Last week, Katie had the pleasure of attending the preview sailing of Legend of the Seas - Royal Caribbean's new addition to their Icon Class ships - as she sailed from Malaga to Rome. Make a bigger splash than ever, Legend hosts the largest waterpark at sea, 8 distinct neighbourhoods and a record-breaking 28 ways to dine. There are new mind-blowing Broadway shows, captivating entertainment, live music and so much entertainment from splash pools for the kiddies to Escape Rooms for the teenagers (not to mention a massive casino for the adults) that it's fun for all the family. But, what does it cost? When you're sailing on Royal Caribbean's new Legend of the Seas, you can be looking at prices as low as €1,159 per person sharing for a week in the Med (check out Click & Go Holidays for more here ) but when it comes to luxury sailing - this ship certiantly has options for that too! The Royal Loft Suite isn't even the most expensive suite in Royal Caribbean's fleet - that title belongs to the Ultimate Family Suite that includes red carpert experiences, an in-suite cinema with video games, a slide , special access to the ship a bathtub and more available on Symphony, Spectrum and Wonder of the Seas. But on Legend of the Seas the pinnacle of luxury belongs to the Royal Loft Suite. The Royal Loft Suite Designed as a private penthouse at sea, the suite combines expansive living space, luxury finishes, and the highest level of personalised service available through Royal Caribbean’s Star Class programme. Spread across two levels, the Royal Loft Suite offers a dramatic sense of space rarely found on a cruise ship. Floor-to-ceiling windows, an open-plan main level with a comfortable lounge, dining space, and stylish design details throughout. Guests can enjoy a private living room, a dining area for hosting meals, a wet bar, and even a piano, creating an environment that feels more like a luxury apartment than a traditional cruise suite. The upper level is dedicated to relaxation, featuring the main bedroom, a dressing area, and an upgraded master bathroom complete with a bathtub, separate shower, double vanity, and private toilet area. Additional sleeping arrangements allow the suite to accommodate up to six guests, making it suitable not only for couples seeking extra space but also for families or groups travelling together. One of the suite’s defining features is its enormous private balcony - with a whirlpool, dining area, and bar setup with a sink. Whether enjoying morning coffee overlooking the sea, hosting a private evening gathering, or simply relaxing in the open air, the balcony extends the living space and creates the feeling of having a private resort terrace above the ocean. Beyond the physical space, Royal Loft Suite guests receive Royal Caribbean’s most exclusive Star Class experience. This includes the services of a dedicated Royal Genie, who can help personalise the holiday from arrival through to departure, arranging dining reservations, special experiences, and tailored moments throughout the voyage. Guests also benefit from premium suite privileges, priority access, and enhanced dining and beverage offerings. Royal Loft Suite – What’s Included Two-level suite design with approximately 1,400+ sq. ft. of interior living space plus a large private balcony Floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic ocean and destination views Spacious open-plan living area with: Comfortable seating area Sofa bed for additional guests Dining table and chairs Piano Wet bar Separate master bedroom located on the upper level Dressing area and additional storage space Luxurious master bathroom featuring: Full-size bathtub Separate shower Double sinks/vanity area Private toilet compartment Additional sleeping area to accommodate up to six guests Large private balcony designed as an outdoor living space, including: Private whirlpool Outdoor dining area Bar area with sink Lounge seating Premium suite amenities and upgraded furnishings throughout Complimentary Wi-Fi included as part of the Star Class experience Luxury bathroom amenities Plush bathrobes and slippers for use during the voyage Daily replenishment of bottled water Priority boarding and departure services Access to Royal Caribbean’s highest suite service level, including a dedicated Royal Genie Personalised assistance with dining reservations, entertainment, activities, and special arrangements Exclusive Star Class benefits, including enhanced dining and beverage privileges So how expensive is the Royal Loft on Legend of the Seas? Well, you read the title correctly! Suites of this magntitude are priced anywhere between $3k to 11$ per night, meaning you're looking at a 5-day week deal at about 55,000 US dollars for the week. Check out more at https://www.royalcaribbean.com/gbr/en/cruise-ships/legend-of-the-seas

Travel Time's Katie Doyle had the privilege of joining the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship and the newest addition to the award-winning Icon Class fleet. Sailing from Malaga to Rome on a four-night voyage, Katie joined more than 120 members of the Irish travel trade, alongside 4,000 travel agents, business partners and media from around the world, to experience firsthand the entertainment, dining and attractions that make Legend of the Seas one of the most anticipated cruise ships of 2026. From Broadway-calibre productions and spectacular aqua shows to world-class ice skating performances and immersive nightlife, here's everything guests can expect onboard. Legend of the Seas: The World's Largest Cruise Ship As the third Icon Class ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet, Legend of the Seas offers an impressive mix of thrills and relaxation. Guests can enjoy Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea, explore eight unique neighbourhoods, dine across an extensive range of complimentary and speciality restaurants, and discover entertainment venues unlike anything else at sea. Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory One of the biggest highlights onboard is the spectacular production of Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, performed as both matinee and evening shows in the Royal Theater. The two-hour Broadway-style musical faithfully follows Charlie Bucket's unforgettable journey to Wonka's chocolate factory alongside four other lucky Golden Ticket winners. The production brings the beloved story to life with an extraordinary four-storey set, a full-sized chocolate river, dazzling choreography and even the scent of chocolate filling the theatre. Fans of the latest Wonka film will notice similarities in the charismatic portrayal of Willy Wonka, while the role of Charlie Bucket is shared by two young performers who alternate monthly to balance school and their professional acting careers. The production features soaring aerial Oompa Loompas, the famous flying glass elevator travelling above the audience and an energetic soundtrack combining familiar favourites with new musical numbers. It's a truly immersive experience that rivals many productions on land. Shockwave: A Spectacular AquaTheater Experience At the ship's AquaTheater, guests can experience Shockwave, an unforgettable water spectacular combining diving, artistic swimming, aerial acrobatics, dance and cutting-edge stage technology. Those sitting in the Splash Zone should prepare to get wet, while guests in the surrounding lounge seating can enjoy every breathtaking moment comfortably. The production features divers plunging from extraordinary heights, aerialists performing above the audience, synchronised artistic swimmers, a moving underwater platform and dramatic rainfall effects, all designed around the power and beauty of water. Blending contemporary music with incredible athleticism, Shockwave is one of the standout entertainment experiences onboard Legend of the Seas. Fusion at Absolute Zero Hidden behind Playmakers Sports Bar is one of the ship's most surprising venues—Absolute Zero, home to the largest ice arena at sea. Here, guests can watch Fusion at Absolute Zero, an emotionally powerful ice-skating spectacular celebrating the four natural elements: earth, air, fire and water. The 45-minute production combines breathtaking solo performances, gravity-defying lifts, jumps and spins with elaborate props gliding effortlessly across the ice. The talent of the international skating cast creates a mesmerising show that is equal parts artistic and athletic. It's one of the most visually stunning performances onboard. America's Got Talent LIVE Launching aboard Legend of the Seas in August 2026, America's Got Talent LIVE brings one of television's biggest entertainment franchises to sea for the very first time. Each performance will feature five acts from the Got Talent universe, including magicians, musicians, aerialists, acrobats and other fan favourites performing live in the Royal Theater. Christine Coachman, Vice President of Entertainment at Royal Caribbean, said: "At Royal Caribbean, we are constantly redefining live entertainment at every turn—bringing jaw-dropping performances to life across stage, air, water, and ice—and America's Got Talent LIVE on Legend of the Seas is the perfect expression of that vision." More Entertainment Across Legend of the Seas Beyond the headline productions, entertainment continues throughout every corner of the ship. Guests may even encounter a pianist performing live inside the lifts, while themed events in the Royal Promenade—including the lively Jungle Party—feature DJs, giant inflatable animals and energetic street performers. For music lovers, Boleros offers Latin-inspired evenings filled with salsa, samba and cumbia dancing. At Dueling Pianos, talented pianists lead interactive singalongs featuring popular hits, while Lou's provides a more relaxed atmosphere with live jazz and blues performances in an open-air setting. Meanwhile, the two-level Music Hall hosts live bands and DJs every evening, creating one of the ship's most popular late-night venues. A New Standard for Cruise Entertainment With Broadway productions, Olympic-level diving, world-class ice skating, live music and immersive entertainment around every corner, Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas raises the bar for cruise holidays. Whether you're travelling as a family, a couple or with friends, the world's largest cruise ship delivers an entertainment programme unlike any other at sea. For more information about Legend of the Seas, visit Royal Caribbean's official website. https://www.royalcaribbean.com/cruise-ships/legend-of-the-seas/things-to-do

Fancy a night at the theatre? One lucky winner and a guest will enjoy: ✨ Overnight accommodation for two at The Spencer Hotel, Dublin 🍽️ A two-course pre-theatre dinner, plus a cocktail each 🎟️ Tickets to see Mean Girls on Friday, 4th September 2026 To enter: 1️⃣ Like our post on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/traveltimesglobal/ 2️⃣ Follow @traveltimesglobal and @thespencerhotel 3️⃣ Tag a friend you'd bring along Good luck! 💗 T&Cs apply, see below. Terms & Conditions Competition closes at 11:59pm on Wednesday 8th July. Winner will be announced on the Travel Times Instagram/Facebook page shortly after. Prize includes one (1) night's overnight accommodation for two people at The Spencer Hotel, Dublin, a two-course pre-theatre dinner for two, one cocktail per person, and two (2) tickets to see Mean Girls the Musical on Friday, 4th September. Prize is valid for the stated date only and cannot be exchanged, transferred, or redeemed for cash. Entrants must be 18 years or older. Multiple tags = multiple entries, but spam tagging may result in disqualification. Winner will be chosen at random from all valid entries and contacted via direct message. Winner must respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be selected. Winner will only be contacted via @traveltimesglobal. Please ignore and report any fake accounts. This competition is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered by, or associated with Instagram or Meta. The Spencer Hotel reserve the right to amend or withdraw the competition at any time.

Travelvalue.ie – Navan Travel is offering a family holiday to Aqualand Resort & Waterpark in Corfu from €1,099pp, with all-inclusive accommodation and flights included. Perfect for families looking for a fun-filled summer escape, Aqualand Resort & Waterpark is home to one of Corfu’s biggest waterparks, offering plenty of entertainment and activities for children and adults alike. The package includes a stay in a duplex one-bedroom family room with balcony on an all-inclusive basis, making it a convenient option for families who want meals, drinks and resort facilities included during their stay. The price also includes return flights from Dublin, 1 x 20kg bag, and return transfers, helping to keep the holiday simple from start to finish. The offer is priced from €1,099pp, based on a family of four travelling from 31 July to 7 August 2026. The package is available with Travelvalue.ie here.

Barter’s Travelnet is offering a seven-night family holiday to Playa de las Américas, Tenerife, from €750pp, staying at the 4-star Colon II Apartments. Located right in the heart of Playa de las Américas, the Colon II Apartments offer a prime base for families looking to enjoy one of Tenerife’s most popular resort areas. The property features a swimming pool and is just a five-minute walk from the beach, making it a convenient choice for a relaxed summer sun escape. The package is priced at €3,000 total, based on two adults and two children under 12 sharing, with flights departing from Cork. Included in the price are return flights from Cork, a 10kg bag, and seven nights’ self-catering accommodation at the Colon II Apartments. Travel dates are from 29 July to 5 August 2026. The offer is available with Barter’s Travelnet here.

Contiki is offering an eight-day Best of Costa Rica small-group adventure from €1,400pp, with departures available from January 2027. Starting and ending in San José, the itinerary brings travellers through some of Costa Rica’s most memorable landscapes, from rainforest lowlands and volcanic scenery to waterfalls, hot springs and national parks. Guests will have the chance to see the iconic Arenal Volcano, enjoy waterfall hikes and relax in hot springs near Tamarindo. The journey also includes time in Monteverde, where hanging bridges and national park exploration offer a slower, more scenic pace. For travellers looking for extra adventure, optional experiences include ziplining, rafting and time at nearby beaches, making the itinerary a strong choice for those who want to combine nature, culture and outdoor activity. The trip also includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER™ Experience, where travellers can take part in tree planting to support the local ecosystem and contribute positively to the destination during their stay. Contiki’s eight-day Best of Costa Rica itinerary is priced from €1,400pp, including accommodation, selected meals and experiences. Flights are not included. To book, visit contiki.com.

Click&Go Holidays is offering a summer family escape to Salou from €699pp, staying at the 4-star Ponient Piramide Salou in July 2026. The seven-night package includes accommodation at the Ponient Piramide Salou on a half-board basis, making it a convenient option for families looking to enjoy a sun holiday on Spain’s Costa Dorada with meals included. A major highlight of the offer is the included 2 Day / 2 Parks Ticket, giving families access to both PortAventura Park and Ferrari Land. The ticket allows entry to PortAventura Park and Ferrari Land on the same day, plus an additional one-day access to PortAventura Park. Salou is a long-time favourite for family holidays, known for its beaches, lively resort atmosphere and close proximity to some of Spain’s best-loved theme park attractions. With PortAventura World nearby, this package combines a classic summer beach break with plenty of added family fun. The offer is priced from €699pp, based on two adults and two children sharing, for travel between 1 July and 31 July 2026. The package is available with Click&Go Holidays. For more information or to book, visit www.clickandgo.com.

American Sky is offering savings of €300pp on its seven-night Western Trails escorted tour, taking travellers through some of the most iconic landscapes, cities and national parks of the American Southwest. The circular itinerary begins and ends in Los Angeles, travelling through a varied mix of desert scenery, vibrant cities and dramatic natural landmarks. Guests will journey through destinations including Palm Springs, Phoenix and the Sonoran Desert, before continuing to celebrated natural wonders such as the Grand Canyon, Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. The tour also explores the cultural and geological highlights of Navajo Country and Monument Valley, along with the striking landscapes of Lake Powell, Sedona and the Painted Desert. Time is also spent in Las Vegas, where guests can enjoy the city’s famous shows, shopping, casinos, museums and nightlife. Highlights of the tour include beginning and ending the trip in sun-kissed Los Angeles, travelling through the distinctive Sonoran Desert, taking in the breathtaking vistas of the Grand Canyon National Park, visiting Monument Valley and the Painted Desert, and exploring the spectacular scenery of Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks. This escorted American West tour is particularly rewarding in autumn, when conditions across the region are more comfortable and visually striking. Desert areas such as Arizona and Nevada have eased out of the extreme summer heat, making travel through open landscapes more enjoyable, while national parks including the Grand Canyon, Zion and Bryce Canyon often benefit from crisp air, softer light and excellent visibility. Autumn can also bring a more relaxed atmosphere in many key destinations, with fewer peak-season crowds at viewpoints and trails, allowing for a more immersive experience of the scenery. Travellers who book a Western Trails tour by 30 June 2026 can receive savings of up to €300pp. The seven-night tour is priced from €2,000pp, reduced from €2,300pp, based on two sharing a room on a room-only basis. The price includes international return flights, a dedicated Tour Manager, travel by deluxe air-conditioned coach throughout, a complimentary airport transfer from LAX to the first hotel, hotel accommodation as specified or similar, and two breakfasts as detailed in the itinerary. Travellers can also take advantage of American Sky’s 2027 Split Deposit Offer, paying just 50% of the required deposit upfront for 2027 holidays. To book, contact American Sky on 01342 331798 or visit www.americansky.co.uk.

Swan Hellenic is offering savings of over €2,250 per person on its six-night Soul, Samba and Sea: Journey to the Heart of Brazil luxury cultural cruise, departing on 25 October 2026 onboard SH Vega. The cruise is now priced from approximately €3,200pp, reduced from €5,465pp, representing a saving of €2,250pp. Guests will also receive an added bonus of a Gold Wi-Fi package and €250 onboard ship credit. The itinerary begins in Salvador de Bahia, a city known for its rich Afro-Brazilian culture, colourful colonial architecture and vibrant music scene, before sailing along Brazil’s coast towards Rio de Janeiro. Highlights along the route include the historic Pelourinho district in Salvador, the rhythms and movement of local capoeira dancers in Itacaré, and the relaxed, boho-chic atmosphere of Trancoso, where its famous quadrado is surrounded by rainforest. Guests will also visit the Abrolhos Archipelago, known for its marine life and biodiversity. Here, travellers can snorkel in clear natural pools, take in the views from the ship’s observation decks, or enjoy expert-led insights from Swan Hellenic’s expedition team. The journey continues with opportunities to experience Brazil’s lively coastal culture, from the nightlife of Búzios to the carnival spirit of Rio de Janeiro, complete with caipirinhas, music and the unmistakable energy of Brazil. The cruise-only fare includes an ocean-view stateroom, all meals onboard, selected drinks, 24-hour room service, self-service laundry, lecture programmes led by the expedition team and guest speakers, one selected shore excursion per port of call, standard Wi-Fi, onboard gratuities and port taxes. To book, contact Swan Hellenic’s reservations team on 0203 540 4168 or visit www.swanhellenic.com.

Music lovers can experience Andrea Bocelli live in Warsaw this August, with two travel options available from Dublin combining the concert with a four-night stay in the Polish capital. The Last Minute Self-Guided Offer – Andrea Bocelli in Historic Warsaw departs on 14 August 2026, with prices from €891pps. This option is ideal for independent travellers who want to enjoy the concert while exploring Warsaw at their own pace. The self-guided package includes return flights from Dublin, four nights in the 4* Polonia Palace Hotel with breakfast, and a ticket to see Andrea Bocelli live in concert on 16 August 2026. For those looking for a more structured experience, the Escorted Tour – Andrea Bocelli in Historic Warsaw departs on 13 August 2026, with prices from €1,793pps. This fully guided four-night cultural tour combines Andrea Bocelli’s concert with a deeper exploration of Warsaw’s history, music and landmarks, as well as excursions inspired by the life and legacy of composer Frédéric Chopin. The escorted tour includes return flights from Dublin, four nights in the 4* Polonia Palace Hotel with breakfast, a welcome lunch, guided sightseeing in Warsaw including the Royal Castle and Łazienki Royal Park, a Chopin piano recital, and a full-day excursion following Chopin’s footsteps, with visits to Żelazowa Wola, Sanniki Palace, Łowicz and the open-air museum in Maurzyce. Guests will also enjoy a half-day excursion to Wilanów Palace and Park, a three-course pre-concert dinner, an Andrea Bocelli concert ticket on 16 August 2026, and private transfers and local guides throughout. Both options offer guests the chance to experience one of the world’s most celebrated classical voices in the atmospheric setting of Warsaw, with the choice between independent travel or a fully guided cultural itinerary.

Ireland’s first floating sauna has officially launched at Dún Laoghaire Harbour, bringing a new coastal wellness experience to one of Dublin’s most scenic waterfront destinations. The innovative new facility was launched by Leas-Cathaoirleach Pierce Dargan, marking an exciting addition to the harbour’s growing mix of leisure, wellbeing and sea-based activities. Set against the backdrop of Dublin Bay, the floating sauna combines the restorative benefits of heat therapy with the refreshing contrast of a cold plunge pool, offering visitors a distinctive way to enjoy the harbour from the water. The launch further strengthens Dún Laoghaire’s reputation as a destination for outdoor recreation and wellness experiences. In recent years, the harbour has become increasingly popular for sea swimming, walking, paddleboarding and other coastal activities, with the new floating sauna adding another reason for both locals and visitors to spend time by the sea. Speaking at the launch, Leas-Cathaoirleach Pierce Dargan welcomed the new initiative, highlighting the importance of activating the harbour in creative and engaging ways. The project reflects a wider interest in experiences that connect people more closely with the water, while also supporting health, wellbeing and outdoor activity. A special mention was also given to Helios Sauna and harbour staff, whose vision and partnership helped bring the project to life. The floating sauna is set to open to the public on 30 May and is expected to attract those looking for a unique wellness experience in a striking coastal setting. With Dublin Bay as its backdrop and cold-water therapy built into the experience, the new sauna offers a fresh way to enjoy Dún Laoghaire Harbour throughout the year.

Treat yourself to a relaxing getaway on Ireland’s coast with a stay at the Seafield Hotel & Spa Resort, a 4-star property just steps from the beach in County Wexford. Surrounded by nature, elegance and a soothing atmosphere, everything is in place for a true moment of relaxation. The hotel stands out for its lush green setting and direct access to the coastline, perfect for long scenic walks. Its real highlight, however, is the award-winning Oceo Spa, a dedicated wellness space where you can fully switch off and unwind. Special offer: Enjoy 10% off a 5-night stay with breakfast included, from August 1st to 6th, 2026, for a total of €1,113. The offer includes a Full Irish Breakfast each morning, as well as daily 2-hour access to the thermal suites and hydrotherapy pool at the spa (pre-booking required). Offer available online only, with prepayment (non-refundable and non-transferable). For the full experience, be sure to book your spa treatments and restaurant in advance to avoid disappointment. Discover the offer on the hotel’s website: seafieldhotel.com