Oviedo is the capital of Asturias and the origin of the Camino de Santiago. There are images to remind you of this all around, including brass shells set into the flagstones. As it was the capital, there are quite a few stunning churches, castles, mansions, townhouses, bastions, and fabulous architecture everywhere. The city of Oviedo loves art and dotted all around are interesting bronze sculptures. See my Instagram video for some highlights of these.
While we were there, the summer festival was on and there was music and entertainment every day at Plaza de Porlier. On Thursdsay the market at El Fonten was on and we enjoyed exploring it. It is a food and vegetable market and also stalls selling a range of clothes, shoes, art, nightwear, flowers, and my a favourite a stall selling beautiful silk scarves with the images of famous paintings. They were 100 percent silk and cost only €12.
On the last evening we went to a street we called Cider Street, all the restaurants were Siderias, they specialised in the local cider and BBQ food. We had a whopping amount of grilled food and cider for €50 and that was the most expensive meal we had all week. It was all delicious. While waiting for a table we had a beer and a glass of Albarino and it cost €3.30. That is a good example of the great value to be had in Asturias.
After spending five days in Asturias, my friend and I made a list of all the things we noticed.
Things we noticed in Asturias
No drunkenness in the streets
No obviously stoned people or smell of weed
Hardly anyone speaks English it’s mainly Spaniards that holiday here.
We only saw three beggars in five days and no homeless people.
It feels safe and we were comfortable walking around at night
It’s incredibly good value – I had a Mojito in the five-star Barcelo Cervantes Hotel in Oviedo and it cost €6, breakfast of toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, coffee and orange juice was €11 for two.
Ireland
Daycations – ideas for day trips around Ireland
Research conducted Fáilte Ireland has found that 40% of parents find it difficult to schedule quality family time, and 89% agree that daycations are a great way of getting quality time with the family. Fáilte Ireland is encouraging people to plan their Best Daycation Ever. The most popular daycations are a day by the sea, followed by a zoo or wildlife park.
Our favourite places to visit around Ireland. Muriel recently took a tour of Trinity College and the Little Museum. I will talk about Cooley Peninsula and Skypark and John talked bout Kinsale as a day trip from the south.
Deals
John Spollen had some great deals for our listeners from Cassidytravel.ie and there are some excellent offers the first two for Northern Spain are particulary good value.
Thank you for listening to Destination Anywhere, on DublinSouthFM, follow us on social media.
Happy travels to all.
Daycations – ideas for day trips around Ireland
Research conducted Fáilte Ireland has found that 40% of parents find it difficult to schedule quality family time, and 89% agree that daycations are a great way of getting quality time with the family. Fáilte Ireland is encouraging people to plan their Best Daycation Ever. The most popular daycations are a day by the sea, followed by a zoo or wildlife park.
Our favourite places to visit around Ireland. Muriel recently took a tour of Trinity College and the Little Museum. I will talk about Cooley Peninsula and Skypark and John talked bout Kinsale as a day trip from the south.
Deals
John Spollen had some great deals for our listeners from Cassidytravel.ie and there are some excellent offers the first two for Northern Spain are particulary good value.
- Asturias 4th September , 4 Nights 5* Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes from €369pp
- San Sebastian 28th August, 3 Nights 4* Barcelo Costa Vasca from €449pp
- Fuerteventura, 14th Sept– Surfing Colours located in Corralejo, 7 nights, room only from €495pp
- Tenerife, 13th Sept, Tropical located in Puerto de la Cruz, 7 nights, self-catering from €499pp
- Majorca, 21st Sept, – Blue Sea Piscis – located in Alcudia 4 nights, room only from €299pp
- Algarve 1st September 4 * Hotel , 5 Nights from €429pp
Thank you for listening to Destination Anywhere, on DublinSouthFM, follow us on social media.
Happy travels to all.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, TwitterX and my website joanscales.com
Escape the Rain - Without Breaking the Bank - Newstalk 5/8/2023
If the rain is finally getting to you, what are the chances of an escape to the sun from Ireland. Apart from the rain, according to various recent surveys people are determined to have a great holiday this year after Covid so a lot of holidays have been booked early and airfares are higher this year.
Temperatures have begun to fall back to normal in our usual holiday favourites of Spain, Portugal, Italy and Greece, though still over 30 degrees in most sun resorts. The prices of fares and package holidays tend to begin falling in the last week of August. I have noticed some discounting by Ryanair on popular routes.
Listen back here.
Palma de Mallorca flights will cost under €200, though accommodation in Palma has become very expensive in the past two years. Look for accommodation outside the city – in places like Can Pastilla, San Jordi and Ca’an Picafort.
Asturias - I was here last week in Northern Spain, using the new Ryanair route., it cost €90 return. Fares are lower than further south, and the weather is much more agreeable for Irish skin 22 – 24 degrees. We stayed in Gijon on the Atlantic Coast and there is a 1.7km sandy beach in town.
The Capital of Asturias, Oviedo was lovely and the summer festival means lots of music in the streets. The big advantage of Asturias is the cost-of-living prices – it's very cheap. This area is popular with Spaniards and you can have a glass of Albarino for less than €2 and beer too. Eating out was very good value. Our dearest dinner was €50 for two.. Full breakfast with fresh orange juice €5.50.
Asturias - I was here last week in Northern Spain, using the new Ryanair route., it cost €90 return. Fares are lower than further south, and the weather is much more agreeable for Irish skin 22 – 24 degrees. We stayed in Gijon on the Atlantic Coast and there is a 1.7km sandy beach in town.
The Capital of Asturias, Oviedo was lovely and the summer festival means lots of music in the streets. The big advantage of Asturias is the cost-of-living prices – it's very cheap. This area is popular with Spaniards and you can have a glass of Albarino for less than €2 and beer too. Eating out was very good value. Our dearest dinner was €50 for two.. Full breakfast with fresh orange juice €5.50.
Package Holidays from Cassidy Travel
- Canary Islands, Fuerteventura, 14th Sept– Surfing Colours located in Corralejo, 7 nights, room only from €495pp
- Canary Islands, Tenerife, 13th Sept, Tropical located in Puerto de la Cruz, 7 nights, self-catering from €499pp
- Balearic Islands - Majorca, 21st Sept, – Blue Sea Piscis – located in Alcudia 4 nights, room only from €299pp
- Portugal - Algarve 1st September 4 * Hotel , 5 Nights from €429pp
- Asturias - 4th September , 4 Nights 5* Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes from €369pp This is incredible value. I have stayed in this hotel and it is gorgeous and cocktails cost €6.
- San Sebastian 28th August, 3 Nights 4* Barcelo Costa Vasca from €449pp I would highly recommend this one, San Sebastian is a fabulous city with beaches in town and incredibly delicious food.
Lanzarote from Cork
Hotel Blue Sea Los Fiscos is on the outskirts of Puerto del Carmen and is the perfect family holiday destination for those looking for a relaxing holiday with a bit of adventure. Three of Lanzarote’s finest beaches - Playa Chica, Playa Grande and Punta de Playa Blanca – are less than a 13-minute drive away and are perfect for hitting the waves where you can swim, snorkel and windsurf.
Marvel in Puerto del Carmen’s lively Old Town Harbour and indulge yourself in the local cuisine and vibrant night life, from dancing the night away in discos and nightclubs to playing a game of chance in the casinos! Hotel Blue Sea Los Fiscos’ friendly staff and great facilities and services, such as their free Wi-Fi (at reception), also make this hotel the perfect holiday destination. €890pps , Abbeytravel.ie
Marvel in Puerto del Carmen’s lively Old Town Harbour and indulge yourself in the local cuisine and vibrant night life, from dancing the night away in discos and nightclubs to playing a game of chance in the casinos! Hotel Blue Sea Los Fiscos’ friendly staff and great facilities and services, such as their free Wi-Fi (at reception), also make this hotel the perfect holiday destination. €890pps , Abbeytravel.ie
TuiHolidays - New Accommodation Site
TUI Ireland has launched a new accommodation only platform with thousands of hotels, offering holidaymakers the opportunity to choose from even more hotel options than before. If you book your flights, you can then find accommodation on the TUI site. They are specifically holiday type hotels in resorts, see here.
For example you could take the new Sun Express direct flight from Dublin to Izmir in Turkey. The fares are around €200 return and the hotel will cost from €220pps for a week.
TUI Ireland has launched a new accommodation only platform with thousands of hotels, offering holidaymakers the opportunity to choose from even more hotel options than before. If you book your flights, you can then find accommodation on the TUI site. They are specifically holiday type hotels in resorts, see here.
For example you could take the new Sun Express direct flight from Dublin to Izmir in Turkey. The fares are around €200 return and the hotel will cost from €220pps for a week.
Glamping at Thornfield Farm, Co Antrim
Glamp near the Dark Hedges and Giant's Causeway
Sustainable glamping company, Further Space has announced a special offer to celebrate the relaunch of the picturesque site at Thornfield, Co. Antrim. For just £250 (€290) for two nights, the micro-tourism company has launched the unmissable offer which includes access to your very own private hot tub, cosy campfire and a complimentary bottle of bubbles.
Situated in the idyllic North Coast, Thornfield Farm is the ideal location to explore tourist hotspots such as the Giant’s Causeway, journey to the whiskey village of Bushmills, and check out the famous Dark Hedges.
Each pod is fully furnished, heated, and includes a murphy style queen size fold down bed, an ensuite shower room, a bunk room for the kids, a kitchenette and a dedicated fire pit area. All the comforts from home in one space. To find out more information and to book your amazing stay visit Further.space.
Situated in the idyllic North Coast, Thornfield Farm is the ideal location to explore tourist hotspots such as the Giant’s Causeway, journey to the whiskey village of Bushmills, and check out the famous Dark Hedges.
Each pod is fully furnished, heated, and includes a murphy style queen size fold down bed, an ensuite shower room, a bunk room for the kids, a kitchenette and a dedicated fire pit area. All the comforts from home in one space. To find out more information and to book your amazing stay visit Further.space.
Irish Hotel Breaks – See bargainbreaks.ie for a selection of hotels all around the country with some good prices – not cheap but what you would expect to pay in August. There is a good variety of hotels available from 120 – 170 per night. Bargainbreaks.ie
Irish Self-catering – Trident Holiday Homes are my favourite; I have stayed in a number over the years and they are always very comfortable and classy. Check out the website as there is some last minute availability for family homes around the country. Around €800 – 1400 per week. They also have some interesting cabin cruisers on Lough Erne – a bit more expensive, but it’s a fabulous holiday with children. Tridentholidayhomes.ie
Irish Self-catering – Trident Holiday Homes are my favourite; I have stayed in a number over the years and they are always very comfortable and classy. Check out the website as there is some last minute availability for family homes around the country. Around €800 – 1400 per week. They also have some interesting cabin cruisers on Lough Erne – a bit more expensive, but it’s a fabulous holiday with children. Tridentholidayhomes.ie
And for any Lotto Winners out there here is an amazing house with availability for August and September
Mallow House, Cork - Room for 36
Mallow House is a fabulous 302-year-old historic 18th-century Georgian Country House in North Cork, surrounded by 400 acres of parklands, woodlands, a riverbank, pleasure gardens, and a walled kitchen garden.
The 13-bedroom house accommodates up to 26 guests and the additional separate accommodation at the rear sleeps up to 10 guests. The informal and relaxed atmosphere of the house and the people in it makes guests feel they're home from home, making it perfect for families and small groups. €
This hidden property sitting majestically atop a tree-lined avenue with bucolic vistas guarantees privacy and the utmost discretion for your party - our treasured guests. The guests are treated daily to a continental breakfast buffet. On-site activities include falconry, brandy distillery, kayaking, archery, hiking, yoga, tai chi, autumn forays, and dawn chorus walks. Only located 30 minutes away from Cork city centre, it serves as a wonderful base to explore Southern Ireland.
August
07-15, 19-22, 25-28, 31
€17,995
September
07-15, 18, 23-29
€17,995
€500pps for three nights B&B. Book with AdamsandButler.com
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, TwitterX and my website joanscales.com
Cerberus Heat Wave Sweeping Southern Europe, 14 July, 2023
The Cerberus heatwave - named by the Italian Meteorological Society after the three-headed monster that features in Dante's Inferno - is expected to bring more extreme conditions in the next few days.
Temperatures are expected to surpass 40C (104F) in parts of Spain, France, Greece, Croatia and Turkey.
In Italy, temperatures could reach as high as 48.8C (119.8F). A red alert warning has been issued for 10 cities, including Rome, Bologna and Florence.
I have been in Seville when it was 41 degrees and and in Alcudia, Mallorca in August when it hit 41 too. On a visit to New York, it was so hot the buildings shimmered and the pavements were burned my feet. Greece is just as hot, but you are likely to get afternoon thunderstorms that clear the air.
Climate change is here, I have passion fruits growing in my garden in Portobello. June was the hottest month in world records and there is more to come.
What to do
- Act like a Southern European get up early, hide during the afternoon and come out again in the evening.
- Leave the blinds or shutters closed all day and night.
- Drink lots of water and cut down on alcohol, it goes right to your head in the heat.
- Its cooler by a beach, but the sand gets very hot, bring jelly shoes.
- Watch for signs of dehydration, such as dry or sticky mouth, dizziness, less or no peeing, drowsiness.
- Cover children up in UV protection wear.
- Everyone must wear Factor 50 and hats.
- Waterparks are a great place to cool off, bring jelly shoes
- Don’t plan outings during the day.
- Keep cool, take cool showers, stay in cool place.
If you haven’t booked holidays yet for August think about destinations other than southern Europe. There is nothing worse than children being miserable on holidays.
Stay home – or in Northern Europe. There are some lovely places just across the Irish Sea in Wales and England. Scotland tends to have a lot of midges in summer. Access is easy with the various ferry companies.
Listen to my interview on Newstalk Breakfast about the heatwave here.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter and my website joanscales.com
Joan's Day Trips - Brighton, June 8
Continuing my day trips to British cities series, it was time to visit Brighton. This seaside city has been famous for many years, and it was here where the Victorians began sea bathing.
My flight left Dublin around 9 am and arrived in Gatwick in time to get the 10.45 train to the seaside. My flights cost €41 and the train was €16 return. As Ireland is in the common travel area, there was no security or passport control. I was at the train station in about ten minutes.
The train arrives in the centre of Brighton, and you follow the main street right to the beach. The promenade runs for about nine kilometres, and is ideal way to get your steps in. As I was only there for the day I rent a Beryl bike – electric bikes dotted around the city.
As I stood on the pebbly beach in 27 degrees, I was interviewed by Andrea Gilligan on Lunchtime Live on Newstalk. The idea of taking day trips is beginning to gain momentum and it was lovely to chat to her about Brighton and my other day trips to Bath, Bristol and Birmingham.
Brighton Pier
When in Brighton, what else to do, but to walk the pier and enjoy the carnival atmosphere. It was a Tuesday and crowds were small, so it was great to see everything. I also had fun playing the slots, as you do.The one big change in Brighton is the addition of the i360, a 168m Observation Tower on the seafront. It opened in 2018 and is an amazing way to see the coastline and countryside, see here.
The fully enclosed glass viewing pod rises above the city and you can see all of Brighton, the South Downs and the English Channel. There are viewing seats and a bar, so you can relax with a drink as it slowly rises upwards. Adult prices are £17.95, see my video here.
The Lanes
The Lanes in Brighton is an area of narrow winding lanes, hidden squares and filled with mainly jewellery shops. Parts of this area date back to the 16th century when Brighton was a small fishing town called Brighthelmstone.
Here you can find unusual antique jewellery or high modern design pieces. There are lots of places to eat and drink and just watch the world go by. I had the most expensive glass of white wine sitting outside The Ivy listening to a saxophonist play, €17.97!
My flight left Dublin around 9 am and arrived in Gatwick in time to get the 10.45 train to the seaside. My flights cost €41 and the train was €16 return. As Ireland is in the common travel area, there was no security or passport control. I was at the train station in about ten minutes.
The train arrives in the centre of Brighton, and you follow the main street right to the beach. The promenade runs for about nine kilometres, and is ideal way to get your steps in. As I was only there for the day I rent a Beryl bike – electric bikes dotted around the city.
As I stood on the pebbly beach in 27 degrees, I was interviewed by Andrea Gilligan on Lunchtime Live on Newstalk. The idea of taking day trips is beginning to gain momentum and it was lovely to chat to her about Brighton and my other day trips to Bath, Bristol and Birmingham.
Brighton Pier
When in Brighton, what else to do, but to walk the pier and enjoy the carnival atmosphere. It was a Tuesday and crowds were small, so it was great to see everything. I also had fun playing the slots, as you do.The one big change in Brighton is the addition of the i360, a 168m Observation Tower on the seafront. It opened in 2018 and is an amazing way to see the coastline and countryside, see here.
The fully enclosed glass viewing pod rises above the city and you can see all of Brighton, the South Downs and the English Channel. There are viewing seats and a bar, so you can relax with a drink as it slowly rises upwards. Adult prices are £17.95, see my video here.
The Lanes
The Lanes in Brighton is an area of narrow winding lanes, hidden squares and filled with mainly jewellery shops. Parts of this area date back to the 16th century when Brighton was a small fishing town called Brighthelmstone.
Here you can find unusual antique jewellery or high modern design pieces. There are lots of places to eat and drink and just watch the world go by. I had the most expensive glass of white wine sitting outside The Ivy listening to a saxophonist play, €17.97!
Armagh Cider and Food Festival Launch in Dublin
The Festival Committee from Armagh paid a visit to Dublin last week to announce the launch of the Armagh Cider and Food Festival in September. It was a lovely event at the Woollen Mills Restaurant by Dublin’s famous Ha’Penny Bridge.
Visitors included those involved in producing the famous Armagh Cider, and food producers. There was a lovely display of food and cider from the Armagh region. Lunch, paired with cider reflected the food from Armagh, and the apple tart was a winner.
The Armagh Cider Festival takes place from 7 – 10 to September and you can see details here. One of the very helpful aspects of the festival is the provision of free bus services to transfer visitors to all the locations taking part. See more details here.
Visitors included those involved in producing the famous Armagh Cider, and food producers. There was a lovely display of food and cider from the Armagh region. Lunch, paired with cider reflected the food from Armagh, and the apple tart was a winner.
The Armagh Cider Festival takes place from 7 – 10 to September and you can see details here. One of the very helpful aspects of the festival is the provision of free bus services to transfer visitors to all the locations taking part. See more details here.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter and my website joanscales.com
Joan's Day Trips to England - Bristol and Bath, May 31.
Bristol
Bristol is a city I am familiar with, but it has been quite a while since I was last there and I discovered some new places to me. I loved exploring the food market at St Nicholas Markets. Here the world shows off its culinary efforts and you can dine globally in this lovely market, see here.
The Corn Exchange market is a cornucopia of things. This is what I like a market to be, a treasure trove of lovely things to covet. I particularly liked the lovely display of amethyst and other semi-precious stones. There was also jewellery, hats, clothes, art, memories, and knick knacks. See my video on Instagram here.
The street art scene in Bristol is still as vibrant as ever. Park Street would be one of the most walked streets for its art. However, there have been few changes since my last visit to see this street art in 2014 with Wherethewall.com Street art tours. Conor Harrington’s piece is still strong though showing a bit of wear after all this time.
In other places around Bristol, I did see some interesting street art and you can watch my video here. Bristol is a city that has embraced street art, probably because of its association with the mysterious Banksy, who began his career here. And it obviously adds to tourism, I saw quite a few groups touring the highlights of the city’s art. Previously I took a tour with this company, Where The Wall and it was very interesting.
The area around the harbour, the only inland harbour in England has been developed into an area for eating out, entertainment and some great activities for children. The water feature that allows kids to jump in puddles was very popular. I am sure it gets used at night by adults on trips to Bristol.
My day trip to Bristol and Bath was a bit disrupted by the train strike, which meant getting the bus from Bristol to Bath. It was a Wanderley Wagon and stopped at every village and crossroads, shortening my time in lovely Bath. The train is less than 15 minutes.
Bristol is a city I am familiar with, but it has been quite a while since I was last there and I discovered some new places to me. I loved exploring the food market at St Nicholas Markets. Here the world shows off its culinary efforts and you can dine globally in this lovely market, see here.
The Corn Exchange market is a cornucopia of things. This is what I like a market to be, a treasure trove of lovely things to covet. I particularly liked the lovely display of amethyst and other semi-precious stones. There was also jewellery, hats, clothes, art, memories, and knick knacks. See my video on Instagram here.
The street art scene in Bristol is still as vibrant as ever. Park Street would be one of the most walked streets for its art. However, there have been few changes since my last visit to see this street art in 2014 with Wherethewall.com Street art tours. Conor Harrington’s piece is still strong though showing a bit of wear after all this time.
In other places around Bristol, I did see some interesting street art and you can watch my video here. Bristol is a city that has embraced street art, probably because of its association with the mysterious Banksy, who began his career here. And it obviously adds to tourism, I saw quite a few groups touring the highlights of the city’s art. Previously I took a tour with this company, Where The Wall and it was very interesting.
The area around the harbour, the only inland harbour in England has been developed into an area for eating out, entertainment and some great activities for children. The water feature that allows kids to jump in puddles was very popular. I am sure it gets used at night by adults on trips to Bristol.
My day trip to Bristol and Bath was a bit disrupted by the train strike, which meant getting the bus from Bristol to Bath. It was a Wanderley Wagon and stopped at every village and crossroads, shortening my time in lovely Bath. The train is less than 15 minutes.
Beautiful Bath
Though I didn’t get to spend as much time in Bath as I had hop.de, I still saw quite a lot. It is a small city and easy to navigate. The high street is, I feel, slightly spoiled by being dominated by big brands. Such a pretty city deserves some more traditional and unusual shops and outlets.
Bath is a city of the Romans and the Georgians; each has left their mark strongly here. In AD 43 the Romans started the development of ‘Aquae Sulis’ as a sanctuary of rest and relaxation. Then in AD 70, the Romans built a reservoir around the hot springs, and a sophisticated series of baths and a temple dedicated to the goddess Sulis Minerva. The Baths were closed by the time I got to Bath, but you can see what to expect here.
The Georgians left their mark on Bath with the many fine streets and crescents of yellow sandstone houses and buildings. These mathematically-sound architectural gems are faithfully maintained. It is a pleasure to wander the streets and admire the workmanship.
The most famous of these is the Crescent, a semi-circle of butter yellow buildings overlooking a green. Though some wags thought it funny to mow a giant penis in the middle of the crescent during Coronation Week, see story here.
Bath Abbey
A religious building has stood on this site since 675 AD when it began as a convent with Abbess Bertana. The present Abbey in all its magnificence began life in 1499 AD when Bishop Oliver King ordered the building of this new church.
It is a magnificent piece of architecture, especially when you consider the time in which it was built. There would have been no heavy machinery or hoists, no cement, stone cutting and carving would all have been done by hand. Men spent their working lifetimes on building this cathedral, see my video here.
As part of exploring Bristol and Bath, I signed up to the Voi E-Scooters on the app. These are dotted around both cities and are a great way of getting around, though do take it easy, you are in traffic. To sign up you need to have a driving license, a credit card and take a road safety quiz.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter and my website joanscales.com
French Air Traffic Controllers Strike, June 6
French air traffic controllers are causing havoc in the skies over Europe. Today sees yet another strike by them andit will go on until tomorrow morning. There have been more than 50 days of strikes so far this year. The strike began last night and will continue until Wednesday morning. It hits at the beginning of the busy summer season causing chaos for airlines and travellers.
Why are French Air Traffic Controllers going on strike?
The French Air Traffic Controllers are protesting the change in the retirement age from 62 to 64. A change that was pushed through by the French President Emmanuel Macron. It has led to strikes all over France not only by Air Traffic Controllers.
Who is affected?
The strikes by air traffic controllers not only affect flights to and from France but also flights that must cross French air space, overflights. Any flights from Ireland to not only France but also Spain, Portugal, Germany, Italy, and other countries are affected. Up to lunchtime today, flights to Marseille, Paris, Cagliari, Geneva, Basel, Nantes, Nice have been cancelled.
What can airlines do?
The only option airlines have is to cancel flights, - usually with very short notice. Ryanair recently encouraged people to sign their petition to the EU Commission to Keep Europe’s Skies Open – so far more than 1.1 million people have signed the petition and it was delivered last Wednesday, May 31.
Ryanair are one of the most affected airlines as it carries the most passengers in Europe and has called on the Commission to protect 100% of overflights, require a 21-day notice of action and 72-hour notice of employee participation in ATC trikes. The Airlines for Europe group, that represents all the major carriers has also called on the Commission to act.
What are your rights in this situation?
If your flight is cancelled at short notice then the airline must compensate you, that will include refunding, rerouting or return you to your departure airport. If the cancellation is less than 14 days, you are entitled to compensation which can be from €250 to €600 depending on distance. These strikes are very costly for airlines.
There are other compensations if you are already in the airport and waiting to travel, such as meal allowances, access to communications and hotel accommodation, if necessary.
However, you will not be compensated for any other costs involved, such as accommodation, transfers, meals etc. Your travel insurance may cover these expenses; but you must have purchased insurance before your travel and any disruptions.
Listen back to my interview on Newstalk here.
Why are French Air Traffic Controllers going on strike?
The French Air Traffic Controllers are protesting the change in the retirement age from 62 to 64. A change that was pushed through by the French President Emmanuel Macron. It has led to strikes all over France not only by Air Traffic Controllers.
Who is affected?
The strikes by air traffic controllers not only affect flights to and from France but also flights that must cross French air space, overflights. Any flights from Ireland to not only France but also Spain, Portugal, Germany, Italy, and other countries are affected. Up to lunchtime today, flights to Marseille, Paris, Cagliari, Geneva, Basel, Nantes, Nice have been cancelled.
What can airlines do?
The only option airlines have is to cancel flights, - usually with very short notice. Ryanair recently encouraged people to sign their petition to the EU Commission to Keep Europe’s Skies Open – so far more than 1.1 million people have signed the petition and it was delivered last Wednesday, May 31.
Ryanair are one of the most affected airlines as it carries the most passengers in Europe and has called on the Commission to protect 100% of overflights, require a 21-day notice of action and 72-hour notice of employee participation in ATC trikes. The Airlines for Europe group, that represents all the major carriers has also called on the Commission to act.
What are your rights in this situation?
If your flight is cancelled at short notice then the airline must compensate you, that will include refunding, rerouting or return you to your departure airport. If the cancellation is less than 14 days, you are entitled to compensation which can be from €250 to €600 depending on distance. These strikes are very costly for airlines.
There are other compensations if you are already in the airport and waiting to travel, such as meal allowances, access to communications and hotel accommodation, if necessary.
However, you will not be compensated for any other costs involved, such as accommodation, transfers, meals etc. Your travel insurance may cover these expenses; but you must have purchased insurance before your travel and any disruptions.
Listen back to my interview on Newstalk here.
Travel and Explore with Joan - May 24
Listen back to hear about my trips to Gran Canaria and El Hierro
May has been a busy month so far and there is a lot to share with my readers and listeners. I appeared on Destination Anywhere on DublinsouthFM with Aileen Eglington. As long-time friends we always enjoy being on radio together. We chatted about the visit to Dublin this of Albufeira, the popular region in Portugal.
It was also an opportunity for me to share my experience of exploring two very different Canary Islands, Gran Canaria and El Hierro. In Gran Canara our accommodation was a gorgeous five-star resort at Puerto Mogan, the Cordial Mogan Playa. We explored every inch of this big island, with a population of around 900,000.
El Hierro was quite the opposite, it is one of the smallest of the Canary Islands, and very mountainous, with a population of almost 11,000. It feels like going back in time here, no big brands, no glitzy seaside resorts, just beautiful mountainous scenery, forests, and the sea. You can listen back to the show here.
It was also an opportunity for me to share my experience of exploring two very different Canary Islands, Gran Canaria and El Hierro. In Gran Canara our accommodation was a gorgeous five-star resort at Puerto Mogan, the Cordial Mogan Playa. We explored every inch of this big island, with a population of around 900,000.
El Hierro was quite the opposite, it is one of the smallest of the Canary Islands, and very mountainous, with a population of almost 11,000. It feels like going back in time here, no big brands, no glitzy seaside resorts, just beautiful mountainous scenery, forests, and the sea. You can listen back to the show here.
Sue Perkins in Dublin for An Post Money Card Launch
The upstairs café in Bewleys on Grafton Street was a lovely setting to meet British television and travel personality Sue Perkins. Over some famous Bewley’s sticky buns she shared some of her travel experiences in conversation with Fionn Davenport.
Sue was in Dublin for the launch of An Post Travel Money Card. It is an ideal way to make sure you get the best rates and commission-free money when you travel. The card is backed by Mastercard and you can also withdraw money on it through Western Union.
The debit card will only have as much money in it as you lodge to it, so if it is lost or stolen there is a limit to the damage that can be done. Sue also recommended when you use it, to always choose the local rate rather than Euros when travelling – it is the better rate.
The card can be topped up with 15 different currencies and is Chip and Pin protected. You can order a card on the An Post website or is available from selected post offices.
Some of Sue’s stories were hilarious, like on her first visit to New York she was politely mugged before leaving Grand Central Terminal. I asked her what the worst thing was she had to eat on a trip and we all gagged at her reply. It included tarantula, rat, udders, fallopian tubes, rooster knackers to name a few things.
Sue was in Dublin for the launch of An Post Travel Money Card. It is an ideal way to make sure you get the best rates and commission-free money when you travel. The card is backed by Mastercard and you can also withdraw money on it through Western Union.
The debit card will only have as much money in it as you lodge to it, so if it is lost or stolen there is a limit to the damage that can be done. Sue also recommended when you use it, to always choose the local rate rather than Euros when travelling – it is the better rate.
The card can be topped up with 15 different currencies and is Chip and Pin protected. You can order a card on the An Post website or is available from selected post offices.
Some of Sue’s stories were hilarious, like on her first visit to New York she was politely mugged before leaving Grand Central Terminal. I asked her what the worst thing was she had to eat on a trip and we all gagged at her reply. It included tarantula, rat, udders, fallopian tubes, rooster knackers to name a few things.
How to Make a Real Valencian Paella
Visit Valencia hosted an Irish gastronomic experience and private paella cooking demonstration by Chef Robert Curley, a chef who represented Ireland in Valencia's World Paella Day Cup in 2022. The evening included an exclusive cooking demonstration, providing insights into the history and cultural significance of paella, as well as its traditional preparation and tasting. Paella holds a special place in Valencia's gastronomy and culture, being a dish steeped in tradition and cherished by the locals who have been preparing it for centuries.
Valencia promises an extraordinary gastronomic journey that will leave foodies craving for more. With its vibrant food markets, delectable street food, and world-class dining establishments, Valencia is a must-visit place for food lovers seeking to embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure. There are direct flights to Valencia from Dublin, Cork and Belfast. You can read my story of 24 Hours in Valencia here.
Valencia promises an extraordinary gastronomic journey that will leave foodies craving for more. With its vibrant food markets, delectable street food, and world-class dining establishments, Valencia is a must-visit place for food lovers seeking to embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure. There are direct flights to Valencia from Dublin, Cork and Belfast. You can read my story of 24 Hours in Valencia here.
Workations - Home is Where Your Laptop Is
Workations is another name for remotely working from a location that is not your usual place of residence and having fun.
The Covid-19 pandemic dramatically increased the number of people working remotely. But it was the changes in technology in the past number of years that made it possible and vital too.
There are endless stories of people making huge changes in their lives during that period and those changes are now continuing. Employees do not want to go back fulltime into offices – staggered weeks are now common with people only expected on site one or two days a week or even a month in some cases. This has led to many people deciding to work remotely from a new destination and in pursuit of a lifestyle change.
In a recent survey on the best cities to work in 2023, remotely by accommodation site HometoGo and Workation, the top five cities were Lisbon, Porto, Barcelona, Amsterdam and Dublin.
Workation.com is all about not just work but discovering new places and maybe hanging out with other digital nomads and making new friends. It is a company that will arrange everything you need to work, and play is another country. At present Workation has about eight countries in Europe, mostly to the east Croatia, Slovakia, Estonia, Greece and Italy. Listen back to my interview with Sinead Ryan on Newstalk FM,The Home Show here.
The Covid-19 pandemic dramatically increased the number of people working remotely. But it was the changes in technology in the past number of years that made it possible and vital too.
There are endless stories of people making huge changes in their lives during that period and those changes are now continuing. Employees do not want to go back fulltime into offices – staggered weeks are now common with people only expected on site one or two days a week or even a month in some cases. This has led to many people deciding to work remotely from a new destination and in pursuit of a lifestyle change.
In a recent survey on the best cities to work in 2023, remotely by accommodation site HometoGo and Workation, the top five cities were Lisbon, Porto, Barcelona, Amsterdam and Dublin.
Workation.com is all about not just work but discovering new places and maybe hanging out with other digital nomads and making new friends. It is a company that will arrange everything you need to work, and play is another country. At present Workation has about eight countries in Europe, mostly to the east Croatia, Slovakia, Estonia, Greece and Italy. Listen back to my interview with Sinead Ryan on Newstalk FM,The Home Show here.
Norwegian Ambassador Welcomes Bergen - Dublin Route
It was nice to be in the Norwegian Embassy to mark the launch of the six times weekly service from Dublin to Bergen by Wideroe. The Ambassador HE Mari Skåre was very welcoming and excited to share the news of the new route. Bergen is on the north Atlantic coast of Norway and allows visitors to explore this colourful city and the amazing fjords.
Presentations were made by the various regional tourism organisation in west and northern Norway. One of the most interesting things to hear was that the city of Bodø has been designated European Capital of Culture for 2024. It will be the first capital of culture above the Arctic Circle and the city is planning some amazing events.
The opening spectacular show has been commissioned by Nordland Theater, Berlin-based company Phase 7. Among the many events planned of the year will be an opportunity to explore the Sami culture of the Arctic too.
Presentations were made by the various regional tourism organisation in west and northern Norway. One of the most interesting things to hear was that the city of Bodø has been designated European Capital of Culture for 2024. It will be the first capital of culture above the Arctic Circle and the city is planning some amazing events.
The opening spectacular show has been commissioned by Nordland Theater, Berlin-based company Phase 7. Among the many events planned of the year will be an opportunity to explore the Sami culture of the Arctic too.
Airfares will Increase – Aviation Summit Dublin
At the Airline Economics, Environment Summit in Dublin this month, there was no doubt that airfares must rise in the future. How air travel will operate under climate change guidelines will mean higher fares to travellers.
While still in the early stages, the introduction of SAF, sustainable aviation fuel is going to mean huge development costs for airlines and airports. Those costs will eventually find their way to ticket prices.
It was not all bad news though. The presentation by Martin Rolfe of the UK’s National Air Traffic Control Services had some interesting news. During Covid-19 pandemic, with the decrease in air traffic and the use of improved technology, it was possible to remove the traditional air tracks across the North Atlantic.
This has allowed aircraft free flow movement to take advantage of the Jetstream, leading to big savings in fuel and time. For example, every one minute of time saved on the North Atlantic results in a saving of 51 pounds of fuel. The annual savings on both fuel and CO2 will be considerable. New satellite technology also means that every aircraft anywhere in the globe can be located and there will never be a repeat of Malaysia Airlines MH370.
This technology will also be helpful in the future when we enter the world of vertical take off and landing aircraft, VTOLs. The world of unmanned aircraft delivering goods is around the corner and the discussion on how this will be managed is ongoing. Airports may not be involved; VTOLs may operate from other locations
Other subjects of the summit were that hydrogen aircraft, with considerably less emissions, are a probability. The Single European Sky (SES is being planned and would lead to huge efficiencies in airspace use. More about the conferernce here.
While still in the early stages, the introduction of SAF, sustainable aviation fuel is going to mean huge development costs for airlines and airports. Those costs will eventually find their way to ticket prices.
It was not all bad news though. The presentation by Martin Rolfe of the UK’s National Air Traffic Control Services had some interesting news. During Covid-19 pandemic, with the decrease in air traffic and the use of improved technology, it was possible to remove the traditional air tracks across the North Atlantic.
This has allowed aircraft free flow movement to take advantage of the Jetstream, leading to big savings in fuel and time. For example, every one minute of time saved on the North Atlantic results in a saving of 51 pounds of fuel. The annual savings on both fuel and CO2 will be considerable. New satellite technology also means that every aircraft anywhere in the globe can be located and there will never be a repeat of Malaysia Airlines MH370.
This technology will also be helpful in the future when we enter the world of vertical take off and landing aircraft, VTOLs. The world of unmanned aircraft delivering goods is around the corner and the discussion on how this will be managed is ongoing. Airports may not be involved; VTOLs may operate from other locations
Other subjects of the summit were that hydrogen aircraft, with considerably less emissions, are a probability. The Single European Sky (SES is being planned and would lead to huge efficiencies in airspace use. More about the conferernce here.
Travellers from Republic to Northern Ireland Top One Million Ovenights
Overnight trips from the Republic to Northern Ireland reached record levels in 2022, topping one million for the first time, with huge increases also evident for spend by Republic of Ireland visitors.
According to figures released by the Central Statistics Office there were more than 1.1m overnight trips by visitors from the Republic to Northern Ireland in 2022, compared to 756,000 in 2019, a 51% rise.
The money spent by visitors from the Republic in Northern Ireland also saw a huge increase last year to more than £233m, up 65% on the £142m spent three years earlier.
Tourism NI analysis of online reviews further indicates a 16% increase in the number of accommodation reviews left by ROI visitors in 2022 compared to 2019. In addition, there was also a significant increase in ROI cardholder spend in NI on key tourism-related categories in 2022 compared to 2019.
Research by Tourism NI found around half of visitors who travelled to Northern Ireland last year were first time leisure visitors and nine out of ten said their trip had matched or exceeded their expectations. Furthermore, of those who visited, more than six out of ten said they would likely make a return trip in 2023 to enjoy the atmosphere, food and drink and value once again for money in Northern Ireland.
According to figures released by the Central Statistics Office there were more than 1.1m overnight trips by visitors from the Republic to Northern Ireland in 2022, compared to 756,000 in 2019, a 51% rise.
The money spent by visitors from the Republic in Northern Ireland also saw a huge increase last year to more than £233m, up 65% on the £142m spent three years earlier.
Tourism NI analysis of online reviews further indicates a 16% increase in the number of accommodation reviews left by ROI visitors in 2022 compared to 2019. In addition, there was also a significant increase in ROI cardholder spend in NI on key tourism-related categories in 2022 compared to 2019.
Research by Tourism NI found around half of visitors who travelled to Northern Ireland last year were first time leisure visitors and nine out of ten said their trip had matched or exceeded their expectations. Furthermore, of those who visited, more than six out of ten said they would likely make a return trip in 2023 to enjoy the atmosphere, food and drink and value once again for money in Northern Ireland.
Game of Thrones Studio Tour Nominated in World Travel Awards
The GOT Studio Tour near Banbridge in Co Down has been nominated in the World Tourism Awards Visitor Experience category. The studio tour is only open a year and is becoming a popular destination for GOT fans and others.
The studio tour makes use of all the skills, crafts, special effects, armourers, costumiers techniques and technologies that went into the 73-episode multi award-winning series. It is a fascinating place to visit, see here.
The studio tour makes use of all the skills, crafts, special effects, armourers, costumiers techniques and technologies that went into the 73-episode multi award-winning series. It is a fascinating place to visit, see here.
Into America's Wild Film
Brand USA invited travel agents and media to view the film Into America’s Wild, narrated by Morgan Freeman in the Stella Cinema at the Devlin Hotel recently. It was made by award-winning producers MacGillivray Freeman, the company that also made the National Parks 100th anniversary IMAX film in 2016.
The journey with stunning cinematography takes viewers off the beaten path and is to encourage visitors to see some of the little known landscapes of the United States.
From Alaska to the coastline of Oregon, to the canyons of the Southwest and the Appalachian Trail and more. The trip is by kayak train, bike, hot air balloon and explores the lure of wild places to the sound of the rich voice of Morgan Freeman. You can see a list of the places explored here. The film is not on general release; however you can see clips from it on Youtube.com here.
The journey with stunning cinematography takes viewers off the beaten path and is to encourage visitors to see some of the little known landscapes of the United States.
From Alaska to the coastline of Oregon, to the canyons of the Southwest and the Appalachian Trail and more. The trip is by kayak train, bike, hot air balloon and explores the lure of wild places to the sound of the rich voice of Morgan Freeman. You can see a list of the places explored here. The film is not on general release; however you can see clips from it on Youtube.com here.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter and my website joanscales.com
Travel and Explore with Joan, May 5, 2023
Joan's Day Trips - Birmingham, England
It is a long time since I have been to Birmingham, and I decided to make a day trip last month to see what it is like now.
The biggest change in Birmingham in recent times is the redevelopment of the massive Bullring and Grand Central Shopping Centre. Now it is the UK's largest city centre-based shopping centre. The Bull Ring has been a significant area of Birmingham since the Middle Ages, 1166 to be exact.
What I liked about the Bullring was the variety of shops for every budget. It is a great mixture of high street stores side by side with luxury high end boutiques, such as Hugo Boss, Breitling, Michael Kors and more. There is also a huge Selfridges behind the striking façade of 15,000 anodised aluminium disks inspired by a chainmail dress designed by Paco Rabanne in the 1960s.
There are four floors, featuring everything from clothing, footwear and accessories through to stationery, homeware, technology, café and foodstuffs, Selfridges has wide range of designer fashion and goods. Beyond the Bullring are hilly streets of great shopping.
The centre of Birmingham is great for shopping, there’s even a big Primark. Do visit the stiking Church of St. Martin’s and the traditional food market at the Bullring. It is a hive of activity at the end of the day when the produce is sold off at half price.
Balti Curry Triangle
Birmingham is a famous for the curry houses on Ladypool Road. This is a busy local centre and home of the famous Balti Triangle. There lots of Pakistani and Indian shops, restaurants, and takeaways. Though there was little open on a Tuesday afternoon. I found the shops selling wedding outfits and jewellery fascinating. Here you will see elaborate wedding dresses encrusted with pearls, sequins, and filigree embroidery. The grooms’ outfits are almosto as elaborate.
The traditional dowry jewellery is extraordinary and very bling. It was fun checking out the shop windows. You can take the No. 50 bus across the road from the rail station to the Sparkhill area.
On the way back I rambled for a while and came upon a traditional Irish pub, the Patrick Kavanagh on Trafalgar Road, Moseley. It was an odd place to find one of Ireland’s most famous writers topping the bar. Oh course, I had to stop have a drink to the poet.
While I might have been too early for the Balti curry houses, I did have delicious Indian street food it the Indian Streatery,
near the Bullring. I had the grilled chicken tikka wrap and the Masala fries which were very tasty, and I would go back to Brum for them alone.
Birmingham is a city that manages to mingle many cultures and is a great place to visit and experience that. You can see a video of my trip to Birmingham here on Instagram and Tiktok.
The round-trip fare with Ryanair cost €25.48, and the train fare from the airport was £5.80 return.
For more information about visiting Birmingham, see VisitBirmingham.
Vroom, Vroom - Ireland BikeFest 2023 Returns to Killarney
The motorcycle festival returns to Killarney from June 2 to 5, 2023 and the fantastic line-up of free entertainment, set to take place at festival headquarters The Gleneagle Hotel, has just been announced.
This year’s programme features the biggest and best line-up yet taking in three stages - the Main Stage INEC, the Outdoor Stage in the Bike Village and The Harley® Bar.
Expect all the rock classics on the Main Stage at the Gleneagle INEC Arena where some of the greatest tribute and cover bands on the planet are set to perform including Rock Rising, Metallica Reloaded, JoanOvArc, The Unusual Suspects and festival legends and internationally acclaimed AC/DC Tribute - Hells Bells. New for 2023 – Glasgow’s folk supergroup Mec Lir are set to make their Ireland BikeFest debut on the Main Stage on Saturday night.
Outside, in the purpose-built festival Bike Village, the Outdoor Stage will host a marathon of live music with performances by Springsteen – A Tribute, Renovator, Johnny Gallagher & The Boxty Band, The Vibe, All Folk’d Up, Rattle and Hum, No Strings Attached, Cash Returns and Bowtie. And that’s not all! Favourite bikers’ haunt The Harley® Bar is set to host Two Time Polka, Super Céilí and The Small Hours.
Ireland Bikefest is renowned as one of Europe’s premier free open motorcycle festivals and is a firm favourite of bikers, aspiring bikers, families, visitors and locals alike. Thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from around the world are expected to visit the picturesque town and county to make the most of the fantastic scenery, touring routes, hospitality and festival atmosphere. Fun-fuelled festival highlights include the Custom Bike Show, free Harley-Davidson® Demo Rides, Jumpstart™ Rider Experience and the famous Parade through Killarney town.
Festival headquarters - The Gleneagle Hotel is the ideal base to soak up the atmosphere and live entertainment. The Gleneagle has a limited number of rooms available with a three-night package for two people sharing including breakfast from €670 per room.
Ireland BikeFest Killarney is supported by Harley-Davidson® UK & Ireland, The Gleneagle Hotel, Fáilte Ireland, Destination Killarney Ltd., Authorised Harley-Davidson® Dealers and Kerry County Council.
First Fáilte Ireland Employer Excellence Awards
The first Fáilte Ireland Employer Excellence Awards were announced on April 19 at the Guinness Store House in Dublin. The awards recognised and celebrated the excellent employers and great workplaces in the tourism industry.
The nominees are all participants in the Employer Excellence Programme which is a key element of Fáilte Ireland’s tourism careers strategy to assist businesses in retaining and attracting o staff they need while also building a future pipeline of skilled employees.
The 11 award categories included the four regions: Dublin, Wild Atlantic Way, Hidden Heartlands, and Ireland’s Ancient East. And small, medium, and large employers, attraction, hotel group, food & drink and an overall outstanding winner.
Over 170 tourism businesses took part in the inaugural Fáilte Ireland programme which launched last September. As part of the programme, Fáilte Ireland engaged internationally recognised employee experience surveyors, Great Place to Work, to invite staff of the participating businesses to complete their Trust Index© Survey.
This survey gives the team the chance to highlight the strengths of their workplace, along with areas for further development. The winning businesses were chosen based on this survey feedback.
Sweeping the board at the awards was the Prem Group with four category awards They included the Hoban Hotel in Kilkenny for Ireland’s Ancient East, the Aspect Hotel in Park West in Dublin for medium business and the small business award was to the Cahernane House Hotel in Killarney and the overall hotel group award.
The other awards were:
Outstanding Employer: Sandhouse Hotel – Co. Donegal
Wild Atlantic Way: Trident Hotel Kinsale, Co. Cork
Hidden Heartlands: The Lakeside Hotel, Co. Clare
Dublin: Big Bus Dublin, Co. Dublin
Attraction: EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Dublin
Food and Drink: The Reg, Co. Waterford
Large Business: The River Lee Hotel, Co. Cork
The nominees are all participants in the Employer Excellence Programme which is a key element of Fáilte Ireland’s tourism careers strategy to assist businesses in retaining and attracting o staff they need while also building a future pipeline of skilled employees.
The 11 award categories included the four regions: Dublin, Wild Atlantic Way, Hidden Heartlands, and Ireland’s Ancient East. And small, medium, and large employers, attraction, hotel group, food & drink and an overall outstanding winner.
Over 170 tourism businesses took part in the inaugural Fáilte Ireland programme which launched last September. As part of the programme, Fáilte Ireland engaged internationally recognised employee experience surveyors, Great Place to Work, to invite staff of the participating businesses to complete their Trust Index© Survey.
This survey gives the team the chance to highlight the strengths of their workplace, along with areas for further development. The winning businesses were chosen based on this survey feedback.
Sweeping the board at the awards was the Prem Group with four category awards They included the Hoban Hotel in Kilkenny for Ireland’s Ancient East, the Aspect Hotel in Park West in Dublin for medium business and the small business award was to the Cahernane House Hotel in Killarney and the overall hotel group award.
The other awards were:
Outstanding Employer: Sandhouse Hotel – Co. Donegal
Wild Atlantic Way: Trident Hotel Kinsale, Co. Cork
Hidden Heartlands: The Lakeside Hotel, Co. Clare
Dublin: Big Bus Dublin, Co. Dublin
Attraction: EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Dublin
Food and Drink: The Reg, Co. Waterford
Large Business: The River Lee Hotel, Co. Cork
Special Offers
Explore Mount Congreve Gardens while Staying in Faithlegg, Co. Waterford -.€449 for two
Enjoy the lush green Waterford countryside in all its spring time glory and check-in to one of their gorgeous rooms of the original 18th century manor house or the elegant contemporary wing. Conveniently located just a short drive from Faithlegg, the world-renowned Mount Congreve Gardens are a haven for plant and history lovers as well as for those simply looking to relax in nature.
The gardens comprise around 70 acres of planted woodlands, their garden wall and several stunning walkways. Boasting one of the largest private collections of plants globally, and described as ‘A Great Garden of the World’, the entire collection features plants from every continent.
Mount Congreve House, home to six generations of Congreves, was built in 1760 by the celebrated local architect John Roberts who was also responsible for the magnificent design of the original Faithlegg mansion.
Both nights you will be able to head to the award-winning Roseville Rooms restaurant where you will get to feast on some of the best produce Ireland has to offer, cooked by Executive Chef Jenny Flynn and her team, with a hearty breakfast to enjoy the following morning.
The Mount Congreve Break at Faithlegg includes a two night stay with breakfast each morning and dinner both nights and a visit to Mount Congreve. Prices start from €449 for two sharing. For more information, visit www.faithlegg.com
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter and my website joanscales.com
Travel and Explore with Joan - Newsletter, April 14, 2023
Easter always feels like the beginning of the holiday season, but not this year. The wet and windy weather has spoiled many a day out. I remember getting sunburned at Easter on several occasions, not rusted like in 2023.
The big highlight for 2023 is the incredible number of new flights from Ireland. Not just from Dublin, but also from Cork, Shannon, Ireland West, and Knock. The regional airports are all benefiting from the rise in new routes. There will be new European routes from all the airports. See list below.
I was on the Brendan O’Connor Show on Saturday 1 April talking about all the new routes. If you missed it, you could listen back here.
The big highlight for 2023 is the incredible number of new flights from Ireland. Not just from Dublin, but also from Cork, Shannon, Ireland West, and Knock. The regional airports are all benefiting from the rise in new routes. There will be new European routes from all the airports. See list below.
I was on the Brendan O’Connor Show on Saturday 1 April talking about all the new routes. If you missed it, you could listen back here.
New Flights from Ireland for Summer 2023
Your home in the movies
The fact that Ireland had 14 nominations in the Academy Awards, the Oscars is an incredible achievement. One of the major spinoffs from having so many movies and series filmed in Ireland is the effect on tourism. Places like Skellig Michael, Inismore and Achill Island are all seeing big increases in visitors because of Star Wars and Banshees of Inisherin being filmed there.
Another spinoff from the popularity of Ireland as a destination for filming, besides the tax breaks, is the opportunity for people to put forward their homes and properties as film locations. On Newstalk’s Home Show with Sinead Ryan, I talk about how you can get your home in the movies. Listen back here. Or see how to register your home on Screen Ireland here.
Another spinoff from the popularity of Ireland as a destination for filming, besides the tax breaks, is the opportunity for people to put forward their homes and properties as film locations. On Newstalk’s Home Show with Sinead Ryan, I talk about how you can get your home in the movies. Listen back here. Or see how to register your home on Screen Ireland here.
Keem Bay
Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees Visit Dublin
Thursday (April 13) was a fun night in Medley Dublin when the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees representatives came to Dublin to meet travel agents and media. One of the most popular regions of Spain and one that is very well known to many Irish holidaymakers. Following presentaitons by various hotels, resorts, and experiences the guests moved upstairs to take part in the highlight of the evening - a cocktail making competition.
Each table had to come up with a cocktal that would be inspired by the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees. A range of ingredients were supplied to choose from. They included gin, fruit juices, syrups, marmalades, and botanical elements like flowers and herbs. Our table, No. 4 came up with a cocktail, we called You Only Live Twice and it was inspired by the colours of the Costa Brava and infused with the darkness of the Liffey. Needless to say Table 4 were the winners and we will be hosted on a four-day trip to the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees.
The evening finished with a tasting of wines from the region and a variety of specialities from the region cooked by two award-winning chefs from Costa Brava. There are flights to Girona in Catalonia from Dublin, Cork, Shannon, ireland West and Belfast.
Each table had to come up with a cocktal that would be inspired by the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees. A range of ingredients were supplied to choose from. They included gin, fruit juices, syrups, marmalades, and botanical elements like flowers and herbs. Our table, No. 4 came up with a cocktail, we called You Only Live Twice and it was inspired by the colours of the Costa Brava and infused with the darkness of the Liffey. Needless to say Table 4 were the winners and we will be hosted on a four-day trip to the Costa Brava and Girona Pyrenees.
The evening finished with a tasting of wines from the region and a variety of specialities from the region cooked by two award-winning chefs from Costa Brava. There are flights to Girona in Catalonia from Dublin, Cork, Shannon, ireland West and Belfast.
In the footsteps of Banshees, Knockranny House House Hotel
Audiences all over the world have been wowed by the award-winning movie, The Banshees of Inisherin. Not just for the clever script and the wonderful performances by the actors, but for another element of the film that plays a leading role — the magnificent landscape in which it is set.
The imaginary island of Inisherin may not exist, but there are film locations galore to explore on a guided walking weekend based in Knockranny House Hotel on the weekend of May 12 and 13.
With glorious panoramic views over Clew Bay, Achill and Clare Island, the walks are led by Terra Firma who are expert local guides, taking you off the beaten track to explore the Wild Atlantic coastline and walk in the footsteps of Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson (and, of course, Jenny the miniature donkey) on some of the Achill-based locations of The Banshees of Inisherin.
A reasonably challenging three-hour walk, the guided loop also sees you passing many historical features, deserted villages and truly spectacular scenery, all on a great walking surface and with expert local knowledge on hand. Called the Granuaile Loop, this walk is named after the legendary Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley — Granuaile — who had a castle in nearby Kildownet, so there are more stories to be told along this walk than just those in the movies.
You’ll get a sense of the Pirate Queen’s sea kingdom, as well as hear tales of the Elephant Road, the historic coffin trail and enjoy a picnic lunch on a strategically sited bench, perfect for taking in the sweeping cinematic views.
Knockranny House Hotel is a cosy and luxurious setting to return to after a day’s adventures. The lovely pool, sauna and steam room in gorgeous Spa Salveo at Knockranny is something to particularly look forward to in the evening too, to work any soreness or tightness out of muscles you may have forgotten you had.
The Trails and Tales Weekend at Knockranny House Hotel includes two nights’ accommodation with breakfast, dinner on one evening, a guided walk with packed lunch, and transport to and from your walk. Prices start from €319pp based on two sharing.
To book or for further enquiries please contact Knockranny House Hotel on +353 98 28600 or visit www.KnockrannyHouseHotel.ie
The imaginary island of Inisherin may not exist, but there are film locations galore to explore on a guided walking weekend based in Knockranny House Hotel on the weekend of May 12 and 13.
With glorious panoramic views over Clew Bay, Achill and Clare Island, the walks are led by Terra Firma who are expert local guides, taking you off the beaten track to explore the Wild Atlantic coastline and walk in the footsteps of Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson (and, of course, Jenny the miniature donkey) on some of the Achill-based locations of The Banshees of Inisherin.
A reasonably challenging three-hour walk, the guided loop also sees you passing many historical features, deserted villages and truly spectacular scenery, all on a great walking surface and with expert local knowledge on hand. Called the Granuaile Loop, this walk is named after the legendary Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley — Granuaile — who had a castle in nearby Kildownet, so there are more stories to be told along this walk than just those in the movies.
You’ll get a sense of the Pirate Queen’s sea kingdom, as well as hear tales of the Elephant Road, the historic coffin trail and enjoy a picnic lunch on a strategically sited bench, perfect for taking in the sweeping cinematic views.
Knockranny House Hotel is a cosy and luxurious setting to return to after a day’s adventures. The lovely pool, sauna and steam room in gorgeous Spa Salveo at Knockranny is something to particularly look forward to in the evening too, to work any soreness or tightness out of muscles you may have forgotten you had.
The Trails and Tales Weekend at Knockranny House Hotel includes two nights’ accommodation with breakfast, dinner on one evening, a guided walk with packed lunch, and transport to and from your walk. Prices start from €319pp based on two sharing.
To book or for further enquiries please contact Knockranny House Hotel on +353 98 28600 or visit www.KnockrannyHouseHotel.ie
Yoga at the Calipolis Hotel – Sitges
The beaches are ready, and the sun loungers are out in Sitges; the fine weather has begun. The Calipolis Hotel located right across the road from one of the busy beaches are opening the season with Yoga classes by the pool.
Every Thursday from 9am – 10am you can join a class with Angeles Simón on the terrace, towels and breakfast buffet supplied for €20, just bring a mat.
The Calipolis Hotel is a great location in Sitges and though I have never stayed there, I have always found the staff friendly and welcoming to a woman travelling her own. Next time I will stay in the Calipolis.
Every Thursday from 9am – 10am you can join a class with Angeles Simón on the terrace, towels and breakfast buffet supplied for €20, just bring a mat.
The Calipolis Hotel is a great location in Sitges and though I have never stayed there, I have always found the staff friendly and welcoming to a woman travelling her own. Next time I will stay in the Calipolis.
Stena Line Beats Airfares for Family Holidays
Stena Line have looked at the cost of family holidays from Ireland to France and compared taking the ferry with your car to airfares. There are big differences in prices. Not only are there no luggage
restrictions, you can also take your pet.
For example, taking the ferry instead of flying to the following destinations can bring significant savings:
- Taking the ferry to Nantes can save you almost €900 compared to flying.
- Taking the ferry to La Rochelle can save you over €800 compared to flying.
- Taking the ferry to Bordeaux can save you €550 compared to flying.
- Taking the ferry to Nice can save you over €700 compared to flying.
With the big improvements in ferries in recent years, most are like floating four-star hotel with great services and activities for the children. Stena’s new ship the Stena Vision will come into service in June and provide even more comfort for passengers and pets. See here.
Ask Joan - your questions answered
Q. I wanted to enquire if you could recommend a travel group for independent travellers to
West Coast of U.S. I wanted to plan a trip in September to San Francisco, Napa and Yeosemite National Park for two weeks or so. I am 45 years old so a group in around 35-60 years or similar.
From a reader.
A. Thank you for the question about a guided trip to northern California and national parks.
Here are two companies in Ireland that arranged escorted trips that might suit what you are looking for. Have a look at what they are offering and do call the agents to get more information and an idea of the agre groups.. If you are traveling alone, then the cost will be higher, due to single supplements.
Platinum Travel with Trafalgar Tours have an eight-day California Tour of San Francisco, Lakke Tahoe and Yosemite National Park, see details here.
American Holidays have a similar trip and it will also include Lake Tahoe, Carmel and the Napa Valley. You can see full details here.
The latest American Holidays brochure was issued this week at a lunch for the media at Bang Restaurant in Dublin. The brochure is 140 pages of fantastic holiday ideas. It not only includes a huge variety of places to see in America but also Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Cruising. You can pick up a copy in your local travel agent.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter and my website joanscales.com
West Coast of U.S. I wanted to plan a trip in September to San Francisco, Napa and Yeosemite National Park for two weeks or so. I am 45 years old so a group in around 35-60 years or similar.
From a reader.
A. Thank you for the question about a guided trip to northern California and national parks.
Here are two companies in Ireland that arranged escorted trips that might suit what you are looking for. Have a look at what they are offering and do call the agents to get more information and an idea of the agre groups.. If you are traveling alone, then the cost will be higher, due to single supplements.
Platinum Travel with Trafalgar Tours have an eight-day California Tour of San Francisco, Lakke Tahoe and Yosemite National Park, see details here.
American Holidays have a similar trip and it will also include Lake Tahoe, Carmel and the Napa Valley. You can see full details here.
The latest American Holidays brochure was issued this week at a lunch for the media at Bang Restaurant in Dublin. The brochure is 140 pages of fantastic holiday ideas. It not only includes a huge variety of places to see in America but also Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Cruising. You can pick up a copy in your local travel agent.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter and my website joanscales.com
Travel and Explore with Joan - the Tropics to Waterford, March 29, 2023
The last week or so has been very busy with lots of catching up with travel industry colleagues, new flights and destination launches, a film, radio interviews and even a cycle. The end of March is the beginning of the summer schedules and this year there are more than 40 new flights from Irish airports. Read on to see who I met and what I did and what's coming up for travel from and in Ireland.
Tropical Sky Meets the Media in Dublin
The week began at a Tropical Sky event to catch up on travel for 2023. Tropical Sky is one of the leading tour operators in Ireland for luxury holidays, especially if you are looking for a tailor-made programme. Not only are they are experts in the area of honeymoons but also can come up with amazing family adventures. Other Sky brands include Australiansky.ie, Newzealandsky.ie, Canadiansky.ie and Africasky.ie. Here are a few ideas of what Tropical Sky can plan for a holiday to remember.
Polar Bear Churchill and Tundra Experience in Canada
Fly into Winnipeg and then head to northern community of Churchill for the opportunity to see polar bears in their natural habitat on a specially designed Tundra Buggy, spotting polar bears and other wildlife with a local
guide A five-night tour is priced from €5,775 per person, based on two sharing a double room. This includes transatlantic flights, all meals, accommodation and a full range of activities. For more information see here.
Enjoy Island paradise at Komandoo Island Resort and Spa, The Maldives
For those seeking a delightful private island paradise, look no further than Komandoo Island Resort and Spa. The beautiful private island in the north of the Lhaviyani Atoll in the Maldives. Guests can relax on the stunning white sandy beach and there is a wide range of activities on offer at the resort. They include kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding to volleyball, badminton and table tennis. A seven-night stay, at Baros Maldives, is priced from €3,149 pp, based on two sharing a double room on a B&B basis and includes flights and transfers. For more information see here.
Hartford Connecticut Service Returns
The Aer Lingus route to Bradley International in Connecticut began in 2016 but had to been stopped in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. The governor Ron Lamont, could not make the launch on Wednesday 22 March, in EPIC Dublin but he did make an appearance by internet link.
Daily flights to Hartford will bring travellers into the centre of Connecticut, in beautiful New England, home to global businesses, Yale University and renowned tourist attractions, like the Mark Twain home and the charming town of Mystic. The Aer Lingus service will be the only Transatlantic flight from Hartford and will bring traffic through Dublin onwards on its network.
The Aer Lingus route to Bradley International in Connecticut began in 2016 but had to been stopped in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic. The governor Ron Lamont, could not make the launch on Wednesday 22 March, in EPIC Dublin but he did make an appearance by internet link.
Daily flights to Hartford will bring travellers into the centre of Connecticut, in beautiful New England, home to global businesses, Yale University and renowned tourist attractions, like the Mark Twain home and the charming town of Mystic. The Aer Lingus service will be the only Transatlantic flight from Hartford and will bring traffic through Dublin onwards on its network.
Dungeons and Dragons – Honour Among Thieves
It was almost 30 years ago when Dungeons and Dragons hit our screens and enthralled us. It now returns on Friday March 31 with a cast that includes Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriquez, Sophia Lillis, Regé Jean Page, Hugh Grant. The new DandD is exciting and full of amazing special effects.
I was at the preview of this film as much of it was filmed in Northern Ireland. The locations included Clandeboye Estate, Myra Castle, Tollymore Forest, Ballintoy Beach, Castleward, Carrickfergus Castle, Carrickfergus Harbour, Sandy Brae, Galboly, Glenarm Castle and Seaford Estate. All the locations looked fantastic, and it was hard to believe it was filmed in Northern Ireland. Yet another reason to visit Northern Ireland.
It was almost 30 years ago when Dungeons and Dragons hit our screens and enthralled us. It now returns on Friday March 31 with a cast that includes Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriquez, Sophia Lillis, Regé Jean Page, Hugh Grant. The new DandD is exciting and full of amazing special effects.
I was at the preview of this film as much of it was filmed in Northern Ireland. The locations included Clandeboye Estate, Myra Castle, Tollymore Forest, Ballintoy Beach, Castleward, Carrickfergus Castle, Carrickfergus Harbour, Sandy Brae, Galboly, Glenarm Castle and Seaford Estate. All the locations looked fantastic, and it was hard to believe it was filmed in Northern Ireland. Yet another reason to visit Northern Ireland.
Asturias the Newest Destination in Spain from Dublin
Thursday night saw the launch of the new Ryanair service from Dublin to Asturias in Northern Spain. This twice-weekly service will allow for weekend and mid-week trips to this lovely region of Spain.
Last summer I did the Car-mino from Santander to Santiago de Compostela travelling from Cantabria via Asturias to Galicia. One of the most stunning places we visited was the province of Asturias. This area in the north of Spain stretches from beautiful white sandy beaches - the dinosaur coast, through green pasturelands, orchards, and up to the mighty Picos de Europa mountains at 2,650m.
Asturias is famous for its cheese and cider and every meal should have some. Three things I did on my trip to Asturias last year that were memorable.
1 Staying in Oviedo, I loved this city, it is well planned out and the centre is pedestrianised. All around the city there are sculptures, more than 160, and it’s fun finding them. Hotels and eating out is inexpensive. You can stay in four-star hotels for less than €100 per night.
2 Discovering the Museo de Jurasico made me feel like a child again. This museum has life-size dinosaurs scattered around its grounds and it was fun having photos taken with them. Indoors you can see more life size creatures and learn all about dinosaurs.
3 No visit to Asturias would be complete without going to see the Picos de Europa. The scenery is stunning, and you can see across three provinces of Spain; Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile Leon. See my reel about Asturias here.
Thursday night saw the launch of the new Ryanair service from Dublin to Asturias in Northern Spain. This twice-weekly service will allow for weekend and mid-week trips to this lovely region of Spain.
Last summer I did the Car-mino from Santander to Santiago de Compostela travelling from Cantabria via Asturias to Galicia. One of the most stunning places we visited was the province of Asturias. This area in the north of Spain stretches from beautiful white sandy beaches - the dinosaur coast, through green pasturelands, orchards, and up to the mighty Picos de Europa mountains at 2,650m.
Asturias is famous for its cheese and cider and every meal should have some. Three things I did on my trip to Asturias last year that were memorable.
1 Staying in Oviedo, I loved this city, it is well planned out and the centre is pedestrianised. All around the city there are sculptures, more than 160, and it’s fun finding them. Hotels and eating out is inexpensive. You can stay in four-star hotels for less than €100 per night.
2 Discovering the Museo de Jurasico made me feel like a child again. This museum has life-size dinosaurs scattered around its grounds and it was fun having photos taken with them. Indoors you can see more life size creatures and learn all about dinosaurs.
3 No visit to Asturias would be complete without going to see the Picos de Europa. The scenery is stunning, and you can see across three provinces of Spain; Asturias, Cantabria, and Castile Leon. See my reel about Asturias here.
Launch of the summer schedules
The last weekend in March is traditionally the start of the summer season flights, though some will begin in April, May and June. This year there is a huge increase in flights from Ireland, more than 40, to many new destinations and not just from Dublin, but also Cork, Shannon, Kerry, Ireland West and both Belfast airports.
There are too many new destinations to list, but here are a few that might interest you, Tel Aviv or Cleveland from Dublin. La Rochelle or Seville from Cork. Chicago and Beziers from Shannon, Brest and Quimper from Kerry and from Knock, Lanzarote. I will be on the Brendan O'Connor Show on RTE1 on Saturday April 1, talkng about all the new routes.
The last weekend in March is traditionally the start of the summer season flights, though some will begin in April, May and June. This year there is a huge increase in flights from Ireland, more than 40, to many new destinations and not just from Dublin, but also Cork, Shannon, Kerry, Ireland West and both Belfast airports.
There are too many new destinations to list, but here are a few that might interest you, Tel Aviv or Cleveland from Dublin. La Rochelle or Seville from Cork. Chicago and Beziers from Shannon, Brest and Quimper from Kerry and from Knock, Lanzarote. I will be on the Brendan O'Connor Show on RTE1 on Saturday April 1, talkng about all the new routes.
Discovering the Waterford Greenway
On Sunday I cycled part of the Waterford Greenway. It opened in March 2017 and is 47 km from Waterford city to Dungarvan. It was formerly the Waterford to Mallow train line and there is evidence of this along the way. I went with a group from Meetup.com, Awesome Days Trips. It was an ideal way to do the Greenway, as the trip included transport from Dublin and electric bikes. We did the Greenway from the halfway point, Kilmacthomas to Dungarvan. The round trip was about 50km and was almost all flat.
Luckily for us, we had a fine dry day and it was a lovely spin to the coastal town of Dungarvan. Along the way the route passed through rolling farmland, former rail tunnels, eerie green mossy canyons dotted with fairy doors and ribbons to remember those who have passed, and finally to the coast with the gorgeous Clonea Strand below and into charming Dungarvan.
Happy Travels
Joan
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter and my website joanscales.com
On Sunday I cycled part of the Waterford Greenway. It opened in March 2017 and is 47 km from Waterford city to Dungarvan. It was formerly the Waterford to Mallow train line and there is evidence of this along the way. I went with a group from Meetup.com, Awesome Days Trips. It was an ideal way to do the Greenway, as the trip included transport from Dublin and electric bikes. We did the Greenway from the halfway point, Kilmacthomas to Dungarvan. The round trip was about 50km and was almost all flat.
Luckily for us, we had a fine dry day and it was a lovely spin to the coastal town of Dungarvan. Along the way the route passed through rolling farmland, former rail tunnels, eerie green mossy canyons dotted with fairy doors and ribbons to remember those who have passed, and finally to the coast with the gorgeous Clonea Strand below and into charming Dungarvan.
Happy Travels
Joan
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, Twitter and my website joanscales.com
Discover Ireland Through Film
Good Luck to all our Oscar Nominees
8 March, 2023
In recent years there has been a huge increase in the number of films being shot in Ireland. Apart from the amazing scenery, one of the main reasons is the big investment in film education. Not just in film studies but in the production and other roles required for making films.
Seven colleges in Ireland provide undergraduate and post graduate degrees along with many vocational training schemes. This makes for easier casting behind the scenes. Here are some recent and favourite film productions that show Ireland at its best.
You can listen to my radio interviews with Aileen Eglington, about film locations in Ireland on DublinsouthFm here
8 March, 2023
Banshees of Inisherin – Inis Mór, Aran Island, Galway and Achill Island, Co. Mayo
The Academy Awards Oscar contender the Banshees of Inisherin was filmed in Ireland on two island location, Inis Mór of the coast of Galway and Achill Island in Mayo.
In the film these islands look quite gloomy, it’s a dark movie – however in reality it is different, especially in the summer. Inis Mór has been welcoming tourists for many years and has great places to see. The island is famous for its horse-drawn carriage rides, good food and fantastic Irish music everywhere.
Achill Island does have a bridge linking it to the mainland and so has easy access for cars. There are stunning sights and drives around this rugged island; the Atlantic Drive is breath-taking.
Some of scenes in Banshees of Inisherin were film at Keem Bay at the very end of the island. This is where you will see Colm’s house and the beach they stood on. The Beehive Café and Craft Shop at Keel is a nice place for dining and craft shopping.
My Sailor My Love - Achill Island, Co. Mayo
Filmed on Achill is the past year and releasing on March 10 this film starring Brid Brennan, and James Cosmo from Game of Thrones. It’s a love story about a grumpy old sailor who retires to Achill and falls for his housekeeper – Brid Brennan. The scenery and the lifestyle in Achill are winners in this movie.
Game of Thrones - Antrim, Derry and Down
The most notable scenes in the series are the Dark Hedges at Stranocrum in Co. Antrim and the picturesque Ballintoy Harbour in Co. Down. In the winter of 2021 Storm Arwen – a recognisable name from Lord of the Rings brought down some of the trees. All was not lost the wood was used to make a series off carved doors. See here.
There also a series of amazing stained-glass window, 2m high scattered around Belfast and there is a walking trail to find them. See here.
The Game of Thrones Studios in Banbridge, Co. Down are a must for GOT fans. Here many of the scenes in the long-running series were filmed. Here you will see the Dragonstone Room, the Winterfell Great Room, King’s Landing, the Armoury and where the costumes were made. You can also have your photograph taken on the Great Iron Throne. Non-GOT fans will also find this an interesting place to visit. See here. You can see what I looked like as Brienne in GOT, here.
Star Wars - Kerry, Cork, Clare and Donegal
Skellig Michael as a location is the most significant place in this trilogy of films. This stunning towering island was a monastic community 12 kms off the coast of Kerry in the southwest of Ireland. The filming was in 2014 and on a trip to Derrynane I asked a local boatman if he thought that Skellig Michael would become a tourism destination. He was positive it would be as he had a man dressed as a Wookiee in his boat the previous week.
Day trips to land on the island are from mid-May to the end of September and are weather-dependent. There are more than 600 steps to the top of the monastic settlement. Day trips are from Portmagee and Derrynane and cost €120. See here.
Finding You - Carlingford, Co Louth, Kildare, Clare and Offaly
All the village scenes were filmed in this medieval coastal village on the shores of Carlingford Lough. The film starred Rose Reid and Jedediah Goodacre as star-crossed lovers. It also starred well-known actors including Katherine McNamara, Patrick Bergin, Saoirse-Monica Jackson, and Judith Hoag, with Tom Everett Scott and Vanessa RedgraveSome of the scenes are in Ghan House – great spot for classy dinner. Carlingford is known for a great food and music in its traditional pubs, see more here. See Instagram reel of Carlingford here.
Skellig Michael as a location is the most significant place in this trilogy of films. This stunning towering island was a monastic community 12 kms off the coast of Kerry in the southwest of Ireland. The filming was in 2014 and on a trip to Derrynane I asked a local boatman if he thought that Skellig Michael would become a tourism destination. He was positive it would be as he had a man dressed as a Wookiee in his boat the previous week.
Day trips to land on the island are from mid-May to the end of September and are weather-dependent. There are more than 600 steps to the top of the monastic settlement. Day trips are from Portmagee and Derrynane and cost €120. See here.
Finding You - Carlingford, Co Louth, Kildare, Clare and Offaly
All the village scenes were filmed in this medieval coastal village on the shores of Carlingford Lough. The film starred Rose Reid and Jedediah Goodacre as star-crossed lovers. It also starred well-known actors including Katherine McNamara, Patrick Bergin, Saoirse-Monica Jackson, and Judith Hoag, with Tom Everett Scott and Vanessa RedgraveSome of the scenes are in Ghan House – great spot for classy dinner. Carlingford is known for a great food and music in its traditional pubs, see more here. See Instagram reel of Carlingford here.
Disenchanted - Enniskerry, Co.Wicklow
The way that Enniskerry was transformed for Disenchanted was incredible. It really did look like a fairy-tale place. The whole village became the set for the film with Amy Adams and Patrick Dempsey. I went to see it a few times and it was charming. I loved that though filming was going on visitors could see what was happening up close. Enniskerry is a picturesque village and an easy trip from Dublin city. See how Enniskerry looked as a film set for Enchanted here.
Wild Mountain Thyme - Crossolina, and rural Mayo
This film starred some big-name Hollywood actors that included Emily
Blunt, Chrisoper Walken, and Jon Hamm of Madmen, with Jamie Dornan. It is
a classic love story of two unrequited lovers and a farm is involved. After much
toing and froing they finally get together.
Brooklyn – Wexford and New York
Saoirse Ronan is just perfect in this role and no wonder she was nominated for best actress in the Oscars and won the BAFTA award for best leading actress.This is a love story that take places between Brooklyn, home of the Irish and Italians in New York and Curracloe in Co. Wexford. The beach looks considerably better than it did for the D-Day Landings in Saving Private Ryan. Saoirse
The way that Enniskerry was transformed for Disenchanted was incredible. It really did look like a fairy-tale place. The whole village became the set for the film with Amy Adams and Patrick Dempsey. I went to see it a few times and it was charming. I loved that though filming was going on visitors could see what was happening up close. Enniskerry is a picturesque village and an easy trip from Dublin city. See how Enniskerry looked as a film set for Enchanted here.
Wild Mountain Thyme - Crossolina, and rural Mayo
This film starred some big-name Hollywood actors that included Emily
Blunt, Chrisoper Walken, and Jon Hamm of Madmen, with Jamie Dornan. It is
a classic love story of two unrequited lovers and a farm is involved. After much
toing and froing they finally get together.
Brooklyn – Wexford and New York
Saoirse Ronan is just perfect in this role and no wonder she was nominated for best actress in the Oscars and won the BAFTA award for best leading actress.This is a love story that take places between Brooklyn, home of the Irish and Italians in New York and Curracloe in Co. Wexford. The beach looks considerably better than it did for the D-Day Landings in Saving Private Ryan. Saoirse
Belfast – Belfast, Northern Ireland
This film by Kenneth Branagh recalls his life growing in a troubled Belfast Jamie Dornan Caitriona Balfe, Judy Dench, Ciaran Hinds, Jude Hill as the young Branagh.Though Belfast has changed a lot in the past forty years, you only must stray a bit of the main drag to see places that were in this film. I found the opening of this film startling and having grown up with the troubles; it was a shocking reminder of what life was like then. However, it is a fantastic city and keeps providing more and more places to see and things to do than any other city in the country. Visit Belfast.
Derry Girls – Derry City, Northern Ireland
The hugely popular series set in the 1990s really put Derry on the map as a place to visit. The trials and tribulations of the five teenagers really caught our imagination. Now you can find out all the places to visit that are connected to the television series on this website. See here.
PS I love you - Wicklow and New York
What’s not to love about Hilary Swank and Gerald Butler falling in love in Wicklow. I love this film and always cry when Gerry dies. It shows Wicklow in all its glory but then you also have the streets of New York where Holly will make her name as a shoe designer. They also do a duet of the Pogues song, Love You ‘Till the End.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
This film by Kenneth Branagh recalls his life growing in a troubled Belfast Jamie Dornan Caitriona Balfe, Judy Dench, Ciaran Hinds, Jude Hill as the young Branagh.Though Belfast has changed a lot in the past forty years, you only must stray a bit of the main drag to see places that were in this film. I found the opening of this film startling and having grown up with the troubles; it was a shocking reminder of what life was like then. However, it is a fantastic city and keeps providing more and more places to see and things to do than any other city in the country. Visit Belfast.
Derry Girls – Derry City, Northern Ireland
The hugely popular series set in the 1990s really put Derry on the map as a place to visit. The trials and tribulations of the five teenagers really caught our imagination. Now you can find out all the places to visit that are connected to the television series on this website. See here.
PS I love you - Wicklow and New York
What’s not to love about Hilary Swank and Gerald Butler falling in love in Wicklow. I love this film and always cry when Gerry dies. It shows Wicklow in all its glory but then you also have the streets of New York where Holly will make her name as a shoe designer. They also do a duet of the Pogues song, Love You ‘Till the End.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
Travel and Explore with Joan - 2023 Holiday Ideas and Special Offers
24 February, 2023
Where will we go on holidays this year
I was on the Brendan O'Connor Show last Saturday on RTE Radio 1 and we chatted about places to see and things do for holidays this year. You can listen back here.
2023 got off to a great start with people determined go on holidays this year, and not just any holiday. There is a lot of money being spent on top class and quality experiences. Three years of uncertainty have made people determined to have a great holiday this year.
There is also an element of pent-up demand and catching up on missed celebrations, such as birthdays, anniversaries, coming of age, honeymoons and more. Though prices have gone up all round in reaction to the various world events, fuel prices, cost of living increase etc and are in the region of 10% higher.
Family Holidays
Family have coming shooting out of the traps this year to get holidays booked, particularly to bigger apartments and to return to favourite resorts.
Spain – Our most Favourite
The Spanish Tourism Organisation expect more than 2 million visits to Spain this year.
The most favourite destination is the Canary Islands, particularly Lanzarote which welcomes the most Irish visitors every year. It has lots of great beach resorts and due to strict planning regulations, it is a low-rise island.
Catalonia
With access through Barcelona, Reus and Girona, is a very popular region in Spain. Families love the theme park Portaventura which is close to Salou with its miles of sandy beaches and easy access to Barcelona.
Portaventura will have a new ride this year called Uncharted based on the Sony Pictures film with Tom Holland and it will be an immersive and exciting experience.
Greece
Is having a major revival this year with dozens of extra flights every week. Take your pick from Athens, Crete, Corfu, Kos, Halkadiki, Rhodes and Santorini. Aer Lingus and Ryanair both have new twice weekly flights to Kos. Ideal for those who that like al fresco holidays.
Cruising
The appeal of cruising is increasing especially or family. It is a great holiday for all ages, but make sure to pick a cruise line that is family friendly. Ones I have been on include Royal Caribbean and MSC. They know how to entertain all the family. The initial price may seem high but when you take into account that all the meals, drinks, entertainment, clubs, kids zones, activities are included it works out great value.
This also goes for all – inclusive holidays like the TUI Family resorts and the TUI cruises – the price includes everything. TUI also have some discounts of up to €300 for summer holidays.
Ferry Holidays
There has been a big increase in ferry traffic since Brexit and a lot of families love to take the ferry to Britain and France. This year Stena Line will have a new big ship on Rosslare to Cherbourg and one of the additions will be cabins for pets. The new ship the Stena Vision will also have a spa on board – so your holiday will begin when you leave the port. Brittany Ferries also have pet cabins on their routes from Cork to Roskoff and Rosslare to Bilbao. Irish Ferries operate from Dublin Port to Cherbourg on the WB Yeats.
Disneyland Paris
One of the most popular theme parks in Europe is Disneyland Paris and the bookings are huge this year because the park is celebrating the 30th anniversary and there is lots of additional magical stuff on. Hotels on site are more expensive but you can stay in a nearby place and take courtesy coaches to the park. Stena Line and Irish ferries are seeing a big interest in families doing a few days in Disneyland on the way to from a European Holiday.
I was on the Brendan O'Connor Show last Saturday on RTE Radio 1 and we chatted about places to see and things do for holidays this year. You can listen back here.
2023 got off to a great start with people determined go on holidays this year, and not just any holiday. There is a lot of money being spent on top class and quality experiences. Three years of uncertainty have made people determined to have a great holiday this year.
There is also an element of pent-up demand and catching up on missed celebrations, such as birthdays, anniversaries, coming of age, honeymoons and more. Though prices have gone up all round in reaction to the various world events, fuel prices, cost of living increase etc and are in the region of 10% higher.
Family Holidays
Family have coming shooting out of the traps this year to get holidays booked, particularly to bigger apartments and to return to favourite resorts.
Spain – Our most Favourite
The Spanish Tourism Organisation expect more than 2 million visits to Spain this year.
The most favourite destination is the Canary Islands, particularly Lanzarote which welcomes the most Irish visitors every year. It has lots of great beach resorts and due to strict planning regulations, it is a low-rise island.
Catalonia
With access through Barcelona, Reus and Girona, is a very popular region in Spain. Families love the theme park Portaventura which is close to Salou with its miles of sandy beaches and easy access to Barcelona.
Portaventura will have a new ride this year called Uncharted based on the Sony Pictures film with Tom Holland and it will be an immersive and exciting experience.
Greece
Is having a major revival this year with dozens of extra flights every week. Take your pick from Athens, Crete, Corfu, Kos, Halkadiki, Rhodes and Santorini. Aer Lingus and Ryanair both have new twice weekly flights to Kos. Ideal for those who that like al fresco holidays.
Cruising
The appeal of cruising is increasing especially or family. It is a great holiday for all ages, but make sure to pick a cruise line that is family friendly. Ones I have been on include Royal Caribbean and MSC. They know how to entertain all the family. The initial price may seem high but when you take into account that all the meals, drinks, entertainment, clubs, kids zones, activities are included it works out great value.
This also goes for all – inclusive holidays like the TUI Family resorts and the TUI cruises – the price includes everything. TUI also have some discounts of up to €300 for summer holidays.
Ferry Holidays
There has been a big increase in ferry traffic since Brexit and a lot of families love to take the ferry to Britain and France. This year Stena Line will have a new big ship on Rosslare to Cherbourg and one of the additions will be cabins for pets. The new ship the Stena Vision will also have a spa on board – so your holiday will begin when you leave the port. Brittany Ferries also have pet cabins on their routes from Cork to Roskoff and Rosslare to Bilbao. Irish Ferries operate from Dublin Port to Cherbourg on the WB Yeats.
Disneyland Paris
One of the most popular theme parks in Europe is Disneyland Paris and the bookings are huge this year because the park is celebrating the 30th anniversary and there is lots of additional magical stuff on. Hotels on site are more expensive but you can stay in a nearby place and take courtesy coaches to the park. Stena Line and Irish ferries are seeing a big interest in families doing a few days in Disneyland on the way to from a European Holiday.
USA - and Special Holidays
Despite the strength of the dollar – that is great for tourism to Ireland – it is not deterring us from hearing West. I hear from the travel agents, that the bookings are off the charts. And Aer Lingus has dozens of extra flights to the US this year and American Airlines have just announced the return of fights to
Florida
The themes parks of Florida are brilliant for family holidays. People are combining them with a two-centres trips, such as villas in coastal Florida or on to Mexico, New York or the Caribbean.
Universal Studios allows guests staying in resort hotels, early access. Plan your days in advance to make the best of a trip to Orlando and its theme parks, such as Disneyworld, Universal Studios, Seaworld, Aquatica, Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove, to name a few. Book with a travel company that have experience and get you the best deal for your holiday; Tour America, American Holidays, Platinum Holidays, Travelnet or your local travel agent.
Santa Holidays
In the first week in January, - the bookings began coming in for trips to Lapland to see Santa Claus – as well as people booking for next Christmas – its going to be a busy travel year. See Santa holidays and Magic Vacations for details.
Despite the strength of the dollar – that is great for tourism to Ireland – it is not deterring us from hearing West. I hear from the travel agents, that the bookings are off the charts. And Aer Lingus has dozens of extra flights to the US this year and American Airlines have just announced the return of fights to
Florida
The themes parks of Florida are brilliant for family holidays. People are combining them with a two-centres trips, such as villas in coastal Florida or on to Mexico, New York or the Caribbean.
Universal Studios allows guests staying in resort hotels, early access. Plan your days in advance to make the best of a trip to Orlando and its theme parks, such as Disneyworld, Universal Studios, Seaworld, Aquatica, Busch Gardens and Discovery Cove, to name a few. Book with a travel company that have experience and get you the best deal for your holiday; Tour America, American Holidays, Platinum Holidays, Travelnet or your local travel agent.
Santa Holidays
In the first week in January, - the bookings began coming in for trips to Lapland to see Santa Claus – as well as people booking for next Christmas – its going to be a busy travel year. See Santa holidays and Magic Vacations for details.
New Routes for 2023
Many people like to plan their own trips and we are lucky to have to so many choices from Ireland. Not only from Dublin but also around the country there is a big increase in flights new and favourite destinations.
Some of these include Valencia, Asturias for Oviedo in Northern Spain, Tel Aviv begins next month with El Al and Bergen on Norway’s Atlantic Coast from Dublin.
Shannon will have Porto, Beziers and Naples, while Cork will add La Rochelle, Rome, Seville, Venice Treviso. In Ireland West Knock there will be 21 routes to choose from and in Kerry, the sunspots of Alicante and Faro are a direct flight away.
Where to book - use a travel agent or tour operator
If it is a family holiday and a special trip use a travel agent or tour operator. They will find you the best deals and look after your trip from end to end. When spending such a lot on a trip it is good to know that you will get the best service. Travel agents have access to lots of great prices for holidays.
Travel Insurance
It is always a good idea to have travel insurance, just in case the inevitable happens. In the last three yeas there were a lot of disruptions and people did lose money when flights and trips were disrupted. The European Health Insurance Card is free from the HSE here.
Special offer - Egypt - Nile River Cruise including Cairo & Hurghada
Sail with Travel Department down the Nile River and through Egypt on this unique holiday that combines the exotic beauty of Cairo and the vibrant resort of Hurghada with an unforgettable 7-night cruise. Your holiday begins in the magnificent city of Cairo, where you’ll get to absorb the ancient sites including a full day city tour, a visit to the Egyptian Museum and a trip to the Khan El Khalili bazaar.
You’ll also pay a visit to Egypt’s most iconic sites: the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Next, we’ll embark on a relaxing river cruise down the Nile with a range of excursions along the way including the Temple of Horus, the Valley of Kings, the High Dam and the Temples of Karnak and Luxor. Finally, You’ll enjoy a 3-night stay in Hurghada, the beautiful beach resort town stretching 40km along Egypt’s Red Sea coast here you can soak up the sun and relax.
Departing on the 15th of April- Egypt Nile River Cruise - Save €100pp - was €2399pps and is now € 2299pps
Included in the one price is return flights, 12 nights’ accommodation (Includes 1 or 2 nights on a b&b basis, 7 nights on a full board basis, 3 nights on a half board basis) and expert guides.
Nile River Cruise - Holiday to Egypt with Escorted Tours Included (traveldepartment.com)
Sail with Travel Department down the Nile River and through Egypt on this unique holiday that combines the exotic beauty of Cairo and the vibrant resort of Hurghada with an unforgettable 7-night cruise. Your holiday begins in the magnificent city of Cairo, where you’ll get to absorb the ancient sites including a full day city tour, a visit to the Egyptian Museum and a trip to the Khan El Khalili bazaar.
You’ll also pay a visit to Egypt’s most iconic sites: the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Sphinx. Next, we’ll embark on a relaxing river cruise down the Nile with a range of excursions along the way including the Temple of Horus, the Valley of Kings, the High Dam and the Temples of Karnak and Luxor. Finally, You’ll enjoy a 3-night stay in Hurghada, the beautiful beach resort town stretching 40km along Egypt’s Red Sea coast here you can soak up the sun and relax.
Departing on the 15th of April- Egypt Nile River Cruise - Save €100pp - was €2399pps and is now € 2299pps
Included in the one price is return flights, 12 nights’ accommodation (Includes 1 or 2 nights on a b&b basis, 7 nights on a full board basis, 3 nights on a half board basis) and expert guides.
Nile River Cruise - Holiday to Egypt with Escorted Tours Included (traveldepartment.com)
Key anniversaries in Barcelona 2023 – Picasso and Miró
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the painter's death. In 2023, Barcelona will bring together a unique exhibition from two of the
best painters of our world: Picasso and Miró. The Joan Miró Foundation and the Picasso Museum will jointly organize, produce and host an exhibition.
It will be Miró-Picasso, which will be inaugurated on April 19 and will last until February 2024. It will be a single exhibition but with two locations, and the common thread will be the friendship between Miró and Picasso, a long relationship that it is reflected in a series of documents that show the encounters and divergences between the two artists.
There will be more than 50 exhibitions and events to celebrate Picasso around the world. The «Picasso Celebration 1973 - 2023» revolves around some fifty exhibitions and events to be held at renowned cultural institutions in Europe and North America that, together, address a historiographical analysis of Picasso’s work. Pans of the painters should be Barcelona on their diaries for this series of exhibitions.
Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the painter's death. In 2023, Barcelona will bring together a unique exhibition from two of the
best painters of our world: Picasso and Miró. The Joan Miró Foundation and the Picasso Museum will jointly organize, produce and host an exhibition.
It will be Miró-Picasso, which will be inaugurated on April 19 and will last until February 2024. It will be a single exhibition but with two locations, and the common thread will be the friendship between Miró and Picasso, a long relationship that it is reflected in a series of documents that show the encounters and divergences between the two artists.
There will be more than 50 exhibitions and events to celebrate Picasso around the world. The «Picasso Celebration 1973 - 2023» revolves around some fifty exhibitions and events to be held at renowned cultural institutions in Europe and North America that, together, address a historiographical analysis of Picasso’s work. Pans of the painters should be Barcelona on their diaries for this series of exhibitions.
Golden Holidays are Back
After a break of three years it is great to hear that Golden Irish Holidays for the over 60s are back. The first trip will be to the northwest and tour Donegal and Derry from 24 - 27 April. It will combine Donegal's breath-taking scenery with Derry's vibrant and historic charm. Expect three days of heritage, history, culture and craic.
The price includes dinner, bed and breakfast, tours and sightseeing and entertainment on two evenings. It will also be a an opportunity to meet other people and explore some stunning places, prices from €380pps and from €455 single.
For further information or to book this tour, please telephone Geraldine: 00 353 (0)64 6630267, or Email: tours@goldenireland.ie and Golden Holidays.
After a break of three years it is great to hear that Golden Irish Holidays for the over 60s are back. The first trip will be to the northwest and tour Donegal and Derry from 24 - 27 April. It will combine Donegal's breath-taking scenery with Derry's vibrant and historic charm. Expect three days of heritage, history, culture and craic.
The price includes dinner, bed and breakfast, tours and sightseeing and entertainment on two evenings. It will also be a an opportunity to meet other people and explore some stunning places, prices from €380pps and from €455 single.
For further information or to book this tour, please telephone Geraldine: 00 353 (0)64 6630267, or Email: tours@goldenireland.ie and Golden Holidays.
Happy travels
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
Love Yourself - Be Your Own Valentine
14 February 2023
Special Deals from Cassidy Travel for those Happy to Travel Alone
Single and Ready to Mingle in Rome!
Travel in March 2023
2 Night Package
4* Hotel and Return Flights Included!
Room Only Basis
Price from €259 (based on 1 adult)
Explore the romantic ancient city of Rome with incredible ancient sites
to see including The Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Pantheon.
A true feast for the senses!
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 9695550.
Loving Yourself in Lisbon!
Travel in March 2023
2 Night Package
4* Hotel and Return Flights Included!
Room Only Basis
Price from €289 (based on 1 adult)
Discover lovely Lisbon’s historic ruins, winding old town, trams,
fado music and delicious delicacies like bacalhau and pasteis de nata!
No chance of feeling lonely in this wonderfully vibrant city!
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 4629100
Free as a Bird in Fuerteventura!
Travel in March 2023
7 Night Package
4* Kn Hotel Matas Blancas (Adults Only)
Return Flights Included!
Price from €689 (based on 1 adult)
This adults-only resort has sparkling swimming pools and comfortable
lounge areas so you can kick back and relax in the warm spring
sunshine with a cool beverage and watch the world go by.
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 8224000.
Me Myself & I in Malta!
Travel in March 2023
7 Night Package
4 * Paradise Bay Resort, Mellieha
Return Flights Included!
Price from €510 (based on 1 adult)
This stunning resort boasts 4 seawater pools, glorious sea views
and a private stretch of Blue Flag beach making this an
ideal holiday location for some quality time alone!
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 6265100.
Special Solo Cruise Offer with MSC!
Western Mediterranean Fly Cruise
MSC GRANDIOSA
Travel 10th October 2023
7 Nights
Studio Interior Fantastica Cabin
Full Board including All Inclusive Drinks Package and Gratuities!
Price from €1039 (based on 1 adult) Deposit Only €250
Itinerary: Barcelona, visiting Tunisia, Sicily, Naples, Genoa and Marseille
Price Includes: Return flights from Dublin, luggage allowance, transfers
and 7 night cruise, all-inclusive including gratuities!
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 8779890.
Single and Ready to Mingle in Rome!
Travel in March 2023
2 Night Package
4* Hotel and Return Flights Included!
Room Only Basis
Price from €259 (based on 1 adult)
Explore the romantic ancient city of Rome with incredible ancient sites
to see including The Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and Pantheon.
A true feast for the senses!
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 9695550.
Loving Yourself in Lisbon!
Travel in March 2023
2 Night Package
4* Hotel and Return Flights Included!
Room Only Basis
Price from €289 (based on 1 adult)
Discover lovely Lisbon’s historic ruins, winding old town, trams,
fado music and delicious delicacies like bacalhau and pasteis de nata!
No chance of feeling lonely in this wonderfully vibrant city!
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 4629100
Free as a Bird in Fuerteventura!
Travel in March 2023
7 Night Package
4* Kn Hotel Matas Blancas (Adults Only)
Return Flights Included!
Price from €689 (based on 1 adult)
This adults-only resort has sparkling swimming pools and comfortable
lounge areas so you can kick back and relax in the warm spring
sunshine with a cool beverage and watch the world go by.
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 8224000.
Me Myself & I in Malta!
Travel in March 2023
7 Night Package
4 * Paradise Bay Resort, Mellieha
Return Flights Included!
Price from €510 (based on 1 adult)
This stunning resort boasts 4 seawater pools, glorious sea views
and a private stretch of Blue Flag beach making this an
ideal holiday location for some quality time alone!
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 6265100.
Special Solo Cruise Offer with MSC!
Western Mediterranean Fly Cruise
MSC GRANDIOSA
Travel 10th October 2023
7 Nights
Studio Interior Fantastica Cabin
Full Board including All Inclusive Drinks Package and Gratuities!
Price from €1039 (based on 1 adult) Deposit Only €250
Itinerary: Barcelona, visiting Tunisia, Sicily, Naples, Genoa and Marseille
Price Includes: Return flights from Dublin, luggage allowance, transfers
and 7 night cruise, all-inclusive including gratuities!
Drop into Cassidy Travel today or contact them on 01 8779890.
Travel and Explore with Joan Scales - It's Holiday World Show Time - where will you go? 26 January, 2023
Holiday World Show - Dublin
This weekend, 27 – 29 January is one of my favourite times of the year when the Holiday World Show is on in Dublin. It has been three years since the last Holiday World Show and it is promising to be an excellent event. Visitors can meet people from five continents and 50 countries at the Holiday World Show this weekend.
It is an opportunity for many countries and destinations around the world to showcase their offering to the Irish market, they include Japan, Abu Dhabi, Kenya, Latvia, Egypt, Caribbean islands of Barbados, Jamaica, Cuba and dozens of places in the United States and Canada. It is also a big marketplace for Irish destinations and an opportunity to find out what’s new around the country.
There are almost 200 destinations with direct air services from Ireland. From the far west coast of North America to the Middle East and as far south as Cairo and north to Rovaniemi in Finland. All the favourite destinations of people from Ireland will be there. The top destination, with an expected more than one million visitors from Ireland will be Spain, followed, by France, Italy and Portugal and of course, our other favourite, the United States will be well represented. Cruising will be well represented too with some of the major cruise lines attending, such as MSC, Royal Caribbean, Princess and Oneworld river cruises.
The fun of the Holiday World Show is the opportunity to talk to people from places you would like to visit. It is also an opportunity to pick up some brochures. After all part of the fun of holidays is in the planning. There will also be free competitions, special deals and show-only offers.
Summer Family Holidays for 2023
On Saturday 21 January I was on the Anton Savage show on Newstalk. I had a lot of items prepared about family holidays but we got a bit off track with questions from readers. I have included my full story below with lots of interesting ideas for family holidays. You can listen back to the show here.
Top spots for this year
Spain will always be a favourite for families
1 the flight it not too long – two to three hours
2 great resorts – big investment in facilities and activities for children
3 good prices – though Spain is suffering with inflation like everyone else.
Costa Salou – great resorts with facilities for children, lots of sports activities, good value family accommodation. Nearby is Portaventura World, a great theme park and for car lovers, Ferrari World
Costa del Sol
Lots of great resorts close to Malaga airport, they include Fuengirola, Marbella, Torrevieja, and Nerja.
Majorca
This island is moving away from its party reputation and there are lovely family resorts in Palma Nova, Sa Como and Alcudia
Canary Islands
Popular with families as it never gets too hot in the summer, temperatures normally stay under 30 degrees.
Lanzarote is the favourite island of the Irish, and has many great beachside resorts
Portugal – is perfect for families
The Algarve is 150km of sandy beaches. The all inclusive resorts are particularly good for families. The area around Porto in the north of the country is becoming more popular, especially for short breaks with a big increase in flights.
Greece
Has become a much better family destination in recent years and there quite a lot of nice island resorts. There will be flights this year to Kos with both Ryanair and Aer Lingus as well as the regular charters.
Turkey
Another good value destination though a bit longer flying time. Sun Express will be flying to the resort area of Antalya twice weekly from Dublin from April.
This weekend, 27 – 29 January is one of my favourite times of the year when the Holiday World Show is on in Dublin. It has been three years since the last Holiday World Show and it is promising to be an excellent event. Visitors can meet people from five continents and 50 countries at the Holiday World Show this weekend.
It is an opportunity for many countries and destinations around the world to showcase their offering to the Irish market, they include Japan, Abu Dhabi, Kenya, Latvia, Egypt, Caribbean islands of Barbados, Jamaica, Cuba and dozens of places in the United States and Canada. It is also a big marketplace for Irish destinations and an opportunity to find out what’s new around the country.
There are almost 200 destinations with direct air services from Ireland. From the far west coast of North America to the Middle East and as far south as Cairo and north to Rovaniemi in Finland. All the favourite destinations of people from Ireland will be there. The top destination, with an expected more than one million visitors from Ireland will be Spain, followed, by France, Italy and Portugal and of course, our other favourite, the United States will be well represented. Cruising will be well represented too with some of the major cruise lines attending, such as MSC, Royal Caribbean, Princess and Oneworld river cruises.
The fun of the Holiday World Show is the opportunity to talk to people from places you would like to visit. It is also an opportunity to pick up some brochures. After all part of the fun of holidays is in the planning. There will also be free competitions, special deals and show-only offers.
Summer Family Holidays for 2023
On Saturday 21 January I was on the Anton Savage show on Newstalk. I had a lot of items prepared about family holidays but we got a bit off track with questions from readers. I have included my full story below with lots of interesting ideas for family holidays. You can listen back to the show here.
Top spots for this year
Spain will always be a favourite for families
1 the flight it not too long – two to three hours
2 great resorts – big investment in facilities and activities for children
3 good prices – though Spain is suffering with inflation like everyone else.
Costa Salou – great resorts with facilities for children, lots of sports activities, good value family accommodation. Nearby is Portaventura World, a great theme park and for car lovers, Ferrari World
Costa del Sol
Lots of great resorts close to Malaga airport, they include Fuengirola, Marbella, Torrevieja, and Nerja.
Majorca
This island is moving away from its party reputation and there are lovely family resorts in Palma Nova, Sa Como and Alcudia
Canary Islands
Popular with families as it never gets too hot in the summer, temperatures normally stay under 30 degrees.
Lanzarote is the favourite island of the Irish, and has many great beachside resorts
Portugal – is perfect for families
The Algarve is 150km of sandy beaches. The all inclusive resorts are particularly good for families. The area around Porto in the north of the country is becoming more popular, especially for short breaks with a big increase in flights.
Greece
Has become a much better family destination in recent years and there quite a lot of nice island resorts. There will be flights this year to Kos with both Ryanair and Aer Lingus as well as the regular charters.
Turkey
Another good value destination though a bit longer flying time. Sun Express will be flying to the resort area of Antalya twice weekly from Dublin from April.
Cruising for Families
In recent years there has been a big interest in cruise for families. The most popular lines are Royal Caribbean and MSC. The ships are like sailing theme parks with all kinds of water activities sports and entertainment. MSC - some of their ships have cabins for up to five. Book through a travel agents for the best offers.
Theme Park Holidays
Disneyland Paris is celebrating 30 years and is putting on a even more magical events and activities. This park is good value in June before the French school holidays. Families are booking the ferry and taking a few days in Diisneyland before going to a resort. Legoland in Windsor is very popular for short breaks and is a fun place for little kids. Available through Magic Vacations.
Long Distance Holidays
Despite the dollar being so strong we are still going to the USA, so many, that Aer Lingus will have 15 routes this year.
The pent-up demand will include those special holidays to Orlando to do Disneyland and Universal – which are incredible and well worth going to. But do book with a tour operator such as Touramerica, American Holidays,/ or Platinum Travel
They are the experts and will get you the best possible holiday.
I always like to stay in and around International Drive, that way you don’t have to drive, there are buses to bring you to and from the theme parks. Florida is a great family holiday and combine a week in Orlando with a week the beach and everyone is happy.
Plan your Orlando holiday in advance. It is a huge place and there are so many great things to do, you need to have some idea before you go. Florida will be at the Holiday World Show and it is a good idea to pick up some brochures to give you ideas. The children love posing over brochures too. The shopping in Orlando is good value, especially the outlet malls.
Top Class Holidays
If you want to spend a bit more on your holidays and have a unique and high-end experience then there are two specialist agencies that can tailor make your special trip, they are Oroko Travel and the newly launched The Travel Suite though the owner Mary McKenna has been in the travel business for more than 30 years.
Do It Yourself Holidays
There have never been so many flights from Ireland this year and this summer we will have 23 new routes, there’s a list of my website Joanscales.com
They include six new Italian routes, Brindisi, Olbia, Trieste, Naples, Genoa and Venice Treviso. For France you can fly from Cork to La Rochelle and from Shannon to Beziers. Cork will also have a Seville service and Shannon will have flights to Porto. Ireland West Knock will have a flight to Lanzarote for the summer.
Ryanair have introduced a new type of fare this year, Family Plus Fare, you can avail of special offers and cheaper fares by paying 50% now and the balance 40 days before departure. A great help when you are saving for big trip.
Be careful online – only book flights with official airline sites. A friend nearly lost a lot of money this week on a fake site, Revolut returned the money he paid. You can use a site like skyscanner.net to compare and find flights, and they are a reputable company, I would always book directly with the airline I will be using.
If you want to spend a bit more on your holidays and have a unique and high-end experience then there are two specialist agencies that can tailor make your special trip, they are Oroko Travel and the newly launched The Travel Suite though the owner Mary McKenna has been in the travel business for more than 30 years.
Do It Yourself Holidays
There have never been so many flights from Ireland this year and this summer we will have 23 new routes, there’s a list of my website Joanscales.com
They include six new Italian routes, Brindisi, Olbia, Trieste, Naples, Genoa and Venice Treviso. For France you can fly from Cork to La Rochelle and from Shannon to Beziers. Cork will also have a Seville service and Shannon will have flights to Porto. Ireland West Knock will have a flight to Lanzarote for the summer.
Ryanair have introduced a new type of fare this year, Family Plus Fare, you can avail of special offers and cheaper fares by paying 50% now and the balance 40 days before departure. A great help when you are saving for big trip.
Be careful online – only book flights with official airline sites. A friend nearly lost a lot of money this week on a fake site, Revolut returned the money he paid. You can use a site like skyscanner.net to compare and find flights, and they are a reputable company, I would always book directly with the airline I will be using.
Take the Car
Taking the car is great way of being able to take what you want on holidays and not worry about checking in times and luggage weights, you can also bring the dog. Ferry traffic has increased significantly since Brexit and so too have the ships. Stena has a beautiful new ship Stena Vision coming into service in June from Rosslare to France.
It will have 485 cabins including 42 pet cabins. On board it will be like a floating hotel with a Nordic Spa, Steam Room, Hot tub and more. Your holiday will begin when you board. Irish Ferries have great family holidays in France mainly Pierre et Vacance which are on sale now. Many of the resorts cater specifically for families and have fantastic facilities. They also have a variety of hotels and chateaux for holidays.
Tips
If you live within 120km of Shannon or Cork airports, I suggest using them. Parking is cheaper and if you go from Shannon, they have the most up to date security screening in Europe, no need to open bags or leave your liquids behind.
For family holidays, use a travel agent or tour operator. At least someone will have your back if anything goes wrong
All-inclusive resorts and cruises might seem expensive but when you calculate all the extras like food, drinks, clubs, activities, entertainment they often work out good value
Buy holiday insurance for all the family. Prices are very reasonable and well worth it and don’t forget the EHIC European Health Insurance Card, E111 it’s free from the HSE.ie.
DublinSouthFM.ie – Destination Anywhere appearance
It was fun to be on the Destination Anywhere Show with Aileen Eglington. Other guests included John Spollen of Cassidy Travel and John Barrett of Magicvacations.ie based in Cork. We had a good chat about what travel people will be doing this year. After almost three years of little or no holidays, it seems the whole country is escaping this year.
Both agents reported very strong booking across all types of holidays. The pent-up demand for America will see thousands exploring the resorts of Florida and favourite cities like New York, Boston and Chicago. John Barrett has seen a huge interest in Disneyland Paris and Legoland. You can listen to the podcast here.
Happy travels
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
It was fun to be on the Destination Anywhere Show with Aileen Eglington. Other guests included John Spollen of Cassidy Travel and John Barrett of Magicvacations.ie based in Cork. We had a good chat about what travel people will be doing this year. After almost three years of little or no holidays, it seems the whole country is escaping this year.
Both agents reported very strong booking across all types of holidays. The pent-up demand for America will see thousands exploring the resorts of Florida and favourite cities like New York, Boston and Chicago. John Barrett has seen a huge interest in Disneyland Paris and Legoland. You can listen to the podcast here.
Happy travels
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
Travel and Explore with Joan Scales - World Aviation Leasing Convention in Dublin, 23 New Routes so far from Ireland, Carlingford Brewing, 19 January. 2023
World Aviation Leasing Leaders in Dublin
This week Dublin was the host city for the Aero News, Airline Economics Growth Frontiers Global conference. It was attended by 4,600 delegates from all the major aircraft and engine leasing companies around the world. It was also a marketplace for suppliers to the aviation leasing industry.
Ireland has 65% share of the global aviation leasing marketplace: a $100 billion industry. Fifty of the world leading companies are based here and there was quite a few Irish voices speaking on Monday. They included Willie Walsh Director General of IATA, Aengus Kelly CEO AerCap and Andy Cronin CEO Avolon.
Ireland’s favourable corporate tax regime, double tax treaties, first-rate infrastructure, highly skilled talent pool and rich aviation heritage, are some of the reasons why the Irish market is so strong. Ireland is a centre of excellence within the aviation sector, and it was great to hear so many Irish leaders in this field.
At the end of the day, I was very clear on four important areas of this industry. The first, and most important is that the aviation industry will recover to 2019 levels by the middle of this year.
This was stressed more than a few times during the day. KPMG also released the Aviation Leaders Report for 2023 and shared interviews with some of the aviation executives that took part. The topics also covered Aviation Finance, The Age of Leasing, Freight and Fleet Focus, and Eye on ESG, Environment, Society and Governance.
We will also soon become familiar with the anacronym SAF, sustainable aviation fuel. The aviation industry is committed to being green and eco-friendly by 2050. SAF can be produced from various sustainable resources known as feedstocks. It can include forestry and agricultural waste, used cooking oil, carbon captured from the air and green hydrogen.
However, the production of SAF will also entail the building of plants to harvest the fuel. These will need to be located close to airports or in locations with easy pipeline access and will mean big infrastructural changes worldwide.
China is vital to the aviation industry and there was a sense of relief that this huge market is now open again and all Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted. Though there was a feeling that it may take some time to be fully operational with aircraft and staffing. But China flying again internationally will increase global aviation figures.
The bogeyman in aviation leasing is Russia – more than 400 leased aircraft have been impounded by this State. Speakers were reluctant to talk about this issue, as there are insurance claims involved and court cases pending. Figures of 13 investigations in Ireland, five in the US and four in the UK were mentioned. Also impounded aircraft are not undergoing the usual maintenance and service checks, affecting their airworthiness.
The conference was a welcome affair in Dublin, with delegates staying in city centre hotels, and attending events in the Mansion House, RDS, the Shelbourne Hotel, College of Physicians, Freemasons Hall, and the Stephen’s Green Club.
This week Dublin was the host city for the Aero News, Airline Economics Growth Frontiers Global conference. It was attended by 4,600 delegates from all the major aircraft and engine leasing companies around the world. It was also a marketplace for suppliers to the aviation leasing industry.
Ireland has 65% share of the global aviation leasing marketplace: a $100 billion industry. Fifty of the world leading companies are based here and there was quite a few Irish voices speaking on Monday. They included Willie Walsh Director General of IATA, Aengus Kelly CEO AerCap and Andy Cronin CEO Avolon.
Ireland’s favourable corporate tax regime, double tax treaties, first-rate infrastructure, highly skilled talent pool and rich aviation heritage, are some of the reasons why the Irish market is so strong. Ireland is a centre of excellence within the aviation sector, and it was great to hear so many Irish leaders in this field.
At the end of the day, I was very clear on four important areas of this industry. The first, and most important is that the aviation industry will recover to 2019 levels by the middle of this year.
This was stressed more than a few times during the day. KPMG also released the Aviation Leaders Report for 2023 and shared interviews with some of the aviation executives that took part. The topics also covered Aviation Finance, The Age of Leasing, Freight and Fleet Focus, and Eye on ESG, Environment, Society and Governance.
We will also soon become familiar with the anacronym SAF, sustainable aviation fuel. The aviation industry is committed to being green and eco-friendly by 2050. SAF can be produced from various sustainable resources known as feedstocks. It can include forestry and agricultural waste, used cooking oil, carbon captured from the air and green hydrogen.
However, the production of SAF will also entail the building of plants to harvest the fuel. These will need to be located close to airports or in locations with easy pipeline access and will mean big infrastructural changes worldwide.
China is vital to the aviation industry and there was a sense of relief that this huge market is now open again and all Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted. Though there was a feeling that it may take some time to be fully operational with aircraft and staffing. But China flying again internationally will increase global aviation figures.
The bogeyman in aviation leasing is Russia – more than 400 leased aircraft have been impounded by this State. Speakers were reluctant to talk about this issue, as there are insurance claims involved and court cases pending. Figures of 13 investigations in Ireland, five in the US and four in the UK were mentioned. Also impounded aircraft are not undergoing the usual maintenance and service checks, affecting their airworthiness.
The conference was a welcome affair in Dublin, with delegates staying in city centre hotels, and attending events in the Mansion House, RDS, the Shelbourne Hotel, College of Physicians, Freemasons Hall, and the Stephen’s Green Club.
23 New Routes from Ireland for Summer 2023
We will be spoiled for choice this year with so many new routes from not just Dublin but from Cork, Shannon and Ireland West Knock. Learn a few words of Italian as it will be the big favourite this year with five new destinations. From Dublin choose from Brindisi, Olbia or Trieste. From Cork the new route is Venice Treviso and from Shannon it is Naples.
Lovely Kos in Greece will have four flights a week, two each with Ryanair and Aer Lingus. Lucky Cork is getting a route to Seville and from Ireland West the favourite Canary Island of the Irish – Lanzarote. New routes to France will include Cork to La Rochelle and Beziers from Shannon. Also, from Shannon a twice-weekly service to Porto in Portugal.
The regional airports will also add some UK routes, Cork will have Newcastle and East Midlands while Shannon will connect to Liverpool and Newcastle.
Highlights for Dublin will be the direct twice weekly El Al flight to Tel Aviv and heading north a flight to Bergan on Norway’s Atlantic Coast. Sun Express will bring the resorts of Antalya closer with twice weekly flights. Romania will become closer with Ryanair flights to Cluj and Iasj.
Additional Transatlantic routes to Cleveland and Hartford from Dublin with Aer Lingus. A daily United Airways from Shannon to Chicago will be a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.
Lovely Kos in Greece will have four flights a week, two each with Ryanair and Aer Lingus. Lucky Cork is getting a route to Seville and from Ireland West the favourite Canary Island of the Irish – Lanzarote. New routes to France will include Cork to La Rochelle and Beziers from Shannon. Also, from Shannon a twice-weekly service to Porto in Portugal.
The regional airports will also add some UK routes, Cork will have Newcastle and East Midlands while Shannon will connect to Liverpool and Newcastle.
Highlights for Dublin will be the direct twice weekly El Al flight to Tel Aviv and heading north a flight to Bergan on Norway’s Atlantic Coast. Sun Express will bring the resorts of Antalya closer with twice weekly flights. Romania will become closer with Ryanair flights to Cluj and Iasj.
Additional Transatlantic routes to Cleveland and Hartford from Dublin with Aer Lingus. A daily United Airways from Shannon to Chicago will be a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.
Carlingford Brewing and the Old Mill at Riverstown
The Cooley Peninsula in Co Louth is a place I am familiar with but then sometimes places you think you know well, throw up surprises. Last week I visited the Old Mill and Carlingford Brewing with a friend. The mill dates from the 14th century. The last time I was here there were llamas grazing, a hobby of a previous owner.
The brewing by owner Des Goldrick began in 2016 and he makes a variety of classic style beers and interesting seasonal and limited-edition brews. There are tours of the brewery on Saturday afternoons, book in advance. Special tours cna be arranged for groups.
It is a lovely place to visit, there is a traditional Taproom with great outdoor space, which will be fun in the summer with the outdoors wood-fired pizza. The Old Mill is perfectly restored to maintain its function – the mill gears are still here and so in the big mill wheel and race outside. Pizzas and beers are on the menu.
There is a beautiful light-filled function room, formerly the Granary and this is now used for weddings and events. You can get married here; the Old Mill is a licensed wedding venue. There are also tours of the brewery on Saturdays.
For quirky wedding photos there is an old train from the Dundalk to Newry line. It used to stop at Riverstown, and now its final resting place since the line closed in 1951. The Old Mill reopens on 2 February 2023 after a winter break. You can see my Tiktok video here
The Cooley Peninsula in Co Louth is a place I am familiar with but then sometimes places you think you know well, throw up surprises. Last week I visited the Old Mill and Carlingford Brewing with a friend. The mill dates from the 14th century. The last time I was here there were llamas grazing, a hobby of a previous owner.
The brewing by owner Des Goldrick began in 2016 and he makes a variety of classic style beers and interesting seasonal and limited-edition brews. There are tours of the brewery on Saturday afternoons, book in advance. Special tours cna be arranged for groups.
It is a lovely place to visit, there is a traditional Taproom with great outdoor space, which will be fun in the summer with the outdoors wood-fired pizza. The Old Mill is perfectly restored to maintain its function – the mill gears are still here and so in the big mill wheel and race outside. Pizzas and beers are on the menu.
There is a beautiful light-filled function room, formerly the Granary and this is now used for weddings and events. You can get married here; the Old Mill is a licensed wedding venue. There are also tours of the brewery on Saturdays.
For quirky wedding photos there is an old train from the Dundalk to Newry line. It used to stop at Riverstown, and now its final resting place since the line closed in 1951. The Old Mill reopens on 2 February 2023 after a winter break. You can see my Tiktok video here
Glamping with Further Space
For the Hardy
Considering the weather that we have been having lately with torrential rain gale force winds, and sub-zero temperatures, I thought this offer was an April’s Fool joke. But no, stylish glamping company Further Space are offering a night’s stay in any of the glamping areas in Ireland and Northern Ireland for €100 per night. If you are foolhardy and have the right clothes you can contact them here.
Considering the weather that we have been having lately with torrential rain gale force winds, and sub-zero temperatures, I thought this offer was an April’s Fool joke. But no, stylish glamping company Further Space are offering a night’s stay in any of the glamping areas in Ireland and Northern Ireland for €100 per night. If you are foolhardy and have the right clothes you can contact them here.
The New Bank Holiday - where will you go?
The fact we have a new bank holiday coming up in February has hardly sunk in yet. It is the first Monday in February or 1 February if the date falls on a Friday. St. Brigid’s Day is marked in marked in Ireland on 1 February and this will be the first bank holiday named for a woman.
This time of the year is always great value for a short break to Europe and Cassidy Travel have come up with two beautiful European cities to explore over St. Brigid’s Bank Holiday. They are Paris and Budapest. Just one word of care, it will be February and it will be cold, so be prepared for the weather and you will have a great time.
Paris City of Light
A stone's throw from the Moulin Rouge and about 10 mins walk from Montmartre and its Sacré-Coeur basilica, The Hotel Apollo Opera is the perfect base from which to explore the city.
4* Hotel Package from €489pps - Hotel Mercure Paris. Beautifully stylish and modern hotel where you can relax in the cosy atmosphere of the Parisian hotel bar.
Beautiful Budapest
Travel 2 February for a three-night stay in the three-star Hotel Charles on the Buda side of the river and close to the famous Castle Hill and near the beautiful Charles Bridge. The markets in Budapest are fun for shopping and eating out. Prices from €479pps, Cassidy Travel, 01 4629100.
The fact we have a new bank holiday coming up in February has hardly sunk in yet. It is the first Monday in February or 1 February if the date falls on a Friday. St. Brigid’s Day is marked in marked in Ireland on 1 February and this will be the first bank holiday named for a woman.
This time of the year is always great value for a short break to Europe and Cassidy Travel have come up with two beautiful European cities to explore over St. Brigid’s Bank Holiday. They are Paris and Budapest. Just one word of care, it will be February and it will be cold, so be prepared for the weather and you will have a great time.
Paris City of Light
A stone's throw from the Moulin Rouge and about 10 mins walk from Montmartre and its Sacré-Coeur basilica, The Hotel Apollo Opera is the perfect base from which to explore the city.
4* Hotel Package from €489pps - Hotel Mercure Paris. Beautifully stylish and modern hotel where you can relax in the cosy atmosphere of the Parisian hotel bar.
Beautiful Budapest
Travel 2 February for a three-night stay in the three-star Hotel Charles on the Buda side of the river and close to the famous Castle Hill and near the beautiful Charles Bridge. The markets in Budapest are fun for shopping and eating out. Prices from €479pps, Cassidy Travel, 01 4629100.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
Newsletter – Travel and Explore with Joan
2022 Was a Busier Year than Expected
The year began with less Covid travel restrictions, though, face masks were mandatory until 28 February. We could move around the country freely. On March 6, Ireland opened fully to inbound travellers with the suspension of Covid19 restrictions and isolation requirements.
Travel was back and the Irish took to the skies like fledglings. The sudden surge caused huge backlogs at mainly Dublin Airport. Airlines and the airport sought to replace staff that had left during Covid. Huge gaps in staff requirements were obvious and resulted in massive delays.
2022 Was a Busier Year than Expected
The year began with less Covid travel restrictions, though, face masks were mandatory until 28 February. We could move around the country freely. On March 6, Ireland opened fully to inbound travellers with the suspension of Covid19 restrictions and isolation requirements.
Travel was back and the Irish took to the skies like fledglings. The sudden surge caused huge backlogs at mainly Dublin Airport. Airlines and the airport sought to replace staff that had left during Covid. Huge gaps in staff requirements were obvious and resulted in massive delays.
Highlights of the year
A trip to Inis Mor on the Aran Islands was enhanced by incredibly good weather. and looked like it was transposed to the Caribbean. The island had recently hosted the crew of the Banshees of Inisherin, but there was no gloominess when I was there, see video here.
Belfast, better and better
A number of events brought me to Belfast and they included the premiere of Belfast the film by Kenneth Branagh, the 50th anniversary of the Hastings Hotel which as marked by a 1970s menu and a golden signature duck.
The next trip to Belfast was when the Grand Central Hotel received an a five-star rating and marked it with a lovely dinner. The Grand Central opened in 2018 following a £53million (€64million) investment- Hastings Hotels biggest ever single investment.
There’s nothing like a Belfast man to bring you back to the city, and it was brilliant to be at a Van Morrison concert on Custom House Square in August where he sang all the favourites. On this trip I also took a tour of Van Morrison’s Belfast with top guide, Alastair Bodkin, who showed the streets and told stories of where Van grew up.
Derry is the Friendliest City
Two visits to Derry this year have cemented my view that it is the friendliest city in Ireland. In February I attended the Illuminate Festival which is the story of Derry displayed on the buildings of the city. There was also great music and events over the weekend. I also enjoyed the Bogside tour and insights into the history of the city.
Derry City had a reputation for being the best place to celebrate Halloween and having finally made it there, I have to agree. The wet evening did not dampen spirits and it was terrific to see so many people, of all ages dressed up an watching the parade on the shore, see here.
Donegal Camino
It was great to take part in the fund-raising Donegal Camino. Though I was only on it for two days, I saw the best scenery with the best weather. We walked in the Blue Stack Mountains one day and then my highlight was Slieve League Cliffs, though it was tough walk up the views were incredible, see here.
Game of Thrones
Ireland now has a world-class experience in the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge. This is where a lot of the filming was done for the series and the studios are now a recreation of all the artistry that was involved in this famous series. The Studio Tour is fantastic, even if you are not a fan. It was like the Tardis, you move from room to room and it gets bigger and better each time. It is so interesting to see how the whole series was made and visit scenes such as the War Room and the Great Hall. You can easily spend hours here exploring.
Ireland now has a world-class experience in the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge. This is where a lot of the filming was done for the series and the studios are now a recreation of all the artistry that was involved in this famous series. The Studio Tour is fantastic, even if you are not a fan. It was like the Tardis, you move from room to room and it gets bigger and better each time. It is so interesting to see how the whole series was made and visit scenes such as the War Room and the Great Hall. You can easily spend hours here exploring.
Hotels
The most awaited hotel, the Dean Galway opened after a series of Covid related delays and is a stylish addition to the city. I stayed in July, and it was a lovely experience. The hotel is managed by Cian O Broin who obviously loves his role as GM. See interview with Cian here.
On a drop-in visit in December to catch up on additional elements to the Dean, I saw the penthouse – fab, the convention room – brilliant, the funky Power Gym and best of all the outdoor pool. My Tiktok video about the Dean has more than 43,000 views, see here.
In April the Samuel Hotel in the IFSC opened and is operated by the Dalata Hotel. At the end of September the Maldron Merrion Hotel, on the site of the former Tara Towers Hotel opened under the Dalata Group too.
In Kenmare, the Brennan brothers brought their inimitable style to the Lansdowne and Adriaan Bartels opened the stunning five-star Cashel Palace Hotel in Tipperary.
The other major hotel change during the year was the Killashee Hotel which was bought by FBD Hotels and Resorts that began a course of major renovations. It was also the finest hotel party I have attended since major hotel opening parties of the Celtic Tiger era.
The most awaited hotel, the Dean Galway opened after a series of Covid related delays and is a stylish addition to the city. I stayed in July, and it was a lovely experience. The hotel is managed by Cian O Broin who obviously loves his role as GM. See interview with Cian here.
On a drop-in visit in December to catch up on additional elements to the Dean, I saw the penthouse – fab, the convention room – brilliant, the funky Power Gym and best of all the outdoor pool. My Tiktok video about the Dean has more than 43,000 views, see here.
In April the Samuel Hotel in the IFSC opened and is operated by the Dalata Hotel. At the end of September the Maldron Merrion Hotel, on the site of the former Tara Towers Hotel opened under the Dalata Group too.
In Kenmare, the Brennan brothers brought their inimitable style to the Lansdowne and Adriaan Bartels opened the stunning five-star Cashel Palace Hotel in Tipperary.
The other major hotel change during the year was the Killashee Hotel which was bought by FBD Hotels and Resorts that began a course of major renovations. It was also the finest hotel party I have attended since major hotel opening parties of the Celtic Tiger era.
Spain
My first overseas trip in 2022 was to Spain in May, to Mallorca, an island I am very fond of. The one thing that shocked me, was the cost of hotels. Prices in Palma were very high in May and I stayed outside the city in Can Pastilla in the Hotel Amic Miraflores. It turned out to be ideal as I was able to borrow a bike at the hotel and cycled every day around the coast and in and out of Palma. I did pop into the stylish Hotel Portixol for a drink - I love that hotel.
The one thing I did take away from my trip to Mallorca is that the island’s government is working towards a change of tourism culture on the island. Mallorca a has long had a reputation as a party island and this is what the government wants to get away from. A ban on new hotel developments has been put in place for the next four years, so expect to pay more for your trips to Mallorca.
Valencia and wine tour of Utiel Requena
The next trip to Spain was in June during a heatwave, with the Spanish Tourist Board. We explored the city of Valencia and toured the wine region of Utiel Requena, see here. There will be flights to Valencia, from Dublin, and Cork for the summer season. See what to do in Valencia in 24 hours here.
Camino or Car-mino
The following trip allowed me to fulfil a long-held wish, to follow the Camino del Norte to Santiago de Compostela. It was a bit off a cheat as we drove through three provinces during the week, Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia. Pilgrims normally walk at least 100km of the Camino de Santiago to receive their Compostela or pilgrims certificate. The car-mino, as my daughter called it. But it was an ideal way to cover the highlights in a week and we did see a lot. You can read my feature here.
Horror Film Festival in Sitges
The final trip to Spain this year was to Sitges for the Fantastic Film Festival. It was the end of October, and the weather was lovely and mild. Over the ten days there are screenings, talks, exhibitions and the best of all, the Zombie Walk.
On the Saturday, make-up artists spend the day transforming people into horror film characters. The atmosphere was brilliant, with thousands of people dressed and made up as ghouls from various films. See my video here.
Barcelona
On this trip I joined a Spanish Tourist Board visit to Barcelona for a day and it was great to see some new places to me. We visited Gaudi’s Casa Batllo and it was an extraordinary place. My favourite part was the quirky rooftop with its squiggly chimney pots covered in mosaic. The highlight was to see the newest attractions in the city, the 144m Glories Tower, a magnificent building with fantastic views of the city.
My first overseas trip in 2022 was to Spain in May, to Mallorca, an island I am very fond of. The one thing that shocked me, was the cost of hotels. Prices in Palma were very high in May and I stayed outside the city in Can Pastilla in the Hotel Amic Miraflores. It turned out to be ideal as I was able to borrow a bike at the hotel and cycled every day around the coast and in and out of Palma. I did pop into the stylish Hotel Portixol for a drink - I love that hotel.
The one thing I did take away from my trip to Mallorca is that the island’s government is working towards a change of tourism culture on the island. Mallorca a has long had a reputation as a party island and this is what the government wants to get away from. A ban on new hotel developments has been put in place for the next four years, so expect to pay more for your trips to Mallorca.
Valencia and wine tour of Utiel Requena
The next trip to Spain was in June during a heatwave, with the Spanish Tourist Board. We explored the city of Valencia and toured the wine region of Utiel Requena, see here. There will be flights to Valencia, from Dublin, and Cork for the summer season. See what to do in Valencia in 24 hours here.
Camino or Car-mino
The following trip allowed me to fulfil a long-held wish, to follow the Camino del Norte to Santiago de Compostela. It was a bit off a cheat as we drove through three provinces during the week, Cantabria, Asturias and Galicia. Pilgrims normally walk at least 100km of the Camino de Santiago to receive their Compostela or pilgrims certificate. The car-mino, as my daughter called it. But it was an ideal way to cover the highlights in a week and we did see a lot. You can read my feature here.
Horror Film Festival in Sitges
The final trip to Spain this year was to Sitges for the Fantastic Film Festival. It was the end of October, and the weather was lovely and mild. Over the ten days there are screenings, talks, exhibitions and the best of all, the Zombie Walk.
On the Saturday, make-up artists spend the day transforming people into horror film characters. The atmosphere was brilliant, with thousands of people dressed and made up as ghouls from various films. See my video here.
Barcelona
On this trip I joined a Spanish Tourist Board visit to Barcelona for a day and it was great to see some new places to me. We visited Gaudi’s Casa Batllo and it was an extraordinary place. My favourite part was the quirky rooftop with its squiggly chimney pots covered in mosaic. The highlight was to see the newest attractions in the city, the 144m Glories Tower, a magnificent building with fantastic views of the city.
Radio Appearances
During the year I had many appearances on radio talking about all aspects of travel. I would like to thank RTE Radio 1, Newstalk, Today FM, BBC Radio Ulster, Cork 96FM, SouthDublinFM, and the local stations for having me on.
Tourism Organisations
I would like to thank the many tourism organisations that invited me to meet them this year. Lunches, dinners, and events were all enjoyed, but more importantly you came to Dublin and Ireland to let me know what you are doing and how vital the Irish market is; and I hope we meet again in 2023.
Happy New Year 2023
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
During the year I had many appearances on radio talking about all aspects of travel. I would like to thank RTE Radio 1, Newstalk, Today FM, BBC Radio Ulster, Cork 96FM, SouthDublinFM, and the local stations for having me on.
Tourism Organisations
I would like to thank the many tourism organisations that invited me to meet them this year. Lunches, dinners, and events were all enjoyed, but more importantly you came to Dublin and Ireland to let me know what you are doing and how vital the Irish market is; and I hope we meet again in 2023.
Happy New Year 2023
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
Travel and Explore with Joan from Galway to the Carinthian Alps
20 December, 2022
Joan with Catherine Murphy, Noreen Darcy and Marisa Mackle
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Galway Christmas Market
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Galway is Great
Walking in to the Galmont Hotel you know immediately that they love Christmas here. The hotel is beautifully decorated with an enormous tree in the lobby and other trees dotted around. I was with some media friends, and we had dinner in Marinas Restaurant. The food was excellent and the staff lovely and friendly. The location is perfect if travelling bus or train and Eyre Square is only five minutes away.
Galway Christmas Market
A trip to Galway to stay in the Galmont Hotel was an opportunity to see the Christmas market in Eyre. I love the way all the stalls are like the ones you see in European cities. This style gives it a very authentic feel. Then you have the Irish fun too with the big wheel and the merry-go-round and the outlets selling great traditional Irish food.
Walking in to the Galmont Hotel you know immediately that they love Christmas here. The hotel is beautifully decorated with an enormous tree in the lobby and other trees dotted around. I was with some media friends, and we had dinner in Marinas Restaurant. The food was excellent and the staff lovely and friendly. The location is perfect if travelling bus or train and Eyre Square is only five minutes away.
Galway Christmas Market
A trip to Galway to stay in the Galmont Hotel was an opportunity to see the Christmas market in Eyre. I love the way all the stalls are like the ones you see in European cities. This style gives it a very authentic feel. Then you have the Irish fun too with the big wheel and the merry-go-round and the outlets selling great traditional Irish food.
Hydrotherapy Pool at the Dean Galway
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Flamingos painted by local artist
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New Delights at the Dean Galway
Since my last visit to the Dean Galway the hotel has added some fantastic new attractions. All I can say about the fab outdoor pool is; This is Not LA, but it sure feels like it. The pool is really a Jacuzzi, a very big one and surrounded by beautiful pink flamingos painted by a local artist. My video of the pool in the Dean Galway has more than 41,000 views on Tiktok see here.
Since my last visit to the Dean Galway the hotel has added some fantastic new attractions. All I can say about the fab outdoor pool is; This is Not LA, but it sure feels like it. The pool is really a Jacuzzi, a very big one and surrounded by beautiful pink flamingos painted by a local artist. My video of the pool in the Dean Galway has more than 41,000 views on Tiktok see here.
The Power Gym at the Dean Galway
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Aqua Box at the Power Gym
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Power Gym at the Dean Galway
The Power Gym, is the newest hot spot to work out in. It is all flashing lights and great sounds. The Aqua Boxing room is in an old train tunnel. The tunnel runs under Prospect Hill and was the former Galway to Clifden Connemara line.
The Power Gym, is the newest hot spot to work out in. It is all flashing lights and great sounds. The Aqua Boxing room is in an old train tunnel. The tunnel runs under Prospect Hill and was the former Galway to Clifden Connemara line.
The Penthouse at the Dean Galway
The Penthouse at the Dean Galway
The Penthouse is finished and is a great location for a fun night with friends. The huge two-bedroom suite can sleep up to six people. It has its own marble-topped bar, foosball table, vinyl record player and discs, guitars, Marshall amp, 70” Smart TV, outdoor deck, snacks and lots more treats. A great hangout location.
The Penthouse is finished and is a great location for a fun night with friends. The huge two-bedroom suite can sleep up to six people. It has its own marble-topped bar, foosball table, vinyl record player and discs, guitars, Marshall amp, 70” Smart TV, outdoor deck, snacks and lots more treats. A great hangout location.
Ski Viilach in the Carinthian Alps
New Route to Klagenfurt Austria
The launch of the new Ryanair route to KIagenfurt in the south of Austria was celebrated with a lunch in Matt the Threshers on Pembroke Street. We were introduced to the region of Villach which is the in the south east corner of Austria in the state of Carinthia. It is also contiguous with Hungary and Slovenia. Needless to say, skiers will love this region of Austria for the range of skiing available. See more about Villach here.
The launch of the new Ryanair route to KIagenfurt in the south of Austria was celebrated with a lunch in Matt the Threshers on Pembroke Street. We were introduced to the region of Villach which is the in the south east corner of Austria in the state of Carinthia. It is also contiguous with Hungary and Slovenia. Needless to say, skiers will love this region of Austria for the range of skiing available. See more about Villach here.
Special Offer for 2023 - Slow Down and Switch off at the Station House Hotel, Co. Meath
Tucked away in the quaint village of Kilmessan, in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East and on the acclaimed Boyne Valley Drive, the family-run Station House Hotel sits on 12 acres of lush manicured gardens and woodlands, listed on the Boyne Valley Garden Trail. Here, guests can enjoy the feeling of a country escape all year round, an invitation to completely switch off and enjoy the peaceful, tranquil surroundings.
Retreat from the cold winter weather this January and February with their Slow-cooked offer – you’ll be welcomed with tea, coffee and home-made scones by the fire on arrival, which will set the tone for the cosy and relaxing stay ahead of you. Stay curled up with a book by the open fire, take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful grounds or explore one of the beautiful spots nearby including the Hill of Tara. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink before a delicious dinner in The Signal Restaurant.
The Slow-cooked package is a gorgeous cosseting getaway available in January and February 2023 and includes 1 night B&B in The Station House tea and scones on arrival, a welcome drink before a three-course dinner in The Signal Restaurant, breakfast and a late check-out from €280 for two people sharing, book here.
Tucked away in the quaint village of Kilmessan, in the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East and on the acclaimed Boyne Valley Drive, the family-run Station House Hotel sits on 12 acres of lush manicured gardens and woodlands, listed on the Boyne Valley Garden Trail. Here, guests can enjoy the feeling of a country escape all year round, an invitation to completely switch off and enjoy the peaceful, tranquil surroundings.
Retreat from the cold winter weather this January and February with their Slow-cooked offer – you’ll be welcomed with tea, coffee and home-made scones by the fire on arrival, which will set the tone for the cosy and relaxing stay ahead of you. Stay curled up with a book by the open fire, take a leisurely stroll around the beautiful grounds or explore one of the beautiful spots nearby including the Hill of Tara. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink before a delicious dinner in The Signal Restaurant.
The Slow-cooked package is a gorgeous cosseting getaway available in January and February 2023 and includes 1 night B&B in The Station House tea and scones on arrival, a welcome drink before a three-course dinner in The Signal Restaurant, breakfast and a late check-out from €280 for two people sharing, book here.
In the News
RTE Television Six One – 6 December
The news that the government of Indonesia has voted to outlaw sex outside of marriage is a blow to its tourism economy. I commented on the effect it will have on tourism as it will apply to tourists to Indonesia too. This country is very dependent tourism especially from Australia. The law is due to come into effect in four years’ time.
Newstalk Lunchtime Live – 8 December
I joined a discussion on the radio show about the cost of alcohol in Northern Ireland and talked about duty free trip with Stena Line. Duty free day trips to Holyhead and Fishguard are back for €18 return. Check your allowances, duty free allowances into the UK are higher than into Ireland.
Newstalk - The Hard Shoulder - 12 December
Appearing on the show with Anton Savage, we discussed the weather disruptions at airports in UK, Europe and Dublin and how people might be able to get back to Ireland. Rail strikes in the UK were also affecting the ferry services.
RTE Television Six One – 6 December
The news that the government of Indonesia has voted to outlaw sex outside of marriage is a blow to its tourism economy. I commented on the effect it will have on tourism as it will apply to tourists to Indonesia too. This country is very dependent tourism especially from Australia. The law is due to come into effect in four years’ time.
Newstalk Lunchtime Live – 8 December
I joined a discussion on the radio show about the cost of alcohol in Northern Ireland and talked about duty free trip with Stena Line. Duty free day trips to Holyhead and Fishguard are back for €18 return. Check your allowances, duty free allowances into the UK are higher than into Ireland.
Newstalk - The Hard Shoulder - 12 December
Appearing on the show with Anton Savage, we discussed the weather disruptions at airports in UK, Europe and Dublin and how people might be able to get back to Ireland. Rail strikes in the UK were also affecting the ferry services.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
Joan's Travel Week - from Westeros to Wales for Duty-Free shopping
5 December, 2022
Game of Thrones Studio Tour
Banbridge in County Down, Northern Ireland is the lucky destination for the only Game of Thrones Studio Tour in the world. Many of the scenes in the long-running television fantasy series were filmed on location in Northern Ireland.
These locations have now become destinations for the many fans of the award-winning series. Last week I had a chance to experience the studio tour and it was amazing.
The studio parking area is at the Boulevard Shopping Outlet on the A1 outside Banbridge. Visitors take the shuttle buses to the Linen Mill Studios, just a few minutes’ drive away. You can also take a tour with several companies from cities around Ireland. Banbridge is about 40kms from Belfast city.
The studios are enormous, make sure to have time to enjoy every aspect. I can describe it as being like the Tardis in Dr. Who. The more you explore, the more there is to discover. Room after room brings fascinating scenes from the series and introduces visitors to how it all was made.
That includes how the buildings were designed, the art that went into it, the fabulous costumes, the armour, the electronics behind the magical creatures; every aspect of the production is on show.
My favourite area was the costumes, the Great Hall and the interactive screens where you could be dressed as a warrior. I also really liked shooting Wights with a crossbow.The Game of Thrones Studio Tour is a brilliant way of sharing the experiences of making the series. It recycles the work of the many hundreds of professionals that were involved in its creations. Take time to enjoy it; there is a lovely café and bar and you can make a day out of your visit. See video here. You can book visits to the studio here.
Banbridge in County Down, Northern Ireland is the lucky destination for the only Game of Thrones Studio Tour in the world. Many of the scenes in the long-running television fantasy series were filmed on location in Northern Ireland.
These locations have now become destinations for the many fans of the award-winning series. Last week I had a chance to experience the studio tour and it was amazing.
The studio parking area is at the Boulevard Shopping Outlet on the A1 outside Banbridge. Visitors take the shuttle buses to the Linen Mill Studios, just a few minutes’ drive away. You can also take a tour with several companies from cities around Ireland. Banbridge is about 40kms from Belfast city.
The studios are enormous, make sure to have time to enjoy every aspect. I can describe it as being like the Tardis in Dr. Who. The more you explore, the more there is to discover. Room after room brings fascinating scenes from the series and introduces visitors to how it all was made.
That includes how the buildings were designed, the art that went into it, the fabulous costumes, the armour, the electronics behind the magical creatures; every aspect of the production is on show.
My favourite area was the costumes, the Great Hall and the interactive screens where you could be dressed as a warrior. I also really liked shooting Wights with a crossbow.The Game of Thrones Studio Tour is a brilliant way of sharing the experiences of making the series. It recycles the work of the many hundreds of professionals that were involved in its creations. Take time to enjoy it; there is a lovely café and bar and you can make a day out of your visit. See video here. You can book visits to the studio here.
50 Years After Picasso
The Spanish Tourism Office marked the launch of the 50th anniversary celebrations for the world-famous Spanish artist Picasso.
Rubén Lopez from the Spanish Tourism Office together with Ana Maria Molina from Malaga city announced the celebration of Picasso´s 50th death anniversary at the Iveagh Garden hotel.
Guests had the opportunity to discover different aspects of this artist. Picasso was a Spanish artist, who maintained his Spanish nationality throughout his life. The acclaimed artist is not only lauded in his own city of Malaga but throughout the world.
If we think of Pablo Picasso and his links with Spain, a few cities come to our mind like Malaga, La Coruña, Barcelona, Madrid and Bilbao.
The year 2023 will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of Pablo Picasso. On this occasion, a large-scale event has been organized including a programme of exhibitions to celebrate and make Picasso's work known worldwide in 2023.
Worldwide, more than 40 exhibitions will be organized as well as numerous seminars, presentations and cultural activities. In Spain, 16 exhibitions will be held in the main museums of the cities linked to Picasso's life.
Turespaña has an international campaign “Spain inspired Picasso. Come, find your inspiration” to strengthen the positioning of Spain as a cultural destination and to promote visits to the exhibitions and events that the different cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, A Coruña and Bilbao will prepare to celebrate Picasso.
Spain will welcome Irish tourists, especially those who are more interested in Spain as a cultural destination. The Picasso Year, 2023, will be an excellent excuse to receive them. During the next months, Spain hopes that many visitors from Ireland will get to know the Spanish cities that are especially linked to the career of Pablo Picasso.
The Spanish and French cultural departments will work closely and the year of Picasso and there will be a major exhibition in Paris. Picasso spent many years of his life living in France. For more information see www.spain.info/picasso
The Spanish Tourism Office marked the launch of the 50th anniversary celebrations for the world-famous Spanish artist Picasso.
Rubén Lopez from the Spanish Tourism Office together with Ana Maria Molina from Malaga city announced the celebration of Picasso´s 50th death anniversary at the Iveagh Garden hotel.
Guests had the opportunity to discover different aspects of this artist. Picasso was a Spanish artist, who maintained his Spanish nationality throughout his life. The acclaimed artist is not only lauded in his own city of Malaga but throughout the world.
If we think of Pablo Picasso and his links with Spain, a few cities come to our mind like Malaga, La Coruña, Barcelona, Madrid and Bilbao.
The year 2023 will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the death of Pablo Picasso. On this occasion, a large-scale event has been organized including a programme of exhibitions to celebrate and make Picasso's work known worldwide in 2023.
Worldwide, more than 40 exhibitions will be organized as well as numerous seminars, presentations and cultural activities. In Spain, 16 exhibitions will be held in the main museums of the cities linked to Picasso's life.
Turespaña has an international campaign “Spain inspired Picasso. Come, find your inspiration” to strengthen the positioning of Spain as a cultural destination and to promote visits to the exhibitions and events that the different cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, A Coruña and Bilbao will prepare to celebrate Picasso.
Spain will welcome Irish tourists, especially those who are more interested in Spain as a cultural destination. The Picasso Year, 2023, will be an excellent excuse to receive them. During the next months, Spain hopes that many visitors from Ireland will get to know the Spanish cities that are especially linked to the career of Pablo Picasso.
The Spanish and French cultural departments will work closely and the year of Picasso and there will be a major exhibition in Paris. Picasso spent many years of his life living in France. For more information see www.spain.info/picasso
Duty-Free Shopping Trips on Stena Line for €5
With the UK no longer part of the European Union since February 1, 2020, you can purchase duty free again.
On Saturday I took a trip with a friend on Stena Line to Holyhead. I had spotted a cheap day trip with Rorys Travel Club, €5 each for our trip, the normal price is a reasonable €16, and available up to 17 December.
It was a lovely day to travel, the sea was calm, and it was my first time on the MV Estrid. This is a lovely comfortable ferry with lots of Scandi décor. It can carry up to 1,000 passengers, and there were lots of nice places to sit and relax.
We used the Stena Plus Lounge on the way over, it costs £20 but for that you get a lovely comfortable seat at the front of the ship, newspapers, magazines, entertainment, snacks and drinks. There is also table service, and you an order food from the restaurant. The food was excellent and reasonably priced.
If you take the ferry at 8.15am in the morning you can have a full day in Holyhead. We just went over and back and passed the time reading, watching films, eating and drinking.
On board there are two movie theatres with a variety of films to watch. The restaurant serves full meals and there is a coffee kiosk and a bar. There is a play area for children and a game zone for older children. You can upgrade to the Hygge Lounge for £8, where there are lovely loungers to enjoy.
On the way back we went to the Duty-Free shop to stock up on some goodies for Christmas. There was a great variety of spirits, wines, champagnes, liqueurs and beers. The prices were excellent with a litre of Vodka or gin from £12 or Jameson for £19. 3-Litre wine boxes were great value at £12.
You can also shop for makeup, perfumes, beauty products, watches, sunglasses (Raybans had an additional 20% discount making them less than £100), electronics, candles, presents and toys. All at very competitive prices. We enjoyed the day out and arrived back at Dublin Port at 11.30pm and saw no customs on duty.
Cooley Peninsula at Christmas
If you are venturing north to do some shopping this season, take a detour along the Cooley Peninsula for some Christmas cheer. The village of Omeath has wonderful lights as does Carlingford. You will also find the cheapest petrol at Top Station in Omeath, I paid 155.9c on Monday. You can see an Instagram video of Omeath Christmas Lights here.
If you are venturing north to do some shopping this season, take a detour along the Cooley Peninsula for some Christmas cheer. The village of Omeath has wonderful lights as does Carlingford. You will also find the cheapest petrol at Top Station in Omeath, I paid 155.9c on Monday. You can see an Instagram video of Omeath Christmas Lights here.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
Joan's Travel Week - from Switzerland to Christmas Markets via Valencia22
28 November, 2022
Switzerland visits Ireland
The week began with a lovely dinner in the Grayson on St. Stephen’s Green with Switzerland Tourism hosted by Myriam Ziesack and Fran Lambert. Ski news from Switzerland includes the completion of the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, the last section linking Zermatt and Cervinia in Italy. Adventurous skiers will love the new black run at Glacier 3,000 and the freestyling at Andermatt, one of Switzerland’s most thrilling snow parks.
One of the most interesting things that Switzerland Tourism is doing is the 100% Women initiative. Alongside women-only offers in the great outdoors, there are all kinds of tips, information and inspiring stories. These are selected by women for women who want to enjoy their Swiss holidays to the full, see here.
It gives women greater prominence in Swiss mountain sports and inspires them to tackle new adventures. Next June there will be an ambitious goal of forming the world’s longest all female rope team. Women from across the world are invited to take part in the climb of the Allalinhorn near Saas Fee at 4,027m. Active women out there may be interested in this challenge, see here.
The cities of Geneva, Zurich and Basel have air services to Dublin; Cork has a Geneva service over the winter, with Swiss International, see Switzerland Tourism information here.
The week began with a lovely dinner in the Grayson on St. Stephen’s Green with Switzerland Tourism hosted by Myriam Ziesack and Fran Lambert. Ski news from Switzerland includes the completion of the Matterhorn Alpine Crossing, the last section linking Zermatt and Cervinia in Italy. Adventurous skiers will love the new black run at Glacier 3,000 and the freestyling at Andermatt, one of Switzerland’s most thrilling snow parks.
One of the most interesting things that Switzerland Tourism is doing is the 100% Women initiative. Alongside women-only offers in the great outdoors, there are all kinds of tips, information and inspiring stories. These are selected by women for women who want to enjoy their Swiss holidays to the full, see here.
It gives women greater prominence in Swiss mountain sports and inspires them to tackle new adventures. Next June there will be an ambitious goal of forming the world’s longest all female rope team. Women from across the world are invited to take part in the climb of the Allalinhorn near Saas Fee at 4,027m. Active women out there may be interested in this challenge, see here.
The cities of Geneva, Zurich and Basel have air services to Dublin; Cork has a Geneva service over the winter, with Swiss International, see Switzerland Tourism information here.
The chefs from Valencia in Dublin
Valencia, Spain brings food and wine to Dublin
The Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin welcomed guests hosted by the Spanish Tourism Office, the Region of Valencia Tourism Office and the Hospitality Federation as well as the Valencia Region Chamber of Commerce.
The guests had the opportunity to discover different aspects of Region of Valencia. It began with a wine tasting and pairing of Valencian products including octopus and an unusual apricot type of fruit.
It was followed by a networking cocktail dinner with gastronomic tastings prepared by three Michelin-starred chefs from Valencia Region. They included Michelin Star chefs Begoña Rodrigo (from La Salita Restaurant, in Valencia), Miquel Barrera (Cal Paradís Restaurant, in Vall d'Alba in Castellón) and Cristina Figueira (El Xato Restaurant in La Nucia, in Alicante).
The wine tasting was by the sommelier Francisco Cano (El Xato restaurant) and José Puentes (CdT de Castellón) who oversaw preparing the desserts. Guests had the opportunity to discover different aspects of these three regions and to taste dishes such as "Onion Royal", "Vegetable parsnip noodles with raw cow's milk cream and kimchee" by Begoña Rodrigo, “Arrocito de Castelló”, rice with sepionet from la Puntxa, shrimp, monkfish and artichoke " by Miquel Barrera or the "Rice with squilla mantis shrimp from Altea and medlars from Callosa d’En Sarrià" or Cuttlefish and almond gazpachuelo by Cristina Figueira. See Instagram reel of the evening here.
The Valencia Region “Comunitat Valenciana” is recognized for gastronomic excellence and its local produce and wines that makes this are must for food lovers. With flights to three of the Valencian cities (Valencia, Alicante and Castellon) this region is well worth visiting from Ireland. Valencia is a wonderful city on the coast and has much to offer visitors for a city break. I was in Valencia for 24 hours in June, read my story here
The Shelbourne Hotel in Dublin welcomed guests hosted by the Spanish Tourism Office, the Region of Valencia Tourism Office and the Hospitality Federation as well as the Valencia Region Chamber of Commerce.
The guests had the opportunity to discover different aspects of Region of Valencia. It began with a wine tasting and pairing of Valencian products including octopus and an unusual apricot type of fruit.
It was followed by a networking cocktail dinner with gastronomic tastings prepared by three Michelin-starred chefs from Valencia Region. They included Michelin Star chefs Begoña Rodrigo (from La Salita Restaurant, in Valencia), Miquel Barrera (Cal Paradís Restaurant, in Vall d'Alba in Castellón) and Cristina Figueira (El Xato Restaurant in La Nucia, in Alicante).
The wine tasting was by the sommelier Francisco Cano (El Xato restaurant) and José Puentes (CdT de Castellón) who oversaw preparing the desserts. Guests had the opportunity to discover different aspects of these three regions and to taste dishes such as "Onion Royal", "Vegetable parsnip noodles with raw cow's milk cream and kimchee" by Begoña Rodrigo, “Arrocito de Castelló”, rice with sepionet from la Puntxa, shrimp, monkfish and artichoke " by Miquel Barrera or the "Rice with squilla mantis shrimp from Altea and medlars from Callosa d’En Sarrià" or Cuttlefish and almond gazpachuelo by Cristina Figueira. See Instagram reel of the evening here.
The Valencia Region “Comunitat Valenciana” is recognized for gastronomic excellence and its local produce and wines that makes this are must for food lovers. With flights to three of the Valencian cities (Valencia, Alicante and Castellon) this region is well worth visiting from Ireland. Valencia is a wonderful city on the coast and has much to offer visitors for a city break. I was in Valencia for 24 hours in June, read my story here
Ballina all set to celebrate 300 years in 2023
The town of Ballina in Mayo will be 300 next year and wants to make it a memorable one. The launch of the 2023 programme was in Hugo’s Restaurant in Dublin, owned by Mayo woman Gina Murphy.
The gathering included representatives from all walks of life in the Ballina community and Mayo North. This milestone will see the community of Ballina participate in an exciting, inclusive year-long programme of collaborative events and activities to celebrate the town and create a legacy that will last long into the future.
Over the course of the year, the programme content will range from thrilling, large-scale events of international interest to community-led events that will offer the people of Ballina meaningful, creative opportunities to connect with each other.
Entertainment was provided by harpist Brídín Ní Ghabáin and fiddle player Lucia MacPartlin. The actor Stephen Rea read a poem, The Dawn Chorus by Derek Mahon. Check out the website for events in Ballina2023.
The town of Ballina in Mayo will be 300 next year and wants to make it a memorable one. The launch of the 2023 programme was in Hugo’s Restaurant in Dublin, owned by Mayo woman Gina Murphy.
The gathering included representatives from all walks of life in the Ballina community and Mayo North. This milestone will see the community of Ballina participate in an exciting, inclusive year-long programme of collaborative events and activities to celebrate the town and create a legacy that will last long into the future.
Over the course of the year, the programme content will range from thrilling, large-scale events of international interest to community-led events that will offer the people of Ballina meaningful, creative opportunities to connect with each other.
Entertainment was provided by harpist Brídín Ní Ghabáin and fiddle player Lucia MacPartlin. The actor Stephen Rea read a poem, The Dawn Chorus by Derek Mahon. Check out the website for events in Ballina2023.
The Spanish Tourist Office Receiving the award for Best Destination
A Glittering Night for the ITTN Travel Trade Awards
The Irish travel trade and international guests gathered in the Clayton Burlington Hotel for a memorable awards evening. The black-tie event was attended by almost 400 people for a glittering night to honour the best suppliers to the travel industry, as voted for their customers. MC for the evening was television celebrity, Lucy Kennedy or “Living with Lucy” fame.
After the awards it was time for some entertainment. The first act was the amazing violin playing sisters Ruth and Joyce who perform as Sephira. They wowed the crowd with their unique style. The glittering duo performed stunning violin duets of classical, rock, country and Irish music. See a video here.
Dancing for the evening was by The Controversial Allstars headed up by former PictureHouse singer Dave Browne, and continued until late. It was a great opportunity for many travel industry friends to meet. Congratulations to all the award winners and thank you to ITTN for a great night.
The Irish travel trade and international guests gathered in the Clayton Burlington Hotel for a memorable awards evening. The black-tie event was attended by almost 400 people for a glittering night to honour the best suppliers to the travel industry, as voted for their customers. MC for the evening was television celebrity, Lucy Kennedy or “Living with Lucy” fame.
After the awards it was time for some entertainment. The first act was the amazing violin playing sisters Ruth and Joyce who perform as Sephira. They wowed the crowd with their unique style. The glittering duo performed stunning violin duets of classical, rock, country and Irish music. See a video here.
Dancing for the evening was by The Controversial Allstars headed up by former PictureHouse singer Dave Browne, and continued until late. It was a great opportunity for many travel industry friends to meet. Congratulations to all the award winners and thank you to ITTN for a great night.
Alberobello,:Apulia, Italy
Countries that pay you to move there
In an interview with Sinead Ryan on the Home Show on Newstalk, I talk about the various countries that will pay you to buy property and settle there. They include regions in Italy, Spain, Greece and some states in the United States of America. It is interesting food for thought if you are considering a change of life. Listen back at minute 35, here.
In an interview with Sinead Ryan on the Home Show on Newstalk, I talk about the various countries that will pay you to buy property and settle there. They include regions in Italy, Spain, Greece and some states in the United States of America. It is interesting food for thought if you are considering a change of life. Listen back at minute 35, here.
Christmas Markets and Winter Events
Winter has been embraced all over the country with hundreds of great events to discover. There is hardly a parish, town or city that is not having some form of winter and Christmas events. Ones to watch out for are Winter in Dublin with three months of events, Winterval in Waterford, and the stunning Galway and Limerick Christmas Markets. Northern Ireland has a whole range of markets for the festival season and you can find the list here.
Other events I will be attending include the Christmas lights in the village of Omeath on Carlingford Lough, and the Christmas Craft Fair in Carlingford on 4 December, in Co. Louth.
Winter has been embraced all over the country with hundreds of great events to discover. There is hardly a parish, town or city that is not having some form of winter and Christmas events. Ones to watch out for are Winter in Dublin with three months of events, Winterval in Waterford, and the stunning Galway and Limerick Christmas Markets. Northern Ireland has a whole range of markets for the festival season and you can find the list here.
Other events I will be attending include the Christmas lights in the village of Omeath on Carlingford Lough, and the Christmas Craft Fair in Carlingford on 4 December, in Co. Louth.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook and my website joanscales.com
Joan's Travel Week - From the United States to Black Friday Offers all Month, 21 November 2022
Happy Thanksgiving USA
America came to Dublin on Thursday Nov. 17 for the first Visit USA event in the past three years. It was a great night in the Radisson Royal Hotel in Golden Lane, with 35 Visit USA members including airlines, destinations, and attractions. The event was well attended by travel agents and tour operators from around Ireland. Travel writers were also invited to catch up on news from the United States and hear about destinations of interest for Irish visitors.
Overall, it seems that the USA was not sitting back during the past few years, and it was interesting to hear all the new developments that have happened. Expect lots of changes, improvements and new attractions on your next visit to the United States. Air services from Ireland to the United States are already at 90 percent of 2019 capacity and more services planned for 2023. Despite the dollar and euro almost level, it seems the Irish cannot get enough of the United States.
It wasn’t all work; there was delicious American themed food and drinks. The band Houseparty provided the music for the evening with a lots of American classics that had us dancing. Thank you to the Visit USA Committee for an interesting and fun night. See the fun on Instagram here.
America came to Dublin on Thursday Nov. 17 for the first Visit USA event in the past three years. It was a great night in the Radisson Royal Hotel in Golden Lane, with 35 Visit USA members including airlines, destinations, and attractions. The event was well attended by travel agents and tour operators from around Ireland. Travel writers were also invited to catch up on news from the United States and hear about destinations of interest for Irish visitors.
Overall, it seems that the USA was not sitting back during the past few years, and it was interesting to hear all the new developments that have happened. Expect lots of changes, improvements and new attractions on your next visit to the United States. Air services from Ireland to the United States are already at 90 percent of 2019 capacity and more services planned for 2023. Despite the dollar and euro almost level, it seems the Irish cannot get enough of the United States.
It wasn’t all work; there was delicious American themed food and drinks. The band Houseparty provided the music for the evening with a lots of American classics that had us dancing. Thank you to the Visit USA Committee for an interesting and fun night. See the fun on Instagram here.
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Ireland Tops Tourism Recovery in World Travel Market Most Visited Destinations Report
The Most Visited Destinations Report at World Travel Market produced with Forward Keys Market Research is always an interesting read. This year, even more so, following the Covid-19 pandemic. The broad view of 2022 is generally positive with many destinations approaching full recovery and some surpassing pre-pandemic performance.
Ireland’s recovery of 2021 vs 2022 is leading the way with 50% increase in tourism and is neck and neck with Saudi. Also in the top five are Turkey, Portugal and Argentina as the destinations with the highest recovery of tourist arrivals.
By region Africa and the Middle East are the most resilient. The Middle East is benefitting from major global events like the Dubai World Expo, Formula One GPs and of course, Qatar’s FIFA World Cup. The ME has also seen a return of business travel.
In the Americas the pent-up demand for sun and beach destinations has seen an impressive level of recovery in Mexico and the Caribbean, leading to growth versus 2019. That sun and sea demand was also reflected in southern Europe with many destinations performing strongly, particularly Turkey’s Antalya with 66% more tourists than in 2019.
The least recovered global region in 2022 is Asia Pacific, due to late reopening of many destinations and longer closures in China and Japan. Looking at the rankings in the top 20 world destinations, for arrivals and seat capacity, Dominican Republic leads with growth of five per cent. 15th Ireland is showing a decrease in capacity of 31% on 2022 vs 2019.
You can read the full report here.
The Most Visited Destinations Report at World Travel Market produced with Forward Keys Market Research is always an interesting read. This year, even more so, following the Covid-19 pandemic. The broad view of 2022 is generally positive with many destinations approaching full recovery and some surpassing pre-pandemic performance.
Ireland’s recovery of 2021 vs 2022 is leading the way with 50% increase in tourism and is neck and neck with Saudi. Also in the top five are Turkey, Portugal and Argentina as the destinations with the highest recovery of tourist arrivals.
By region Africa and the Middle East are the most resilient. The Middle East is benefitting from major global events like the Dubai World Expo, Formula One GPs and of course, Qatar’s FIFA World Cup. The ME has also seen a return of business travel.
In the Americas the pent-up demand for sun and beach destinations has seen an impressive level of recovery in Mexico and the Caribbean, leading to growth versus 2019. That sun and sea demand was also reflected in southern Europe with many destinations performing strongly, particularly Turkey’s Antalya with 66% more tourists than in 2019.
The least recovered global region in 2022 is Asia Pacific, due to late reopening of many destinations and longer closures in China and Japan. Looking at the rankings in the top 20 world destinations, for arrivals and seat capacity, Dominican Republic leads with growth of five per cent. 15th Ireland is showing a decrease in capacity of 31% on 2022 vs 2019.
You can read the full report here.
Ireland Stand at World Travel Market
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Saudi Stand at World Travel Market
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Christmas Themed Events in Northern Ireland
There are a great number of events on across Northern Ireland for the Christmas season. Most are easy to get to and while there, do some shopping. There is a big difference in prices, not just in alcohol, but also groceries and fashion.
Enchanted Winter Garden, County Antrim (26 November - 20 December)
As the winter sun sets over Lough Neagh, Antrim Castle Gardens comes alive with lights and magic for the perfect Christmas experience. Visit the fairies in Wonderland Wood, drop in and see Santa and meet the sprites in Pixieland who will help fill you with the Christmas spirit. A Festive Fayre will cater for all tastes with local food and drink while a 35m high festive Ferris Wheel will take you beyond the tree-tops to gaze at the starlit sky. An Evening of Inclusive Enchantment will run on December 7 and 14 with reduced numbers, lighting and sound levels as well as a Sensory and Quiet room, ideal for children and adults with additional needs. Visit here.
Christmas on Castle Island, County Fermanagh (26 November - 20 December)
Hop onboard the fully accessible, magical water sleigh from Enniskillen Castle Jetty and be transported through an immersive Christmas tale before arriving on Santa's Island. Follow the adventure through the guided activities and help the elves before joining Santa in his enchanting Nordic Grotto. Warm up with a hot drink and enjoy the magical lights and Christmas views and maybe even call into the Christmas Market before heading home. Visit here.
Armagh Georgian Weekend, County Armagh (24 - 27 November)
Enjoy Armagh’s delightful Georgian splendours. Enjoy a day rich in atmosphere where you can see the Gentry arrive by horse-drawn carriage while browsing the festive markets. This festive celebration includes majestic festival lights, recreations of this bygone time and guided tours from local historical experts. A highlight is the mesmerising light show which is beamed onto the walls of the city’s historic library building. Ticketed events include ‘Coming Home for Christmas’ and a Tea Party at the Palace. Visit here.
There are a great number of events on across Northern Ireland for the Christmas season. Most are easy to get to and while there, do some shopping. There is a big difference in prices, not just in alcohol, but also groceries and fashion.
Enchanted Winter Garden, County Antrim (26 November - 20 December)
As the winter sun sets over Lough Neagh, Antrim Castle Gardens comes alive with lights and magic for the perfect Christmas experience. Visit the fairies in Wonderland Wood, drop in and see Santa and meet the sprites in Pixieland who will help fill you with the Christmas spirit. A Festive Fayre will cater for all tastes with local food and drink while a 35m high festive Ferris Wheel will take you beyond the tree-tops to gaze at the starlit sky. An Evening of Inclusive Enchantment will run on December 7 and 14 with reduced numbers, lighting and sound levels as well as a Sensory and Quiet room, ideal for children and adults with additional needs. Visit here.
Christmas on Castle Island, County Fermanagh (26 November - 20 December)
Hop onboard the fully accessible, magical water sleigh from Enniskillen Castle Jetty and be transported through an immersive Christmas tale before arriving on Santa's Island. Follow the adventure through the guided activities and help the elves before joining Santa in his enchanting Nordic Grotto. Warm up with a hot drink and enjoy the magical lights and Christmas views and maybe even call into the Christmas Market before heading home. Visit here.
Armagh Georgian Weekend, County Armagh (24 - 27 November)
Enjoy Armagh’s delightful Georgian splendours. Enjoy a day rich in atmosphere where you can see the Gentry arrive by horse-drawn carriage while browsing the festive markets. This festive celebration includes majestic festival lights, recreations of this bygone time and guided tours from local historical experts. A highlight is the mesmerising light show which is beamed onto the walls of the city’s historic library building. Ticketed events include ‘Coming Home for Christmas’ and a Tea Party at the Palace. Visit here.
Armagh's Georgian Festival
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Santa at Castle Island
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Beyond Black Friday Special Offers
Travel Department has launched its Black Friday offers available on departures from January to August 2023. Soak up some winter sun and culture in Spain and Portugal or discover deliciously warm island escapes in Tenerife and Malta.
From experiencing La Dolce Vita with exceptional Italian holidays or take an enchanting river cruise along the Danube or even travel further afield and tick off another bucket list destination such as Japan or South Africa?
€75 per person off holidays of eight nights or more and river cruises using the code BF75
€50 per person off seven-night holidays using the code BF50
€25 per person off holidays of six nights or less using the code BF25
Travel Department’s Black Friday Offers are available online until Cyber Monday 28 November or by calling into The Travel Shop in Arnotts or by phone (01) 637 1650. Book here.
Travel Department has launched its Black Friday offers available on departures from January to August 2023. Soak up some winter sun and culture in Spain and Portugal or discover deliciously warm island escapes in Tenerife and Malta.
From experiencing La Dolce Vita with exceptional Italian holidays or take an enchanting river cruise along the Danube or even travel further afield and tick off another bucket list destination such as Japan or South Africa?
€75 per person off holidays of eight nights or more and river cruises using the code BF75
€50 per person off seven-night holidays using the code BF50
€25 per person off holidays of six nights or less using the code BF25
Travel Department’s Black Friday Offers are available online until Cyber Monday 28 November or by calling into The Travel Shop in Arnotts or by phone (01) 637 1650. Book here.
Contact me on joanscalestravel@gmail.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram and Tiktok and my website joanscales.com
Joan’s Travel Week – from World Travel Market to the Best Hotel Party in a Decade
12 November 2022
World Travel Market
The world’s biggest travel event was back in full swing this week in London’s ExCeL and it was busy. Almost 6,000 stands and more than 30l,000 visitors returned to WTM to do business.
As travel and tourism returns WTM is an important showcase for the countries of the world to entice visitors. I spent two days at WTM and I managed to cover most of the vast event. The busiest stand as far asI could see was, Ireland. It was non-stop on the modest stand, where an oak tree and a throne from Game of Thrones were the only decoration to attract visitors. Unlike the very glitzy stands for counties in the Middle East, Ireland’s modesty won out in visitor activity. That level of business is a sign of what will be coming to Ireland in 2023 and 2024. I hope we will be ready for it/ Next week I will have a review of the 2022-2023 travel trends.
The world’s biggest travel event was back in full swing this week in London’s ExCeL and it was busy. Almost 6,000 stands and more than 30l,000 visitors returned to WTM to do business.
As travel and tourism returns WTM is an important showcase for the countries of the world to entice visitors. I spent two days at WTM and I managed to cover most of the vast event. The busiest stand as far asI could see was, Ireland. It was non-stop on the modest stand, where an oak tree and a throne from Game of Thrones were the only decoration to attract visitors. Unlike the very glitzy stands for counties in the Middle East, Ireland’s modesty won out in visitor activity. That level of business is a sign of what will be coming to Ireland in 2023 and 2024. I hope we will be ready for it/ Next week I will have a review of the 2022-2023 travel trends.
Killashee Hotel Reopening- the Best Hotel Party in a Decade
The celebration for the reopening of the Klllashee Hotel, Naas, Co. Kildare under the ownership of FBD Hotels and Resorts was a fantastic evening. FBD paid €25 million for this classy 55-acre estate in April and have so far spent another €3 million on upgrading it. There are plans for further spending on the beautiful hotel, spa, gym and grounds.
At least 500 guests enjoyed an evening that began with drummers welcoming them to the floodlit hotel. Over the course of the evening, there was entertainment, musicians, magic, dancing and incredible food. The guests moved from room to room as more and more delicious food and entertainment was revealed. Executive Head Chef Philip Gleeson and his team impressed the guests with the wide ranging culinary experience with local and seasonal produce.
Speaking at the launch General Manager Ger Alley said, “This first phase of the refurbishment with the upgrading of the bedrooms, the two restaurants, the upstairs lounge and lobby reception areas is completed. The experienced team at Killashee worked diligently to ensure the transition from old to new was seamless, with the minimum of disruption to our clientele. The guest experience is a priority and key to this is customer service and the contribution of the hotel’s team of over 100 full time and 250 part time staff, to maintaining the highest quality standards.”
The 141 bedrooms have been softly refurbished and now feature Dyson hairdryers, Nespresso coffee machines, 43-inch Smart flat screen televisions with Netflix and Elemis toiletries. A further €2 million will be invested over the next two years and will focus on the Spa and Leisure Centre and the accommodation in the original house. See video here.
At least 500 guests enjoyed an evening that began with drummers welcoming them to the floodlit hotel. Over the course of the evening, there was entertainment, musicians, magic, dancing and incredible food. The guests moved from room to room as more and more delicious food and entertainment was revealed. Executive Head Chef Philip Gleeson and his team impressed the guests with the wide ranging culinary experience with local and seasonal produce.
Speaking at the launch General Manager Ger Alley said, “This first phase of the refurbishment with the upgrading of the bedrooms, the two restaurants, the upstairs lounge and lobby reception areas is completed. The experienced team at Killashee worked diligently to ensure the transition from old to new was seamless, with the minimum of disruption to our clientele. The guest experience is a priority and key to this is customer service and the contribution of the hotel’s team of over 100 full time and 250 part time staff, to maintaining the highest quality standards.”
The 141 bedrooms have been softly refurbished and now feature Dyson hairdryers, Nespresso coffee machines, 43-inch Smart flat screen televisions with Netflix and Elemis toiletries. A further €2 million will be invested over the next two years and will focus on the Spa and Leisure Centre and the accommodation in the original house. See video here.
Thursday Lates at the National Gallery of Ireland
There are six more Thursday Lates at the National Gallery of Ireland at Merrion Square before Christmas. Every Thursday evening, visitors can avail of €5 tickets to see this magnificent display of almost 90 works from Tate’s impressive collection, on show in Ireland for the first time.
The Gallery Café and Gallery Shop will be open for food, drink and retail therapy every Thursday night, too, and there will is a monthly series of free music, art, craft and design evening events, funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media in support of the Night-Time Economy.
I went on Thursday and it was great fun. There was a DJ playing in the shop and you could have a glass of wine as you shopped. The NGI shop has a lovely range of interesting gifts, perfect for finding unusual books, jewellery or quirky items. See here.
There are six more Thursday Lates at the National Gallery of Ireland at Merrion Square before Christmas. Every Thursday evening, visitors can avail of €5 tickets to see this magnificent display of almost 90 works from Tate’s impressive collection, on show in Ireland for the first time.
The Gallery Café and Gallery Shop will be open for food, drink and retail therapy every Thursday night, too, and there will is a monthly series of free music, art, craft and design evening events, funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media in support of the Night-Time Economy.
I went on Thursday and it was great fun. There was a DJ playing in the shop and you could have a glass of wine as you shopped. The NGI shop has a lovely range of interesting gifts, perfect for finding unusual books, jewellery or quirky items. See here.
Dine at Slane Castle – the Flavours of Christmas – 9 December
A full menu of local game, beef, produce, and flavours. Presented by award winning former L'Ecrivain Chef Rob Curley of Slemish Market Supper Club and local legendary BBQ Pitmasters Ruairi Browne and Laura McMenamy of Food on Fire. This is fine dining, food theatre, and a Christmas treat not to be missed.
Arrive at 6:30pm for a welcome drink and dinner at 7:15pm. Dinner will be served in the luxury of the Gandon Restaurant and each course will be explained to you by the chefs as it is served. The menu will be a surprise on the night, but rest assured there will be no turkey and ham carvery Tickets €86.26 on Eventbrite.
Outdoors and Adventurous Ras El Khaimah
The tourism department of lesser-known Emirate, Ras el Khaimah paid a visit to Dublin last week. One of the seven Emirates that comprise the United Arab Emirates, it is the northernmost Emirate, though only 45 minutes from Dubai airport.
Unlike its glitzy cousin, Dubai, Ras el Khaimah is all about sustainable and outdoor adventure tourism. The world’s longest zipline is here at 2.83km. The Jais Flight soars across jagged mountain peaks and through deep ravines at speeds of up to 150kmph. It takes all of three minutes at 1,680 metres above the Arabian Gulf for the ultimate adrenaline buzz.
The Emirate is also home to the Bear Grylls Explorer Camp in the mountains where you can learn essential life skills, techniques and attitudes to survive the wilds of the mountains and desert lands. Other outdoor adventures include equestrian activities, hang-gliding, microlights, camping, sailing and outdoor sports.
Ras el Khaimah does offer all the comforts of top-class hotels, fine dining, shopping experiences and beachside resorts. All the relaxation you could want after an active holiday. see here.
The tourism department of lesser-known Emirate, Ras el Khaimah paid a visit to Dublin last week. One of the seven Emirates that comprise the United Arab Emirates, it is the northernmost Emirate, though only 45 minutes from Dubai airport.
Unlike its glitzy cousin, Dubai, Ras el Khaimah is all about sustainable and outdoor adventure tourism. The world’s longest zipline is here at 2.83km. The Jais Flight soars across jagged mountain peaks and through deep ravines at speeds of up to 150kmph. It takes all of three minutes at 1,680 metres above the Arabian Gulf for the ultimate adrenaline buzz.
The Emirate is also home to the Bear Grylls Explorer Camp in the mountains where you can learn essential life skills, techniques and attitudes to survive the wilds of the mountains and desert lands. Other outdoor adventures include equestrian activities, hang-gliding, microlights, camping, sailing and outdoor sports.
Ras el Khaimah does offer all the comforts of top-class hotels, fine dining, shopping experiences and beachside resorts. All the relaxation you could want after an active holiday. see here.
Joan's Travel Week - from Germany to Ennis and Derry Too
1 November, 2022
It was a rainy Tuesday (25 October) when the German National Tourism Office came to Dublin to ask Irish people to come back. Unsurprisingly, visitors from Ireland have fallen by more than 40 per cent since 2019.
Germany Travel offered some great reasons to come back, such as the upcoming Christmas Markets, always very popular. This will be a full return to the traditional markets since the Pandemic. This year, it will be one in which sustainability and use of energy will be considered and promises to be fun.
When a slide popped up extolling the fun of Christmas Shit Shopping, we all perked up eager to hear more. This happens in Cologne on 26 and 27 November and it is when Germans traditionally buy stuff for their Christmas cribs and decorations - and is how it got its name. Cologne also has a number of alternative Christmas markets, more details here.
If you have not been to the German or other European Christmas markets, it is a lovely way to spend a few days. Most travel agents have trips available, and I have seen prices under €200pps for flights and accommodation for two nights, see Cassidy Travel or your local travel agent.
Other news from German Tourism and one that surprised the audience, it is that Germany is third in the world for UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The country comes after China and Italy. Germany has 51 recognised sites that include 48 cultural sites, and three natural sites. Aachen Cathedral was the first site to be added to the list in 1978 and one of the first in the world.
Beatles 60th Anniversary Festival in Hamburg
The Beatles gave their first concert in Hamburg in 1960 and the 60th anniversary is going to be recognized next year with a two-day event on June 30 and July 1. A whole series of events are planned for this weekend, including lookalike bands and tours, see here.
There are a substantial number of flights to a variety of German cities. More than 140 per week from Dublin with others from Cork and Shannon. Ireland West Airport and Kerry have seasonal flights to German cities. For more information on visiting Germany see here.
Soll Ski and Rock is Back with 2FM and Jenny Greene
Rock the slopes in Soll, Austria, in January or March and have an amazing time, on and off the piste. Soll has a unique mix of great skiing, great live music, and superb cuisine. An d with the Irish there next it will really rock.
Austria is one of Europe’s liveliest ski destinations, known for its great value and warm hospitality, and is the undisputed favourite with Irish skiers. There is easy access from Munich, Innsbruck and Salzburg Airports to resorts.
Soll is in the Ski Welt which is one of Austria’s largest interconnected ski areas as well as winter hiking trails, toboggan runs, sleigh rides, cross country skiing, night skiing, and many other winter activities.
Gigs will take place in Soll, on and off the mountain with international and local bands. Other events will include a Ski Safari in both January and March, as well as a St. Patrick’s Day Parade on the slopes. Don't forget to bring your Paddy's Day outfits.
Ireland’s leading music radio station 2FM are partners, with the legendary 2FM DJ Jenny Greene doing an Après Ski Set om the slopes.
Dates for the trips are 7 – 14 January and 11 – 18 March, 2023, see details here. Or check with your tour operator or travel agent.
Rock the slopes in Soll, Austria, in January or March and have an amazing time, on and off the piste. Soll has a unique mix of great skiing, great live music, and superb cuisine. An d with the Irish there next it will really rock.
Austria is one of Europe’s liveliest ski destinations, known for its great value and warm hospitality, and is the undisputed favourite with Irish skiers. There is easy access from Munich, Innsbruck and Salzburg Airports to resorts.
Soll is in the Ski Welt which is one of Austria’s largest interconnected ski areas as well as winter hiking trails, toboggan runs, sleigh rides, cross country skiing, night skiing, and many other winter activities.
Gigs will take place in Soll, on and off the mountain with international and local bands. Other events will include a Ski Safari in both January and March, as well as a St. Patrick’s Day Parade on the slopes. Don't forget to bring your Paddy's Day outfits.
Ireland’s leading music radio station 2FM are partners, with the legendary 2FM DJ Jenny Greene doing an Après Ski Set om the slopes.
Dates for the trips are 7 – 14 January and 11 – 18 March, 2023, see details here. Or check with your tour operator or travel agent.
Ennis Capital of Trad Music and Fashion
It’s all happening in Ennis in November this year with the return of Tradfest, when the best Irish and international musicians will gather in the Clare town. The town will also be celebrating independent boutique and women’s health.
On Saturday 5 November, Ennis will stage a day-long fashion and wellness extravaganza to showcase the variety of independent shops the town offers. Organised by Experience Ennis, the jam-packed event is set to put the fun back into the traditional shopping experience. It will also be homing in on the importance of women’s hormonal and sexual health.
Known as the 'Boutique Capital of Ireland', Ennis has long held a reputation as a shoppers' paradise. Putting itself firmly back on the map, the fashion and wellness experience will shine a spotlight on how women can feel and look fabulous with a number of fashion shows, talks, demos and a lively Sex and Wellness panel discussion.
The event will kick off at 11am with brunch in Ennis's hottest new venue, The Monks' Society (formerly Cloisters Restaurant). This will be followed by a fashion show where broadcaster Lorraine Keane and stylist Laura Jordan will discuss the latest trends and style tips and introduce highlights of the season from over 16 participating Ennis boutiques.
Following the fashion show visitors can enjoy a wide range of events, entertainment and promotions taking place in boutiques throughout the town. The jam-packed itinerary will include a Body Confidence Workshop, four mini fashion shows, styling workshops, talks on the Power of Colour and lots more.
The day will be wrapped up with a ‘Sex and Wellness’ panel discussion in the Old Ground Hotel from 5pm to 7pm. Lorraine Keane will host the high-profile panel of experts. The lively and informative discussion will focus on women's hormone health and sexual wellbeing. Wine and Canapés will be served.
Tickets for the Fashion Brunch at the Monk’s Society and the Sex and Wellness event are available on Eventbrite. See details here.
It’s all happening in Ennis in November this year with the return of Tradfest, when the best Irish and international musicians will gather in the Clare town. The town will also be celebrating independent boutique and women’s health.
On Saturday 5 November, Ennis will stage a day-long fashion and wellness extravaganza to showcase the variety of independent shops the town offers. Organised by Experience Ennis, the jam-packed event is set to put the fun back into the traditional shopping experience. It will also be homing in on the importance of women’s hormonal and sexual health.
Known as the 'Boutique Capital of Ireland', Ennis has long held a reputation as a shoppers' paradise. Putting itself firmly back on the map, the fashion and wellness experience will shine a spotlight on how women can feel and look fabulous with a number of fashion shows, talks, demos and a lively Sex and Wellness panel discussion.
The event will kick off at 11am with brunch in Ennis's hottest new venue, The Monks' Society (formerly Cloisters Restaurant). This will be followed by a fashion show where broadcaster Lorraine Keane and stylist Laura Jordan will discuss the latest trends and style tips and introduce highlights of the season from over 16 participating Ennis boutiques.
Following the fashion show visitors can enjoy a wide range of events, entertainment and promotions taking place in boutiques throughout the town. The jam-packed itinerary will include a Body Confidence Workshop, four mini fashion shows, styling workshops, talks on the Power of Colour and lots more.
The day will be wrapped up with a ‘Sex and Wellness’ panel discussion in the Old Ground Hotel from 5pm to 7pm. Lorraine Keane will host the high-profile panel of experts. The lively and informative discussion will focus on women's hormone health and sexual wellbeing. Wine and Canapés will be served.
Tickets for the Fashion Brunch at the Monk’s Society and the Sex and Wellness event are available on Eventbrite. See details here.
1,000 Expected to attend Tradfest
The 28th Annual Ennis Tradfest from 10 - 14 November with an extraordinary line up of top international, national and local traditional music stars. Amongst the stars will be Anxo Lorenzo, a virtuoso award-winning Galician piper renowned for his energetic and inspiring performances.
Festival goes will travel from the US, Canada, Spain and the UK. From its early years, Ennis Tradfest has established itself as one of the most vibrant and dynamic traditional music festivals in.
Blackie O'Connell, widely recognised as one of the best pipers in the world, has been tirelessly building this festival over the years into an extravaganza of traditional music. This year there will be over 100 free events through its session trail, trad discos, masterclasses, evening concerts, Trad 4 Teens, trad quiz, CD and book launches, céilí’s and more. Ennis Tradfest runs from Thursday November 10th to Monday November 14th. For programme and tickets see here.
The 28th Annual Ennis Tradfest from 10 - 14 November with an extraordinary line up of top international, national and local traditional music stars. Amongst the stars will be Anxo Lorenzo, a virtuoso award-winning Galician piper renowned for his energetic and inspiring performances.
Festival goes will travel from the US, Canada, Spain and the UK. From its early years, Ennis Tradfest has established itself as one of the most vibrant and dynamic traditional music festivals in.
Blackie O'Connell, widely recognised as one of the best pipers in the world, has been tirelessly building this festival over the years into an extravaganza of traditional music. This year there will be over 100 free events through its session trail, trad discos, masterclasses, evening concerts, Trad 4 Teens, trad quiz, CD and book launches, céilí’s and more. Ennis Tradfest runs from Thursday November 10th to Monday November 14th. For programme and tickets see here.
Derry Halloween - Rain Never Stopped Fun
Though it rained solidly all day and all night in Derry it never dampened the fun for the thousands that turned out to enjoy the spectacle. The whole city was awash in shades of orange, and costumed revellers, from tiny toys of witchy grandmas. It was fun spotting the characters, lots of ghosts, Spiderman is still popular, Peaky Blinders both male and female, the very scary Clown, skeletons in all shapes and sizes, and of course, some Derry girls, complete in Our Lady Immaculate College uniforms.
The Parade, saw hundreds of actors and artistes taking part from school children to some Macnas-like spooky mechanical animals and themed floats. They marched in a loop to make sure everyone got a view of the fun. The festival culminated with fireworks over the Foyle.
The whole city of Derry becomes one big festival for four days over the October Bank Holiday weekend. This year was the 35th for the Derry Halloween and is agreed to be the biggest Halloween in Europe. You can see a video of night on my Instagram account here.
Though it rained solidly all day and all night in Derry it never dampened the fun for the thousands that turned out to enjoy the spectacle. The whole city was awash in shades of orange, and costumed revellers, from tiny toys of witchy grandmas. It was fun spotting the characters, lots of ghosts, Spiderman is still popular, Peaky Blinders both male and female, the very scary Clown, skeletons in all shapes and sizes, and of course, some Derry girls, complete in Our Lady Immaculate College uniforms.
The Parade, saw hundreds of actors and artistes taking part from school children to some Macnas-like spooky mechanical animals and themed floats. They marched in a loop to make sure everyone got a view of the fun. The festival culminated with fireworks over the Foyle.
The whole city of Derry becomes one big festival for four days over the October Bank Holiday weekend. This year was the 35th for the Derry Halloween and is agreed to be the biggest Halloween in Europe. You can see a video of night on my Instagram account here.
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Contact me on joanscalestravel.com, @joanscalestravel on Instagram and Tiktok and my website joanscales.com
Joan's Travel Week - from autumn and winter Festivals to Halloween
21 October, 2022
On Monday (17 Oct.) I appeared on Destination Anywhere programme on Dublin South FM 93.9 with Aileen Eglington. We talked about my recent trip to Sitges and Barcelona. I was in Sitges for the International Fantastic Films Festival and the famous Zombie Walk, reported on in last week’s newsletter.
We also talked about how Sitges is such a great destination for holidays for everyone. The types of things you can do in this lovely coastal town and the wide range of festivals around the year.
Miriam Burke from Utopia-Villas.com, a Wexford woman, added to the show with some thoughts on her favourite rental villas in Sitges. Utopia-Villas have more than 40 lovely properties to rent in Sitges and the surrounding areas.
Irish Culture in Catalonia
Next weekend 27 – 30 October, will be the Creative Connextions Festival in Sitges, an Irish Arts festival in Catalonia. There will be lots of Irish singers, musicians, artists and actors flocking to the town for three days of Irish culture. They include Mary Coughlan and Mary Byrne. You can get a taste of what it was like in 2019 in the gallery here.
Barcelona
I also had a day trip to Barcelona on my visit to Sitges, only 35 minutes by train, it is the perfect two-centre holiday or break away. The city has such a lot to offer visitors all year round. I visited the Gaudi-designed Casa Batllo and the newest hyper view of the city the Torre Glories, reviewed in last week's newsletter.
The city was designed to be a Living City and is built on the grid system, with lots of open spaces and plazas for people to enjoy. As ever Aileen was excited by the thought of all the great shopping in both Sitges and Barcelona. Sitges eschews high street brands for a great range of local shops, jewellers, artisan outlets and galleries.
Halloween
Samhain now known as Halloween, is the ancient Irish festival in autumn and we talked about all the things that will be on for Halloween. Such Dublin Mountains where the Forest Kids will have an adventure for children in the Dublin Mountains.
Glendalough House will have the Day of the Dead , music festival, and Wicklow Gaol will have Halloween Horror.
Púca Festival
The Púca festival in Trim and Athboy backed by Fáilte Ireland, promises to be a big adventure holiday weekend in the Boyne Valley. There will be great music with Imelda May, The Academics, Abbaesque, and comedy from Blindboy and lots more. See the programme and book tickets
here.
The Biggest Halloween Festival
However, the biggest Halloween festival in the world will be in Derry. Over 35 years now the Derry Halloween has become the biggest and best Halloween and Samhain celebrations. It draws on Derry’s mythical. Creative and cultural history. It will be a celebration of story-telling, mischief, feasting, parades and fun. I will be there for the big event on Halloween and report back next week. See what is on in Derry here.
You can listen back to the show on DubinSouthFM here.
Also next week in County Antrim, the Slemish Market Supper Club has some tickets for the extraordinary Halloween Banquet at the Adair Arms Hotel in Ballymena, with chef Robert Curley. He recently represented Ireland in the World Paella Competition, see here.
Winter in Dublin
Fáilte Ireland has launched a Winter In Dublin programme of great event and activities to enjoy over the winter. They will include cultural events, food and shopping, live music and other great activities. If you are planning a visit to Dublin over the next few months check out the programme here.
Comedy in Galway
The annual Galway Comedy Festival is back with a bang and a laugh next week with events from 25 – 31 October. It features well known acts such as Deirdre O’Kane, Dylan Moran, Andrew Maxwell, Tommy Tiernan, Ardal O’Hanlon, Reginald D Hunter, Rich Hall and Karl Spain to name just a few. See the full programme here.
Get Your Laughs at the Galway Comedy Festival this October and stay at the g Hotel
Treat yourself to two nights of luxury accommodation at Galway City’s only five-star hotel, the g Hotel &Spa, during the Galway Comedy Festival and enjoy a pre- dinner autumn cocktail in the signature lounge, followed by dinner in Restaurant gigi’s on one night of your choice.
This 2-night getaway this Autumn is from €145 per person sharing per night, including
• Two nights luxury accommodation including cooked to order Irish breakfast
• Delicious Autumn pre-dinner cocktail in the g’s signature lounge
• 3 Course meal at the award-winning restaurant gigi’s
• Complimentary BMW chauffeur car to the city (pre-booking essential)
• Complimentary parking, Book on www.theghotel.ie, E: stay@theghotel.ie
Contact me by email on Joanscalestravel@gmail.com and on joanscales.com
Joan’s Travel Week – from Scary Zombies to Sunday in Barcelona
14 October, 2022
Sitges - International Festival of Fantastic Films
For 55 years the town of Sitges on the Costa Garraf, just 35 minutes from Barcelona, has hosted the International Festival of Fantastic Films. Also known as the Festival Internacional de Cinema Fantàstic. It is a great event, the atmosphere is happy and fun, the town is decked out in flags, bunting and fantastic figures from the cinema.
The festival runs for ten days over two weekends with the first Saturday traditionally dedicated to the Zombie Walk. This is when everyone and anyone can get dressed and made up in their scariest character.
Makeup artists from film and television are on hand from early on the Saturday afternoon to get everyone ready in gory detail. They are champions, I saw them work cheerfully for hours on end last Saturday, and the children got special attention. The level of detail that some people go to is amazing, but you can just paint you face, and join in if you want.
The Zombie Walk begins at 8pm from the Avenida Balmins and slowly makes its way through the town as more than 1,000 people take part. The atmosphere is fantastique, and I would highly recommend putting this fun event on your calendar for next year. Walking Dead fans will love this event. See my Instagram account here, for some highlights from last Saturday’s Zombie Walk and here.
Festivals in Sitges – Irish Connections
All through the year, there are many festivals in Sitges. I particularly like the Corpus Christi festival in May, when the streets of the town are decorated with intricate patterns created in flower petals. That evening huge religious icons are paraded through the streets followed by children in communion dress. The whole event hums with live music and singing.
At the end of October, 27 – 30 it will be our own Mary Coughlan and Mary Byrne that will be taking part in the Creative Connextions Festival, an Irish arts festival in Catalonia. And not just singers, but also dancing, plays, orchestras, choirs and a news soundscape Ana Liffey along with the Fiddler of Sitges Championships.
In the words of Martin Tourish (Altan) – "CCI Sitges is the festival where Bach meets Brazilian and Irish music, where choreographers meet future musical collaborators, where a forty-piece choir happily joins in on a trad session, but it is also where lifelong friendships and collaborations are born.
By providing this space collaborations that would otherwise not have taken place are suddenly possible. It might adequately be described as a birthing ground for new work!" See details here.
Barcelona on a Sunday Afternoon
October is a lovely time to be in Barcelona, the massive crowds are gone, and the weather is a nice balmy low 20s. It was a good time to explore the most famous house in the city, the Casa Batlló by Antoni Gaudí.
It is an extraordinary place; your mind wonders how he could have come up with such beautiful designs for everything. For every single item in the house was designed by the artist, from the door handles to the exotic stained-glass window, the curved ceilings and his trademark, mosaic chimney stacks. They alone are works of art.
The imaginative way of letting light it this tall building is extraordinary. The huge skylight pours light down ceramic walls shaded in a series of blues from royal blue to the lightest hint of the shade. The highlight is when you reach the roof and can admire the 17 chimney stacks in all their glory, his artistic touches make them individual pieces of exciting works.
The Gaudí House as it is known is open seven days a week and costs €39 per person, see here.
The Torre Glories
The newest attraction in Barcelona is the extraordinary 30-storey Torre Glories - a hyper view of the city. Designed by architect Jean Nouvel, it is not unlike the Gherkin in London, though much more colourful.
The tour of the tower begins with an introduction to the life and atmosphere of the city as a whole. A sensory experience helps you understand how all the strands of life work together to create this city from the seen and the unseen.
The Mirador or Observation Deck allows a 360-degree view of the city from 125m. Suspended at the top of Torre Glòries is Cloud Cities Barcelona, an interactive artwork by artist Tomás Saraceno that transforms the observation deck into a suspended realm in which to gather and dialogue differently. Even just walking beneath it is a surreal experience. Book trip to the Torre Glòries here.
Dinner in Barcelona
I was a guest of the Tourism Organisation of Catalyuna and we finished our day in the very cool H10 Casa Mimosa Hotel. The hotel in a Modernist building is on the same block as another famous Gaudí designed building La Pedrera on Pau Claris.
We had a beautiful meal chosen by our host to reflect the fashionable Spanish cuisine of the hotel. The setting on the terrace was stunning. Carefully placed palm trees and foliage give diners the feeling of being alone in a tropical setting. There was a carefully placed azure pool for a dip, if required see images here. There is also a rooftop pool with amazing views.
Joan's Travel Week - from Famine to Zombies
7 October, 2022
The National Famine Museum - Strokestown Park, Co. Roscommon
The official opening of the National Famine Museum at Strokestown Park will take place on 12 October. The Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD will do the honours.
In advance of the opening, I paid a visit to the Famine Museum this week. I had a personal interest in going there as my grandmother’s family were Crokers from Strokestown. Glad to say I did not see their name on the list of those that walked from Strokestown to Dublin along the Royal Canal.
The history of this tragic era of Irish history is told in a direct manner, but you will provide your own emotions as you read the stories and politics behind this shameful story. And shameful is what it is, at least one million people died of starvation and disease and at least one million emigrated.
Leave or die of starvation
Stroketown Park Estate was where in 1847, 1,490 tenants of Major Denis Mahon were given the option of paid passage to Canada or die of starvation. Though Major Mahon paid the passage, and provide shoes and food for those who left, it was for financial reasons not altruistic ones. Major Mahon was murdered in November 1847.
The museum tells the story through many original documents, vignettes, recordings and stories. There is a lot to take in, so do not rush your visit.
Since 1979, Strokestown Park has been owned by a Roscommon-based company, the Westward Group. In 2022 the National Famine Museum and Palladian House were reopened after a five-million-euro grant. The whole estate is now cared for and managed by The Irish Heritage Trust a not-for-profit charity.
The gardens have been beautifully maintained with a Walled Garden and a lovely Woodland Walk. The museum is open from 10am – 5pm each day. There is a café on site too. Each day there is a tour of Strokestown House, a Palladian Mansion. You can see how the gentry lived as the tenants died in hovels on their lands at 12 noon, 2pm and 4pm, see here.
Ireland is the Friendliest Country - Adare Is World Winner
Readers of the Conde Nast Traveller Magazine have voted Ireland as the friendliest country in Europe and Dublin appears sixth on the list of favourite cities. Every year Conde Nast Traveler asks its readers to rate their favourite country, city, hotels and resorts. It is called the Readers’ Choice Awards. The runners up were Portugal, Greece, Iceland and Finland.
Dublin ranked sixth in the cities category where the top five cities were, San Sebastian Spain, Bruges Belgium, Reykjavik Iceland, Copenhagen Denmark, and Porto Portugal.
Adare Manor in Co. Limerick owned by JP McManus took the top spot in the world’s best resorts. Not to be left out one of Ireland’s most favourite cities, Galway appeared as seventh on the Best Small Cities in the World. Congratulation to all.
Tourism Ireland Delighted
Chief executive of Tourism Ireland, Niall Gibbons said he is “delighted” with the news.“Again and again, our research shows us that the friendliness of our people is one of our unique selling points,” Mr. Gibbons said.
“It is the warm welcome and the ‘craic’ here that resonates with our overseas visitors and makes the island of Ireland such a great choice for a short break or holiday,” he said.
Commenting on Ireland, Condé Nast Traveller said: “Countless global reports have continually dubbed the people of Ireland as some of the friendliest and most welcoming to visitors in the world, and our readers feel the same; voting it into the top spot for the friendliest countries in Europe.
More hotel rooms for Dublin
In the past week I spotted two planning applications for hotels. A notice has appeared on the Swan Centre Rathmines for the planning permission of a 111-bed hotel within the shopping centre. The owners of the centre, Sawbridge, run by the Anderson family, have lodged an application with the city council. The Anderson family also own the Omniplex cinema chain and have other property interests.
The development will see a five and six-storey extension on the Castlewood Avenue end of the centre. Some of the ground floor units will be taken over to provide a reception and access to the hotel above.
It will be interesting to see if they get permission. The most recent hotel in Rathmines, Days Hotel on Rathmines Road, only lasted a few years. However, the Travelodge seems to be doing well and was charging extraordinary rates during the summer.
Meanwhile on Talbot Street in Dublin 1 the Central Inn has applied to refurbish the interior and add two additional floors which will increase it to 162 rooms.
It's Zombie time in Sitges
This weekend I will be in Sitges in Spain, the coastal city about 40 minutes from Barcelona. This year sees the return of the Horror Film Festival. The highlight will be the Zombie Procession on Saturday night, when hundreds of creatures will roam the city looking for blood. Makeup artists from the film and television industries will be on hand to turn people into scary creates. Watch next week for my report from Sitges.
If you need to contact me, email joanscalestravel@gmail.com or send a message in the contact form.
Joan's Travel Week - Salsa in Cuba to Ballet-lates in London
29 September, 2022
Cuba Wants you to Salsa Again
On the evening that Hurricane Ian was causing devastation in Cuba, a delegation from the Cuban Embassy and Cuba Tourist Office was visiting Dublin. Little did we realise the scale of the destruction hitting an already badly hit country. Like all weather related incidences, life wll return and so will the fabulous music and dancing of Cuba.
The past two years of the Covid-19 pandemic have had a terrible impact on the beautifu Caribbean island, with tourism revenues drying up. Cuba needs the income from tourism to fund not just immediate employment, but the wider ripple effect such income has on an economy.
Getting back on track is being made harder by less flights to the Cuban capital Havana and other resort areas on the island of 11+ million people. There are flights to the capital Havana, from Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, and Madrid. Dublin to Miami and onwards with American Airlines is also an option some days of the week.
Virgin Atlantic had planned to operate a London Heathrow to Havana winter service from 1 November but have since cancelled the three times weekly flight. VS are unlikely to operate it in winter 2023 either.
Not all is bad news, behind the scenes there has been a big development in adventure, nature and sustainable tourism products and the Cuba of the future will have a lot more to offer visitors. As Christopher Columbus, the first European to step on the shores of Cuba, said “The fairest island human eyes have yet beheld.” The theme for Cuban tourism is Ùnica, #Cubaunica.
You can book holidays to Cuba with Budget Travel, Sunway Travel, Trailfinders, Tropicalsky, or your local ITAA licensed travel agent.
On the evening that Hurricane Ian was causing devastation in Cuba, a delegation from the Cuban Embassy and Cuba Tourist Office was visiting Dublin. Little did we realise the scale of the destruction hitting an already badly hit country. Like all weather related incidences, life wll return and so will the fabulous music and dancing of Cuba.
The past two years of the Covid-19 pandemic have had a terrible impact on the beautifu Caribbean island, with tourism revenues drying up. Cuba needs the income from tourism to fund not just immediate employment, but the wider ripple effect such income has on an economy.
Getting back on track is being made harder by less flights to the Cuban capital Havana and other resort areas on the island of 11+ million people. There are flights to the capital Havana, from Amsterdam, Paris, Frankfurt, and Madrid. Dublin to Miami and onwards with American Airlines is also an option some days of the week.
Virgin Atlantic had planned to operate a London Heathrow to Havana winter service from 1 November but have since cancelled the three times weekly flight. VS are unlikely to operate it in winter 2023 either.
Not all is bad news, behind the scenes there has been a big development in adventure, nature and sustainable tourism products and the Cuba of the future will have a lot more to offer visitors. As Christopher Columbus, the first European to step on the shores of Cuba, said “The fairest island human eyes have yet beheld.” The theme for Cuban tourism is Ùnica, #Cubaunica.
You can book holidays to Cuba with Budget Travel, Sunway Travel, Trailfinders, Tropicalsky, or your local ITAA licensed travel agent.
Time to Dance Again - Ballet-Lates in London
Christie Seaver, ballet dancer, teacher, choreographer is teaching Ballet-Lates in Ireland. it is a unique form of movement that combines a Pilates-guided warmup with authentic ballet steps, all set to classical music and inspired by an actual ballet. It creates a graceful way of moving not just in the studio, but in life. She will help you pirouette into the strongest body you have ever had.
In November she will be leading a retreat in London that will combine Ballet-Lates training with some fantastic experiences. They include a workshop at the world-famous Sadler's Welsl Theatre. A Q&A wtih Lyndsey Winship dance critic with The Guardian and an evening with the English National Ballet Triple Bill. The price for this amazing weekend is from €430pps, flights extra, see details here and from info@ballelates.net and +353 86 406 5866.
Christie Seaver, ballet dancer, teacher, choreographer is teaching Ballet-Lates in Ireland. it is a unique form of movement that combines a Pilates-guided warmup with authentic ballet steps, all set to classical music and inspired by an actual ballet. It creates a graceful way of moving not just in the studio, but in life. She will help you pirouette into the strongest body you have ever had.
In November she will be leading a retreat in London that will combine Ballet-Lates training with some fantastic experiences. They include a workshop at the world-famous Sadler's Welsl Theatre. A Q&A wtih Lyndsey Winship dance critic with The Guardian and an evening with the English National Ballet Triple Bill. The price for this amazing weekend is from €430pps, flights extra, see details here and from info@ballelates.net and +353 86 406 5866.
Dancing is back in the Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney
Get your dancing shoes out for a social dancing festival at the beautiful Glleneagle Hotel in Killarney. From 24 – 28 October, Monday to Friday, Strut your stuff in the ballroom and enjoy dancing to big band sounds. The four night breaks include B&B, dinner each evening and dancing from 9.30pm to live music. Spend your days exploring beauctiful Killarney and the Kingdom of Kerry or just relax in the fabulous leisure centre. Prices from €329pps and €20 per night single single supplement. Book on +353 (0) 64 667 1550 or here
If country music is more your style, then dust off your cowboy hat and boots or four days of great music From 6 - 10 November the Gleneagle Hotel will be Country Music Hall of Fame. Four nights, B&B dinner and entertainent every might by top acts from €349pps, €20 nightly single suppplement, see here.
Get your dancing shoes out for a social dancing festival at the beautiful Glleneagle Hotel in Killarney. From 24 – 28 October, Monday to Friday, Strut your stuff in the ballroom and enjoy dancing to big band sounds. The four night breaks include B&B, dinner each evening and dancing from 9.30pm to live music. Spend your days exploring beauctiful Killarney and the Kingdom of Kerry or just relax in the fabulous leisure centre. Prices from €329pps and €20 per night single single supplement. Book on +353 (0) 64 667 1550 or here
If country music is more your style, then dust off your cowboy hat and boots or four days of great music From 6 - 10 November the Gleneagle Hotel will be Country Music Hall of Fame. Four nights, B&B dinner and entertainent every might by top acts from €349pps, €20 nightly single suppplement, see here.
Fun for Golden Oldies in Galway
The Hardiman Eyre Square knows what’s important to those over 65 when looking for a break away in the City of the Tribes. Literally around the corner from Galway Train and Bus Station The Hardiman is the ideal location for a city break with its old warm charm but with all the modern comforts.
This special tailored package for over 65's includes two nights’ accommodation mid-week in a luxurious newly refurbished bedroom, freshly cooked full Irish breakfast each morning and dinner on each night in The Gaslight Brasserie.
On arrival to the hotel, complimentary tea/coffee and homemade scones are included as an extra welcome treat.For those booking as a group the hotel has some complimentary midweek activities including gin or wine tasting nights and even Bingo. From €178 pps for two-night package.
Book by calling 091 564 041 or email info@thehardiman.ie, see here.
Hotel News - The Maldron Merrion Opens
The 49th Dalata Hotel, the Maldron Merrion 140- bedroom was officially opened on Tuesday and it was a beautiful day to enjoy the stunning views over Dublin Bay. The seaview rooms will be the most sought after in Dublin.
The new hotel is part of a unique mixed-use development constructed by McAleer & Rushe which included the construction of 64 apartments, five townhouses and a basement car park where the hotel has access to 68 car parking spaces offering discounted parking rate for guests.
Commenting on the opening, Dalata CEO Dermot Crowley said “We will have added 1902 rooms to our portfolio in the year to the end of 2022 across prime locations in Dublin, Glasgow, Manchester, Bristol and Dusseldorf. The opening of Maldron Hotel Merrion Road demonstrates our continued commitment to Dublin as a key market for Dalata, and we are delighted to be adding a further 77 new hospitality jobs in the city.
“With sustainability a core focus for the Group, the hotel has been developed with state-of-the-art energy measurement and management systems that allows the team to be fully informed and reactive to ensure a sustainable and environmentally friendly hotel. Across the group, we are happy to report that we have reduced energy consumption per room sold by 17% in Q2 2022 versus Q2 2019”.
He said: “It is rare to find a hotel which suits the needs of so many people. We have guests who come for the vibrant and extensive shopping, bar and restaurant scene in Dublin city centre, while others enjoy a tranquil break with walks along Sandymount Strand or enjoy a coffee in one of Monkstown or Blackrock’s many cafés.”
The Maldron Merrion has a very modern clean lines style with a palette of pale grey, yellow and splashes of colour from the eclectic art colletion. Seven meeting sroom all have natural daylight and state of the art AV facilties. See here.
The 49th Dalata Hotel, the Maldron Merrion 140- bedroom was officially opened on Tuesday and it was a beautiful day to enjoy the stunning views over Dublin Bay. The seaview rooms will be the most sought after in Dublin.
The new hotel is part of a unique mixed-use development constructed by McAleer & Rushe which included the construction of 64 apartments, five townhouses and a basement car park where the hotel has access to 68 car parking spaces offering discounted parking rate for guests.
Commenting on the opening, Dalata CEO Dermot Crowley said “We will have added 1902 rooms to our portfolio in the year to the end of 2022 across prime locations in Dublin, Glasgow, Manchester, Bristol and Dusseldorf. The opening of Maldron Hotel Merrion Road demonstrates our continued commitment to Dublin as a key market for Dalata, and we are delighted to be adding a further 77 new hospitality jobs in the city.
“With sustainability a core focus for the Group, the hotel has been developed with state-of-the-art energy measurement and management systems that allows the team to be fully informed and reactive to ensure a sustainable and environmentally friendly hotel. Across the group, we are happy to report that we have reduced energy consumption per room sold by 17% in Q2 2022 versus Q2 2019”.
He said: “It is rare to find a hotel which suits the needs of so many people. We have guests who come for the vibrant and extensive shopping, bar and restaurant scene in Dublin city centre, while others enjoy a tranquil break with walks along Sandymount Strand or enjoy a coffee in one of Monkstown or Blackrock’s many cafés.”
The Maldron Merrion has a very modern clean lines style with a palette of pale grey, yellow and splashes of colour from the eclectic art colletion. Seven meeting sroom all have natural daylight and state of the art AV facilties. See here.
Dublin's Biggest Hostel Taking Shape
The overwhelming size of Dublin's bggest hostel is becoming apparent with it now reaching 13 storeys on Abbey Street in the centre of the city. There are two figures for room size floating about, 560 and 634. Whicever it is, it will enormous and dwarf the streetscape around it. Nearby in the same area of the city aother huge property is taking shape, the 310-room Motel One where the facade on Liffey Street is being revealed.
This property is running almost a year behind schedule due to Covid-19 related delays. Both properties will be interesting additions to the city centre, where the lack of rooms this summer led to frustration and loaded rates. With the need for accommodatio to house refugees and Ukrainians, the Goverment is probably eyeing up these huge properties.
The overwhelming size of Dublin's bggest hostel is becoming apparent with it now reaching 13 storeys on Abbey Street in the centre of the city. There are two figures for room size floating about, 560 and 634. Whicever it is, it will enormous and dwarf the streetscape around it. Nearby in the same area of the city aother huge property is taking shape, the 310-room Motel One where the facade on Liffey Street is being revealed.
This property is running almost a year behind schedule due to Covid-19 related delays. Both properties will be interesting additions to the city centre, where the lack of rooms this summer led to frustration and loaded rates. With the need for accommodatio to house refugees and Ukrainians, the Goverment is probably eyeing up these huge properties.
Joan's Travel Week - Paella to the Puca
22 September, 2020
Spanish Paella – Easy to Make
On Friday 16 September the Spanish Tourist office hosted an event to mark World Paella Day in Taste of Spain on Dublin’s Camden Street. It was a lovely afternoon tasting Spanish food, such as cheeses, meats and patatas bravas. The finale was the massive paella served to the guests at the restaurant.
Our takeaway present was an apron and a paella kit to make this Valencian dish at home. Last Christmas my children gave me a paella pan and it had been gathering dust in the shed. This was now an opportunity to give it a go and try my hand at paella.
I decided to combine the paella kit with a recipe for Paella Mixta from the BBC Good Food website. It is a website I find very useful for all kinds of recipes. My Paella Mixta contained chicken, chorizo, prawns and mussels. What I didn’t realise is that you can cook it in the oven. Fortunately, I have a biggish oven and the 32cm pan fit in perfectly.
To be honest I have always been intimidated about the idea of cooking paella, however, it turned out to be much easier dish to cook than expected. In all it took just over an hour, with preparation and cooking time. As you will see from the photos, it looked quite impressive, and I wore my Spanish apron. My guests loved it so much, they all had three helpings. It will on the menu again.
At this event I met Robert Curley, an Irish chef based in Ballymena, Co. Antrim, who took part in the famous Paella World Cup last year. His paella included traditional Irish ingredients such as Guinness, and crispy oysters. Last week he took part in the Unas De Bravas 2022 competition to find the best patatas bravas, in Palencia, Spain. He was the only chef chosen from outside Spain to take part. He has some fun things planned for Halllowe’en in the style of Heston Blumenthal. Follow Robert’s journeys on Instagram @slemishchef and on his website.
On Friday 16 September the Spanish Tourist office hosted an event to mark World Paella Day in Taste of Spain on Dublin’s Camden Street. It was a lovely afternoon tasting Spanish food, such as cheeses, meats and patatas bravas. The finale was the massive paella served to the guests at the restaurant.
Our takeaway present was an apron and a paella kit to make this Valencian dish at home. Last Christmas my children gave me a paella pan and it had been gathering dust in the shed. This was now an opportunity to give it a go and try my hand at paella.
I decided to combine the paella kit with a recipe for Paella Mixta from the BBC Good Food website. It is a website I find very useful for all kinds of recipes. My Paella Mixta contained chicken, chorizo, prawns and mussels. What I didn’t realise is that you can cook it in the oven. Fortunately, I have a biggish oven and the 32cm pan fit in perfectly.
To be honest I have always been intimidated about the idea of cooking paella, however, it turned out to be much easier dish to cook than expected. In all it took just over an hour, with preparation and cooking time. As you will see from the photos, it looked quite impressive, and I wore my Spanish apron. My guests loved it so much, they all had three helpings. It will on the menu again.
At this event I met Robert Curley, an Irish chef based in Ballymena, Co. Antrim, who took part in the famous Paella World Cup last year. His paella included traditional Irish ingredients such as Guinness, and crispy oysters. Last week he took part in the Unas De Bravas 2022 competition to find the best patatas bravas, in Palencia, Spain. He was the only chef chosen from outside Spain to take part. He has some fun things planned for Halllowe’en in the style of Heston Blumenthal. Follow Robert’s journeys on Instagram @slemishchef and on his website.
Paella at Taste of Spain
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Robert Hurley, Inventive Chef
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Competition Time - Win a Trip to a Parador
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Competition - Win a Stay in a Spanish Parador
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Púca Halloween Festival
Púca is one of Ireland’s newest and oldest festivals and celebrates Ireland as the original home of Hallowe’en. It is the ancient tradition of Samhain, over 2,000 years old, and was time for feasting, gathering and storytelling, as darkness of winter begins.
This year the Púca Festival oganised with Fáilte Ireland will take place from 28 – 31 October with event in some of Ireland’s most historic places. It will be a festival strongly rooted in tradition with a programme of events centred around spectacle, music and food. See the festival website here.
Derry to Host Europe’s Biggest Halloween Festival
Step out of the light and into the darkness as the Walled City of Derry~Londonderry comes alive for Europe’s biggest Halloween festival, full of folklore, feasting and family fun. Renowned as the birthplace of Halloween, Ireland has a deep connection with the celebration but nowhere stronger than in the Northwest where the event has grown into a gruesome global phenomenon.
This year’s festival which takes place at 14 key locations across the city as well as extending into Strabane and Donegal. The festival, which runs from Oc tober 28-31, comes together in one giant finale with the return of the magnificent carnival parade and epic fireworks display which will see 40,000 revellers gather in Derry on Halloween night.
Enjoy some gentle ‘exorcise’ at Awakening The Walled City, along the 1km City of Bones Trail through the centre of Derry with haunting animated projections and audio, spectacular street performances and creepy walkabout characters ready to give you a fright around every corner.
The Forest of Shadows Trail will be a 2km walk over The Peace Bridge, leading you through a portal into the iconic St Columb’s Park where the veil is at its thinnest between worlds. Be prepared to face your fears as demons and creatures emerge from the underworld, intent onentertaining everyone who is brave enough to visit.
Feast at the mouth-watering Legenderry Food Market and with the fearsome Little Horrors Family Programme and the stunning Live Music Programme also taking place, there’s something to get everyone in the spooky spirit. See the festival programme here.
Buswells Hotel for sale
If walls could talk, the walls of Buswells Hotel on Dublin’s Molesworth Street could tell a lot of fascinating political stories over the ages. The closest hotel to Ireland seat of Parliament has been the venue for thousands of public and private meetings over many years.
The hotel is now for sale by the liquidators of the IBRC, the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation. It was formerly owned by the Sean Quinn Group. It is now being offered for sale by Savills at a guide price of €22m. The 67-bedrroom hotel has extensive meeting, conference and food facilties, see Savills for details.
Buswells Hotel
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Many a story was heard in Buswells Bar
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Joan's Travel Week – from the Hills of Donegal to Shannon Airport
14 September, 2022
Almost at the top of Slieve League - The Irish expression on my tee-shirt means - take it easy.
The Donegal Camino
The highlight of my week was joining the Donegal Camino for the last two days of the seven-day exploration of Ireland’s wildest county. The Donegal Camino was founded by local woman Peggy Stringer and assisted by Noel Cunningham and Deirdre McGlone, hoteliers, to support Cancer Care West and put a spotlight on this beautiful county in northwest Ireland.
The sun shone on the walkers every day apart from Tuesday when it was very windy on Muckish Mountain. Donegal could not have looked any finer than it did in the past week with sunshine, blue skies and 19 degrees. Wet gear was left behind as we walked in tee-shirts and shorts and needed lashings of sunscreen. Preparation for the Blue Stack Way began with a great dinner in Biddy’s o’Barnes, a pub and restaurant outside Donegal Town. This is run by two former chefs from Harveys Point Hotel and the food was terrific.
The evening finished with a music session in the Reel Inn at Donegal Town. Local musicians and visiting artistes from Glasgow created a great atmosphere for the walk to come. It was also my introduction to the walk anthem, “Home to Donegal”, proudly sung by Donegal people many times over the week. Listen here.
The Blue Stack Way was 14 kms over gently sloping unspoilt terrain of the Clogher and Disert Valley. It was across mainly bogland, some farmland and there was lots of sheep to admire. The mountains do have blue hue to them from a distance. Along the way we stopped for stories from the guide, Michael, a local man and accomplished musician.
Dinner that evening was in the Market House at the Abbey Hotel, with great Donegal fare and another session in O'Neill's Bar. It was an early start on Saturday for the highlight of the week, climbing Slieve League the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
The day was stunning, bright sunshine, blue skies, and 19 degrees at the top. A big crowd of over 80 people braved the long hike to the stunning pinnacle and the infamous One Man’s Pass. This narrow pass tested dthe nerves of even the bravest. The sea 2,000 feet below shimmered, and a white-tailed eagle kept us company.
Music from the base of the clifffs was played through the walkie-talkies to keep us going and there was even the odd song and a recitation. Local guides, front, cente and back made sure that all the group had a safe and successful day.
Dinner that evening in Anderson’s Boathouse in Killybegs for fantastic Donegal fish and seafood. Killybegs is where Ireland's biggest fishing fleet is based. It was a jolly night with everyone now all old friends, regaling stories of their journeys. It was a glorious end to a week that Donegal showed us what this beautiful county has to offer to visitors. The aim of the Donegal Camino is to raise €50,000 for Cancer Care West and funding is open until 30 September, you can donate here.
Donegal Pubs for Donegal Day
As 8 September was Donegal Day. I went round the town taking photos of the pubs. I am sure I missed a few and some are closed or for sale. So, for those homesick for Donegal Town – see if your favourite is in this video on Instagram here.
Ireland's Speediest Airports - Donegal and Shannon
This past week I experienced the two airports in Ireland with the speediest movement of passenger through Security, Donegal and Shannon Airports. Both airports have installed Smiths Detection Equipment at Security and passengers do not need to open cabin bags or take off shoes. No struggling with laptops and leads or forgotten lipsticks.
It also means that you can bring full size containers of liquids, cosmetics and baby food. Though if you are travelling onwards you will have to comply with the security restrictions at the transfer location. However, for point-to-point travel, and from Shannon, there are now currently 26 routes, just pick up your bags and go.
The highlight of my week was joining the Donegal Camino for the last two days of the seven-day exploration of Ireland’s wildest county. The Donegal Camino was founded by local woman Peggy Stringer and assisted by Noel Cunningham and Deirdre McGlone, hoteliers, to support Cancer Care West and put a spotlight on this beautiful county in northwest Ireland.
The sun shone on the walkers every day apart from Tuesday when it was very windy on Muckish Mountain. Donegal could not have looked any finer than it did in the past week with sunshine, blue skies and 19 degrees. Wet gear was left behind as we walked in tee-shirts and shorts and needed lashings of sunscreen. Preparation for the Blue Stack Way began with a great dinner in Biddy’s o’Barnes, a pub and restaurant outside Donegal Town. This is run by two former chefs from Harveys Point Hotel and the food was terrific.
The evening finished with a music session in the Reel Inn at Donegal Town. Local musicians and visiting artistes from Glasgow created a great atmosphere for the walk to come. It was also my introduction to the walk anthem, “Home to Donegal”, proudly sung by Donegal people many times over the week. Listen here.
The Blue Stack Way was 14 kms over gently sloping unspoilt terrain of the Clogher and Disert Valley. It was across mainly bogland, some farmland and there was lots of sheep to admire. The mountains do have blue hue to them from a distance. Along the way we stopped for stories from the guide, Michael, a local man and accomplished musician.
Dinner that evening was in the Market House at the Abbey Hotel, with great Donegal fare and another session in O'Neill's Bar. It was an early start on Saturday for the highlight of the week, climbing Slieve League the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
The day was stunning, bright sunshine, blue skies, and 19 degrees at the top. A big crowd of over 80 people braved the long hike to the stunning pinnacle and the infamous One Man’s Pass. This narrow pass tested dthe nerves of even the bravest. The sea 2,000 feet below shimmered, and a white-tailed eagle kept us company.
Music from the base of the clifffs was played through the walkie-talkies to keep us going and there was even the odd song and a recitation. Local guides, front, cente and back made sure that all the group had a safe and successful day.
Dinner that evening in Anderson’s Boathouse in Killybegs for fantastic Donegal fish and seafood. Killybegs is where Ireland's biggest fishing fleet is based. It was a jolly night with everyone now all old friends, regaling stories of their journeys. It was a glorious end to a week that Donegal showed us what this beautiful county has to offer to visitors. The aim of the Donegal Camino is to raise €50,000 for Cancer Care West and funding is open until 30 September, you can donate here.
Donegal Pubs for Donegal Day
As 8 September was Donegal Day. I went round the town taking photos of the pubs. I am sure I missed a few and some are closed or for sale. So, for those homesick for Donegal Town – see if your favourite is in this video on Instagram here.
Ireland's Speediest Airports - Donegal and Shannon
This past week I experienced the two airports in Ireland with the speediest movement of passenger through Security, Donegal and Shannon Airports. Both airports have installed Smiths Detection Equipment at Security and passengers do not need to open cabin bags or take off shoes. No struggling with laptops and leads or forgotten lipsticks.
It also means that you can bring full size containers of liquids, cosmetics and baby food. Though if you are travelling onwards you will have to comply with the security restrictions at the transfer location. However, for point-to-point travel, and from Shannon, there are now currently 26 routes, just pick up your bags and go.
Bienvenu a Orly from Shannon Airport
A wet Monday morning saw a happy escape for the first passengers on the newest flight from Shannon Airport to Orly Airport in Paris. Minister of State for Transport, Hildegarde Naughton TD was there to welcome the first service to Orly from Shannon. She said, “A connection to Paris Orly not only provides significant opportunities for the people within this region, but also for inbound traffic from Paris – further boosting tourism connections between the Mid-West of Ireland and Paris.”
The service will be operated by Spanish carrier Vueling and will operate on Mondays and Fridays. Ideal days for weekends in Paris and business travel trips. The first flight was given a great send off at Shannon Airport. Orly Airport is only 10km from the city centre and connected by RER and buses. Book on Vueling.com.
A wet Monday morning saw a happy escape for the first passengers on the newest flight from Shannon Airport to Orly Airport in Paris. Minister of State for Transport, Hildegarde Naughton TD was there to welcome the first service to Orly from Shannon. She said, “A connection to Paris Orly not only provides significant opportunities for the people within this region, but also for inbound traffic from Paris – further boosting tourism connections between the Mid-West of Ireland and Paris.”
The service will be operated by Spanish carrier Vueling and will operate on Mondays and Fridays. Ideal days for weekends in Paris and business travel trips. The first flight was given a great send off at Shannon Airport. Orly Airport is only 10km from the city centre and connected by RER and buses. Book on Vueling.com.
Good Luck - Lady Duck - Julie Hastings to Retire
I talked to Julie Hasstings about her career in Hastings Hotels and her plans for the future following her departure this week from the famed Northern Ireland hotel group.
What was your role in the company? When did you join?
I was Marketing Director and joined the company in 1988.
Why have you decided to retire now?
I will still be actively involved as a board member of Hastings Hotels, But, after 35 years, I would like to take more time for myself and my family
The industry is changing rapidly as is the science of marketing and I have found someone who will take over my role with new and fresh eyes and skills, but I will always be on hand with my experience when asked. So, it is a lovely way to retire from the family business - to start to do new things I really would love to do and still be able to keep my hand in.
I would also love to travel a little more now my children are all up and away, and I have some great charities which whom I have been asked to lend my experience, which I am very excited about.
What has been the secret to the Hastings Hotel group's success?
As a family business, our mission has always been to retain a family feel for staff and customers when so many international brands are now in the province. Many of the teams talk about being part of the Hastings family meaning the hotel family, which is lovely to hear.
We continuously invest in our people and our properties to ensure we offer our guests the first-class experience that has become expected of our brand.
Have you met many celebrity guests at the hotels?
President Bill Clinton was my favourite, his charisma was magnetic, and I enjoyed my short conversation with him - not about anything political, but about him playing golf with John Hume at Royal County Down.
Michael Douglas and Billy Connolly left memories too. As ‘A-listers’ they chatted to the guests like they were friends which was delightful to watch. Bjorn Borg and Pat Cash immediately said yes when I asked if they would open for us a new wing of bedrooms at the Culloden in 2009. As an international tennis player, myself back in the day, and an avid fan that was a big pleasure for me. Prince Charles and Camilla visited Belfast in 2019 and helped us celebrate our first year in business at the Grand Central Hotel.
What has been your proudest moment working for the family business?
When we went to Buckingham Palace with Mum and my siblings for a magical day out to see Dad receive his knighthood from the Queen for his contribution to the hospitality and tourism industries over his many years, that was the proudest.
Do you have any funny stories from your time at the company?
These usually relate to ducks. Our subliminal brand as I call them, created by myself 25 years ago to supposedly relieve the stress of our guests by placing one in every bathroom for them to take away. To date we have given away over 1.5 million ducks, created 40 different types, and I am fondly known as Lady Duck! I had celebrities ask to have their photos taken with a duck, including Rory with his Rory Quack Ilroy duck during the Irish Open a few years back. They have been signed by Prime Ministers and VIPs, and photographs have appeared in press and on social media across the globe.
World Paella Day - Tuesday 20 September
I talked to Julie Hasstings about her career in Hastings Hotels and her plans for the future following her departure this week from the famed Northern Ireland hotel group.
What was your role in the company? When did you join?
I was Marketing Director and joined the company in 1988.
Why have you decided to retire now?
I will still be actively involved as a board member of Hastings Hotels, But, after 35 years, I would like to take more time for myself and my family
The industry is changing rapidly as is the science of marketing and I have found someone who will take over my role with new and fresh eyes and skills, but I will always be on hand with my experience when asked. So, it is a lovely way to retire from the family business - to start to do new things I really would love to do and still be able to keep my hand in.
I would also love to travel a little more now my children are all up and away, and I have some great charities which whom I have been asked to lend my experience, which I am very excited about.
What has been the secret to the Hastings Hotel group's success?
As a family business, our mission has always been to retain a family feel for staff and customers when so many international brands are now in the province. Many of the teams talk about being part of the Hastings family meaning the hotel family, which is lovely to hear.
We continuously invest in our people and our properties to ensure we offer our guests the first-class experience that has become expected of our brand.
Have you met many celebrity guests at the hotels?
President Bill Clinton was my favourite, his charisma was magnetic, and I enjoyed my short conversation with him - not about anything political, but about him playing golf with John Hume at Royal County Down.
Michael Douglas and Billy Connolly left memories too. As ‘A-listers’ they chatted to the guests like they were friends which was delightful to watch. Bjorn Borg and Pat Cash immediately said yes when I asked if they would open for us a new wing of bedrooms at the Culloden in 2009. As an international tennis player, myself back in the day, and an avid fan that was a big pleasure for me. Prince Charles and Camilla visited Belfast in 2019 and helped us celebrate our first year in business at the Grand Central Hotel.
What has been your proudest moment working for the family business?
When we went to Buckingham Palace with Mum and my siblings for a magical day out to see Dad receive his knighthood from the Queen for his contribution to the hospitality and tourism industries over his many years, that was the proudest.
Do you have any funny stories from your time at the company?
These usually relate to ducks. Our subliminal brand as I call them, created by myself 25 years ago to supposedly relieve the stress of our guests by placing one in every bathroom for them to take away. To date we have given away over 1.5 million ducks, created 40 different types, and I am fondly known as Lady Duck! I had celebrities ask to have their photos taken with a duck, including Rory with his Rory Quack Ilroy duck during the Irish Open a few years back. They have been signed by Prime Ministers and VIPs, and photographs have appeared in press and on social media across the globe.
World Paella Day - Tuesday 20 September
World Paella Day is a recognition to the most universal plate of Spanish gastronomy. A day in which the Valencians share their great dish with the rest of the world to celebrate, beyond recipes and ingredients, the internationality of the paella. A meal of humble Valencian origin that has transcended all borders. With eight million yearly searches on the internet, making it the fourth most important dish on the planet. There are been a growth in the number of Spanish restaurants around Ireland so you know what to do next Tuesday - eat Paella. There are flights from Dublin and Cork direct to Valencia with Ryanair.com. Read about my recent trip to Valencia here.
Special Offers - Home and Abroad
Knockranny House Hotel in Co. Mayo
Knockranny House Hotel & Spa, will welcome guests to enjoy the ‘Warmth & Wellness’ experience at the four-star luxury hotel in the picturesque town of Westport running on 11 and 12 November and 20 and 21 January 2023.
Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy a one-hour talk with three experts who each focus on one particular aspect of wellbeing. Carrie Cann, manager of the award-winning Spa Salveo will talk about the benefit of using essential oils for your mental and physical health. Joanne Coates Moran, will discuss how to stay motivated and how small changes in your day-to-day life can impact your wellbeing. Head Chef, Seamus Commons will discuss how to improve your diet with simple kitchen hacks.
Priced from €350 per person the ‘Warmth & Wellness’ weekend includes two nights’ accommodation in a classic room with a delicious breakfast each morning, dinner on one evening at La Fougère Restaurant, a 2-hour Spa Salveo Experience (with 55-minute Spirulina Wrap and a one-hour Serail Mud Chamber treatment for two) and a one-hour wellness talks, book here.
Istanbul – A Magical City
Direct flights from Dublin mean the city on the crossroads of east and west, Istanbul, is just over four hours away. This extraordinary city is well worth a visit, if for the architecture alone. A four-day trip over the October Bank Holiday weekend will allow you to visit the famous sights of the Topkapi Palace, the Hagia Sofia, the Blue Mosque, Galata Tower and the Grand Bazaar. The trip includes four nights’ accommodation, in a 4* hotel, flights and guided tours, details from John Galligan Travel, (01) 2076555, email, leisure@jgt.ie and jgt.ie.
