The ability to speak even a little of the local language can add greatly to the enjoyment of a holiday abroad. If France is your destination this year and you would like to acquire a passing knowledge of the language or improve your existing French, it's not too late to sign up for a course with the Alliance Francaise. The Alliance runs a series of short summer courses for would-be French speakers (adults and children) during June, July and August. The first sessions begin on June 6th and more information is available from the Alliance. (tel: (01) 676 1732); e-mail info@alliance-francaise.ie.