After a year spent rebuilding the coach house in the grounds of the Old Rectory in Easkey Village, Sligo, Robert and Lorely Forrester are now offering a range of interesting courses. During the next month or so you do courses in salmon fly tying, garden design and horticulture or painting - and Steve Wickham formerly of the Waterboys will be giving a traditional fiddle workshop. An extensive range of courses such as mask-making, hedgerow healing, stained glass, paint effects, stress management, will be running during the year. Get a programme from Coach House Courses, The Old Rectory, Easkey, Co Sligo - phone (096) 49181.
FEEL like somewhere exotic? Think about Mauritius. This Indian Ocean island has miles of white sandy beaches, the bluest of seas and is surrounded by coral reefs. It's a two-season island, hot and warm, with a combination of excellent climate and great accommodation. You can also tie the knot in Mauritius, for a truly exotic wedding. John Cassidy Travel's new brochure is available and also features South Africa. You can get a copy from 24/25 Lower Liffey Street, Dublin 1 - phone (01) 8735000.
A colleague who recently retired, was chatting about holidays when he was young. The Isle of Man, he said, was always considered risque. Today's young people can check this out for only £44 - until the end of September, Manx Air will be selling tickets that have no minimum stay and, to book, all you need is your student card or passport. Flights are subject to availability. You can book with your local travel agent or phone (01) 2601588. If you prefer a sea journey, the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has fares for foot passengers of £32.
Next year many people are planning on going to Australia, not just because of the Olympics but also to visit friends and relatives for the millennium. Many family reunions will be taking places. While you are there you might like to take in one of the world's most famous train journeys. Great Southern Railways' Ghan service between Alice Springs and Adelaide has expanded its routes to offer weekly services to Melbourne and Sydney.
Beaufort House is home to the Carlingford Yacht Charter and Seaschool on Carlingford Lough. Combine the luxury of a modern guesthouse with the chance to do some sail training. The Seaschool is an ISA-recognised teaching establishment and runs courses from "competent crew" to "yachtmaster offshore" aboard its two Elan 36s equipped to the highest safety standards. On shore you can explore the medievel charm of Carlingford, or go hill- walking on the Tain Trail high above the town in the Cooleys. For details, phone (042) 9373879.
Ballsbridge Travel has outgrown its premises and recently moved to 66 Lower Leeson Street. The new premises will also house subsidiary Villa and Golf Vacations. Phone (01) 6685755.