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.

A last minute deal to Greece, a Royal Caribbean cruise, and a family trip to Dubai feature in my best travel deals this week. I also have winter sun in Lanzarote, a city break to Venice, an early booking offer to the Algarve in July, a girls night away, and a family break between Christmas and New Year.
 

 
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 booking holidays during Covid-19

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:

Jet off to the beautiful island of Zakynthos this weekend, and stay at the popular Alykes Garden Village for just €308 per person – yes you read that right! Highly recommended on Tripadvisor, you can’t beat this price for a week in the sun. Price includes flights, apartment, return airport transfers and checked baggage for seven nights.

View offer here
 

Best overnight escape:

Due to popular demand, this exclusive offer from the Clayton Hotel Limerick is back for a second time. From a mere €80 per person you can enjoy a night away with breakfast, a 4-course à la carte dinner, a complimentary cocktail, and Prosecco in your room on arrival – can you believe the price? You also have full access to the Club Vitae swimming pool, health and fitness centre.
 

 
This exclusive deal is valid right up to the end of the year, even on Friday nights. Price of €80pp is based on three sharing, and is aimed a ‘girls night away’, but you can of course bring your partner, mother etc. Price for two sharing is €95 per person. Supplements apply for Saturday night stays. 

See more here
 

Best winter break:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Beat the January blues with a week in Lanzarote for just €293. Aer Lingus’ Seat Sale is now on with return flights from just €120 per person on the 13th of January. I found a great deal to the Bitacora apartments in Puerto del Carmen for just €173 per person.
 

 
Alternatively choose the 5-star All Inclusive Gran Castillo Tagoro for just €577 (refundable rate), making a total stay here just €697 per person.

View flights here €120pp

View Bitacora €173pp

View Gran Castillo €577pp
 

Best family holiday:

Emirates holidays has a superb family offer in the 4-star Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts from 4th January – 30th September 2022. Enjoy a free upgrade from bed & breakfast to half board, as well as complimentary park tickets to Dubai Parks and Resorts – home to Legoland, Legoland Waterpark, Motiongate and Bollywood Parks. 
 

 
I looked at the June bank holiday weekend and price for direct flights with Emirates to Dubai with 25kg checked baggage per person, and a seven night stay with breakfast, evening meal and park tickets included, is €3,645 based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing. Offer is available throughout the year – price seven nights over Easter holidays is €4,529.

Read: Top tips for a family holiday to Dubai

View offer here
 

Best family staycation:

Rated number 1 on TripAdvisor  the luxurious Talbot Suites at Stonebridge, Wexford is a super choice for families looking for a break between Christmas and New Year. There are two and three-bedroom apartments available, and all have access to the swimming pool and Talbot Quay Leisure Centre and the facilities of the Talbot Hotel Wexford.
 

 
Price is €360 for a two-bedroom apartment and €500 for a three-bedroom apartment, arriving on the 28th of December for two nights.

Read: Top 10 things to do in Wexford with kids

See more here
 

Best city break:

Now is the time to explore Venice – get there before the crowds arrive! Aer Lingus is offering great value airfares from just €39.99 each way in October, and there are super hotel deals available too.
 

 
Price for flights on the 19th of October and a four-night stay in the Hotel Dell’Opera is €362 per person. Highly recommended on TripAdvisor, this hotel is located just five minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square.

Read: Venice travel guide – top things to do and where to stay

View flights here €80pp

View hotel here €282pp
 

Best cruise:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The value on cruise holidays at the moment is second to none! Did you know you can cruise the Med for seven days on Royal Caribbean’s Harmony of the Seas for just €899 in October? This amazing offer includes flights, 20kg checked baggage, all meals and entertainment on board, gratuities, and an upgrade to a neighbourhood balcony cabin!
 

 
Visit Barcelona, Palma, Florence/Pisa, Rome and Naples before returning to Barcelona for your return flight home. I had the pleasure of cruising on this ship many years ago – you can read my review here. See this and lots more cruise offers here:

See more here
 

Best early booking offer:

If you believe Michael O Leary’s comments this week, airfares for next summer are set to increase! If you you are in a position to book now, you can secure return flights to the Algarve from €152 in July.
 

 
The beachfront Santa Eulalia Hotel & Spa near Albufeira is also offering early booking discounts, so you can secure a week in this popular holiday resort for just €510 per person on the 7th of July.

Search flights here €152pp

View hotel here €358pp 
 

 
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.

This weeks best travel deals include a last minute sun holiday, city break and cruise deal, winter breaks, early booking offers for next summer, and staycations for couples and families.

Last minute deals to Gran Canaria and Bordeaux, as well as a super Greek Isles cruise in September feature in my best travel deals this week. I also have staycations in Sligo and Wexford, a short post-Christmas ski trip, and early booking offers to Sorrento and Lanzarote for next summer.
 

 
It is important to be aware that each country has their own entry requirements, and these can change at any time. Most countries require non-vaccinated people to produce proof of negative Covid tests on arrival. Some require PCR tests, others will accept Antigen tests, and child ages vary from country to country.
 

It is also vital that if you are vaccinated or have recovered from Covid that you have proof of this. If you have not yet received your Digital Covid Certificate, or need more information on testing or entry requirements, you can find out more in this post:

Latest travel updates on international travel – your questions answered
 

 
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 booking holidays during Covid-19

Top 10 tips for travelling during Covid-19

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

Best last minute holiday:

Treat yourself to some five-star luxury and enjoy a week in Gran Canaria, staying at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Mogan for just €579. This hotel is located close to the seafront in the pretty fishing village of Mogan.
 

 
There are two swimming pools, as well as a Spa and fitness centre with running track and climbing tower. This hotel has been on my wish list for some time, I have personally had great feedback from previous guests. 

This price is based on flying from Dublin on the 14th of September, and includes a seven-night stay with breakfast, in a superior room with balcony. This price is similar throughout September, so if this date does not suit, simply edit the search dates on the links below.

Search flights here €140pp 

View hotel here €439pp
 

Best overnight escape:

Looking for a quick getaway that won’t break the bank? This super deal of just €50 per person from the 4-star Riverside Park Hotel in Wexford includes breakfast, as well as a bottle of Prosecco and chocolates in your room on arrival! I stayed here in July – this is fantastic value for an autumn break. 

See more here
 

Best winter break:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Always wanted to try skiing, but not sure if it is for you? This short post-Christmas break to France is the perfect way to try it, and beat the January blues at the same time!
 

 
Price of €366 per person includes flights, a four-night stay in the 4-star Le Belmount Arc 1800 apartments, 20kg checked in baggage and return airport transfers, departing January 4th.

View offer here
 

Best family holiday:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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I had many requests from people asking about luxurious family hotels for next summer – it seems you want to make up for lost time! I found a great deal in the 5-star Gran Castillo Tagoro in Lanzarote in July. This all-inclusive resort is hugely popular with Irish visitors and currently has a discount of €568 on the 17th of July.
 

 
Price of €3640 includes flights, transfers, checked baggage, and all meals and drinks throughout your stay, based on a family of four. The best part – you don’t need to pay in advance for the flights. As this is a package holiday so you only need a deposit of €75 per person to secure a booking.

Read: Why Lanzarote is my favourite Canary Island

View offer here 
 

Best family staycation:

Located close to one of the best beaches in Ireland, the Diamond Coast Hotel in Sligo is one of the most popular places to stay on the Wild Atlantic Way. Families love its large family rooms, and it is a great choice for a staycation over the October mid term break. Price of €480 is based on a family of four for three nights, and includes breakfast too!

Read: 20 family staycations over the October mid term break

View offer here
 

Best city break:

Explore the wine lands and historic city of Bordeaux for just €203 per person. Ryanair is offering flights from just €26 return from Dublin to Bordeaux in September and October. I found a great deal in the highly rate StayCity apart-hotel which is located right in the heart of the city for just €354, making a three night stay just €207 per person including flights.

I have linked the 9th of October below but simply edit the search dates if this date doesn’t suit.

Search flights here 9th October €30pp

View hotel here €177pp
 

Best cruise:

Cruise the Greek Islands on Norwegian Jade this September from just €788! Set sail from Athens on September 26th and visit Crete, Rhodes, Mykonos, Corfu, Olympia and Santorini, before returning to Athens for your flight home.
 

 
This amazing cruise deal includes flights and a seven-night cruise with meals and entertainment included. For an extra €99 you can avail of an unlimited drinks package as well as WiFi or two speciality dining meals. 

View offer here
 

Best early booking offer: 

Secure a week on the Amalfi Coast next summer with this super deal to the 4-star Hotel Prestige. Flights to Naples are available from €69 return in June, and a seven-night stay with breakfast is just €425 per person, making the total cost just €494 per person for a one-week holiday in Sorrento on the 8th of June.

The Prestige Hotel is rated as Excellent on TripAdvisor and was a Travellers Choice Award Winner this year. Read my ultimate guide to the Amalfi Coast for more ideas on where to stay and which resorts to visit.
 
Search flights here 8th June €69pp

View hotel here €425pp
 

 
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.

This weeks best travel deals include last minute holidays to Italy and Greece, family deals at home and abroad for the October mid term break, a luxury cruise, and a girls weekend in Marbella.

It is great to see so many people travelling overseas again, but for those who haven’t booked a holiday yet, hopefully you will find something in this weeks Best Travel Deals post to tempt you.
 

 
I have last minute deals to Sorrento and Belfast, amazing value to Zakynthos in September, a Celebrity cruise, winter sun in Lanzarote, family holidays to PortAventura and Clare during the October mid term break, and a girls weekend in Marbella for next summer.  
 

 
It is important to be aware that each country has their own entry requirements, and these can change at any time. Most countries require non-vaccinated people to produce proof of negative Covid tests on arrival. Some require PCR tests, others will accept Antigen tests, and child ages vary from country to country.
 

It is also vital that if you are vaccinated or have recovered from Covid that you have proof of this. If you have not yet received your Digital Covid Certificate, or need more information on testing or entry requirements, you can find out more in this post:

Latest travel updates on international travel – your questions answered
 

 
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 booking holidays during Covid-19

Top 10 tips for travelling during Covid-19

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

Best last minute holiday:

Ryanair is having a Flash Sale to Italy, with airfares from €19.99 each way. Book by 20th August for travel from 17th August – 31st October 2021. I found flights into Naples on the 28th of August for just €83 return, and a seven night stay in the 4-star Hotel Cristina in Sorrento is just €504 including breakfast.
 

 
Located just 700 metres from the beach and within walking distance of the town centre, this is rated as Excellent on TripAdvisor.

Search flights here €83pp

View hotel here €504pp
 

Best last minute staycation: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Enjoy an overnight stay in the heart of Belfast city this weekend. Stay at the highly rated Maldron Hotel ( rated 5 out of 55 hotels in Belfast on TripAdvisor ), which is located just 500 metres from the popular Cathedral Quarter and within walking distance of Belfast’s top attractions. Price is just €58pp for an overnight stay this Sunday.

View offer here
 

Best september sun:

Gran some September sunshine in the beautiful island of Zakynthos in Greece. Visit the world famous Shipwreck beach, take a boat trip to see the Loggerhead turtles, and enjoy some delicious Greek food. I found a great deal to the highly rated Danny apartments for just €330 on the 19th of September.
 

 
Price includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven night stay in this gorgeous island – this is less than half price!!

See more here
 

Best family holiday

Treat the kids to a short break in Salou over the October mid term break. Visit one of Europe’e best theme parks, PortAventura, explore the vibrant city of Barcelona, or chill out at the hotel’s indoor or outdoor pool.
 

 
Price for flights, a four-night stay at the highly rated Villa Romana hotel with breakfast and evening meal included, and two-day park passes to PortAventura and Ferrari Land is just €1496, based on two adults and two children sharing.

Read: Top 10 reasons to visit PortAventura

See more here
 

Best family staycation

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Enjoy a two-night break in the Falls Hotel in Clare for just €377 during the October midterm break. Price includes bed and breakfast in a family room, and an evening meal on the night of your choice – kids eat free from the kids menu. Price is based on the 26th of October arrival, but other dates are available.  

Search & Book here
 

Best winter break:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Fancy some winter sun? Spend a week in Lanzarote for only €309 on the 30th of November! Price includes flights and a seven-night stay in the highly rated Bitacora apartments in Puerto del Carmen. Want to go All-Inclusive? The 5-star Dream Gran Castillo Villa Tagoro is just €677 for seven nights, including flights.

Read: Why Lanzarote is my favourite Canary Island

See more here
 

Best cruise deal:

The term ‘best cruise deal’ is very apt considering this cruise ship is one of the most luxurious cruise ships sailing the Mediterranean right now. Treat yourself to a five star all-inclusive cruise on Celebrity Apex, with mouth watering food and unlimited drinks on board, return flights, 20kg checked in baggage, return transfers, tips, port taxes & all ship entertainment, all for €1750 per person.
 

 
Set sail from Athens on the 5th of September and visit Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos and Dubrovnik before returning to Athens for your return flight home.

See more here 
 

Best early booking offer:

Missing your girly getaways? I think it is time to bring back one of my most popular Best Travel Deals! Plan ahead and secure a weekend in Marbella for just €288 next May. Price includes flights and a three-night stay at the highly rated Princesa Playa apartments. This is one of my most popular Best Travel Deals 

See more here
 

 
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.

Sarah

Self-catering apartments, luxury five-star hotels, and villas with private pools, I’ve got 10 winter sun holidays in the Canary Islands to help you plan your next break away.

Have you been dreaming of beach days and balmy nights? Are you chomping at the bit go get away? This Digital Covid Certificate will facilitate travel within the EU next month, so I think now might be a good time to plan some winter sun holidays to the Canary Islands.

With direct flights from many Irish airports, average temperatures of 20°, and plenty duty free shopping, it’s no surprise that the Canary Islands is the number one choice for winter sun holidays from Ireland.

Read: Lates travel updates – your questions answered
 

 
I have hand-picked ten great winter sun holidays for one week, departing on various dates from November – February. Don’t worry if the dates I have chosen don’t suit, they can be changed – simply edit the dates to suit your requirements when you click on the links below.

I know many of you have Aer Lingus and Ryanair vouchers to use, so you can use this post as a guideline. Choose one of the accommodation options below, and contact your airline or travel agent to book flights.

Read: Aer Lingus allow free changes for summer 2021
 

I advise you to book hotels or apartments with free cancellation, and for that reason I have priced all of accommodation below with flexible rates, in fact many hotels allow you to book now and pay later – so you don’t even need to pay a deposit. All hotels and apartments are highly rated on TripAdvisor with great reviews from previous guests. Note, these winter sun holidays contain affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
 

1. Lanzarote: Bitacora Apartments, 21st November, €290pp

Lanzarote is Ireland’s most popular destination for winter sun holidays. There are so many great resorts, but I love the old town of Puerto del Carmen – having a drink at one of the waterfront cafes as the sun sets over the harbour is a lovely way to end your day. I found a great deal in the popular Bitacora apartments which are located within walking distance to the centre and the beach.
 

 
Price for flights and a seven-night stay on the 18th of November is just €290 per person. If that date doesn’t suit, simply change the dates to suit your requirements when you click on the links below.

Read: Why Lanzarote is my favourite Canary Island 
 

See more here
 

2. Gran Canaria: 4-Star Gloria Palace Hotel & Thalasso Amadores, B&B, 25th January, €679pp

Perched on a cliff with stunning views of the sea, and only 300 meters from the beach, it is not surprising why the Gloria Palace Amadores Hotel and Thalasso is a firm favourite with Irish holidaymakers.
 

 
Situated between Puerto Rico and Mogan, this hotel offers the best of both worlds – a relaxing holiday with the option to travel to nearby resorts if you fancy a livelier scene. Renowned for its high quality cuisine, attentive staff and for having one of Europe’s top thalassotherapy centres, can you think of a better way to beat the January blues?

View flights here €176pp

View hotel here €503pp
 

3. Tenerife: 5-star Hard Rock Hotel, 2nd December €839pp

The beachfront Hard Rock Hotel Tenerife is one of the island’s most popular luxury hotels. With three swimming pools, a beach club, spa and fitness centre, as well as a host of dining and entertainment options, this is the place to be seen in Tenerife.

View flights here €129pp

View hotel here €710pp
 

4. Fuerteventura: 4-Star Correlejo Beach Apartments, 9th November, €439pp

Can’t wait to get back on a plane again? Check out my top winter holiday destinations with direct flights from Ireland.

We all need something to look forward to, so perhaps now is the time to plan a well deserved winter holiday. I understand some of you wish to travel alone or with friends, and many will be travelling with kids – so with this is mind I have selected a broad range of winter holiday destinations to suit all tastes and budgets.

There are of course many great winter holiday destinations available to us, South Africa and the Caribbean spring to mind. However, I have limited this list to winter holidays with direct flights from Ireland, something I think there is an appetite for at the moment. Hopefully this list will give you lots of inspiration to plan a well deserved break away.

1. The Canary Islands

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The combination of direct daily flights from Ireland, balmy temperatures, and a low cost of living, has made the Canary Islands our most popular winter holiday destination for many years. There are many accommodation options to choose from, with hotels and apartments to suit all tastes and budgets.
 

 
Fuerteventura is blessed with stunning white sandy beaches, while the sheltered resorts of Puerto Rico and Puerto de Mogán in Gran Canaria are popular with sun seekers. Tenerife has the largest selection of luxury hotels, but my personal favourite is Lanzarote – find out why, here:

Read: Why Lanzarote is my favourite Canary Island

Check hotels here
 

2. Dubai

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Dubai is another great winter holiday destination if you want sunshine, but it is also packed with things to do. Try a desert safari, go to the top of the world’s tallest building, ski in the worlds largest indoor ski slope, or simply relax on one of its stunning beaches. We visited Dubai last year and had a blast. Activities and dining are expensive, so you will need to budget accordingly, but if you can afford it, it is a great destination for winter sun.

Top ten things to do in Dubai

The best family activities in Dubai
 
Search flights here

Check hotels here
 

3. Ski trip

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A ski holiday is one of my favourite winter holidays, and is the only holiday where I can completely switch off. The crisp cold air, snowy mountains and pretty villages are things I never tire of, as is the natural high I get from skiing. Austria, France and Italy are the firm favourites from Ireland and there are plenty of direct flights available during the winter holiday season.  Söll in Austria is one of my favourite resorts, but if money is not an option, check out Val d’Isere in France.
 

 
Top Tip: If you are looking to ski in Austria, flights to Munich are usually cheaper than Salzburg and the transfer times are similar. 

Read: Skiing in Soll, all you need to know and why you should go

Read: My top tips for family ski holidays

Read: My love affair with Club Med Val d’Isere
 
Search flights here

Check hotels here
 

4. Lapland

 

 

 

 

 

 

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I will never forget the look in my children’s eyes when we went to Lapland to see Santa Claus. It was a magical family experience that we will never forget. It has been seven years since we visited, but the memories never fade. There are many ways to visit Lapland, with packages from Dublin with TUI and Sunway to see Santa, as well as the option to go via the UK for a longer holiday. 

Read: Our trip to see Santa in Lapland
 

5. Christmas market breaks

A Christmas market break is a great way to kick-start the festive season without breaking the bank. Many markets open from the end of November and there are super deals available on flights and hotels, especially if you can travel mid-week.
 

 
More and more cities are embracing the trend, but there are still a few show stoppers! Germany is probably the most famous country for Christmas markets, with Cologne and Berlin being most popular. However Budgapest, Vienna and Salzburg should not be overlooked.
 

 
Copenhagen is another city you may not have thought of, but if you are looking for a Christmas market break with children, this is a great choice. Tivoli Gardens comes alive with over 500,000 Christmas lights and there are plenty of activities to keep all the family happy. It stays open after Christmas too so it is an ideal choice for a Twixmas break.

Read: Europe’s top 10 Christmas markets

Read: Wonderful wonderful Copenhagen
 
Search flights here

Check hotels here
 

6. Paris

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Paris might be popular in the Spring, but winter time is also a great time to visit. There are no crowds, its great for shopping, and is have you ever seen the Eiffel Tower look so pretty?  We went for New Year and loved it. If you happen to have children, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Disneyland Paris at Christmas time – it is magical.

Read: Our visit to Disneyland Paris at Christmas time

7. Iceland

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Scratch one off the bucket list and choose Iceland for your next winter holiday. Go in search of the Northern Lights, swim in the Blue Lagoon and enjoy Iceland’s typical winter weather. Iceland is one of the best winter holiday destinations if you are looking for a snowy destination with winter wonderland feels, and plenty to see and do. 

Read: Top things to do in Iceland
 
Search flights here

Check hotels here
 

8. New York

 

 

 

 

 

 

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New York is amazing to visit at any time of year, but I think it is a great winter holiday destination. You don’t need to worry about the roasting summer time temperatures or the jam packed streets, and of course you can ice-skate in Central Park in the winter time! We all know New York is a super city for shopping so it is ideal for a pre or post Christmas break.
 

 
The Christmas lights are turned on early December so that is a great time to visit, but if you want to avoid the crowds and the high hotel prices, leave it until January.

Read: 5 Christmas Shopping breaks to New York with flexible booking options

Read: Top 25 things to do in New York

Read: Top things to do with New York with kids 

Check hotels here
 

9. Abu Dhabi and Emirates cruise:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert)

Abu Dhabi is the largest and wealthiest of the Emirates and a popular destination for winter holidays. However, why not go one step further and add a cruise to your trip. Many cruise companies offer seven-day cruises around the Emirates taking in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as well as their own private islands.
 

 
There are direct flights to Abu Dhabi so you can choose to extend your stay if you wish. Don’t miss the opportunity to see one of the largest and most impressive mosques in the world – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the iconic Louvre Museum, and if travelling with little or ‘big’ kids – Ferrari World is a must visit.

Read: Ferrari World – Going Italian in Abu Dhabi
 

10. Florida:

With direct flights to Orlando and Miami all year round, why not choose winter over summer in the sunshine state. Winter is the optimum time to visit Orlando’s theme parks, although Christmas holiday time will be busy. Take the opportunity to explore Florida’s coastline too including the beaches of Miami. Why not fly into Orlando and home from Miami to make the most of your winter holiday?

Read: 10 things you need to know about Universal Studios before you book

Read: Where to stay in Orlando

Read: The best theme park tickets to buy in Orlando
 

Check hotels here
 

 
I hope this post on winter holiday destinations will inspire you to plan a trip overseas soon. Please note some of the links in this post contain affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made but at no additional cost to you. This helps me to run my website and bring you lots of great holiday tips and ideas!

Sarah

Seeing the Northern Lights is pretty spectacular no matter where you are, but to see them from your very own glass igloo is the ultimate bucket list experience. 

I had a few requests from people asking how to get to ‘the place with the glass igloos’. It seems many people want to turn their dreams into reality, or spoil their partners for special birthdays or anniversaries. So I decided to do some investigating and find out how to see the Northern Lights through your own glass igloo. 

 
Kakslauttanen is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, during the aurora season from late August to late April. It is situated 250 km north of the Arctic Circle, so you can expect to find the cleanest countryside, the purest water (you can drink straight from the stream), and the freshest air from almost anywhere in the world.
 

 
However Kakslauttanen is not all about the igloos and the aurora. There are so many activities available, you will be spoiled for choice. Think snow mobiling, husky or reindeer safaris, ice fishing, tobogganing, cross country skiing and lots more. For a truly unique experience try their ice swimming and smoke saunas combination.

 
There is a wide choice of accommodation, including log cabins, chalets, snow igloos and of course their famous glass igloos. They also have large glass igloos with a fireplace and sauna, that hold up to six people, if you want to bring a few friends or family along. 

How to get there?

Kakslauttanen is located in Finland, but it is so far North that it is actually a 90 minute flight from Helsinki. Finnair fly from Dublin to Helsinki almost every day, but to get the connecting flight to Ivalo you need to take a morning flight which only operates three times per week. You will find alternative flights, but be careful, they will involve multiple stops with flying times over ten hours.

Another option is to spend a night or two in Helsinki before flying to Ivalo, this will give you more options with flights. Ivalo airport is only a short thirty minute transfer to Kakslauttanen and the hotel will arrange transport for you.

 
I found a great deal on flights over St. Patrick’s weekend for four nights, for just €327return. This should give you optimum time to see the Northern Lights and try some of the many activities available, including snow mobiling, cross country skiing etc.

There are various room types to choose from, but the price for four nights in a glass igloo is €870 per person – this brings the total cost to €1097 per person for a four night stay, based on two sharing. Larger igloos for groups or families are also available.

So now you know how to see the Northern Lights through your own glass igloo, the question is will you scratch one off the bucket list to experience a trip of a lifetime?

View flights here €327pp

View hotel here €870pp

Like this post? You might like:

25 Bucket List holidays to inspire your next big trip.

Prices are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change. Note some of the links in this post contain affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.

Sarah

Have you have an Aer Lingus voucher that you want to use? If you want to have something to look forward to, one of these autumn / winter breaks might do the trick.

I know many of you have Aer Lingus vouchers and would love to plan some autumn or winter breaks – well fortunately you can! Aer Lingus offer flexible booking options, so if you wish to book something now, and travel restrictions are still in place later in the year, you can change your booking free of charge. Some fare types are also eligible for refund vouchers – see more here:

Read: Aer Lingus allow free changes for summer 2021
 

 
I advise  you to book hotels or apartments with free cancellation, and for that reason I have priced all of accommodation below with refundable rates, in fact most hotels allow you to book now and pay later – so you don’t even need to pay a deposit.

All hotels and apartments are highly rated on Tripadvisor with great reviews from previous guests. If the dates I have chosen don’t suit you, please click on the links below and edit the search to suit your requirements. I have added links to Skyscanner to provide a direct link to the flights, but if you have Aer Lingus vouchers you will need to book directly on the Aer Lingus website.

Note, these winter breaks contain affiliate links, where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.
 

 *Prices for Autumn / Winter Breaks include flight cost*

1. A week in Lanzarote, 18th November, €298pp

Lanzarote is a great choice for a winter week away. The year round sunshine and long sandy beaches have been attracting Irish visitors for many years. It’s not all about sun and sand though, there is plenty of good sightseeing, as well as some excellent duty free shopping. 

The old town of Puerto del Carmen has some fantastic restaurants. Having a drink at one of the waterfront cafes as the sun sets over the harbour is a lovely way to end your day.

Read: Why Lanzarote is my favourite Canary Island 
 

 
I found a great Lanzarote deal staying in the Tisalaya apartments in Puerto del Carmen. Highly rated on TripAdvisor, they are an ideal choice to explore all that Lanzarote has to offer. Fly from Dublin on the 18th of October and enjoy a seven night stay for only €297 per person. 

View flights here €128pp  

View hotel here €170pp
 

2. New Year Skiing in Austria, 27th December, 2 adults & 2 children, €1871

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Last family holiday for a while 😞 but now it’s time to think about summer 😎 Do you book your summer holiday in January or are you the last minute type? . . . . . . .#skiing #snow #mountains #nature #austria #soll #tirol #outdoors #landscape #cold #Winterwonderland #skiingislife #adventure #mountainlife #goodtimes #travelpics #travelphotography #alps #skiwelt #travelblogger #irishtravelblogger @skiweltwilderkaiserbrixental #loveskiing #loveskiwelt #familyskitrip #outdoorsfamily #familytravel #familyski #familyskiing #familytravelblogger # familytravelblog

A post shared by Sarah Slattery – Travel Expert (@the_travel_expert) on Jan 5, 2020 at 11:59am PST

I have always loved skiing and was delighted to bring my kids skiing for the first time last year. It is not a cheap holiday by any means, but if you have been cooped up in the house for the last year, can you think of anything better than spending the New Year in the Alps?
 

 
I found the highly rated apartments Hechenberger available on Vrbo – Expedia’s vacation rentals company. The apartment was awarded with 4 Edelweiss, (the highest categorisation that private rentals can achieve in Austria), and is located close to the town centre and 1000 metres from the nearest ski lift.

Read: Top tips for family skiing
 

 
Fly from Dublin on the 27th of December and enjoy a seven night stay in the Hechenberger apartments for less than €2000. I recommend booking the more expensive ‘Plus’ fare because it includes 20kg checked baggage, seat selection and priority boarding, as well as being eligible for a voucher if you need to cancel your booking.

View flights here €184pp Aer Lingus Fare

View hotel here £978 / €1135 
 

3. A spa break in the Algarve, 12th October from €240pp 

With a stunning coastline boasting some of Europe’s best beaches, its not surprising that the Algarve is one of our most popular holiday destinations. There are many resorts to choose from, from the lively resort of Albufeira to the picturesque town of Carvoeiro, and I found great deals in both.
 

 
The Sol Aqua is located just ten minutes walk from the old town of Albufeira and boasts an indoor and outdoor pool, and wellness centre. If you are looking for something more luxurious, the 5-star Vale d’Oliveiras Quinta Resort & Spa is an excellent choice. Rated number 1 on Tripadvisor with excellent reviews.
 

 
Located just five minutes from Carvoeiro, you can choose to enjoy its fine restaurants, or dine on site in the hotel’s Olive Tree Restaurant, which offers panoramic views over the gardens and pool. Breakfast is also included in this great deal.

View flights here €80 Aer Lingus

View Sol Aqua €160pp

Vale D'Oliveiras here €282pp
 

4. Christmas Shopping in New York, 4th December, 4 nights, €780!

I love visiting New York, regardless of the time of year, but there is something magical about visiting at Christmas time. Parting with your hard-earned cash on Christmas presents is also a lot easier when you are doing it in New York – and who knows, you might pick up some bargains for yourself too. I have posts on shopping in New York and things to do in New York so if you need any more inspiration be sure to check them out.
 

 
The Christmas tree at Rockefeller Centre is usually illuminated at the beginning of December. With this in mind I have chosen flights with Aer Lingus to depart on the 4th of December and a four-night stay in the centrally located Shelburne Hotel & Suites by Affinia.

Priced at just €780 including 23kg checked baggage based on 2 sharing or even less if three or four share, this is superb value. When you click on the link below you will notice the saver airfare is €100 less but I recommend booking the ‘Smart’ fare because it includes 23kg checked baggage, seat selection and complimentary meal, as well as being eligible for a voucher if you need to cancel your booking.

View flights here €421pp  Smart fare includes 23kg checked baggage

View hotel here €359pp 

Read: 5 More Christmas Shopping breaks to New York
 

5.  Autumn on the Amalfi Coast: 14th October, 1 week, €413pp

The four-star Hotel Zi’ Teresa is centrally located in the resort of Sorrento. With sea views from the terrace, and breakfast included in the cost of your stay, this is superb value for a week in Sorrento. Check out the reviews on TripAdvisor if you still need convincing.

View flights here €99pp
 

View hotel here €314pp  
 

6. Disneyland Paris with Park Tickets, 27th October, 3 Nights, 2 adults & 2 children, €2099

Halloween is a great time to visit Disneyland Paris. The parks are transformed for their annual Halloween festival. Scary attractions like Phantom Manor and Tower of Terror have some spooky surprises in store, while Main Street U.S.A is full of pumpkins, flickering lights and creepy sounds.
 

 
The impressive Illuminations Show at Sleeping Beauty’s Castle takes on a Halloween theme, and will surely leave you feeling bewitched.  Read my dedicated blog post on this offer with more information.

View offer here
 

7.  October bank holiday weekend in Croatia, 5-star hotel, 3 nights, €499 

If you are looking for a luxury weekend away in beautiful surroundings, look no further than this. The 5-star Hotel Croatia is located in the pretty resort of Cavtat, just a ferry ride away from the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik. I stayed here a few years ago and loved it. Cavtat is located close to the airport too, so it is a great option for a weekend break.  
 

 
Dubrovnik is very busy during the day time, but you can catch the ferry from Cavtat early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowds have dissipated.

Cavtat is also located close to the border of Montenegro. We visited the medieval town of Kotor during our stay. Normally I would highly recommend you do the same, but the Hotel Croatia is a beautiful hotel and offers stunning sea views from the terrace, so you may find it difficult to leave….

Read: Visiting Croatia and Montenegro
 

 
Fly from Dublin on the 23rd of October and enjoy a three-night stay with breakfast for  just €499 per person. A deposit of €30 secures the hotel booking with flexible amendments available until 27th of September.

View flights here €189 

View hotel here €310pp
 

8. Christmas market break in Berlin, 3rd December, 3-nights, €192pp

Believe it or not, Berlin has over 50 different Christmas markets to choose from. The Winter World at Potsdamer Platz offers ice skating and tobogganing, while the traditional Christmas Markets at Alexanderplatz and Charlottenburg house wooden stalls and beer houses. And lets not forget the market in Spandau that has rock concerts every Friday!
 

 
Of course with so many other sights to see and some great nightlife, Berlin is a great city to visit at anytime. I found a super deal in the centrally located Titanic Comfort Berlin Mitte hotel. This receives great reviews on TripAdvisor and is a great choice for a festive break.

Read my city guide to Berlin here.
 
Check flights here €105pp

Check hotel here €87pp
 

9. Winter week in Gran Canaria, 20th January, Gloria Palace Amadores, €678pp

Perched on a cliff with stunning views of the sea, and only 300 meters from the beach, it is not surprising why the Gloria Palace Amadores Hotel and Thalasso is very popular with Irish holidaymakers.
 

 
Situated between Puerto Rico and Mogan, this hotel offers the best of both worlds – a relaxing holiday with the option to travel to nearby resorts if you fancy a livelier scene. Renowned for it’s high quality cuisine, attentive staff and for having one of Europe’s top thalassotherapy centres, can you think of a better way to beat the January blues?

View flights here €176pp

View hotel here €502pp
 

10. New Year in Washington, 3 Nights, 30th December €634

Washington is one of my favourite American cities. You don’t have to be a lover of politics to be impressed with Washington’s monuments and memorials, and I dare you not to be a little star struck when you see The White House for the first time. Washington has some great shopping options too, as well as vibrant nightlife and a lively atmosphere.  

 
I found a great deal staying in the university neighbourhood of Georgetown. The Hyatt Place receives excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and it is close to Washingtons most popular landmarks. I have priced this with the Aer Lingus ‘Smart’ fare which includes 23kg checked baggage, a complimentary meal on board and is also eligible for a voucher if you need to cancel your trip.

View flights here €438pp Smart fare includes 23kg baggage

View hotel here €196pp
 

 
Prices are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change. Please note some of these autumn winter breaks include affiliate links where I receive a small commission if a booking is made, but at no additional cost to you.

Sarah

This week’s best travel deals include April holiday deals from €249, a wine tasting weekend in Bordeaux, summer in Portugal and Mauritius, a Mother’s Day break in Westport, Christmas in Disneyland Paris and an early booking offer to Las Vegas.

Best last minute:

Jet off to sunny Puerto Rico in Gran Canaria on the 2nd of April, for just €285! Price includes flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-nights stay in the Tamanaco apartments.

Missed last weeks Best Travel Deals post? See it here:
 

Best April / May deal:

Sunway have super deals to Turkey during the month of April, a country where no cases of coronavirus have been reported. Price for flights and a seven-night stay in the 4-star Golden Day Wings Hotel is €299 during Easter holidays, and only €249 on the 25th of April. Prices include flights, hotel with breakfast, airport transfers and checked baggage.

See more here
 

Best family deal:

Visit Disneyland Paris for Disney’s Enchanted Christmas Festival. We visited at Christmas time a few years ago and it was magical. Price for flights, transfers, park tickets and a three night stay in the Disney Sequioa Lodge Hotel with breakfast and evening meal included, is just €515 per person, based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing. They will also give you a FREE Gift Card worth €100 to spend in the parks.

Read: My top tips Disneyland Paris at Christmas time.
 

Best staycation:

Treat your Mum to an overnight escape with breakfast included in the 4-star Westport Hotel, for just €30 per person! Choose to relax in the brand new Spa Veda, complete with swimming pool, jacuzzi and thermal suite or enjoy the vibrant city of Westport. This deal is available arriving on Mother’s Day, March 22nd. 

View offer here
 

Read: 10 Mother’s Day breaks that won’t break the bank
 

Best summer sun:

Finish off the summer with a week in the upmarket resort of Vilamoura on the Algarve. Price for flights and a seven-night stay in the highly rated Vilamour Golf Aparthotel is only €374 on the 26th of August.

View offer here
 

Best city break:

Can you think of anything better than a wine tasting weekend in Bordeaux 🍷? Flights are so cheap at the moment so why not escape the stresses of home for a few days in May. Price for flights and a three-night stay in the highly rated 4-star Best Western Plus Gare Saint Jean is just €219 per person. Note: when you click on the hotel link below the lowest rate is bookable via the hotel website – €107 per room per night.

View flights here€59pp

View hotel here €160pp
 

Best long haul offer:

Another country that has recorded no cases of coronavirus is Mauritius. Enjoy a seven-night all-inclusive stay in the highly rated Veranda Pointe Aux Biches Hotel for just €1469! Price includes flights, transfers and all-inclusive accommodation, based on travel in June. You can save up to €800 per person when travelling between 1st June and 31st August.

Read: Where to stay in Mauritius
 

Best early booking offer:

Choose Las Vegas for your Christmas shopping break this year. Price for flights and a five-night stay in the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino is only €560 on the 24th of November. Price includes flights, 23kg checked baggage and hotel for five nights. Deposit of €50 secures booking. Many more hotels and dates available.

See more here
 

 
Missed last weeks Best Travel Deals post? See it here:

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
 

 
Sarah
 

This week’s Best Travel Deals include Easter offers in Lanzarote, a week in the Algarve for €199, all-inclusive deals to Greece and Mexico, a city break to Washington and super staycations for couples and families. 

Best last minute:

Escape the the Costa del Sol at the end of March – Aer Lingus have return flights to Malaga for just €100! Add on a seven-night stay in Marbella for €175pp in the San Cristóbal Hotel, or €230pp in the Princesa Playa aparthotel.

View flights here €100pp

 
View hotels here from €175pp

Missed last weeks Best Travel Deals post? See it here:
 

Best Spring /Summer deal:

Kick start the summer with a week in the Algarve for just €199 in May! Choose the Vale de Carros apartments in Albufeira or the Vilamor apartments in Alvor, both highly rated and both available for just €199 including return flights, departing the 5th of May. 

See more here
 

Best summer sun:

Go all-inclusive in Greece this summer. I found some great all-inclusive deals departing in August with flights, accommodation, all meals, drinks, transfers and checked baggage included! Price for the Rodos Star Hotel in Rhodes is only €584 per person, while the Cavo D’oro in Zakynthos is only €667 per person. Both deals are departing in August and a deposit of €75 secures booking. Use code PAYDAY to save €100 of the listed prices.

See Rhodes here €584pp

See Zakynthos here €667pp
 

Best family deal:

Enjoy a family holiday in Lanzarote this Easter. Prices are particularly good value if you fly on Monday the 13th of April. I found great family deals staying in Puerto del Carmen. Price for flights a seven-night stay in the Oasis apartments is only €230 per person, or choose the popular Rosamar apartments for just €258 per person. #StealOfTheWeek

View offer here
 

Best long haul offer:

Plan ahead and secure a great deal to Mexico this winter. Price for flights and a seven-night stay in the 5-star Ocean Riviera Paradise Hotel, with all meals and drinks included 🍹 is just €1017 per person! This super hotel is located right on the beach in Playa del Carmen and is rated excellent on Tripadvisor. Price includes flights and hotel on an all-inclusive basis for seven nights, departing the 12th of November.

View flights here €578pp

Note: This airfare has just one stop. I adjusted journey time to less than 17 hours to guarantee best connections.  

View hotel here €439pp
 

Best ferry / cruise:

Sail across the Irish Sea for just €7 one-way on the brand new Stena Estrid. This amazing deal is even valid during the summer months! You can also sail from Rosslare to Cherbourg in April, May and from 10th September – 18th December, for just €14! You must book these amazing deals before the 9th of March – so don’t delay.,

See more here
 

Best staycation:

The highly rated Lough Allen & Spa Hotel in Leitrim have superb deals available until the end of June. Price for an overnight stay with full Irish breakfast, unlimited leisure access, and a €20 spa voucher is only €35 per person! Stay for two nights for just €60 per person. Valid Sunday – Thursday until the end of June.
 

 
Want to bring the kids? Price for two adults and two children (under 12) in a standard family room from Sunday – Thursday is only €109 for one night, €199 for two nights and €249 for three nights – these prices are less than half price! If you want a weekend stay, the price is €199 for two nights and €249 for three nights. Prices includes breakfast, complimentary kids club for primary school children, and access to the leisure facilities.

See family deal here
 

Best city break:

Explore the wonderful city of Washington this summer. Price for flights and a three-night stay in August is only €699 per person based on 2 sharing, or €619 per person based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing. 

See more here
 

 
Missed last weeks Best Travel Deals post? See it here:
 

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
 

 
Sarah
 

This week’s best travel deals include short breaks in Prague and Dubai, a family staycation in Cork, a Camino walk, a Caribbean cruise, a wellness break in the Algarve and an Aer Lingus seat sale.

Best last minute:

Enjoy the St Patricks Day festivities in Dubai this year. Price for direct flights with Emirates, airport transfers, and a three-night stay on a half-board basis in the 5-star Anantara The Palm Dubai, is only €899 per person.

Missed last weeks Best Travel Deals? See it here
 

Best summer break

Walk the Camino with Roz Purcell this summer. Roz is taking part in the last stage of the French Way on the 2nd of July for seven nights. Price of €550 includes hotels on a bed & breakfast basis, daily baggage transfers, airport transfers and walking notes. Single room available from €145.

See more here
 

Best family deal:

Enjoy a family break in the highly rated Quality Hotel Youghal in Cork this summer. Choose one of their luxury self catering apartments (sleep up to 4), from €149 or a luxury house (sleep up to 6), from €159 for two nights. Price for three nights is €219 and €249 respectively – this is 40% off! Located right on the beach you can choose the open sea or the indoor swimming pool with leisure facilities. They also give you a €10 spa voucher per person towards a treatment costing €40 or above. Valid until the 30th of June.

View offer here
 

Best long haul offer:

Think a holiday in Zanzibar is out of your price range? Think again! I found an amazing deal departing on the 5th of September with flights and a 4-star hotel included for just €892!

Best cruise:

Enjoy a three-night stay in Miami before cruising the Caribbean on the world’s largest cruise ship, Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas! Price for flights, hotel accommodation in Miami and a seven-night cruise in a balcony cabin is only €1699!

View offer here
 

Best city break:

Fancy a quick getaway? Book a weekend break to Prague. Price for flights and a three-night stay in the highly rated Lindner Hotel Prague Castle is just €196 on the 25th of April.

See more here
 

Best early booking offer:

Treat yourself to a wellness break in the Algarve this winter. Spend four nights in the five-star Real Marina Hotel & Spa, with breakfast included, for only €225, departing the 1st of November.

See more here
 

Best seat sale:

Aer Lingus have launched a new seat-sale today, with up to 25% off flights to Europe and UK. Travel until 30th April and book by 2nd March. 

Missed last weeks Best Travel Deals? See it here
 

 
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

Sarah
 

 

In this week’s Best Travel Deals I have a spring break in the Amalfi Coast, all-inclusive deals to Crete and the Dominican Republic, a family holiday to Greece, a weekend break in Toulouse for €167, luxury escorted tours and a cruise and stay in New Orleans.
 

Best last minute:

Escape to the Amalfi Coast next month and enjoy a week in the highly rated 4-Star Grand Hotel Aminta in Sorrento, for just €390 per person. This hotel receives an Excellent rating on Tripadvisor and is superbly located in the resort centre. Price includes flights and hotel for seven nights with breakfast, departing the 22nd of March.

View flights here €80pp

View hotel here €310pp

 
Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals post? See it here.
 

Best summer sun:

Swap the Canaries for the Caribbean this summer and enjoy an all-inclusive week in 5-star Bahia Principe Grand Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, for just €993! Price includes flights and hotel for seven nights, with meals and drinks included.

Best long haul offer

There are some great savings available on luxury tours in Asia and South America. You can upgrade to business class for €199 on tours to India, save €600 on South America tours, and get free VIP door-to-door chauffeur transfers on all tours. If you want to travel solo, avail of the no single supplements offer – saving a whopping €1140 on the Panoramic Peru tour. If you are looking for authentic escorted tours in Asia or South America, don’t miss this post.

See more here
 

Best family deal:

Looking for an all-inclusive family complex with a water park on site? I found a great deal to the Sun Palace in Rhodes this summer. Price for flights, transfers, checked baggage and accommodation with all meals and drinks included, is only €2476 on the 24th of June, based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing. Use code SUN100 to save €100 off the listed price of this holiday or any holiday to Greece or Turkey over €1000 in value. 

View offer here
 

Best city break:

Enjoy a weekend break in the charming city of Toulouse. I visited Toulouse last year and loved it. Price for flights and a three-night stay in the 4-star Privilège Hôtel Mermoz Hotel is only €167 per person, departing Friday the 15th of May.

View flights here €49pp

View hotel here €118pp
 

Read: My Toulouse Travel Blog 
 

Best cruise:

Combine three nights in the vibrant city of New Orleans with a seven-night cruise around the Bahamas. You will even get the opportunity to visit Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at Cococay. Price for flights, three nights in the 4-star Hilton Hotel in New Orleans,  and seven nights cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Majesty of the Seas, is only €1329 on the 26th of August. 

View offer here
 

Best staycation:

Spend St Patricks Weekend in Belfast. The highly rated Malone Lodge Hotel is offering two nights for the price of one. Price is only €84 per person for a two-night stay with breakfast included, arriving the 15th of March.

Search offer here
 

Best early booking offer:

Round off the summer with an all-inclusive week in Crete. Stay at the highly rated 4-star Hotel Dore, with all meals and drinks included for just €470, departing the 11th of October. This hotel receives an Excllent rating on Tripadvisor.

Read: Top things to do near Chania, Crete
 

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.

Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals post? See it here.

 
Sarah
 

 

This week’s best travel deals include Sardinia, Mexico, Iceland, Gran Canaria, Christmas markets in Cologne, an American road trip, an all-inclusive cruise deal and a staycation in Waterford.

Best last minute:

Escape the cold and book a week in Gran Canaria, where the temperatures are a balmy 23 degrees. Price for flights and a seven-night stay in the Tisalaya Park apartments with transfers and checked baggage included, is only €378, departing the 5th, 12th, 19th or 26th of March. 

Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals? See them here.
 

Best summer sun:

Alghero in Sardinia is one of the new Aer Lingus routes from Dublin airport for next summer. It happens to have a delightful old town, a beautiful sandy beach, and of course some great Italian restaurants. Alghero is located just ten minutes drive from the airport so it is an easy destination to book independently. I found a great deal staying in the 4-star Rina Hotel , departing the 10th of June. Price for flights and a seven-night stay with breakfast included is just €519 per person. Lots more dates are available, simply edit your search when you click on the links below.

Book flights here 10th June €184pp

View hotel here €345pp

 
Read: 10 new destinations from Dublin Airport for 2020
 

Best city break:

Cologne is one of Europe’s best Christmas market break destinations, and flight and hotel prices always increase closer to departure. I found a great deal staying in the highly rated 4-star Lyskirchen Hotel. Located right in the heart of the city, close to the historic centre and the Christmas markets, this is superb value for such a popular weekend. Price for flights and a three-night stay on the 12th of December is just €227 per person.

View flights here €86pp

View hotel here €141pp

 
Read Europe’s top 10 Christmas markets
 

Best family holiday:

I love a good road-trip and this one is right up my street! As well as visiting Los Angeles and Las Vegas, this amazing family itinerary includes rafting along the Colorado River, horse riding on a ranch in Tucson, and an exhilarating glamping experience near the Grand Canyon National Park. You will also have the opportunity to visit Universal Studios and Disney in California too..Price, based on a family of four with flights, accommodation and SUV car hire for 10 days is €1049 per person.

View offer here
 

Best cruise:

If you haven’t tried cruising yet, you don’t know what you are missing! This all-inclusive deal on Marella Dream is only €969 in May, including flights, transfers, checked baggage and a seven-night all-inclusive Mediterranean cruise. This is a great option for first time cruisers, or for people looking for a great value cruise with drinks and tips included in the cost. 

See more here
 

Best long haul offer:

Enjoy some winter sun in Mexico next November. This great all-inclusive deal includes flights, 4-star hotel, return airport transfers, checked baggage, all meals and drinks, for just €1186!

View offer here
 

Best staycation:

Looking for a staycation but don’t want to drive? The 4-star Fitzwilton in Waterford is located just 300 meters from the train station, and five minutes from the Waterford Greenway. Price for an overnight stay with breakfast and main course evening meal, is just €50 per person, valid until the end of May. Use promo code TRAVEL15 to save a further 15% off this price, making it just €42.50!

Read: 10 Great hotel deals in Ireland from €40 per person.
 

Best early booking offer:

Fancy ringing in the New Year in Iceland? This super deal includes flights and three-nights in a 4-star hotel from just €393 per person. Who knows, the Northern Lights might even light up the sky on New Years Eve!

See more here
 

Read: Top things to do in Iceland
 

 
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.

Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals? See them here.

Sarah

This week’s Best Travel Deals include Disneyland Paris, Barcelona, Abu Dhabi, Alvor, a cruise around the Emirates, New Year in Orlando and a staycation in Connemara.

Best last minute:

February is considered peak time for skiing, so when I saw that you can get a week in La Thuile, Italy for just €219 this weekend, I just had to post it. Price includes flights, apartment and transfers for seven nights, based on four sharing. If there is only two travelling, you can get seven nights in Austria, with breakfast included for just €344. 

Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals? See them here.

Best summer sun:

I’m a big fan of Alvor in the Algarve and have holidayed there on a few occasions. I found a super deal to the 4-star Pestana Alvor Park, which is rated number 1 on TripAdvisor. Price for flights and a seven-night stay is only €479 on the 30th of August. 

View offer here
 

Best family deal:

There are so many great Disneyland Paris offers available, the trouble is which one to choose? Breakaway.ie have excellent deals with flights included for the Frozen Festival in March, and the Enchanted Christmas season in December. Prices for flights, transfers, three-nights in a Disney hotel and four days park passes are from €1470 for 2 adults and 1 child, or €1739 for 2 adults and 2 children. You can upgrade hotel for just €25pp to get free Half Board, and they also have free dining offers with €100 spending money on selected dates.

See Free Dining offer here
 

Best cruise:

Cruise Dubai and the Emirates on the stunning MSC Bellissima for just €1049! I was on this ship last year and loved it. Price includes flights and a seven-night cruise with drinks package and gratuities included, departing the 29th of February.

Read: My review of MSC Bellissima
 

Best long haul offer:

Enjoy a five-night break in Abu Dhabi for just €479 including flights! This super deal departs on the 3rd of June and you will be staying in the 4-star Le Meridien Hotel. Highly rated onTripAdvisor, this is amazing value for a five night stay. Add on extra nights if required.

View offer here
 

Best city break:

Treat your loved one to a romantic break away for Valentines Day. Choose Lisbon from €254 or Barcelona for €319. Both prices include flights and a 4-star hotel for three nights, departing the 12th of February. Travalue have also included a hop-on hop-off bus tour in Lisbon and a Barcelona Express card in Barcelona. 

See more here
 

Best staycation:

Enjoy a healthy getaway break to the superb Delphi Resort in Connemara. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, but the thermal suite and yoga classes are a great alternative if you just want to relax indoors. This super deal for just €65pp includes an overnight stay in a one-bedroom suite with breakfast, one-hour thermal suite access, 10% off treatments and activities, and a two-course dinner at the 814 Restaurant. Want to stay for two nights? The price is just €95pp, and its valid until 25th June.

View offer here
 

Best early booking offer:

If you want to get away for New Year, now is the time to book. This great family deal to Orlando is just €2598 including flights and hotel for ten nights, based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing.

See more here
 

 
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.

Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals? See them here.

Sarah

This week’s best travel deals include a winter break to Malta, summer in the South of France, Majorca, Marbella and Kenya, a cruise on Allure of the Seas, Mother’s Day breaks in Ireland and an early booking offer to PortAventura.

Best last minute:

Explore the beautiful island of Malta in February. I found a great deal staying at the 4-star Seashells Resort at Suncrest, for only €230 including flights and hotel with breakfast, departing 8th February for seven nights. This popular hotel is highly rated on TripAdvisor and is centrally located. You will be away for Valentines Day so this could be a romantic break away…

View offer here
 
Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals? See them here.
 

Best summer sun:

Explore the South of France this summer with this great deal to Nice. Fly from Dublin to Nice on the 20th of July and enjoy a seven-night stay in the Victor Hugo Hotel for just €529. Nice is a beautiful town and the resort is full of style, but you can also choose to explore the coastline. Pop into the nearby towns of Cannes, Antibes or St Tropez, or go further afield and explore Monaco or the Italian Riviera. The choice is yours…

See more here
 

Best family deal:

The Protur Bonaire in Majorca is a super family complex. I stayed there when my kids were smaller and they loved it. It is rare to find a Free Child Place in the Bonaire during school holidays, but I managed to find one departing the 14th July! Price for 2 adults & 2 children including flights, transfers & baggage is only €2619 for seven nights. You better be quick though – there is only one room left at this price. Use promo code HOLIDAY150 to get €150 off the listed price 😎

View offer here
 

Best short break:

Planned your girls trip away yet? Jet off to Marbella over the May bank holiday weekend for just €267. Price includes flights and hotel for three nights, based on 2 sharing.

See more here
 

Best long haul offer:

Looking to try somewhere new this year? Take a trip to Kenya and enjoy a seven-night stay in the highly rated Leonard Beach Resort and Spa. Located a short drive from Mombassa on the world famous Diani Beach, you will be surrounded by crystal clear waters and coral reefs. This super deal costs just €895 including flights, hotel on a half-board basis, checked baggage and airport transfers!

View offer here
 

Best cruise:

Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas is one of the most talked about cruise ships this year. Allure is the worlds most awarded cruise ship and it is having a $165 million dollar makeover, before it cruises from Barcelona this summer. This super deal from e-travel is hard to beat: Enjoy a seven-night Mediterranean cruise with flights and transfers included from just €1195.  

Read all about the newly amplified Allure of the Seas here.
 

Best staycation:

Treat your Mum to a spa break in one of Ireland’s 4-star hotels for Mothers Day. I’ve got 10 great deals from just €36 per person including breakfast!

See more here
 

Best early booking offer:

Bring the kids to PortAventura and Ferrari Land over the October mid term break. This super deal includes flights, a four-night stay at the 4-star Dorada Palace Hotel, with breakfast and evening meal included, and 2 day passes to PortAventura & Ferrari Land! Total cost for all of this is just €1082, based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing.

See more here
 

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.

Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals? See them here.

Sarah

In this week’s Best Travel Deals I have a wellness break in the Algarve, a family holiday to Salou, a three-night Greek Islands cruise, summer sun in Croatia, amazing city break deals, luxury for less in Malaysia and a New Year in Lisbon.

Best last minute:

Treat yourself to a wellness weekend break in the Algarve at the start of February. Spend three nights at the 5-star Grand Real Santa Eulalia for just €251 – and that includes flights! Complete with a spa and wellness centre, this is the perfect choice for a winter break. I found this super deal departing Friday the 7th of February but many more dates are available. 

Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals? See them here.
 

Best city break:

Want to plan a few trips abroad this year? With these 10 city breaks for €199 or less, you can do just that. All deals include flights and highly rated hotels for three nights. 

See more here
 

Best family holiday:

I have had a few requests for 10/11 day holidays, so I did some searching and came up with this great deal to Salou. Enjoy an 11-night stay in the 4-star H10 Mediterranean Village, departing 7th August for just €2514, based on 2 adults and 2 children sharing. This is one of the most popular family apartments in Salou and receives excellent reviews on TripAdvisor. Price includes flights, accommodation, transfers, checked baggage and a €125 saving when you use the promo code SAVE125.

Read: My family holiday in Salou
 

Best summer sun:

Cavtat in Croatia is one of my favourite destinations for a summer break. I loved the laid back atmosphere and the great restaurants, and also its proximity to Dubrovnik and Montenegro. The centrally located Hotel Cavtat is the most popular hotel to stay in, and it is usually booked out. However, I found a deal departing on the 26th of August for seven nights for just €536. Price includes flights and hotel with breakfast for one week. Check out the reviews on TripAdvisor if you still need convincing. 

View flights here €131pp

View hotel here €405pp

Read: My holiday visiting in Croatia and Montenegro
 

Best cruise:

This is the perfect taster cruise for anyone who is new to cruise, or for anyone (like me) with Santorini and Mykonos on their bucket list. Enjoy a three-night all-inclusive cruise visiting the Greek Islands of Mykonos, Patmos, Crete and Santorini, with a two-night stay in Athens for just €1069! Price includes flights, all meals, drinks and gratuities, departing 23rd July.

View offer here
 

Best long haul offer:

Pangkor Laut Resort has to be one of the best luxurious places to stay in Malaysia. Located on its own private island, surrounded by some of the world’s oldest rainforests, this is a resort like no other. Expect luxury, natural beauty and plenty of relaxation. I found an amazing deal for just €1099 including flights, transfers and a seven-night stay. I have seen this resort advertised at over twice this price, it really is an amazing deal for such a world-class resort.

View offer here
 

Best staycation:

Have you seen the new video from Sligo Tourism? It is bound to make you want to visit. I found a great deal to the 4-star Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa for just €89 per couple until the end of March, or €99 until the end of June! This price includes an overnight stay for two with breakfast, spa and dining credit and a late check-out. Two-night stays also available. 

View offer here
 

Best early booking offer:

Psst… Lisbon flights are on sale already for New Year! I’m tempted to book this myself. Price for flights and a three night stay in the 5-star Corinthia Palace Hotel is only €273, departing the 29th of December. Highly rated on TripAdvisor and with a wellness centre and pool onsite – can you think of a better bargain for New Year? #StealOfTheWeek

View flights here  €113pp

View hotel here €160pp
 
Want to stay somewhere else? Check out guide to Lisbon Hotels here.
 

 
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.

Missed last week’s Best Travel Deals? See them here.

Sarah