The Shannon-Erne waterway is one of the greatest natural treasures on this island. Since the re-opening of the Ballyconnell canal in 1994, the two waterways are now one and stretch for 540 kilometres from Belleek to Killaloe. Emerald Star is probably the best-known cruise company and has a selection of boats in Carrick-on-Shannon, Portumna and Belturbet. Its cruisers are like luxury homes, with en-suite cabins, showers and central heating.
Georgina Campbell has produced a guide for Emerald Star that highlights the best places for eating out along the way. Brochures and details from Emerald Star, The Marina, Carrick-on-Shannon, Co Leitrim, tel: 078 20234.
Achill is preparing for the sixth Feile Bia na Mara - Seafood Festival - from July 7th to 14th. In conjunction with the Feile na mBad Mor, throughout the week there will be tastings, music sessions and watersports.
Feile Ealaine an Earagail takes place from July 10th to 23rd at a variety of venues in the Inishowen Peninsula and north-east Donegal area. Eighteen towns and villages will be involved. The programme includes art, music, readings and open-air displays.
Family deals for holidays in July from Sunway Travel to Agadir cost £1,099 in self-catering accommodation; £1,399 in the Oasis Hotel and £1,499 in the Argana. Details from your local ITAA travel agent or 01 288 6828.
The pound is beginning to creep back up against sterling, so maybe now is the time to think about a short break in London. This month and next you can travel to London for two nights B & B in Jurys Kensington Hotel, £159 per person sharing. British taxes and passenger service charges will bring the cost to almost £200, but it's a good price for a four-star hotel and flights. For details contact your local travel agent, or Citiescapes, tel: 01 677 5533. The Britain Travel Centre has tickets on sale for the Dome and London Eye, 18/19 College Green, Dublin 2, tel: 01 670 8000. Keith Prowse Travel, 10 St Stephen's Green (tel: 01 679 5333), sells tickets for shows and sporting events.
Panorama Holidays has released its winter sun brochure. Early booking offers include £50 off. Prices begin at £215 for Tenerife and £255 for Malta. Flights are available from Dublin and Cork. Pick up a brochure from your local travel agent.
jscales@irish-times.ie