Departure Lounge: Take in the expanses of the Middle East on a cruise
Experience this striking region aboard MSC Euribia
The rise of wellness travel means health-focused holiday offerings are becoming more bountiful and more refined. Hillside Beach Club in Fethiye, Turkey, hosts a bi-annual Feel Good Week that allows an à la carte approach to your holiday, and the next one is October 6-13.
A week of free activities and workshops includìng breathwork and ice therapy, yoga, facial yoga, pilates, art therapy and sound healing are on offer alongside the resort’s attractions. Two spas and two adult-only beaches seal this enticing deal. Full board from €207 per night based on two sharing.
A cruise ship is a great way to take in the expanses of the Middle East from the glittering skylines of Dubai, Doha, Bahrain and Abu Dhabi to the desert expanses and island draw of Sir Bani Yas. Experience this striking region on March 7, 2025, aboard MSC Euribia, from €1,479pp, including return flights from Dublin-Dubai, and a seven-night all-inclusive cruise.
Mount Congreve’s new ‘forest hotel’ is the latest offering at the top Waterford attraction. Guests can book into cotton bell tents in a meadow with direct access to the Waterford Greenway and with complimentary entry to Mount Congreve’s 70 acres of gardens. Cosy double beds with Foxford throws, a wood-burning stove, lanterns, torches, and solar-powered lighting offer an off-gird experience. With no electricity or running water this is a true back-to-nature escape. Mount Congreve House is open to visitors seven days a week (four days a week in autumn/winter). From €135 per night for two adults sharing.
Hotel Kilkenny’s new overnight autumn break offers a good value way to enjoy the welcoming medieval city. Book the mid-week pamper package and stay in one of the hotel’s newly refurbished deluxe bedrooms, with breakfast, and a light lunch in the refurbished 1831 Rosehill Bar. Choose a one-hour spa treatment at the Orchard Salon and Day Spa before chilling in the sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room. €350 for two people sharing
Sailing around Croatia’s islands offers a magical way to unlock the Adriatic’s charms. Small ship cruise operator, Go Croatia Sail, offers specialist trips between Split and Dubrovnik, with interesting stop-offs to sample the culture, like a winery tour on Korcula island.
Five-day cruises, categorised by ages (18-35s, 30-49s and mixed ages) anchor each day off the coast for swimming fun too. Packages include accommodation on board, breakfast and lunch and en suite cabins with wifi and air-con.
From €661 pps for four nights.
