Dearest reader, Rumour has it that some of England’s most sumptuous settings are not confined to fiction, but are very real and open to visitors. From elegant gardens to grand stately homes, these locations welcome you for a promenade worthy of high society. An invitation to walk in the footsteps of your favourite characters. Ranger's House, Greenwich, London Head to Greenwich in London to discover the series’ most iconic filming location: Ranger’s House! You’ll immediately recognize the Bridgertons’ sumptuous Georgian façade, famous for its blooming wisteria (which is added for filming). However, only the exterior architecture appears on screen. You can visit the interior, which is a museum housing more than 700 works of art! The inside of the Bridgerton residence, particularly the entrance hall, was filmed at Royal Air Force Halton. As a result, this site is only open to the public during special open days. Painshill Park, Cobham Painshill Park is a unique location that appears several times in the series. It first features in season 1 during the picnic scene and the promenade of Daphne and Simon. It also appears in season 3 with the memorable hot air balloon scene that spins out of control, with Colin taking centre stage. With its lake and landscaped scenery, the park offers a truly romantic setting. It’s an ideal place for a spring or summer walk to fully immerse yourself in the world of the series. Syon House, Brentford The Great Conservatory and the gardens of Syon House have appeared several times throughout the seasons of Bridgerton. The interior was used as the office and dressing room of the Duke of Hastings. The location was also featured in both Bridgerton and Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story to stand in for Buckingham Palace and for several ballroom scenes. The exterior of the estate can also be seen in season 2, where Kate Sharma and Anthony Bridgerton host the first ball of the season. And good news: this magnificent estate and its gardens are open to visitors from March 1st, 2026! Ham House, Richmond Season 4 is marked by this masked ball with the mysterious Silver Lady who captivates Benedict, and that fabulous scene under the pavilion. To relive this tense moment, head to Ham House, where the exterior scene was filmed. The visit lets you explore a historic mansion housing an impressive collection of furniture, paintings, and textiles dating back several centuries. Its sumptuous 17th-century garden extends the timeless experience. You can also take a break at the Orangery café, located in the walled garden—perfect for a lunch or tea in an elegant setting. Loseley Park, Surrey Do you also want to stop for a little break at Benedict’s cottage? Well, good news, it’s actually Loseley Park! You can take a guided tour of Loseley House and then wander through its fabulous gardens in the afternoon. You can even spend the night in a peaceful and charming setting (Benedict not included, sorry). Enjoy this immersive experience inspired by the new season from spring 2026.  Be careful, you might suddenly feel like living in a novel after this! (unless he wants you to be his mistress...) Must-visit spots for all Bridgerton fans and lovers of beautiful historic locations. Relive iconic scenes from one of Netflix’s most-watched series and immerse yourself in the elegance and charm of the era. An escape where fiction and reality intertwine.

While St Patrick’s Day is marked across the globe, Armagh is the place where his legacy continues to shape the landscape and its people. This March - the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland and the only city in the world with two cathedrals dedicated to St Patrick - will host the Home of St Patrick Festival from Tuesday 10 March to Wednesday 18 March 2026, building on the success of last year’s celebrations. Set among the city’s twin cathedral hills, the festival brings together ancient tradition and modern celebration in a way that can only happen in Armagh – the Home of St Patrick. Through live music, culture and heritage, alongside moments of reflection, it invites visitors to discover St Patrick not just as an international symbol, but as the man who lived, prayed and built his first great stone church in Armagh in 445AD. That strong sense of place runs throughout a programme designed to bring people together -families, friends and visitors of all ages - across the city’s historic streets, theatres, pubs, green spaces and ancient sites. By day and by night, Armagh becomes a stage for storytelling, creativity and shared celebration, including a special Brian Finnegan & Friends concert in St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral, marking the return of the acclaimed Armagh-born composer during a break from his international touring schedule. Deputy Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough, Councillor Jessica Johnston, said: “Armagh has a long and meaningful connection to St Patrick, and that heritage continues to shape the character of our city today. With two cathedrals dedicated to his name, the story of St Patrick remains an important part of our shared history and identity. “Our St Patrick’s Festival is a fantastic opportunity for our local businesses, traders and hospitality providers to shine. The festival brings thousands of visitors into the city, supporting our local economy and showcasing the warm welcome Armagh is known for. I encourage everyone to get involved, join the festivities.” A major highlight of the 2026 festival is the St Patrick’s Open-Air Concert on Monday 16 March, when Market Square will be transformed into a vibrant outdoor venue at the heart of the city. Headlined by chart-topping folk favourites The Tumbling Paddies, with support from Wolfhound and The Reillys, the concert promises a high-energy, family-friendly celebration of contemporary Irish music beneath the cathedral skyline. The celebrations continue throughout the week with the St Patrick’s Festival Live Music Trail, running from Friday 13 to Tuesday 17 March. Spanning 20 local acts across 12 venues, and free for all to enjoy, the Trail fills Armagh’s bars, cafés and cultural spaces with live Irish music, creating a vibrant soundtrack as visitors move through the city. Alongside this, festivalgoers can also experience everything from Trad Tok Live - a fusion of traditional Irish music and electronic dance beats - to guided heritage activities such as the Stained-Glass Treasures Walking Tour. Speaking ahead of the festival, The Tumbling Paddies said: “Playing in Armagh, the Home of St Patrick, is something special. There’s a real sense of history and community here and bringing our music to Market Square as part of this festival feels like the perfect way to celebrate everything St Patrick represents.” Beyond its headline music moments, the Home of St Patrick Festival offers a rich mix of experiences that encourage visitors to explore Armagh in different ways - from discovering the city’s stories on foot to enjoying family activities, comedy, conversation and live performance. Ancient landscapes like Navan Fort, cultural hubs such as The Market Place Theatre, and the city’s welcoming bars and cafés all help showcase the region’s creativity and character. A powerful reminder of Armagh’s spiritual heritage follows on 16 March with the Vigil Walk, led by the Archbishops of Armagh. By torchlight, visitors join locals on a lantern‑lit journey between the two St Patrick’s cathedrals - a moving symbol of faith, reconciliation and shared tradition. The walk is led by Archbishop Eamon Martin and Archbishop John McDowell, reflecting Armagh’s unique role as a place where two Christian traditions meet in the name of the same saint. Archbishop Eamon Martin said: “St Patrick’s mission began here in Armagh, and it continues to inspire people across the world today. The Vigil Walk reminds us that Patrick’s message was one of faith, hope and unity, and it is fitting that we walk together between our two St Patrick’s Cathedrals in that spirit.” Armagh is also the starting point of Saint Patrick’s Way, the 132km pilgrim trail to Downpatrick - making it the most authentic place on the island to explore the life and legacy of Ireland’s patron saint. For full details of the 2026 Home of St Patrick Festival programme visit visitarmagh.com/festivals/st-patrick

Located on Sheares Street in Cork city, The Mardyke Entertainment Complex is a multi-activity venue with dining, games, and social experiences all under one roof! The venue incorporates Barcadia, Mardyke Bowl, Woodshed Bar & Grill and Holy Smoke Kitchen, bringing together food, games and activities in one lively space that works just as well for families as it does for groups of friends or work nights out! Barcadia forms a central part of the experience, with a huge selection of classic arcade machines and pinball games. The collection has retro favourites alongside modern additions, with machines regularly swapped out to introduce new titles and maintain variety for returning visitors. This rotation ensures that you're consistently presented with fresh challenges! The arcade environment is designed to be accessible and family-friendly, making it suitable for a broad age range. And once you’ve had your fill of high scores, the fun doesn’t stop there! Mardyke Bowl provides ten-pin bowling lanes alongside themed drinks menus available throughout the venue. In addition to bowling, the complex also offers Sociable Darts, an interactive, technology-driven darts experience that combines traditional gameplay with digital scoring, making it fantastic for beginners but still engaging for experienced players. Love a bit of karaoke? The Mardyke Bowl also has newly renovated, state-of-the-art Singa Karaoke rooms which are available to hire at the entertainment complex! Each room is themed, with the likes of Miami Vice, a Jungle Rom or the Asian Nights room. If you're looking to dine in, make sure to stop by the Holy Smoke Kitchen, which now also serves food across Mardyke Bowl and Woodshed Bar & Grill! The menu features a huge range of dishes, including barbecue-style options and a seasonal menu that changes throughout the year. The offering is designed to cater to varied tastes, with options suitable for both casual dining and group occasions. Woodshed Bar & Grill operates alongside all of these entertainment facilities. The mix of food, bowling, arcade gaming and darts makes The Mardyke a fantastic choice for those looking for a place for family outings, social gatherings and organised events in Cork city! For more information, visit mardyke.com .

North America, home to Hollywood and iconic film history, offers not only famous studio tours but also hidden filming locations across the continent, each year round 150 films are produced in Canada, and 600 in the United States. With this is mind, here's a guide on the top filming locations you can visit in North America. North America is the home of Hollywood, from Ryan Reynolds and Julia Roberts to Cary Grant and Margarita Sanz, the history of North America film and TV stretches back over 100 years. However, you don’t just need to tour the studios of MGM and Paramount Pictures for a taste of film and television, many iconic filming locations are hidden under people’s noses, right across the continent! In the United States alone, its estimated that around 600 features are released each year on average. Yet, due to financial factors like lower production costs and competitive tax incentives, many filmmakers have turned to Canada and Mexico has an alternative for filming locations in recent years. With recent TV shows and films such as The Last of US, Black Mirror and Yellowstone having all been filmed in North America, the team at American Holidays have put together a guide on the locations worth visiting. Lights. Camera. Canada. Canada is famous for its welcoming attitude and breathtaking views. However, many people might not realise that it’s played a major role in the production of some of the top TV shows over the past year. Since the release of its first series in 2023, The Last of Us has averaged almost 32 million viewers per episode. Despite being set in the United States, most of the filming took place across Calgary and Edmonton. The production team built a large set in the Ramsay neighbourhood near Stampede Park, at 803 24 Avenue Southwest, which served to film the Boston quarantine zone. The façade of the Bostonian Museum was also shot in a Georgian- style located at 1202 1 Street Southwest. Interior shots were also shot in Rocky Mountain Film Studios on the outskirts of the city. Tourists visiting Edmonton also have a lot to visit, the scenes outside the ‘Massachusetts State House’ were filmed at the Alberta Legislature Building in Edmonton. The capture the ‘post-apocalyptic’ Edmonton, the 4th Street Promenade and parts of downtown Edmonton, including 100A, 104 and 108 streets were transformed to capture the shows grim atmosphere. Several episodes of Black Mirror have also been shot in Canada. Most recently “Common People”, episode one of season seven was filmed in Vancouver, with the show utilising the Allied Shipyards and the Queen Elizabeth Elementary School. Southern Soil, Silver Screen The US South, particularly states like Georgia, are experiencing growth in the TV industry, recently, Georgia has overtaken California as a location for feature film production The Southwestern state Utah was home to many scenes in Yellowstone. Ogden, a winter ski town that transforms to a popular hiking destination in the summer hosted many of the show’s memorable scenes. The nearby Wasatch Mountain Range was the filming choice for many of the more rural scenes with lots of different trails to explore. For those wanting to stay nearer the town, the historic 25th Street is home to many familiar shop fronts used in the show. Viewers of Yellowstone’s prequal 1883 will find many of the show’s locations in Fort Worth Texas. Areas around Exchange Avenue and North Houston Street transformed into a massive Old Western town. The Hotel Drover was also used to represent the Hotel Calhourn in 1883, with specific areas like the second story offices used for Clare and Elsa’s hotel bedroom. NYC – Where Every Corner Is a Set It’s hard to mention US cinema and TV without mentioning New York, where it can feel like every building and street has been used in some sort of production. New York City is home to many iconic series like Sex and the City, Gossip Girl, The Sopranos, and The Marvelous Mrs Maisel to name a few. As a result, there are plenty of individual tours catering to the different series. If you’re a big TV fan and want to experience a variety of TV and film, there are also tours that cater to specific regions of New York, such as film tours of Central Park and The East Village. Mexico - The Home of Romance Mexico has long been known as the home of vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes and passionate traditions, making it the perfect backdrop for romance. From the sun-kissed beaches of the Riviera Maya to the charming cobblestone streets of colonial towns like San Miguel de Allende, Mexico offers a rich tapestry of settings. Its because of this, one of the best romance films of the 90s chose Mexico as their ideal filming location. The 1996 remake of Romeo and Juliet was primarily filmed in Mexico City. The scene were Romeo and Juliet first met was filmed in The Castillo de Chapultepec (Chapultepec Palace), situated in the Chapultepec Park, and is the cities Natural History Museum. One of the most iconic scenes in the film is Tybalts death and Romeo’s escape, the locations for this is Av. Paseo de la Reforma in Juarez, most of Mexico’s most famous and iconic streets. Along its path you’ll find some of the cities most renowned sculpture and statues. For those wanting a taste of cinema without having to head into the city centre, Mercutio’s death scene was filmed in Boca del Rio, Veracru, which is situated on the Gulf of Mexico. Just for the film, a ruined theatre proscenium was constructed. Boca del Rio is an active port city with a bustling nightlife and stunning colonial architecture. For more information and to book your movie star getaway, please visit; https://www.americanholidays.com/en-gb/

Follow in the footsteps of ‘the Boss’ on this quintessential polar voyage, from the ice of the deep south to the subantarctic wildlife paradise of South Georgia. Experience the Antarctic Peninsula and set foot on the continent before making your way north to the spectacular Antarctic Sound, gateway to the Weddell Sea. Embrace the adventure as you voyage further east, navigating as far as possible into the Weddell Sea, where Shackleton’s Endurance met its fate. From here set a course to Elephant Island, the desolate outpost where Shackleton and his men finally made landfall after 497 days at sea. On the final leg of your voyage, follow the course of the James Caird across the Scotia Sea to South Georgia, where Shackleton’s voyage reached its remarkable conclusion. As you retrace the steps of this historic voyage, your expert expedition team will be by your side to enrich your journey with insights, wildlife-spotting tips and stories of Shackleton’s epic adventure.

The Hateful Eight – Colorado With diverse yet beautiful surroundings and vast open spaces, Colorado makes the perfect movie set. When filming one of his most famous films, The Hateful Eight director Quentin Tarantino thought so too. The snowy exteriors from the film were found on the Schmid Ranch , where the set was built. Ten miles from Telluride and in the San Miguel Mountains, Schmid Ranch has been in operation since 1882 and is available to rent for a remote, off-grid holiday. Fans of the destination can also celebrate their weddings at the historical location. Follow in the footsteps of the Batman in Pittsburgh Pittsburgh has provided a backdrop for many blockbuster movies over the years. The city played a starring role in coming-of-age drama The Perks of Being a Wallflower as well as action thrillers Jack Reacher and The Dark Knight Rises, all of which celebrate their 10-year anniversaries this year. Ahead of The Batman’s release in March this year, visitors can see some of The Dark Knight Rises’ most notable filming locations in Pittsburgh including the football stadium scene, filmed at Heinz Field, and the scene where Bane exposes the truth about Harvey Dent, filmed outside the Carnegie Mellon University portrayed as Gotham City Hall. Sleepless in Seattle  The Seattle skyline has been the star of many movies over the years such as The Ring and 10 Things I Hate About You, and even inspired classic romantic comedy Sleepless in Seattle . Starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, the 1993 film played homage to many iconic spots around the Emerald City. Visitors can retrace the footsteps of Sam Baldwin (played by Hanks) by visiting Pike Place Market , one of the oldest continuously operated farmers markets in the United States, see the floating home of Sam and his son on Lake Union, and stroll along hidden gem Alki Beach. Ladybird – Sacramento, California  Winner of two Golden Globes – Best Motion Picture and Best Performance by an Actress by Saoirse Ronan – plus five Oscar nominations and three Bafta nominations, Ladybird is “a love letter to Sacramento ” claims the film’s writer and director Greta Gerwig. Sacramento native Gerwig pays tribute to her hometown, California’s capital, in the coming-of-age story about a high school senior in 2002 (played by Saoirse Ronan), a semi-autobiographical tale of Gerwig’s upbringing in Northern California. Free Solo – Yosemite Mariposa County, California National Geographic Documentary Film Free Solo is a stunning, often nerve-racking, portrait of the free soloist climber Alex Honnold, as he prepares to achieve his lifelong dream: climbing the face of the world’s most famous rock – the 3,000ft El Capitan in Yosemite National Park – without a rope. Documentary filmmaker E. Chai Vasarhelyi and world-renowned photographer and mountaineer Jimmy Chin spent months observing Honnold as he mentally and physically prepared for the climb. The documentary,  which won an Academy Award and BAFTA for Best Documentary Feature, and seven Emmy Awards including Outstanding Cinematography for a Nonfiction Program, features beautiful shots of Yosemite. Point Break – The Islands of Tahiti  Point Break is an action thriller film about thrill-seeking criminals performing a series of daredevil stunts to steal money and gems. The film has a surf scene that takes place off the coast of France but was actually filmed in Teahupo’o, Tahiti. The scene used professional surfer, Laurie Towner, and was incredibly dangerous to film, with the film boats being secured with roll cages in case they went over the falls. There was a surfer shooting inside the wave tube which has never been done before, as a result of cameras weighing 10-15kg, making them easy to off-balance the filming surfer. This is an impressive scene to watch and will give viewers goosebumps. La La Land – LA, California The movie musical La La Land starring Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone rightfully garnered rave reviews and awards-season buzz following its release. The tap-dancing and singing duo are showcased in a love story that is as much about the pair as it is about Los Angeles. The jazz themes, references to old-Hollywood glamour, and aspirational premise make perfect use of LA’s most iconic locations as the backdrop. The good news for La La Land fans is that they can visit many of the movie’s locations in person as the film featured more than 40 sites around Los Angeles County. Skyfall Hashima Island – Kyushu, Japan The deserted island of James Bond’s adversary Silva in the movie Skyfallmight seem the result of a writer’s fantasy, but it exists. The island is called Hashima and is located off the coast of Japan. Commonly called Gunkanjima (meaning Battleship Island), it’s among 505 uninhabited islands in the Nagasaki Prefecture. The artificial island was one of the most densely populated places on earth. Over 5,000 people lived and worked on the tiny island. Developed during the first half of the 20th century for underground coal mines, the artificial island was built like a city to include hospitals, schools, shops, cinemas and even a cemetery. Active until 1974, the island became a ghost town after the coal mines became obsolete – making it one of the most memorable sites of the Bond series. Spirited Away Bathhouse – Ehime, Japan Of all of Studio Ghibli’s iconic films, Academy-Award-winning Spirited Away is the most internationally recognised. Fans of the film will instantly recognise Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama City as the bathhouse where most of the film takes place. Known as one of the oldest onsen towns in Japan, legend has it that Dogo Onsen was discovered when locals noticed a white heron healing its injured leg by dipping it into the hot spring water. One look at the majestic main house and visitors will understand t how Hiyao Miyazaki was inspired to include the destination in his film. Maverick returns to San Diego, California  Top Gun: Maverick was shot (and set) in San Diego, California. Fans of the blockbuster have been waiting more than three decades for Tom Cruise to return to uniform and revive his Maverick character in a sequel, so visiting San Diego is the perfect way to enjoy being 'on the set'. Cruise was spotted filming at Naval Air Station North Island in Coronado in 2021 and there are many other locations from the new and original film that travellers can visit, including Kansas City Barbeque, Point Loma Lighthouse, Lafayette Hotel, Swim Club and Bungalows and Naval Air Station Miramar. The latter delights San Diegans with an annual air show typically held in September. The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian in Slovenia Slovenia’s naturally beautiful landscape makes it a fantastic backdrop for magical, fantasy lands and parts of the popular The Chronicles of Narnia sequel were shot in the incredible Soča Valley. The River Soča is recognised for its distinct emerald green colour and is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe. Visitors can get out onto the water with a kayaking trip or hike along the mountainous landscape which towers above it.

Sligo Park Hotel this week launches its ‘Your Sligo Starts Here’ campaign, positioning the hotel as the ideal base for visitors eager to explore the Yeats County and wider Wild Atlantic Way this spring.  From bracing beach walks at Aughris Head to restorative seaweed baths in Strandhill, and exceptional dining in the hotel’s Hazelwood Restaurant, the campaign showcases how Sligo Park’s four-star facilities can combine with Sligo’s stunning natural landscape and local attractions to create truly memorable stays for every guest. The ‘Your Sligo Starts Here’ package offers guests two nights’ bed and breakfast in luxury accommodation, along with dinner each evening and complimentary use of the leisure club, for €410. Those wishing to book can do so directly on  www.sligopark.com   Sligo Park Hotel is rated as Sligo’s No1 hotel on TripAdvisor. Found on the Wild Atlantic Way, minutes from Sligo town, the hotel features 136 rooms and a leisure club with swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym, and other wellness facilities.  Last year, Sligo Park Hotel completed the renovation of 31 new Executive Rooms. The €1million project was the last in a series of high-end upgrades undertaken across the hotel in recent years, including works to the lobby, the bar and restaurant, the health and leisure club, and the conference suites. The hotel also installed a new luxurious, Italian-designed pergola to enhance the wedding and events experience for guests.  Each new Executive Room is equipped with a state-of-the-art air-conditioning system designed to reduce energy demand, a 43-inch TV, 1GB high-speed WiFi and walk-in rainfall showers. In January, the hotel’s efforts to provide a first-class and family-friendly experience for guests were honoured with two top industry awards.  Representatives of Sligo Park Hotel were on hand to pick up Silver for Excellence in Accommodation at the Irish Accommodation Services Institute (IASI) Conference at Galway Bay Hotel on January 24. The hotel then made it a double success by claiming Silver in the Ireland’s Family Friendly Hotel category at the Gold Medal Awards at the Galmont Hotel in Galway on January 27.  Sligo Park Hotel Director and General Manager Gerard Moore said: “We’re delighted to launch our ‘Your Sligo Starts Here’ campaign, showcasing Sligo Park Hotel as the ideal base from which guests can begin their spring escape along the Wild Atlantic Way. Sligo offers an exceptional combination of breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant local experiences, and our location just minutes from Sligo town allows visitors to enjoy the very best of both. We look forward to welcoming guests this spring and helping them create lasting memories in Yeats County.”

2026 is bringing in the year of the Horse, which is said to favour creativity, adventure, and trying something new. And what better way to lean into that energy than by picking up a calligraphy brush and crafting your own glowing paper lantern? Chinese Calligraphy & Paper Lantern Workshop  -  Saturday 28 th  February 2026 As part of Hart Shoreditch's ongoing series of creative workshops in partnership with local artist and businesses, the hotel invites guests and local visitors to celebrate Lunar New Year with a Chinese calligraphy and paper lantern workshop. This beginner-friendly workshop invites participants to discover the art of traditional Chinese calligraphy and create a paper lantern, all guided by an expert. This session is perfect for anyone looking to do something fun and creative, as well as learning a traditional art form to celebrate the New Year. The workshop will take place from 12pm to 1pm, finishing in perfect time to enjoy a delicious lunch at the hotel's pan-Asian restaurant  UBA . What better way to celebrate Lunar New Year then by indulging in a spectacular array of creative pan-Asian sharing plates, served-up against a backdrop of ornate interiors and a vibrant soundtrack. More details of the workshop  here  and eventbrite link  here   Trendsetter Offer for London Fashion Week Stays Hart Shoreditch  has just launched a limited time 'Trendsetter Offer' for London Fashion Week, giving 20% off stays and 10% off the total bill at pan-Asian restaurant  UBA . The offer is valid from 19th-25th February   and celebrates the hotel's firm foundations as a creative hub which supports the fashion and arts industries through its ongoing partnerships with local artists and designers.  The offer is valid from 19th-25th February 2025.

While Ramadan is a sacred month of fasting, prayer and spiritual reflection for Muslims, it is also a time of extraordinary hospitality and cultural richness. For travellers, this presents a unique opportunity to experience Qatar through a more meaningful lens. Visitors are warmly welcomed to take part in the atmosphere through vibrant cultural events, night markets and family-friendly entertainment that continue well into the night. From extended museum hours to food festivals and an Eid al-Fitr Celebration to top it all off, here are the best ways to experience Qatar during Ramadan. Cultural Festivals for Immersive Experiences “Taste the past” at the Throwback Food Festival with dishes inspired by Qatar’s cafés and restaurants of the 1970s, 80s and 90s. Set against the timeless backdrop of Old Doha Port, the festival celebrates the rich tapestry of Qatar’s shared heritage. from 5.30pm to 2.00am (Sun-Wed) and till 3.00am (Thur-Sat) and admission is free. From now till 20 March, visitors can also experience a mix of food, retail and entertainment at the Pearl Ramadan Bazaar (4th Edition) happening across The Pearl and Gewan Islands. Featuring a traditional Ramadan-themed design and Garangao Night activities, the bazaar creates an immersive cultural experience for all.  Ramadan Nights at Msheireb Downtown Step into a world aglow with Ramadan spirit. Msheireb Downtown comes alive with festivals, shimmering lights and welcoming courtyards as part of the Layali Msheireb programme . Wander through beautifully lit courtyards and art installations celebrating generosity and community spirit, from the interactive Giving Hands exhibition to the immersive Moon Tunnel Walkway and Ramadan Lounge. At the five-star Mandarin Oriental Hotel located in Barahat Msheireb, enjoy unforgettable Iftar and Suhoor experiences with live entertainment and rich culinary offerings, then soak in performances of traditional music and calligraphy workshops under the night sky.  Nights at the Qatar Museums During Ramadan, all Qatar museums operate on special hours , giving visitors the unique opportunity to experience some of the country’s most prized collections at night. Pay a visit to the Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art which is celebrating its 15th anniversary with their ongoing Resolutions: Celebrating 15 Years of Mathaf exhibition featuring its permanent collection of modern and contemporary art. The display invites visitors to delve into the museum’s history and origins, tracing its evolution and legacy as a home for Arab modern and contemporary artistic expression. Don’t miss the outstanding architecture of the National Museum of Qatar which showcases Qatar’s history, and the Museum of Islamic Art which dives into the cultural heritage of the entire Islamic geography. Join the Eid Al-Fitr Celebrations Translating into the “festival of breaking the fast” Eid Al-Fitr is celebrated on the first day of the 10th month in the Islamic Lunar calendar, immediately after Ramadan. Schools, offices and businesses close in the mornings to allow for families and neighbours to celebrate together, however travellers are not left out with plenty of special events and festivities in malls and public spaces. Many hotels across the city will be offering Eid packages and restaurants will often feature special Eid menus for everyone to indulge in the traditional flavours of the season. Various activities take place across Qatar during this time, with thrilling events like the Lusail Sky Festival taking place in early April.  For more information on events in Qatar during Ramadan, check out the Ramadan Calendar here .

The annual  Lake Kawaguchi Winter Fireworks  offer an absolutely stunning spectacle, drawing thousands of visitors to enjoy the colourful explosions illuminating the winter sky against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji. Here’s your chance to see them yourself! The fireworks launch from three key locations around the lake: Oike Park, Tatamiiwa, and Yagisaki Park. Oike Park serves as the primary venue, offering the most immersive experience. The show begins at 8 pm every Saturday and Sunday from the 20th of January to the 23rd of February 2026. For those looking to enhance their experience, staying overnight near the lake is highly recommended. The region is home to numerous hot spring resorts, perfect for warming up after an evening spent outdoors. For a unique and luxurious option, Glamping Villa Hanz offers a cozy retreat amidst nature, blending modern comfort with the charm of the great outdoors. Guests can unwind in their private accommodations, enjoy warm meals under the stars, and wake up to breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji. Accommodation prices at Glamping Villa Hanz start from ¥32,128 / €200 per Pao, sleeping two people, per night on a room only basis.   Visit Glamping Villa Hanz for more information.

There’s been a noticeable spike in takeaway searches lately, and it makes complete sense. When the rain refuses to stop (what are we on, day 40 now?) and the idea of leaving the house feels like too much effort, takeaway becomes less of a luxury and more of a solution. Over time, everyone develops their own go-to spots, the places you return to without overthinking. These are mine - reliable, consistently good, and exactly what I want when staying in feels like the better option. Il Capo Italian Pizza & Pasta , Dublin 1 Il Capo has become my default whenever I’m in the mood for pasta. The carbonara tagliatelle meal is the standout. It's rich, creamy, and generously portioned. The bacon bits add proper flavour, and the parmesan cuts through the sauce perfectly. Their thin garlic bread deserves just as much credit. It arrives crisp, fragrant, and somehow disappears faster than the pasta itself. This is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a comforting, dependable pasta takeaway. A scrumptious pasta meal deal (pasta, garlic bread, can of soda) will set you back €17.50. Sano Pizza, Dublin 1 & 6 Sano is my go-to when pizza is the only thing that will do. Their Neapolitan-style bases are thin, soft, and flavourful. The diavola pizza is a favourite, slightly spicy, perfectly balanced, and always toasty & good. It’s also worth adding the tiramisu, which arrives chilled, creamy, and makes the whole order feel more complete. A diavola meal deal (pizza, sauce) will set you back €16.90 on deliveroo. Xi'an Street Food, Dublin 1 Xi’an has built a reputation for good reason. The spice bag is the obvious choice - it 's crispy, salty, and full of flavour. Ordering a jumbo curry sauce alongside it makes it even better. It works perfectly for dipping and stretches the meal out a bit more. I also like adding the garlic broccoli. It balances things out and adds something fresher to the order! A spice bag meal deal (spice bag, sauce, can) will set you back €13.50. Umai, Dublin 16 I first came across Umai in Dundrum Shopping Centre, and it quickly became a regular option. Their katsu curry is consistently excellent, crispy on the outside, tender inside, with a rich curry sauce and perfectly cooked rice. The vegetable gyoza are another highlight. Light and flavourful, they’re ideal as a starter or side, especially dipped in soy sauce. A chicken katsu curry with vegetable gyozas will set you back €24. Salsa Authentic Mexican , Dublin 1 Salsa is my go-to when I want something filling and full of flavour. Their famous burrito is cheesy, spicy, and packed with either chilli beef or spit-roast marinated pork . The chilaquiles are also worth ordering. Made with fried corn tortilla pieces simmered in salsa verde and topped with cheese, sour cream, onions, beans, and chicken, it’s a proper comfort dish with bold flavour. The chilaquiles will set you back €15.95.

Winter asks more from the body than we often realise. With shorter days and reduced natural light, our circadian rhythm, the internal clock that regulates sleep, energy and hormone production, begins to shift. This can affect everything from alertness and mood to melatonin release at night, leaving many people feeling more tired, sluggish, sad or mentally foggy.   Sometimes the finest luxuries cannot rival the impact of a truly great night’s sleep. Problems feel less overwhelming, perspective returns and the day ahead becomes brighter after deep, uninterrupted rest. Acknowledging winter’s slower rhythm — and the body’s instinctive need for more sleep — is often the first step toward restoring balance.   Responding to this, Dunluce Lodge has launched its restorative and immersive ‘Sleepcation’ , a stay designed entirely around rest, relaxation and deep sleep. Perched beside the fourth fairway of Royal Portrush Golf Club and just a few hundred metres from the Atlantic Ocean, Dunluce Lodge is Northern Ireland’s newest five-star retreat and one of its most intimate. Opened just a year ago, the elegant property comprises 35 suites and a private residence, The Stookan, blending understated luxury, warm Irish hospitality and a spectacular coastal setting into a refined escape designed for complete relaxation. The Dunluce Lodge Sleepcation is a fully immersive experience centred on restorative rest. The stay includes an overnight escape, breakfast, a signature spa treatment, calming sleep tea and a curated bedtime wellness offering, with amenities including a Seabody Sleep Balm and a carefully considered night-time ritual designed to help guests fully switch off and unwind, for only €580 per room for two people sharing.   At its heart is the sleep experience itself. Guests settle into ultra-comfortable Hypnos, handmade beds layered with natural fibres and cashmere guard duvets and Cheviot wool pillows by local brand, Ava Innes, chosen for their gentle weight and natural temperature regulation.  The brand pioneers a unique, sustainable duvet fill made from cashmere guard hair — a forgotten luxury fibre offering gentle weight, exceptional temperature regulation and a sleep experience grounded in natural wellbeing. Outside, the only sound is the Atlantic rolling steadily onto the shore, while inside the Lodge, a deep quiet settles after dusk. A short bedtime story inspired by local folklore — tales of giants and heroes such as Finn McCumhaill — is left on each bed as part of the turndown ritual, encouraging guests to disconnect from screens and return to the simple comfort of reading before sleeping.   The woodland spa plays a central role in the experience. The Drift & Dream Ritual by Seabody begins with grounding breathwork, followed by a personalised massage using warm Lavendar poultices, aromatherapy oil and finished with Seabody’s brand-new Sleep Balm. Stretching, lymphatic drainage and gentle acupressure guide the body into deep relaxation, preparing both body and mind for rest.   Dining at Dunluce Lodge complements the experience, with Executive Chef Stephen Holland and his team showcasing the best of the region’s seasonal produce through thoughtful, locally inspired menus. Evenings unfold slowly — cocktails by the fire, oysters at the bar or watching the last light fade into the Atlantic — before retreating to suites where comfort, stillness and the rhythm of the sea take over.   Located along the iconic Causeway Coastal Route and moments from Whiterocks Beach via a private walkway, the Lodge offers a rare sense of calm in one of Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes, within easy reach of landmarks such as the Giant’s Causeway. The Dunluce Lodge Sleepcation ultimately pays homage to the restorative power of sleep, embracing the rituals, environment and natural elements that support true rest. By bringing together sea air, silence, natural fibres and a slower pace of living, Dunluce Lodge invites guests to reconnect with their natural rhythms and rediscover the transformative power of deep, uninterrupted sleep.   For more see www.dunluce.com .