A round-up of some other travel stories
Fighting evil snowmen
Instead of a partridge in a pear tree, two turtle doves, three French hens and all the other "luxuries" that the proverbial true love gives in the run-up to Christmas, Budget Travel began, on Thursday last, giving away 12 Mediterranean holidays, one for each day of Christmas. To be in with a chance, log on to www.budgettravel.ie and play an interactive game to help Eddie, an elf, negotiate his way past an evil snowman. The contest ends on December 19th. Budget's summer-holiday sale will start at 9am on January 5th.
New Year's retreat
The White Space Retreat has been designed by life coach Ann Kelly for people who take their New Year's resolutions seriously. First held in Galway in 2004, the retreat will take place this year from December 27th to January 1st, 2009, inclusive at the Barn at Ballymaloe Cookery School, Co Cork, where good food and long country walks will help inspire participants. The €800 price includes all course materials, food and accommodation. A non-residential option costs €600. Call 086-6088886 or 021-4354725, or see www. yourworldyourway.com.