First Time Cruising with MSC
MSC Magnifica
We were waiting to embark the rather impressive MSC Magnifica in Venice. Beside us a young couple fussed over their baby, a group of retired Germans chatted happily, a couple in their 40’s were being ignored by their two teenagers and a gaggle of thirty-something women laughed uncontrollably at an ‘inside’ joke. Read more 
The Amalfi Coast, Italy
Let’s face it, the summer came and went in those two weeks in April. Or was it March? No matter, it has been and gone and left us all damp, uncertain and pining for sunshine. I spotted a gap of five days in my calendar and decided if I didn’t get away then it would be August before I could escape and to be honest the thought of two months without sunshine was more than I could bear. Read more
Activity Breaks in Westport, Co. Mayo
Croagh Patrick, Westport. Photo Credit: Destinationwestport
My first view of Croagh Patrick was on a winter’s day. A storm had raged on the west coast for three days and finally, it blew itself out. We had approached Westport from Louisberg and were not prepared for our first glimpse of Clew Bay.
Walking Ancient Paths Along The Camino de Santiago
Camino de Santiago
There’s something incredibly satisfying about rising early each morning, consulting your map and walking into the unknown. I guess it’s like life; we have plans, like destinations, but ultimately we’re unsure what will happen along the way. Sometimes we veer off our chosen path and find ourselves lost, or we discover the path is more beautiful than the one we’d set out for ourselves. Read more
Orlando: Things to See and Do
One thing I can guarantee you, you won’t get everything done in one trip to Orlando. So, with this in mind, my advice to you is to prioritise. Pick the top 5 things you want to see and do and then plan your days around them. After that, if you have spare time, you can hit your reserve list. Orlando means something different to everyone, depending on your tastes and age, but here is what I managed to take in on my visit and what I most enjoyed. Read more
Theme Parks, Everglades and Family Fun in Orlando
Orlando. This is the city of fun, a playground for young and old, a place to relive your youth, make your head spin on crazy roller coasters, experience 3-D rides like you’ve never imagined and meet Mickey Mouse. What’s not to love? Even if you don’t think you’re into theme parks, believe me, spend a week in Orlando and you’ll be converted. Read more
Winter Sun Destinations
The thought of leaving behind dreary winter skies and escaping to sunnier shores is very appealing. Long weekends in sunny cities, lazy family beach holidays or you may even be setting your sights further afield to exotic locations where sunshine and adventure is guaranteed. There are plenty of places to visit which offer sun during our winter season – India, Asia, Australia and New Zealand. The world is your oyster.
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Lakeside Retreat: Wineport Lodge, Co. Westmeath
Wineport Lodge
Sitting neatly at the edge of Lough Ree, Wineport Lodge looks like it has always been there. The forested shore camouflages the wooden lodge, while boats and ducks bob happily on the lake in front. Read more
Isle of Skye, Scotland
Eilean Donan Castle
The image of Eilean Donan Castle has long been used to portray the beauty of Scotland. Read more
The Joy of Foraging
Brooklodge Hotel
I was born in Wicklow, so I guess I’m biased when I say it’s one of Ireland’s most beautiful counties. I’ve trekked through the barren and remote Sally Gap, scrambled up the steep peak of the big Sugarloaf and rambled through Djouce and Devil’s Glen forests.
Julianne Mooney 