Departure Lounge: Miami offers excellent hotel value for a winter break to the USA
Miami Moxy A Room Wynwood At The
If you’re thinking of a winter break to the USA, Miami offers excellent hotel value, particularly when compared to other east coast favourites like New York or Boston.
Poster child in point is the city’s newest hotel, the Moxy Miami Wynwood, located in the city’s most trendy neighbourhood.
Opening this month, the colourful property is stacked with cool trademark touches such as funky rooms, a bar that doubles as a check-in desk and the hotel’s super cool communal spaces.
Rates from an excellent €137,
- marriott.com
Armagh is one of Ireland’s treasures and, for an autumn road trip, there are few spots more scenic in September than the Orchard County, particularly when you pitstop in a food festival.
The Armagh Food and Cider Festival, which takes place from September 5-8, features dozens of food and drink-themed events across the county, from an orchard paint and sip to bramley apple baking classes.
Stay overnight in charming country spots such as Newforge House or Blackwell House or in one of Armagh town’s great-value hotels.
- visitarmagh.com
If you are booking a transatlantic flight, this tip may help. I booked an Aer Lingus flight to San Francisco last week and noticed that the airline’s Smart fare (which includes a 10kg carry-on plus a 23kg checked bag) was €135 more expensive than their Saver fare, which just includes a carry-on.
However, the Saver fare still offers the option in the booking process to add a checked bag for just €90 return. That’s a €45 saving.
It’s worth noting that the Smart fare also includes seat selection and a refund note if you end up changing flights but, if neither of those are a priority for you, consider it.
- aerlingus.com
Taking off to Turkey? Figures from the culture and tourism ministry of Turkey this month have revealed a huge surge in visitor numbers to the country.
Tourist numbers are up 18% in the first half of 2024 versus last year. The allure of sun and culture (and perhaps cosmetic procedures) seem to be driving Irish consumers.
But a weakened Lira helps too — let’s look at a luxury getaway.
A three-night stay at the five-star Grand Hyatt Istanbul costs just €605, making the city an attractive option for a long-weekend autumn getaway.
- goturkiye.com
Hello, shoulder season! The end of August and September means the tanking of holiday rates from their summer peak so there’s some great value on offer if you’ve the flexibility to travel.
ITAA bonded online travel agent Click & Go offers deals from most Irish airports.
For a luxury break in the Algarve, seven nights at the five-star Grande Real Santa Eulalia Resort in Albufeira costs from €738 based on a self-catering stay (fly September 24 from Cork to Faro). You’ll find three-star deals for 50% less too.
- clickandgo.com