Departure Lounge: Experience Tunisia for history, scenery and opulence
Exploring Carthage, In Tunisia
Having never been to Tunisia I’m taken with the idea of a dual centre trip that showcases two sides to the North African state.
Cenzaro Hotels & Resorts’ new five-night itinerary introduces guests to the North and South of the county with its From the Sea to the Sahara package.
Starting in the historic capital, the first three nights will be spent at The Residence Tunis, a luxurious beachfront resort with Arab-Andalusian architecture.
Then it’s on to The Residence Douz by 4x4 transfer, for two relaxing nights at this equally stylish resort on the edge of the Sahara.
- Five nights B&B from €1,495 per person with free upgrades and a complimentary transfer between the resorts. Valid until December 23, 2024.
- cenizaro.com
TUI’s new direct flights from Cork and Shannon Airports make joining a Marella Cruise in Summer 2025 a breeze.
Sail from Corfu (via Cork) or Palma, Majorca (via Cork or Shannon) on a seven-night Mediterranean and Aegean itineraries.
Extend your holiday with 14-night back-to-back cruises or Cruise and Stay packages combining a cruise with a pre- or post-cruise beach break.
A shopping trip or theatre date in Dublin is made all the more memorable with a Christmassy setting.
Check into the five-star College Green Hotel handily between Grafton Street and O’Connell Street.
With many Christmas trees and a festive energy you’re well placed to explore the capital in comfort.
Their overnight Festive Splendour package is valid from December 1-22 includes luxurious accommodation, a welcome seasonal drink, and breakfast at Morelands Grill.
- From €395, thecollegegreenhotel.com
Those seeking solace and space away from the bustle might find Ballygally Castle a tempting idea.
The Co Antrim hotel overlooks the ocean on the Causeway Coastal Route and has a full itinerary of activities and dining options throughout December, including a festive wreath making workshop, led by florist David McConkey.
- Three day Christmastime Escapes package are available on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and St Stephen’s Day.
- ballygallycastlehotel.com
Provence isn’t just for lavender-lovers. In winter, visitors will discover an equally alluring destination with mild temperatures, clear blue skies and the summer crowds mostly gone.
From now until April, enjoy a self-guided six day walking holiday starting in pretty l’Isle sur la Sorgue, ‘the Venice of Provence’.
Staying in hotels and guesthouses you’ll explore the region’s two main mountain ranges, Le Luberon and Les Alpilles, walking through olive and almond groves to medieval villages with markets, fountains and cobbled streets.
- Sounds blissful. £922 per person (approx €1,110)
- walkersbritain.co.uk