One of the latest Internet travel companies to arrive in Ireland is www.ebookers.ie. The site gives people access to online discounted airfares, hotel accommodation and travel services. The company has negotiated discounted fares with 115 airlines and rates with 14,000 hotels. It is an easy-to-use site, well-laid out and responds quickly.
ONE of the best preserved and largest Celtic sites in Europe is also one of the least known. Rathcroghan, the pre-Christian centre of Connaught and home of the warrior Queen Medb is now interpreted at Tulsk, Co Roscommon in the Cruachan Ai Centre. There are three exhibition areas that explore the archaeology, history and mythology of the locality in Celtic and medieval times. Tel: 078-39268 for details.
HOLIDAY-MAKERS will have more choice of sun destinations next year, with the entry of Airtours onto the Irish market. One of the world's largest tour operators, Airtours will be offering 13 top sun destinations from Dublin. Holidays for 2001 are on sale from travel agents all over the country. Opening special offers, which run up to the end of this month, include guaranteed free child place on all self-catering holidays. Savings of £100 per couple, free travel insurance and infants travel free up to age two. Pick up a brochure at your local travel agent.
CLONMEL'S heroic struggle to defy Cromwell's army is to be re-enacted to mark the 350th anniversary of the Siege of Clonmel. On Sunday, July 23rd, Powerstown Park will vibrate to the thunder of cannon and warfare. More than 300 personnel from the Defence Forces will take part alongside 100 Wexford Pike men. The pageant is part of the Bees Knees Summer Fest. Details from Clonmel 350 offices, tel: 052-22231.
A NEW agency has opened in Dublin that specialises in selling cruise holidays. It will take you through the range of cruises available and help you get best value and choice. The Cruise Line, International House, 15/16 Hendrick Street, Dublin 7, tel: 01-855 5500 sells cruises on more than 15 lines. At present Norwegian Cruises and Orient Line are selling packages that are keenly priced. The Cruise Line also has a special offer for November, with Royal Caribbean, from Athens through the Suez Canal to Mombasa. This 14-day cruise, including flights from Ireland, is available from under £2,000.
THE Formal Gardens of Birr Castle have been restored and re-opened this month to the public. Among the features are the famous Birr box hedges, formal box parterre, rose beds and an Edwardian glasshouse. Open daily. For details,tel: 0509-22154.
Joan Scales can be contacted at: jscales@irish-times.ie
