The Travel Expert

Best April / May deal: A week in Santorini for €304

Scratch one off the bucket list and visit Santorini before the crowds arrive. I found great value flights for just €139 in April. Price for flights and a seven-night stay in the Zacharakis apartments is only €304, or stay in the picture perfect town of Oia for only €500 including flights. See these and lots more options here:

Best summer sun: Magical Marrakech

If you are looking for a sun holiday this summer with a little culture and charm thrown in, then don’t miss Marrakesh. It is certainly on trend this year with many celebrities choosing it as their winter sun destination of choice.

I found great value return airfares for only €164 on the 28th of July. A seven-night stay at the luxury 2Ciels Boutique Hôtel is only €485 per person including breakfast. This is highly rated on TripAdvisor and combines traditional Moroccan influences with luxury modern interiors. Total cost for a seven night holiday including flights is just €649 per person.

Search flights 28th July – 4th August €164pp

View hotel here €485pp

Best city break: 3 night break in Berlin for €198!

Berlin is a great choice for a city break. There are fascinating sights everywhere you turn – The Brandenburg Gate, Checkpoint Charlie and the Berlin Wall, to name but a few! However, Berlin also has some great nightlife and shopping – you can combine culture with craft beers and get the best of both worlds.

Read: My city guide to Berlin

I found great value flights for just €45 return on the 18th of April, and a three-night stay at the top rated Mercure Berlin Wittenbergplatz is only €149 per person – so you can enjoy a three night break in Berlin for less than €200!

Search flights 18 – 21 April €45pp

View hotel here €153pp

Best family holiday: 4-Star week in Lanzarote

Lanzarote is one of the most popular holiday destinations from Ireland, and I’ve found a deal in one of its most popular hotels on the 16th of July! The Las Costas Hotel is located right on the beach but also posts a pool with stunning sea views. There is a children’s pool and snack bar, as well as a cocktail bar, games room, gym and Spa.

Price of €2973 includes flights, checked baggage, transfers and a seven-night stay with breakfast and evening meal included, based on a family of four. Price includes a FREE Child Place and a €200 discount when you use the promo code SPAIN via the link below. Check out the reviews on TripAdvisor if you still need convincing.

View offer here

Read: 12 Family holiday deals in July & August, All Inclusive holidays from €2668

Best family staycation: Easter break at Midlands Park Hotel

Enjoy a two-night family break at the highly rated Midlands Park Hotel this Easter from €434 for a family of four, or €498 for a family of five. We stayed here last year and loved its family friendly facilities and great dining options.

Price includes breakfast each day, a 4-course evening meal on the night of your choice, a family activity pass to one of the nearby top attractions, an Easter egg for the kids on arrival, and full access to the Leisure Centre.

Read: Family breaks at Midlands Park Hotel

Book here

Best cruise: MSC All Inclusive Med Cruises from €849

MSC Cruises are having a moment! They have a staggering 21 cruise ships in their fleet and so many offers to choose from. I’ve cruised with MSC on a few occasions, you can read my review of MSC Seaview here:

Read: Review of MSC Seaview

If you haven’t tried a cruise before, you might like to try an all-inclusive 3-night Med cruise. Price including flights, checked baggage, gratuities meals and premium drinks is just €849 on the 13th of October.

Alternatively choose an all-inclusive seven-night Italy, Montenegro and Greek Isles cruise from €1239. This also includes flights, checked baggage, meals, premium drinks and gratuities, as well as return airport transfers. See these and lots more here:

View all offers

Best long haul: South Africa

South Africa is one of my favourite holiday destinations and this super two-week trip manages to capture many of the highlights. Spend four nights in Cape Town, three nights in the Winelands, three nights on the Garden Route and three nights at Amakhala Game Reserve with meals and game drives included – a place I stayed in a few years ago and can highly recommend.

Price of €2299 per person includes flights, accommodation as per itinerary, and nine nights car hire, travelling on the 4th of September.

Read: How to plan the perfect South Africa road trip

View offer here

Best early booking offer: Orlando for New Year

Can you think of a better way to ring in the New Year? Enjoy a trip of a lifetime by spending New Year in Orlando with your family. Stay on site at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort and get early access to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and enjoy mind blowing simulator rides from your favourite movies.

Read: How to plan a trip to Orlando in 10 easy steps

I found a deal flying with Delta Airlines on the 27th of December and a 10 night stay at Universal’s Endless Summer Resort for €4624 based on a family of four. See more details in this post:

Prices are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change. Please note some of my best travel deals from Ireland include affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made.

The Travel Expert’s Best Travel Deals – 14th February 2023

8 months agoSarah Slattery

I’ve searched the web so you don’t have to! My best travel deals from Ireland include last minute holidays, city breaks, summer holidays, cruise deals, and staycations for couples and families.

In this week’s best travel deals from Ireland I have a last minute ski holiday, an overnight escape to London, holidays to Zakynthos, Puglia and Las Vegas, a family holiday to the Algarve, a five star yacht cruise in Croatia, an epic trip to Vietnam and some super staycations.

Best last minute: Ski trip!

Hit the slopes with great value ski deals to Andorra! Price for flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-night stay at the highly rated Hotel Yomo Patagonia, with breakfast and evening meal included, is only €370 on the 26th of February.

Best overnight escape: Trim Castle Hotel

Trim Castle Hotel has a super offer for an overnight stay, with breakfast, dinner, a bottle of Prosecco and a late check-out included for just €175 per couple! We stayed here last year and enjoyed the fabulous Trim Castle walk and visit to the castle. Guests also have free access to the Aura Leisure Centre close by.

Look for the Winter Escape offer via the link below – it is valid until the 26th of February.

Read: 20 last minute hotel deals in February, overnight stays from €46 per person

Search flights here

Search hotel here

Best city break: 4-Star London break for €109!

Jet off to London for the night in March for just €109! Take in a show ( I can highly recommend Abba Voyage ), see the sights, or visit the Making of Harry Potter at Warner Bros Studios – tickets are still available from Attraction Tickets with return transportation from Victoria.

Flights are available from €29 return to Stansted or €35 return to Gatwick on the 12th of March from Dublin, and similar prices are available from Cork, Shannon and Knock airports to Stansted.

You can fly early morning and come back late in the evening which will give you two full days to explore this great city.

I stayed at the 4-star Park Plaza Victoria Hotel which is ideally located beside Victoria station and within walking distance of Westminster Bridge, the London Eye and most of London’s top attractions. Price for an overnight stay is just €80 per person.

Read: Top Tips for Visiting Harry Potter Studios

Best May deal: Zakynthos for €299!

Kickstart your summer with a week in the beautiful island of Zakynthos. With the announcement of a new service from Dublin with Ryanair, airfares have never been lower!

Visit the most photographed beach in the world – Shipwreck beach, see the Loggerhead turtles, or take a boat trip to Kefalonia.

Return flights are available from €177 in May ( and October ) and the popular Seaview apartments are superbly priced at just €122 per person for a seven-night stay. The 4-star Ionian Aura apart-hotel is another great choice, priced at just €165 per person including breakfast.

Best summer sun: Puglia ❤️

Explore Puglia this summer! With flights to both Bari and Brindisi from Dublin, you have a choice of flights available. I found flights to Brindisi for just €118 return on the 25th of July.

The Dimora Charleston Guesthouse in Lecce is highly rated on TripAdvisor and ideally placed to explore this gorgeous region. Price for a seven-night stay in a junior suite with Spa bath and breakfast €468 per person.

The Hilton Garden Inn is another great choice and also is rated as Excellent on TripAdvisor. A seven-night stay here is €487 per person.

Search flights here 25th July – 1st August €118

View guesthouse €468pp

View Hotel €487pp

You could also choose to fly into Brindisi and home Bari, or vice versa, and explore the northern Puglia towns of Alberobello and Polignano a Mare, and pop into nearby Matera – one of Italy’s most fascinating cities.

Read: 3 places you must visit in Puglia

Read: Our magical weekend in Matera

Best family holiday: All Inclusive in the Algarve

If you are following me for some time you will know how much I love Alvor in the Algarve. I found an all-inclusive deal to the Alvor Baia this summer. Price for flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-night stay with meals and drinks included is €3525 on the 17th of July.

View offer here

See many more offers including discounts of €200 off holidays to Spain, Canary Islands and Balearic Islands, as well as Free child places in this post:

Read: 12 family holidays in July and August with Free child places & exclusive discounts

Best family staycation: Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny

The Newpark Hotel in Kilkenny is one of the best family hotels in Ireland. As well as swimming pool, adventure playground, animal farm, kids clubs and go karting, a dinosaur-themed park opened here last year, with life-sized (robotic) dinosaurs that move and roar!

Deluxe family rooms can get booked out months in advance, so it is always best to book as early as possible. Price for a two-night family stay over the October bank holiday weekend is €480 including breakfast – but hurry there are only four rooms left!

Read: Top things to do in Kilkenny with kids

Best cruise: Croatia yacht cruise

Island hopping in Croatia is on my own wish list and this luxury cruise looks like the best way to do it. Unlike regular cruises you get to dine in the ports you visit each night.

Explore the walled city of Dubrovnik, visit the stunning islands of Brac, Hvar, Korcula and Mljet, and discover Split, Markarska and much more.

Price for flights, transfers and a seven night cruise on this luxury yacht is €2130 per person. Many meals and excursions are also included in the cost, see full details and itinerary via the link below.

Best long haul holiday: Vietnam

Discover all the highlights of Vietnam on one epic trip. Explore the bustling city of Hanoi, overnight on a traditional Vietnamese cruise ship in Halong Bay, take a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, take a boat cruise through the floating markets of Cai Rang, cycle through the rural villages and rice fields of the Mekong Delta, and visit Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An.

Price for flights, transfers, 13 nights accommodation, 2 overnight flights, all breakfasts, 11 lunches, 1 dinner and guided activities and excursions is only €2399. Small group tours are available in May, September, October and November, and the single supplement only €349!

See more here

See more adventure holidays, including walking tours, photography and yoga trips here:

Read: 10 adventure holidays for active travellers

Best early booking offer: Christmas shopping in Las Vegas!

Enjoy a Christmas shopping break in Vegas! Price for flights and a five-night stay at the 4-star Westgate Las Vegas Resort and Casino is just €654 on the 12th of December!

The price of €654 is based on flying via London but I suggest clicking on the Alternative Flight Options box and selecting Delta Airlines flights via New York (an additional €35) – this will enable you to clear emigration in Dublin before you leave.

Travel Travel Deals Travel Deals Abroad

Holiday Deal to Zakynthos, 14th October, 1 week, Flights & 4-Star Hotel, €420!

8 months agoSarah Slattery

Finish off the summer in style with this amazing holiday deal to Zakynthos for only €420!

Visit to the most photographed beach in the world – Navagio or ‘Shipwreck Beach, take a boat trip to see the Loggerhead turtles, or even pop over to Kefalonia, its just a short ferry ride away.This amazing holiday deal to Zakynthos will enable you to do all of this, and lots more.

We spent a week in Zakynthos about 10 years ago and loved it. Shipwreck Beach is as good as it looks – although bring your surf shoes, the pictures don’t show you that the beach is made up of tiny white shells!

A trip to Zakynthos town is also worthwhile, but for me the beauty lies in just chilling out its gorgeous beaches, and enjoying Greek food in beachside tavernas.

We loved the laid back atmosphere, and although some resorts are very much developed for tourists, it is still possible to find unspoilt Greek villages and authentic experiences.

Ryanair are flying weekly flights from Dublin to Zante every Saturday and I found return flights available from €220 in October. I have linked accommodation prices for the 14th of October below, but simply edit the dates if you wish to travel at any other time during in the year.

The Seaview apartments are superbly priced, considering they are rated as Excellent on TripAdvisor. Located in the seaside resort of Tsilivi, they boast a pool with snack bar, as well as sea views.

If you are looking for a higher standard of accommodation the 4-star Ionian Aura apart-hotel is a great choice, priced at just €200 per person including breakfast.

Or if you fancy some 5-star treatment, check out the adults-only Meandros Boutique & Spa Hotel, priced at €417 per person in a Premium Suite including breakfast or €493 per person including breakfast and evening meal.

How to book the holiday deal to Zakynthos:

View flights here 14th – 21st October €220pp

View 4-star hotel €200pp

View 5-star hotel €417pp

I hope you this holiday deal to Zakynthos will inspire you to book a getaway soon. Price is correct at the time of issue but is subject to change. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, facilities and descriptions are taken from 3rd party sites and are subject to change.

Please note some of the links in this post contain affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made.

Read: My review of Lough Erne Resort

The Travel Expert’s Best Travel Deals – 31st January 2023

8 months agoSarah Slattery

I’ve searched the web so you don’t have to! My best travel deals from Ireland include last minute holidays, city breaks, summer holidays, cruise deals and staycations for couples and families.

In this week’s best travel deals from Ireland I have a city break to Lisbon, holidays to Malta, Cambrils and the Algarve, a family holiday to Menorca, a five star luxury cruise, an early booking offer to the Portofino Coast, and some super staycations.

Best last minute: Malta

Avail of low airfares from Shannon airport and take a spring break in Malta. I found return flights for just €77 on the 22nd of February.

The 4-star Hotel Argento is highly rated on TripAdvisor and is located close to the popular resort on St Julians. Price for a seven-night stay is just €145 per person. Flights are also available ex Dublin from €182 per person around the same time.

Read: Top 10 reasons to visit Malta

Search flights here 22nd Feb – 1st March €77pp

View hotel here €145pp

Best overnight escape: Lough Erne Resort

With Valentines Day just around the corner, why not give the gift of an overnight escape? The 5-Star Lough Erne Resort in Fermanagh is just €79 per person including breakfast on the 20th of February or on Mother’s Day, 19th of March.

We stayed in Lough Erne resort a few years ago and loved it. It’s stunning location on a 600-acre peninsula was just one of the reasons, the top quality food and service were others. It offers a host of activities including two Championship Golf Courses and a unique Thai inspired Spa.

View offer here

Read: 20 last minute hotel deals in Ireland, February stays from €46pp

Read: 20 spa breaks in Ireland, overnight stays from €45pp

Best city break: 2 Nights / 3 Days in Lisbon from €176

You probably know by now how much I love Lisbon, but at these prices hopefully you will to! I found weekend flights on Sunday morning the 23rd of April returning Tuesday night the 25th of April for just €50 from Dublin. This gives you three full days to enjoy the city.

Lisbon is very easy to navigate too, but if you don’t fancy walking it, there are delightful old trams and tuk tuks available to help you explore this great city.

Read: My Top 10 things to do in Lisbon

The HF Fenix Music hotel is one of the top-rated three-star hotels in Lisbon. Its trendy rooftop pool, music theme and location beside the Oriente metro station has seen it receive excellent reviews on TripAdvisor. If you are looking for a four or five star hotel, check out my post on the best places to stay in Lisbon here:

Read: Where to stay in Lisbon – my top 10 Lisbon hotels

Search flights here 23rd – 25th April €50pp

View hotel here €126pp

Best May deal: Cambrils, Costa Dorada

The 4-star H10 Cambrils Playa is a super place to stay if you want a relaxing beach holiday, or want to explore the Costa Dorada and nearby cities of Barcelona or Tarragona. Located right beside the beach in the upmarket resort of Cambrils, it offers superb value for such a highly rated hotel.

Price for a seven-night stay with flights, transfers, checked baggage and breakfast and dinner included (check out the reviews of the food on TripAdvisor) is just €478 per person on the 5th of May. This includes a discount of €100 per booking when you use SALE100 online.

Read: 3 All Inclusive Celebrity Cruise Offers – Prices from €1937 inc flights, gratuities & more

Best summer sun: Wellness week in the Algarve

The Algarve is a popular choice for Wellness holidays. There are 100 beaches stretching over 150 km of coastline as well as a wide choice of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets.

Aer Lingus have return flights to Faro from Dublin for just €132 on the 13th of June, and there are flights from Cork, Knock and Shannon from €206, €275 and €279 respectively with Ryanair.

The highly rated Vale d’ El Rei Hotel & Villas is superbly priced at just €344 per person for a seven-night stay including breakfast. Located on the outskirts of Carvoeiro, surrounded by vineyards, this 4-Star hotel boasts a Spa, two pools and a tennis court.

Alternatively chose the relatively new (opened in 2019) 5-Star adult-only Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel which offers a wide selection of health and wellness holiday programmes on-site.

A state of the art fitness centre with yoga and pilates classes, as well as a spa and wellness centre are also available if you don’t wish to partake in any of the dedicated programmes available.

Read: 10 great holiday deals for adults this summer

View Aer Lingus 13th – 20th June €132pp

Search Ryanair

4-star hotel €344pp

5-star hotel €630pp

Best cruise deal: All Inclusive Celebrity Cruise in July

If you were following me last year you will know how much I loved Celebrity Beyond cruise ship, so I was delighted to find some great offers available on Celebrity’s Edge Class ships this summer.

Celebrity Edge will cruise from Barcelona in July and visit Portofino in Italy – this cruise is worth it for that stop alone, La Spezia where you can visit Tuscany and Florence, as well as Corsica and Cannes, before returning to Barcelona for your return flight home.

Price of €1890 on the 8th of July includes Aer Lingus flights, transfers, seat selection and 20kg checked baggage; a seven-night cruise in a deluxe interior cabin with meals and Classic Drinks package included, as well as basic WiFi, gratuities and $200 on-board credit per cabin!

See more Celebrity Cruise holiday deals from Ireland, including an 11 night Italy, Turkey & Greek Islands Cruise from €3,049pp in August, and a 10-Night Italy, Croatia & Montenegro Cruise from €2,619pp in October:

See offers here

Best family holiday: Top family resort in Menorca

best travel deals for families from Ireland — Children’s pool at Zafiro Menorca

The highly rated Zafiro Menorca is a super family resort that boasts three swimming pools, an extensive entertainment programme and is located just 10 minutes from the gorgeous beach at Cala’n Bosch.

Children will love the kids pool with pirate ship and slides, as well as the daily activities, that include workshops, games and shows. One bedroom suites and swim-up suites are available that sleep up to four and have a kitchenette and living area.

Fly from Dublin on the 6th of July and enjoy a seven-night family holiday to Zafiro Menorca for just €2527, based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing.

Read: 10 Great Family holiday deals in July and August

Search flights here €224pp 6th – 13th July

View Apartment €1411 Self catering

Best family staycation: Garryvoe Beach Homes, Cork

The Garryvoe Beach Homes are newly built homes with modern interiors and stunning views, as well a private garden to take advantage of them.

As the name suggests they are situated just two minutes walk from the Blue Flag Garryvoe Beach, however you can also avail of the leisure centre and swimming pool at the nearby Garryvoe Hotel, for a nominal daily charge.

Price; for a two-night family stay over St Patrick’s Weekend is €466 in a one-bedroom home, or €673 in a three-bedroom home.

Read: 12 family breaks over St Patrick’s weekend – 2 Night stays from €382

Best early booking offer: A weekend on the Portofino Coast

Spend a weekend on the Italian Riviera this year and visit the exclusive resorts of Portofino and the hill top towns of the Cinque Terre. The newly announced summer flights to Genoa from Dublin offer superb value for a weekend break.

I found flights from €107 return in September and October, departing early Friday morning and returning late Monday night so you will have four days to explore this stunning coastline. However, if time and budget allows, I suggest stay longer!

I visited Portofino and the nearby town of Santa Margherita many years ago, and I think you would want to be made of stone if they didn’t impress you! Hotel prices are less expensive in Santa Margherita, although it is only five minutes by taxi into Portofino.

I found great value in the 4-Star Helios hotel. Price for a three-night stay with breakfast is €237 per person on the 6th of October. If you fancy some five-star treatment, the Excelsior Coast Hotel is the best value at €463 per person.

Search Ryanair 6th – 9th October €107pp

4-star hotel €237pp

5-star hotel €463pp

The Travel Expert’s Best Travel Deals – 17th January 2023

9 months agoSarah Slattery

I’ve searched the web so you don’t have to! My best travel deals from Ireland include last minute holidays, city breaks, summer holidays, long haul offers, cruise deals and staycations for couples and families.

In this week’s best travel deals from Ireland I have a weekend break to Sardinia, holidays to Madeira and the Amalfi Coast, family holidays to Zakynthos and Lake Garda, an amazing cruise for Christmas and New Year, and super staycations for St Patrick’s weekend.

Best Last Minute Holiday: Madeira

Escape the cold and enjoy a winter week in Madeira. Located off the coast of Africa, temperatures are usually higher in Madeira than in Mediterranean resorts. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers, and there is a host of great accommodation options to choose from.

I found return flights for just €60 from Dublin on the 2nd of February, and Pestana Hotels have 38% off in their January sale.

The four-star Pestana Casino Studios are available from €266 per person, or the 5-star Pestana Carlton Madeira Premium Ocean Resort is available from €350 per person, both for a seven-night stay. Many more hotels are available, including all-inclusive options.

Search Ryanair 2nd – 9th Feb €60

Search Hotels from €266pp

Best overnight escape: St Patricks Weekend in Clare

Take a trip Clare for St Patrick’s weekend. I found a super deal in the Lahinch Coast Hotel & Suites. There is a Leisure Centre on-site, with a 17 metre pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi – the perfect place to relax after exploring the Cliffs of Moher and the Wild Atlantic Way.

Choose a one-night stay for €65pp or a two-night stay for €135pp. Check out the great reviews on TripAdvisor here.

Read: 10 hotel deals in Ireland for St Patrick’s weekend, 2 night stays from €129pp

Read: The ultimate guide to the Amalfi Coast, where to stay in Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi & Capri

Best city break: 4-Star weekend in Sardinia for €229!

Spend the weekend in sunny Sardinia! Alghero is just 10 minutes from the airport so it is ideal for a short break. I found return flights from €80 in May, departing Dublin early Friday morning and returning late Sunday evening, so you will have three days to explore this pretty city.

Alternatively travel from Cork and stay for three nights. Price for Friday to Monday is only €98 on the 12th of May.

There are many great value hotel options here including the 4-star Alma di Alghero Hotel which is only €149 per person for a two-night stay, or €213 for a three-night stay. Located beside the beach, and 15-minutes walk from the historic centre, it offers the best of both worlds.

Search flights 12th – 14th May €80pp

View hotel €149pp

Best summer sun: Sorrento in July

Spend your summer holidays on the Amalfi Coast this year – flight prices are SO low, even in July! I found return flights for €159 on the 5th of July from Dublin and the 12th of July from Shannon.

A seven-night stay at the highly rated 4-star Prestige Hotel is just €479 including breakfast and free cancellation. I have many more hotel options in this post:

Search flights 5th – 12th July ex Dublin or 12th – 19th July ex Shannon

View hotel €479pp

Best family holiday: All Inclusive in Zakynthos

Visit the world’s most photographed beach this summer, while staying in one of Zakynthos’ top rated family resorts. The 4-star+ All Inclusive Aqua Bay Suites have eight pools, a water park, kids clubs, and access to a choice of dining options across three of their hotels.

Price for a seven-night stay with flights, transfers, checked baggage as well as meals, drinks and waterpark access included is €3787 for a family of four, departing August 9th. This is based on sharing a family room with sliding doors and balcony, however swim up rooms and rooms with private pools are also available.

Price includes a Free Child Place and a €250 discount that is applied when you enter the unique code given to you on the TUI website. This discount of €250 is available across multiple all-inclusive holidays when you spend over €2500.

Best family staycation: St Patrick’s weekend in Connemara

Take the family to Connemara for St Patrick’s weekend. I found a two-bedroom holiday home in the Connemara Sands Hotel & Spa for just €470 for a two-night stay, including breakfast!

With private access to the Blue Flag Mannin Bay beach, the Connemara Sands Hotel is one of the best beach hotels in Ireland. A stay here offers the best of both worlds, as you have the benefits of its hotel facilities, including the Spa and Wellness centre, as well as self catering facilities in a holiday home.

Read: Family breaks in Ireland over Patricks Weekend, 2 night stays from €340

Best cruise deal: Christmas & New Year Adventure

Want to escape for Christmas next year? I found an amazing deal for anyone who wants to be away for the festivities – a 19 night all-inclusive cruise for only €1970! Visit Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Israel and Cyprus on Celestyal Crystal from the 16th of December until the 4th of January 2024.

The price includes meals, unlimited drinks, gratuities and three excursions to Ephesus, Cairo and Knossos. There are only two full sea days, you will be in various ports for the other 17! Flights need to be added, but the travel agent can book these for you when flights are on sale.

Best early booking offer: Lake Garda for October Mid term

Secure your October mid term break getaway now before the prices increase! I found great value flights to Verona in Italy from Dublin airport. Explore Lake Garda’s pretty towns and villages and cycle the new bike path, treat the kids to GardaLand, or enjoy a day trip to nearby Venice or Verona.

Price for flights and a seven-night stay in a two-bedroom bungalow in Camping Bella Italia is €923 for a family of four. Yes I know the dash for the sun beds is not ideal here 🫣, but you can’t deny the facilities and value!

I also spotted a well-rated apartment in Peschiera that might be better for anyone looking for somewhere a little more low key. You can find both options in this post:

The Travel Expert’s Best Travel Deals – 10th January 2023

9 months agoSarah Slattery

I’ve searched the web so you don’t have to! My best travel deals from Ireland include last minute holidays, city breaks, summer holidays, long haul offers, cruise deals and staycations for couples and families.

In this week’s best travel deals from Ireland I have holidays to Corfu, Croatia and Marrakesh, family holidays to the Algarve, an amazing cruise deal, Easter weekend in Italy, New Year in Iceland and super staycations.

Best Last Minute Holiday: Marrakesh

Marrakesh is having a moment. If you are looking for an alternative to the Canary Islands this winter, with a little culture and charm thrown in, then don’t miss Marrakesh. As well as great value hotels, you should also enjoy some balmy temperatures – it is 23 degrees and sunny today!

I found return flights for just €132 on the 31st of January for seven nights, and a traditional stay in the top rated Riad Elnoujoum is only €245 per person including breakfast.

Search flights here 31st Jan – 7th February €132pp

View Riad here €245pp

Best Overnight Escape: Valentines night at Mount Juliet

Give the gift of a hotel stay this Valentines Day! Price for an overnight stay at the 5-star Mount Juliet Hotel is just €92 per person on the 14th of February including breakfast.

Prices are even less on later dates – €85 per person on the 22nd of February, €79 per person on the 29th of March or €85 per person on the 16th of April – many more dates are available throughout the year for similar prices.

Read: My review of Mount Juliet

Best Spring / City Break: Trieste for Easter weekend

New holiday destinations from Ireland in 2023 - Trieste — Image by Severin Herrmann from Pixabay

We have over 23 new destinations from Ireland this year, and thankfully many of the new ‘summer‘ routes are starting at the end of March, just in time for Easter holidays. The Italian city of Trieste is one of them and I found flights for €74 over Easter weekend.

Read: 12 City breaks over Easter weekend, Inc flights & hotels from €259pp

The 4-star Hotel Coppe is €320 for a four-night stay and superbly located to explore this great city. Want to bring the kids along? The Residence Le Terrazze apartments are just €489 for a four night stay for a family of four.

Trieste is a delightful city in its own right, but it also ideally located to explore the pretty towns and villages of Slovenia, as well as Lake Bled (90 minutes away). There is so much to do here, you can catch the train to Venice for the day too.

Flights operate twice weekly and flights are only €89 for seven nights over Easter holidays – you may wish to stay longer!

Search flights 8th – 12th April €74

View hotel here €320pp

View Apartment €489

Best May Deal: A week in Corfu for €285!

Kickstart your summer with a week in the Greek island of Corfu for €285! The friendly Spiros apartments are located in the pretty resort of Sidari and are rated as Excellent on TripAdvisor.

This super deal is perfect for anyone looking to visit Greece without breaking the bank – the price includes flights, apartment, transfers and checked baggage for seven nights, departing the 22nd of May.

Best Summer Sun: 5-Star week in Croatia

We are so lucky to have direct flights to four airports in Croatia this summer. I have a soft spot for Cavtat because I think it ticks all boxes for couples looking for an upmarket resort, with lots of things to do nearby. You can take boat trips to Dubrovnik and many of Croatia’s islands, or pop into nearby Montenegro and explore the stunning bay of Kotor.

Airfares are particularly good value this summer with return flights from €141 in August or €162 in July. The 5-star Hotel Croatia is available from €708 for a seven-night stay including breakfast.

Read: The best places to stay in Croatia

Best Family Holiday Deal: Relax in the Algarve

For families looking for a relaxing sun holiday this summer, the Colina de Lapa apartments and villas in Carvoeiro offer excellent value. I found a great deal including return flights for €1767 for a family of four, departing the 19th of July for seven nights – many more dates are available at similar prices.

Three and four bedroom villas are also available here, making it an ideal choice for an extended family getaway.If you prefer family accommodation with more activities, water slides, kids clubs, I have lots more recommendations in this post:

Read: Family holidays in the Algarve, my top 20 picks

Read: Top 10 things to do in Wexford with kids

Best Family Staycation: Riverside Park Hotel Family Sale

The Riverside Park Hotel in Wexford is having a sale this week, with 10% off its family summer breaks. Two-night breaks are always superb value and sell out early each year. We visited a few years ago and enjoyed its spacious rooms and family friendly facilities.

Prices are available from €341 for 2 adults and 1 child, €365 for 2 adults and 2 children and €476 for 2 adults and 3 children, and include breakfast, a 4-Course meal for all the family on the evening of your choice, a family activity pass to one of Wexford’s top attractions, and lots more.

Best Cruise / Long Haul Deal: Orlando + 7 Night All Inclusive Cruise, €1465!

Enjoy the thrills of Orlando before cruising the Caribbean for seven nights! This amazing cruise deal includes a four-night stay in Orlando plus an All Inclusive cruise to the Bahamas and Mexico for just €1465 on the 10th of May.

Price includes flights with checked baggage, a four-night stay at the Rosen Inn at Pointe Orlando, and a seven-night cruise on MSC Seaside with meals, drinks and gratuities included! I was on its sister ship, MSC Seaview a few years ago and loved it.

Read: My review of MSC Seaview

Best Seat Sale: Aer Lingus

There is only six more days left to avail of reduced flights to the USA and Europe in the Aer Lingus January sale. I found return flights to New York from €341, Orlando from €421 and San Francisco from €481 over May bank holiday weekend.

There are some great deals to Europe in June too, with return flights to the Algarve from €134, Malaga from €160 and Dubrovnik from €174.

Search flights here

Read: All the January sales in one place

Best Early Booking Offer: New Year in Iceland

If you like getting away for New Year, you need to book early to get the best airfares. Play Airlines have flights on sale from Dublin to Reykjavik for €157 return! Price for a four-night stay in the centrally located City Centre Hotel is €307 per person, with free cancellation.

I have also linked a Northern Lights tour, which is available from €47 on New Years Eve – what an amazing way to ring in the New Year. Flights are shown via Skyscanner below, but as always, I suggest you book directly on the airlines website.

Read: Top things to do in Iceland

Read: Weekend in Iceland for New Year

View flights here €157pp

View hotel here €307pp

Northern Lights tour €47pp

Read: Top 10 things to do in Wexford with kids

The Travel Expert’s Best Travel Deals – 3rd January 2023

9 months agoSarah Slattery

I’ve searched the web so you don’t have to! My best travel deals from Ireland include last minute holidays, city breaks, summer holidays, long haul offers, cruise deals and staycations for couples and families.

In this week’s best travel deals from Ireland I have Lanzarote flights from €60, Kos flights from €80, city breaks from €132, a week in Santorini from €349, waterpark holidays for families, a cruise to Croatia, luxury for less in the Maldives, direct flights to Mexico, and staycations for adults and families.

Best last minute deal: Return flights to Lanzarote for €60!

Beat the January blues with a week in Lanzarote, there are return flights available from €60 on the 18th of January! Price for a seven night stay in the Corona Mar apartments in Puerto del Carmen €312 per person, making the total cost for a week in the sun just €372.

If you fancy a treat, a suite in the 5-star Princesa Yaiza is available for €821 per person including breakfast, making the total cost €881 for a stay in one of Lanzarote’s best hotels.

Search flights here 18th- 25th January €60pp

Apartment here €312pp

5-star hotel here €821pp

Read: Winter week in Lanzarote, flights and apartment €341

Best overnight escape: January stays from €50pp

Treat yourself to an overnight escape at the end of the month – for pay day! Choose Trim Castle Hotel from €50, the Connemara Coast Hotel from €57, go 5-star in Mount Juliet from €79 including breakfast, or choose The Grafton Hotel in Dublin city from €88. I have lots more in this post:

Read: 20 overnight escapes – January stays from €50pp

Best spring break: A week in Santorini from €349

Visit Santorini before the crowds arrive! I’m hoping to visit myself this year, but I’m hearing how busy it can be in July and August. I found return flights for €139 on the 23rd of April – wouldn’t it be a fab way to kick start the summer?

I have a variety of accommodation to choose from with prices from €210 per person for the Zacharakis studios in Kamari, or €407 for the Amamnesis City Spa hotel in Fira, in a sea view room with breakfast and free cancellation.

Read: Santorini holidays from Dublin with flights and accommodation

Search flights here 23rd – 30th April €139pp

Kamari Apartments €210pp

Fira Hotel €407pp

Best summer sun: Kos flights from €80 return

Aer Lingus and Ryanair both announced that they are flying direct to Kos this summer which can only mean one thing – lower airfares for us! I found return flights from €80 on the 19th of September and €106 on the 9th of May. July and August prices are good too, with return flights from €169 in June, July and various dates in August.

Price for flights and a seven night stay at the 4-star Blue Lagoon City hotel with breakfast included, is €347 on the 9th of May, €594 on the 20th of June, or €505 on the 19th of September.

Read: Special offer to Kos, Flights & 4-star hotel from €347

Search flights here 9th – 16th May €106

View hotel here €241pp

Best luxury holiday: The Maldives

Is the Maldives on your bucket list? You can save 25% on room rates, plus get free meal plan upgrades for departures from 1st May to 19th July to Kuramathi Island Resort – that amazing island that I was lucky enough to visit last year. I also have offers to Dhigali Maldives, where kids stay free, and to Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru.

Best city break: Porto & Prague €132; Lisbon €160

With new routes cropping up from all Irish airports, city breaks have never been such good value. I’ve updated my city break deals post and have Porto and Prague from €132, Lisbon from €160 and Venice from €198 – all including flights and well rated hotels for three nights!

Read it here

You might also like: 30 city break destinations in Europe for 2023

Best family holiday: Waterpark holidays in Majorca & Costa del Sol

TUI have Free Child Places plus up to €250 off holidays over €2500 in their January sale. I have chosen some Splashworld properties, as I know most kids love water slides, and meals and drinks are included too!

Read: All the January travel sales in one place

Choose the Globales Bouganvilla Hotel in Majorca from €2373 in June, or the Globales Playa in Estepona from €2660 on the 12th or 19th of July ( ex Dublin or Cork ) – both include flights, accommodation on an All Inclusive basis, airport transfers, checked baggage and waterpark access – and you only need a small deposit to book.

Prices are based on a family of four, but larger rooms are available. Prices include the €250 discount – use the unique code given to you when you search their website.

Read: 12 top waterpark holidays in Europe for families

View Bouganvilla

View Estepona

Best family staycation: Wexford

Whether you just want a short break or a summer holiday in Ireland, it is wise to book your summer staycation now, particularly if you are looking for self catering accommodation with hotel facilities. The highly rated Talbot Suites in Wexford offer just that, and are ideally located to explore Wexford’s family friendly activities.

Price for a three-night stay in in July is €540 in a two-bedroom apartment, or €750 in a three-bedroom apartment.

Read: 20 family deals in Ireland in July, 2 nights stays from €269

Best cruise: Norwegian Gem Croatia cruise – €795

The Italian city of Trieste is another new destination for Irish holidaymakers to explore, but it also has the added advantage of being a cruise port! Sunway are quick off the mark with this five-night cruise on Norwegian Gem.

Price for return flights and a five-night cruise visiting Rijeka, Dubrovnik and Hvar Island in Croatia, as well as Koper in Slovenia, is only €795 including airport transfers and checked baggage.

And that’s not all, you can add on a premium drinks package, WiFi, shore excursion credit and a meal in a speciality restaurant for just €99!

Best long haul offer: All Inclusive in Mexico with direct flights

Did you know there were direct flights to Mexico from Dublin next summer? TUI have a fortnightly flight and have savings of up to €250 per booking – a unique code is given to you on their website.

I have chosen the Platinum Riu Tequila Hotel, which is a top rated All Inclusive resort near Playa del Carmen. Price for a two-week holiday with direct flights, checked baggage, airport transfers, and all meals and drinks is €1808 per person – this is includes the saving of €250 per booking.

Top 10 tips for booking holidays during Covid-19

The Travel Expert’s Best Travel Deals – 12th October 2021

2 years agoSarah Slattery

I’ve searched the web so you don’t have to! My best travel deals include last minute holidays, winter breaks, city breaks, cruise deals, early booking offers for next summer, and staycations for couples and families.

This week I have a last minute five-star holiday for less than €400, Christmas lights in Malaga City, Christmas on the ski slopes, a luxury river cruise, and early booking offers to Greece for next summer. I also have a post-Christmas family break in Wexford, some Dublin hotel deals for your Christmas party this year, and an Aer Lingus seat sale.

It is important to be aware that each country has their own entry requirements. If you are vaccinated, you will beed to bring your Digital Covid Certificate with you, and non-vaccinated people will need to produce a negative Covid tests on arrival.

Most countries require passenger locator forms to be filled out in advance of travel – in some cases these have to be done 24 hours in advance. I have some advice and tips in these posts that you may find useful, but please check the latest updates with your airline or travel agent before you travel.

Top 10 tips for travelling during Covid-19

Travelling overseas? Make sure you fill out passenger locator forms in advance

Latest travel updates on international travel – your questions answered

Best last minute holiday:

Fly off to Corfu this weekend and enjoy a seven-night stay in the 5-star, adult-only, Kairaba Mythos Palace Hotel, for just €385. Price includes return flights and hotel on a bed and breakfast basis, departing 19th October. I stayed very close to this hotel some years ago and there are some super restaurants and beach bars in the nearby resort of Messonghi.

If you prefer to travel at the weekend, the price is just €400 on Saturday 16th October. Short stays of 3 and 4 nights are also available with Ryanair, just edit the search dates to suit your requirements on the hotel link below.

Search flights here 16th /19th Oct €63pp

View hotel here €322pp

Best overnight escape:

Now is the time to start planning your Christmas party nights out, but why book a cheeky overnight stay too? When you think of the cost of taxi fares, and that you can enjoy a nice cooked breakfast the following morning, its a win-win…

Prices are available from €50pp in Dublin’s city centre, and I have a choice of 20 Dublin hotel deals in this post:

Read: 20 Dublin hotel deals – Overnight Stays in December from €45pp

Best winter holiday:

Spend Christmas on the ski slopes! Fly off to Sestriere in Italy on the 19th of December and enjoy a seven-night stay in the Residence Tabor in Bardonecchia from €508, based on two sharing.

Families can enjoy a skiing holiday at the Olympic Village Apartments in Sestriere from just €1532, based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing – this includes a discount of €75 by using code TDRQ9LVDP. Prices include return flights to Turin, checked baggage and airport transfers.

Read: 20 Top Family Holidays in Greece for 2022

Best family holiday:

Greece is proving very popular with families, and with airfares set to rise next year, now is the time to secure your family holiday for next summer. I have just published a post with 20 family friendly properties, but this one in Zakynthos caught my eye today, and there is a free child place available.

The All Inclusive Aqua Bay Suites Hotel is located near a waterpark, and if you book a package holiday you are granted free entry to the waterpark throughout your stay. You also have access to Kids Clubs, restaurants and pools at its two sister hotels, and airport transfers and checked baggage are included in the price.

Family Rooms are modern with sliding doors, and you can choose to upgrade to swim-up rooms, or rooms with private pools. Price for a family of 2 adults and 2 children for seven nights on an all-inclusive basis with flights, transfers, baggage, and water park access, is €3,870. If you upgrade to a room with a private pool, the cost is €4,728, departing 26th June.

Read: Top 10 things to do in Wexford with kids

Best family staycation:

Enjoy a post-Christmas break at the 4-Star Riverside Park Hotel in Wexford. I stayed here during the summer, and they have great value family breaks from just €188. With most schools not returning until the 6th of January, this is the perfect way to finish the Christmas holidays in style.

Price of €188 includes a two-night stay with breakfast, dinner on one evening, and a family activity pass to one of 8 family attractions, based on two adults and two children sharing, arriving the 3rd of January. Superior family rooms are available for families of five from €234. You may recall we visited Wells House and Gardens and loved it, this is one of the attractions that is included.

Read: My ultimate guide to Sani Resort

Best city break:

Despite visiting the Costa del Sol many times, I have yet to spend some time in Malaga City. I have heard great things about this city and its Christmas lights are famous around the world. From Friday 26th November the city will be illuminated with 1000’s of lights and it is a great way to kick off the festive season.

I found return flights to Malaga from €79 on Saturday the 27th of November, and a three-night stay at the 4-star Petit Palace Plaza Hotel is just €169 per person. Rated as Excellent on TripAdvisor, this is one of the most popular hotels in Malaga City.

Search flights here €79pp

View hotel here €169pp

Best early booking offer:

Flights to Thessaloniki in Greece are on sale for next summer. I just bagged myself cheap flights for my own family holiday, but this is an area that is suitable for couples and families alike. Flights are available from €55 each way in June, and there are numerous hotel or apartments to choose from.

The adult-only 5-Star Alia Palace Hotel is just €371 for a seven-night stay, and there are numerous self-catering options available for families. If you want to splash out, choose the 5-star Sani Resort.

Search flights here €110pp

View Alia Palace €371pp B&B

Best cruise:

Luxury river cruise specialists Uniworld are offering savings of €1,000 per person on selected European cruises in 2022. Enjoy an eight-day, five-star river cruise through Venice the Gems of Italy from €1,899, or trips through Bordeaux, Paris and Normandy, or along the Danube or Rhine from €1999.

Price includes all meals, unlimited premium drinks, shore excursions, gratuities and airport transfers. Excludes flights. Book by 31st October.

Best seat sale:

Aer Lingus is having a 72 hour flash sale to Europe, with flights to Paris and Barcelona available from €19.99 each way. Book by midnight 14th October for travel between 1st November and 16th December 2021.

The North American sale has also been extended for sale until midnight 25th October, with flights from €149 each way, for travel between 1st November and 17th February 2022.

Prices are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change. Please note some of my best travel deals include affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made.

View attraction tickets here

Family Deal to Orlando With Direct Flights & Avanti Hotel, 6th June, 10 Nights, 2ad & 2ch, €2516!

4 years agoSarah Slattery

Thinking about summer holidays already? Check out this amazing family deal to Orlando, with direct Aer Lingus flights included.

With twelve theme parks, four waterparks and a host of other activities on International Drive, it’s not surprising that Orlando is considered the world’s best family holiday destination. Take the kids to Walt Disney World, enjoy the parades, the fireworks and let them meet their favourite characters. Enjoy the amazing simulator rides at Universal Studios and experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, it will take your breath away.

For the dare devils amongst you, try the world famous roller coaster rides and slide down the tallest water slide in Volcano Bay. Shop till you drop at the Premium Outlet Mall or swim with the dolphins at the stunning Discovery Cove. There is so much to do in Orlando, I could go on forever! It’s an amazing holiday for adults and kids, which what makes it such a good family holiday destination – there is something for everyone!

June is an ideal time to travel, temperatures are milder and some children are still in school so the parks tend to be less busy. I have chosen the highly rated Avanti International Resort. Centrally located on International Drive, there are many shops and dining options within walking distance and the parks are only a short shuttle ride away. This hotel has been recently refurbished and receives great reviews on TripAdvisor. There is a large pool, a kids play area, beach volleyball, and shuffleboard court. The Avanti Pool Bar & Grille is a also great option for food after a long day at the parks.

Fly direct from Dublin to Orlando with Aer Lingus on the 6th of June and enjoy a ten-night stay here for only €2516, based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing. If you want to stay longer or shorter, or change the departure dates, simply edit the dates when you click on the links below. This amazing family deal to Orlando won’t be around for long so get booking your summer holiday now!

View flights here €484pp

View hotel here €580

Prices are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change. Note this posts contains affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made.

Sarah

Travel News and Reviews

Book A Package Holiday With Sunway With €1 Deposit!

5 years agoSarah Slattery

Trying to book a family holiday this summer but can’t afford to pay in full? Want to plan a girls getaway in September but can’t get everyone to commit? Book a package holiday with Sunway for just €1 deposit!

Trying to book a summer holiday after an expensive Christmas is not easy. Airlines request payment in full at the time of booking and when you add on checked bags and seat selection, that flight for €99 that looked cheap at the time, is anything but. I’m also seeing more non-refundable hotel rates these days. I don’t like paying in full at the time of booking (who does?) and I never book non-refundable rooms, it is impossible to change your booking if the need arises.

Sunway always like to make things easy when booking holidays and now with a €1 deposit, it is even easier! You can book a package holiday with Sunway to ANY of these destinations with just €1 – Algarve, Izmir, Bodrum, Salou, Lanzarote, Lisbon, Bulgaria, Costa del sol, Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Sicily, Lake Garda, Morocco.

I know it is hard to believe, but it is true! There is no catch – just pay the balance 10 weeks before your departure date! This is valid on all package holidays to the above destinations from the 4th of May – 27th of October. It is valid for family holidays too, everyone on the booking just pays €1 deposit. With flights, transfers and checked baggage included in the cost of their package holidays, you don’t need to search various sites to book flights, hotels and transfers separately – Sunway will do that in minutes.

I know what it is like trying to plan a holiday with friends, it is next to impossible if you don’t book in advance. I had a quick look at Sunway’s website and found this great deal to Puerto Rico in September. Price for flights and a seven-night stay in the Carlota apartments, with transfers and checked baggage included, is only €298, based on three people sharing. The best part – simply book it now with a €1 deposit and pay the balance on the 20th of July! Of course this is available for couples too, price for two sharing is €337.

View Expedia Price

Sunway also tailor make holidays to suit your requirements. So if you want a quick weekend in the sun or a ten-night trip to Italy, Sunway will book these holidays for you with a low deposit of €150. This is valid on holidays with Ryanair or Aer Lingus flights and the balance will be taken 12 weeks before departure. If you are travelling in July or August you will probably find that by booking with Sunway you are securing your flight and accommodation for less than the true flight cost!

Sunway, Ireland’s largest Irish owned tour operator, has been booking holidays for Irish holidaymakers for 53 years. They are renowned for their super service both before and during your holiday. With local representatives in resorts on package holidays, a 24/7 helpline should the need arise, and fully bonded and licensed, it is not surprising that they have recently been voted Ireland’s favourite travel agent in the Irish Independent Reader Travel Awards.

Simply go online at Sunway.ie or call one of their travel experts on (01) 2311800 to book your next package holiday with Sunway for only €1 deposit!

Prices are correct at the time of issue and are subject to change. This post was sponsored by Sunway but all views, as always, are my own.

Sarah

May Holiday Sale – My Top 10 Picks, All Less Than €399!

6 years agoSarah Slattery

I have teamed up with TUI, who have so many amazing holiday deals in April and May. I thought I would pick some of my favourites and share them with you!

As usual, I only recommend places that I have personally been to or have received good reviews. All the prices below include flights, transfers and checked baggage, based on two sharing – with NO HIDDEN EXTRAS! Hopefully there will be something to suit you in the big May holiday sale!

1. Algarve, 20th May, Casa Mitchell Apartments, 1 week, 2 sharing €349

The Algarve is always a good choice for a getaway. Only a short flight away, with wide sandy beaches, great restaurants and just the right amount of nightlife, it ticks all boxes. Stay at the Casa Mitchell apartments in Albufeira which receive excellent reviews on tripadvisor and were awarded a certificate of excellence. This family-run apart-hotel is set in a converted old townhouse in Albufeira and is only a short walk to the old town and Fisherman’s Beach.

Click here for more details:

2. Lanzarote, 29th April, 8 Nights, Cinco Plaza Apartments, 2 sharing, €334

Although technically late April, you will be away for the first week in May! This amazing deal to one of Lanzarote’s most sought after apartments, is superb. Not only will you be staying in the heart of Puerto del Carmen but you will also have the benefit of an extra night free. The icing on the cake – this eight day trip returns back on the bank holiday Monday, so you will only need to take five days annual leave. Highly rated on tripadvisor, the Cinco Plaza apartments are the perfect choice to kickstart your Summer.

Click here for more details:

3. Crete, Stefania Apartments, 27th May, 1 week, 2 sharing, €379

One of Crete’s most popular apartments, the Stefania have been a firm favourite with Irish holidaymakers for many years. Situated in the heart of Stalis and beside the beach, everything you need is on your doorstep. There is a wide selection of shops, bars and restaurants in Stalis so you could happily spend a week here without leaving the resort. Check out the excellent reviews on tripadvisor and you will see what I mean! If however, you want a change of scene, the lively resort of Hersonissos is only a short taxi ride away.

Click here for more details:

4. Puerto Rico – 26th April, 1 week, Puerto Plata apartments, 2 sharing, €259!

I know this is also late April, but the price is so good I couldn’t leave it out! Puerto Rico is one of Gran Canaria’s most popular resorts with plenty of bars and restaurants that open until the small hours. By day it is more relaxing, with most apartments offering plenty of places to enjoy the spectacular sea-views. Stay at the popular Puerto Plata apartments, which are very highly rated on tripadvisor for only €282 per person. Need to go in May? I love the 4* Terrazmar suites apartments, they have a huge pool area on the roof and the apartments have large balconies, ideal for sunbathing. Price is only €399 on the 10th of May.

Click here for more details: Puerto Plata €259

Click here for more details: Terrazamar €399

5. Majorca, Alcudia, 1st May, 1 week, BB €296; All-Inclusive €386!

Enjoy a week in the beach resort of Alcudia over the May Bank holiday weekend for only €296. One of Majorca’s most sought after resorts, with miles of white sandy beaches and a distinctive old town, there is plenty of things to do here, by day and night. You will be staying at the popular Lagotel Hotel on a bed & breakfast basis. Well rated on tripadvisor, this is a steal at less than half the original price! Want to go all-inclusive? The popular Condes de Alcudia Hotel is only €386!

Click here for more details: Lagotel €296

Click here for more details: Condes de Alcudia, All Inclusive, €386

6. Zakynthos, 22nd May, St Denis Apartments, 1 week, 2 sharing, €392

Visit Shipwreck beach, the most photographed beach in the world, take a boat trip to see the famous loggerhead turtles or go island hopping and visit the neighbouring island of Kefalonia. I have chosen the highly rated St Denis apartments, which receive great reviews on tripadvisor and was awarded a certificate of excellence. Located in the heart of Tsilivi, you are just minutes from the beach and the main strip.

Click here for more details:

7. Tenerife, Harbour Club Apartments, 25th May, 1 week, €331

Set in the pretty seaside town of Los Gigantes, stay in the modern Harbour Club apartments and enjoy a week of sunshine and seaviews. This apartment complex looks out over the Atlantic and the dramatic cliffs of Los Gigantes. There are plenty of shops, bars and restaurants nearby as well as a stylish marina. Highly rated on tripadvisor, this is an ideal choice for a relaxing holiday. Note rooms are on a steep slope.

Click here for more details:

8. Kos 26th May, Smaragdi Apartments, 1 week, 2 sharing, €399

Kos has some of the best beaches in the Greek islands. It has a cosmopolitan capital, Kos town, but is also full of medieval columns and castles at every corner! What’s great about this deal is that it offers the best of both worlds. You will be staying at the highly rated Smaragdi apartments in Lambi. This is a quiet resort so it’s the perfect place to chill out by day. However if you fancy the buzz and nightlife of Kos town, it is only five minutes away by taxi, or a twenty minute walk. You can sip a cocktail overlooking some mega yachts at the harbour, or wander through the old town and enjoy some shopping or some great night life – the choice is yours!

Click here for more details:

9. Rhodes, 30th May, Cosmos Maris Apartments, 1 week, 2 sharing, €399!

I love Rhodes. it’s simply stunning and if you haven’t already visited – well, you just have to go! Rhodes town is magical, the chic waterfront with trendy bars on one side and the Colossus of Rhodes in the old town on the other. You couldn’t ask for more! There is lots to discover outside the capital too, from the hilltop town of Lindos to the neighbouring islands of Simi, the only problem is, you will wish you booked for two weeks! Stay at the highly rated Cosmos Maris Studios which were awarded a certificate of excellence and have received rave reviews on tripadvisor, for only €399.

Click here for more details:

10. Bulgaria, Trakia Garden Hotel, Half Board, 29th May, 1 week, €396

One of the cheapest places to holiday, if you want to getaway without breaking the bank, Sunnybeach in Bulgaria is the spot. I have chosen the popular Trakia Garden Hotel which is very highly rated on tripadvisor and was awarded a certificate of excellence. Sunnybeach is a lively resort but this hotel offers the best of both worlds. Located just ten minutes walk from the wide sandy beach and a little further to the main strip, you can have quiet time during the day and easily pop into the resort centre at night time. The mini-train stops right outside if you want to rest your legs!

Click here for more details:

So there you have it, my best buys from the big May holiday sale. I hope I have managed to find one that might suit you! If so, let me know, I would love to hear from you. Leave your comments in the box below. This post was sponsored by TUI but all views, as always, are my own 🙂

Sarah

Summer Holiday in Kos, 25th August, Flights, Hotel, Transfers & Baggage, €447!

6 years agoSarah Slattery

Looking for a week away this Summer without breaking the bank? Book a Summer holiday in Kos from only €447 in August.

Kos is an island of contrasts. There are quiet sandy beaches on the south coast and beaches full of water sport enthusiasts on the north coast. You will find peaceful low-key resorts as well as buzzing towns, housing some of the best bars and clubs in Greece. Kos town, the capital mixes ancient ruins with a cosmopolitan centre. There is plenty of sightseeing as well as great night life. The sophisticated harbour is at the heart of this town, which is a great place to people watch and enjoy some al fresco dining. Night owls will love Bar street which as the name suggests has plenty of bars and clubs that stay open until the small hours.

I found a great deal staying in the popular Hotel Bahamas. This ‘adults-only’ hotel is located just ten minutes walk from Kos Town and a fifteen minute stroll to the beach. Check out the great reviews on tripadvisor.

Fly direct from Dublin on the 25th of August and enjoy a seven night stay for only €447 per person. Price includes transfers and checked baggage with no hidden extras. And if you still need convincing, a deposit of €75 secures a booking, with the balance payable 10 weeks before departure!

Click here for more details

Prices are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change. Note some links in this post are affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made.

Sarah

In The Media

Tips & Deals for Booking Summer Holidays As Discussed on Newstalk

6 years agoSarah Slattery

With tons of special offers available and a desire to have something to look forward to, January is the best time to book a holiday. Check out my top tips and deals for booking Summer holidays that I discussed with Ivan Yates on Newstalk.

Compare like with like.

I say this time and time again as this is the biggest mistake people make when booking holidays online. When comparing package holidays with holidays you design yourself, make sure you include baggage charges, airport transfers and local taxes. Tour Operators like Sunway , Topflight and TUI Holidays will offer packages with no hidden extras, so make sure the ‘deal’ you think you have found online is really as good as it seems.

A 20kg checked bag costs €110 to Lanzarote in the Summer with Aer Lingus and airport transfer costs to some resorts in the Algarve and Majorca can also be extremely high, so make sure you add these to the cost of the basic flight and accommodation before you compare with a package holiday.

The same applies to long haul holidays. Sometimes specialists like Tropical Sky will be able to offer cheaper packages than if you bought a flight and hotel separately. Some low cost carriers charge high amounts for baggage, allocated seating, even meals, on long haul flights. Compare these with airlines such as Turkish Airlines who include a generous baggage allowance, all meals and even drinks on board.

Check the total flight duration.

You may find a special offer on a particular website to Los Angeles or Thailand but when you book it you will find that it takes you 24 hours to get there! Sometimes the lowest airfares have many stopovers and can take double the time of a direct flight – make sure you read the times!

Check one way and return airfares.

When booking a flight make sure you check both one way and return airfares. With Aer Lingus and Ryanair for instance, you may find it is cheaper to fly out with one airline and home with another. This can also be useful for good flight times, one airline may have better times on the outward journey and another on the return.

Skycanner will combine all airlines so you can automatically find the best airfares and quite often the lowest priced journey will be with two different carriers. Skyscanner will also show you carriers that you may not have thought of, i.e Vueling who fly direct to Barcelona from Dublin or Iberian Express who fly to Madrid.

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Some of the best sales / deals available.

Aer Lingus annual seat sale is on until the 16^th of January offering up to 50% off selected European airfares and flights to the USA from €209 one way, if sold as part of a return ticket. Apparently they have reductions on 3 million seats!

TUI Holidays ( formerly Falcon Holidays ) is offering 1000’s of free child places with a low booking deposit of €75.

Attraction Tickets Direct have a Win Win promotion. If you pay a €25 deposit on theme park tickets to Florida and the price reduces when you are due to pay your balance, you will be charged the lower price. If the price increases ( due to currency fluctuations or general price increases ) they wont charge you any more. Hence the term win win – you can’t loose!

Topflight has a ski and summer sale with discounts across all seasons and destinations including ski holidays and a wide range of holidays to Italy.

Click&GO.com is offering €1 deposits on holidays booked with Aer Lingus, departing 10 or more weeks from the booking date. A further €150 deposit is due 4 weeks after booking and the balance is payable 10 weeks before departure.

Royal Caribbean Cruises is offering buy one get one half price, plus free deluxe drinks packages on selected sailings. They are also offering 25% discount on the 3rd and 4th passengers, which is ideal for families.

My Top 3 Top Long Haul Picks:

Sunway is offering a seven night all-inclusive stay in the Dominican Republic from €875 in May. Price includes flights and hotel for 1 week, with all meals and drinks included. Upgrade to the 5* Dreams Punta Cana for €1189. Click here for more details:

Tropical Sky is offering a seven night all-inclusive stay in the Maldives from €1499 including flights and speed boat transfers. Click here for more details:

Travalue has a 12 night holiday to South Africa with accommodation in Cape Town, the wine lands and the Garden Route, with 9 days car hire, and a safari for 2 nights on a full board basis, from €1695 in May or June. Click here for more details:

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Sarah

Lanzarote Holiday in July, 1 week, Flights & Apartment, €486

6 years agoSarah Slattery

Enjoy a Lanzarote holiday in July. With warm sunshine, long sandy beaches and a great selection of night life, it is the ideal choice for couples and friends alike.

It’s not all about sun and sand though, there is plenty of good sightseeing as well as some excellent duty free shops. Their building regulations ensure that there are no high rise buildings, so the island feel less built up than some of it’s Spanish counterparts. With many resorts to choose from I think it is fair to say there is a place in Lanzarote for everyone to enjoy. I like Puerto del Carmen, although the largest resort on the island, it still has a nice feel to it. The old town has some fantastic restaurants and a drink at one of the waterfront cafes, as the sun sets over the harbour, is a lovely way to end your day. If you fancy a late night, there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Puerto del Carmen caters for couples who are looking for a relaxing stay as well as night owls looking for a lively holiday. Read my blog on Lanzarote for more information.

I found a great deal to Lanzarote holiday in July, staying in the popular Rosamar apartments. Located in Puerto del Carmen, these receive great reviews on tripadvisor and were awarded a certificate of excellence. TheRosamar is centrally located in the heart of the resort and has a swimming pool and lounge bar on site as well as free WiFi. Fly from Dublin on the 24th of July and enjoy a seven night stay for only €486 based on 2 sharing. Bring a few pals and the price is even lower!

View flights here €222pp

View hotel here €529

Prices are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change. Please note some of the links in this post are affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made.

Sarah