When Ryanair launched flights to Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, few saw it as a hiking opportunity. But for those willing to look beyond the typical Balkan itineraries, this small city unlocks access to one of Europe’s most underappreciated landscapes - the Dinaric Alps. And just 45 minutes from the city centre is one of the most remarkable half-day hikes you can do in Europe, without crowds, ski lifts, or packaged tours - Rikavac Fortress and the Old Road to Lake Skadar. The Hike - Old Road to Lake Skadar via Rikavac Start from the old town of Virpazar, a tiny lakeside village that can be reached easily by train or bus from Podgorica. From there, a series of old Roman and Ottoman trade paths head uphill past olive groves and stone ruins to Rikavac Fortress, a remote, crumbling 19th-century outpost with a panoramic view over Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans. The route is about 10km round trip, and while it’s not technically difficult, the heat and elevation change (around 500m) make it a satisfying challenge. You'll pass goats and the occasional shepherd - and more than likely, no other hikers. Descending to the lake, you’ll end your walk in Virpazar, where you can cool off with a boat ride or a glass of local Vranac wine at one of the floating cafés. What to Do in Podgorica Podgorica itself is small. It’s not polished - and that’s what makes it interesting. There are boutique shops and a stunning old town quarter, alongside brutalist architecture, Ottoman bridges, and locals drinking Turkish coffee. Notable stops: Stara Varoš: The old Ottoman quarter, with cobbled streets and a handful of still-operating mosques. Niagara Falls (yes, really): A surprisingly impressive waterfall on the Cijevna River just outside the city. Duklja Ruins: The remains of a Roman settlement, scattered across a hill just 10 minutes from downtown. Where to Stay In Podgorica, Hotel Hemera is a stylish boutique option in the city centre, with strong espresso, smart design, and a very good in-house restaurant. For a more nature-focused stay, book a lakeside guesthouse near Virpazar like Eco Resort Cermeniza , run by a local winemaking family with easy trail access. Getting There with Ryanair Ryanair flies direct to Podgorica from Dublin, with flight times around 3 hours. Fares can dip as low as €40 return, making it one of the most affordable routes to a completely off-radar European destination. The airport is just 15 minutes from the city centre, and Virpazar can be reached in another 30 minutes by local train, making it simple, scenic, and perfect for a hiking base.

Skiing is often seen as a group trip with shared chalets, long lunches with friends, and après-ski with a crowd. But what if you flipped the script? Could you go skiing in the Alps solo and actually enjoy it? The short answer: absolutely. Skiing on your own offers something different - more freedom, more focus, and a chance to move entirely at your own pace. A solo ski trip can be one of the most rewarding winter experiences. But not all ski resorts are built for it. You need somewhere easy to navigate, with a good mix of slopes, a solid solo-friendly atmosphere, and accommodation that doesn’t assume you're arriving in a group of 4. And perhaps most importantly, somewhere you can find good food and friendly faces when you want them. One place that ticks all those boxes? Méribel , in the French Alps. Why Méribel Works for Solo Skiers Located in Les Trois Vallées , Méribel is perfectly positioned - right in the middle of the largest connected ski area in the world. With 600km of pistes  linking Courchevel, Val Thorens, and more, you can cover serious ground without ever repeating a run. But its central location isn’t the only reason it works for solo skiers. Méribel has a compact, well-organised village with reliable ski lift connections, plenty of ski-in/ski-out accommodation, and an international crowd that makes it easy to blend in. It’s lively without being overwhelming, and there’s a strong English-speaking presence in both the ski schools and the hospitality sector. Most importantly, Méribel’s slopes cater to every ability. If you're looking to push yourself, you can drop into the steeper slopes of Mont Vallon or explore the off-piste runs with a local guide. Prefer something more chill? Cruise the wide blues in the Altiport area! Where to Stay -  Hotel Le Savoy For solo travellers, Hotel Le Savoy  strikes the right balance between style and comfort without the sense that you're paying for space you won’t use. Centrally located in Méribel village, this four-star boutique hotel is just a short walk to the ski lifts and has excellent service. The rooms are well-sized (even the singles), the décor is tastefully alpine without being twee, and there’s a cosy library lounge with a fireplace that’s ideal for reading or unwinding after a day on the slopes. The hotel also has a small wellness area with a sauna and steam room - perfect for solo downtime. Staff are friendly and genuinely helpful, especially for those skiing alone, helping arrange lift passes or recommending quieter trails. They go beyond the usual check-in formalities. Where to Eat -  L'Igloo Restaurant Dining alone in a ski resort can feel awkward if you're stuck between communal tables filled with ski parties. L'Igloo  on the other hand is a stylish, low-lit restaurant located in the centre of Méribel that’s as comfortable for a party of one as it is for a group. Their menu leans into local Savoyard classics with a lighter twist, grilled fish, seasonal soups, and tartiflette. The bar area has counter seating, ideal for solo diners who want a drink and a proper meal. The wine list is also huge, with local bottles by the glass. Getting There and Getting Around Getting to Méribel is relatively straightforward. From Ireland, fly into Geneva , Lyon , or Chambéry . Geneva typically offers the most flight options, with Aer Lingus  and Ryanair  running frequent services from Dublin. From the airport, Méribel is around 2.5 hours by car or transfer . Several shuttle services run directly from Geneva, such as Ben’s Bus and Altibus, which cater well to solo travellers and make the transfer hassle-free. Alternatively, if you're confident on the road, hire a car - Méribel has plenty of parking, especially if you're staying centrally. Once in the resort, everything is walkable, and regular local buses connect different parts of the village. Lift passes cover the entire Trois Vallées, and ski schools (like Oxygène  or ESF Méribel ) offer one-on-one coaching or group lessons that welcome solo skiers. Without anyone to wait for or catch up with, you ski at your own speed. Take that extra run. Skip lunch. Linger over coffee! Skiing solo is more than possible, especially in such a fantastic solo-friendly location like Méribel.

The Stedelijk is not the most famous museum in Amsterdam, but it may be the most important if you want to understand the ideas shaping our time. Located in Museumplein , alongside the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, the Stedelijk stands out for anyone interested in modern and contemporary art, design, and visual culture. A Museum That’s Always in Motion The Stedelijk (Dutch for “municipal”) first opened in 1895, but the museum’s identity as a home for modern art truly came into focus in the early 20th century. It was among the first in Europe to collect works from then-unknown artists like Kandinsky, Malevich, and Mondrian. Today, it holds over 90,000 works spanning painting, sculpture, photography, film, digital art, graphic design, and even performance. The Stedelijk’s reputation comes not just from its collection, but its curation. This is a museum that, over the years, has constantly asked viewers to think, not just admire. Exhibits change frequently and tend to mix media, eras, and ideas. A retrospective of a post-war painter might be shown alongside video installations, or mid-century graphic design placed in dialogue with street art and protest posters. The Building  The museum’s original red-brick building now sits beside a striking extension known locally as “The Bathtub” - a white structure designed by Benthem Crouwel Architects that caused plenty of controversy when it opened in 2012.  Inside, the spaces are open and adaptable. There is plenty of light in the upper galleries, while lower levels have darker, moodier installations. This is deliberate to how exhibits are staged. What to See While exhibitions rotate regularly, there are a few permanent fixtures and highlights that showcase the museum’s range: De Stijl Movement: The Stedelijk owns one of the world’s most important collections of work by Piet Mondrian and Theo van Doesburg, pioneers of the abstract De Stijl movement. Bauhaus: From László Moholy-Nagy to Marcel Breuer, the museum’s design and furniture collection is deeply rooted in modernism’s most influential schools. Photography and Time-Based Media: The Stedelijk was ahead of the curve in collecting photography and film, with works by artists like Nan Goldin, Rineke Dijkstra, and Steve McQueen. Post-War Rebels: American and European artists who redefined visual art in the mid-20th century - Barnett Newman, Ellsworth Kelly, and Jean Dubuffet feature prominently. Current and recent exhibitions often focus on urgent contemporary issues: migration, digital surveillance, climate, identity politics. The museum does not shy away from the messy! Practical Details The Stedelijk Museum is open daily, including weekends, and late on Fridays. It's just a few tram stops from Amsterdam Centraal, or a 30-minute walk along the canals. Tickets are €20 for adults, and free for visitors under 18, making it one of the more accessible major museums in the city. There’s also an excellent café and shop selling everything from limited-edition art books to design pieces. Getting There with Aer Lingus Travelling to Amsterdam from Ireland is fast and easy, with Aer Lingus offering multiple daily direct flights from Dublin to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport . The flight takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes . From Schiphol, the Stedelijk Museum  is just a 20-minute train and tram ride  away. Take a train to Amsterdam Zuid or Centraal and transfer to Tram 5 or 12, which stop right at Museumplein. Return fares with Aer Lingus typically range from €90 to €180 , depending on the season and how early you book.

If you're dreaming of sunny family fun, we’ve got just the deal! This fantastic package from Cassidy Travel includes flights, accommodation, and luggage, and is designed to keep things simple and affordable for families prices at just €1865. What’s Included in the Package Cassidy Travel’s Family Sun  deal takes you to the beautiful resort town of Palma, Majorca  for a full week of sun and leisure. Here’s what you can expect: Travel Date : 26th June 2025 – ideal for an early summer break just as the school holidays begin. Duration : 7 Nights. Accommodation : Stay at the charming 3 Globales Apartamentos Nova *, a family-friendly apartment complex perched by the soft sands of Son Matías Beach . Board Basis : Self-Catering – perfect if you like the freedom to explore local eateries or prepare meals your way. Inclusions : Return flights for four 20kg checked-in luggage per person Seven nights’ accommodation in a family apartment This package is available for 2 adults and 2 kids , with prices starting at just €1,865 total . That’s just over €66 per person, per night – with flights and luggage included! Where You’ll Be Staying The Globales Apartamentos Nova   official site here  is perfectly located in Palma Nova , one of Majorca’s most beloved family destinations. It offers: Family-friendly apartments with balconies and kitchenettes A gorgeous outdoor pool A poolside bar  (you’re on holiday too, after all) Beautiful landscaped gardens Just steps from the golden sands of Son Matías Beach You’ll be surrounded by restaurants, shops, and fun activities! What To Do in Palma Palma isn’t just about beaches – though they are spectacular. Here are some top picks for family fun during your stay: Marineland Mallorca : See dolphins, sea lions, and exotic birds up close. Katmandu Park : A theme park packed with mini-golf, laser games, and a 4D cinema – a huge hit with kids. Palma Aquarium : Discover over 700 species of marine life in one of Europe’s top aquariums. Historical Palma : Take a short trip to the city centre to see the La Seu Cathedral  and walk through the Old Town. Price & Booking Total Price : From €1,865 (for 2 adults + 2 children) Inclusions : Return flights, luggage, 7 nights’ accommodation (self-catering) Travel Date : 26th June 2025 How to Book : Visit   cassidytravel.ie . This deal is a fantastic value for a family of four, with sun, sea, and space to unwind without the hassle of DIY bookings!

The days are getting longer, temperatures are rising and there’s no better time to trade grey skies for golden beaches. Fancy the sun-soaked shores of Santa Ponsa, the beachside buzz of Benidorm or the picture-perfect charm of Santorini? Your perfect Spring break awaits with these special deals from Cassidy Travel! SANTA PONÇA Travel 26th April 2025 5 Night Package 4* Reverence Life Hotel (Adults Only) Flights, 10kg Luggage & Transfers Included Prices from €405pp based on 2 sharing Stunning beachfront resort with 4 outdoor pools, swim-up areas & free spa and wellness centre.   SANTORINI Travel 2nd May 2025 7 Night Package 3* Villa Livadaros Direct Flights from Dublin Prices from €359pp based on 2 sharing Family-owned village guesthouse with beautiful swimming pool, sun terrace and gardens.   BENIDORM Travel 25th May 2025 7 Night Package 4* La Estación Return Flights and Accommodation Included Prices from €455pp based on 2 sharing Modern hotel with stunning city and mountain views, freshwater swimming pool, sun terrace and gym. To book, visit Cassidytravel.ie .

Portugal National Day, officially known as Dia de Portugal, de Camões e das Comunidades Portuguesas , is held every year on June 10  as a celebration of national pride, culture, language, and the Portuguese diaspora around the world. It honours the death of Luís de Camões , the country’s greatest poet and author of Os Lusíadas , a sweeping epic of exploration and empire. While it’s marked with official ceremonies and speeches, Portugal’s National Day is also about food, music, and local celebrations that bring communities together. Here’s how to experience June 10 like a local - and skip the tourist version! Lisbon Lisbon is the heart of National Day’s official events. Every year, the Portuguese President leads a state ceremony that includes military parades, the raising of the flag, and the awarding of honors to distinguished citizens. These events often rotate locations, but Belém  and the Jerónimos Monastery  are common focal points due to their national significance. Once the formalities are over, the capital comes alive. Head to the Alfama  or Bairro Alto  neighbourhoods for live fado music, street food, and an electric atmosphere. Restaurants serve up patriotic specials, with bacalhau in its many forms, grilled sardines, and pastéis de nata straight from the oven!  Don’t leave without watching the sun set over the Tagus River from Miradouro da Senhora do Monte . Locals will be up there with a bottle of vinho verde and nowhere to be. Porto In Porto, the celebrations tend to lean more local and relaxed. The waterfront terraces along the Ribeira will be packed , and there will be pop-up stages with traditional folk music plus plenty of port wine flowing by the glass. While the big crowds hit Lisbon, Porto is a more intimate look at Portuguese pride! Make a visit to the Casa de Camilo , dedicated to writer Camilo Castelo Branco, who, alongside Camões, helped shape Portuguese literature. It’s a reminder that this is a cultural holiday as much as a national one. In the evening, locals spill out along the Douro River , and unofficial fireworks often light up the night sky. The Algarve If you’re in the Algarve on June 10, don’t expect huge processions. Small towns like Lagos , Tavira , and Faro  host their own events, including open-air concerts, local crafts markets, and community feasts featuring everything from cataplana seafood stews to freshly baked pão de ló. This is a great way to see the slower, community-focused side of Portugal.  We recommend to find a seaside town with a local taverna and stay for dinner. Chances are, you’ll end up in a festival atmosphere without trying. Getting There with Aer Lingus Reaching Portugal for National Day is simple and stress-free with Aer Lingus, which offers direct flights from Dublin to both Lisbon and Faro, with seasonal services also available to Porto. Flight time clocks in at just under three hours, making it an easy long weekend getaway. Return fares typically range from €120 to €220, depending on how early you book and your travel dates. If you're in Portugal on June 10, don’t just observe - join in!

The Arena di Verona Opera Festival is not just one of the most famous cultural events in Italy, it’s one of the most extraordinary musical experiences in the world. Held inside a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheatre under the open sky, the Verona Opera Season turns history into theatre. But to make the most of it, you’ll need to know more than just the showtimes. Here’s where to be, when to go, and what to do while you’re there. The Arena di Verona The centrepiece of the season is the Arena di Verona, a colossal Roman amphitheatre that has stood since 30 AD. Originally built to host gladiator battles, today it seats around 13,000 people and serves as one of the world’s largest, and most beautiful, opera venues. What makes the Arena unique isn’t just its scale, but the atmosphere - open air with candlelit steps. The acoustics here are brilliant, and there’s nothing better than sitting in the front rows with a glass of prosecco.  When - June to September The Verona Opera Festival runs every summer from mid-June to early September, with performances typically scheduled three to four nights a week. The 2025 season kicks off in mid-June and will include classics like Aida, Carmen, La Traviata, and Turandot. July and August are the busiest months, with the most performances and the liveliest atmosphere. Book early, especially for the big productions on weekends, as tickets can sell out months in advance. Early and late-season performances (June and September) tend to be less crowded and slightly cooler in temperature, which can make for a more comfortable evening. What to Do Before the Curtain Rises Verona is more than just an opera stage - here's how to fill your day before taking your seat at the Arena. Visit Juliet’s House (Casa di Giulietta):  Yes, it's touristy. But stepping onto the tiny balcony is iconic. Then, escape the crowds and explore the medieval streets behind Via Cappello. Climb the Torre dei Lamberti: Get a panoramic view of the city and Arena from the top of this 84-metre tower. Best visited in the late afternoon. Walk along the Adige River: Walk from Ponte Pietra to Castelvecchio for a quiet loop around the city’s historic centre. Eat like a local: Before the opera, head to a trattoria for risotto all’Amarone or bigoli pasta with duck ragù. Osteria Le Vecete  and Trattoria al Pompiere  are favourites that still feel authentically Veronese. What to Expect at the Opera Dress ranges from smart casual to black tie, especially on gala nights. Bring a cushion if you’ve booked seats on the stone steps, and arrive early to grab a good view. Getting There with Aer Lingus Aer Lingus offers direct flights from Dublin to Verona , making it easy to get to the heart of opera season without the hassle of long layovers. The flight takes just over two and a half hours, and with multiple weekly departures during the summer months, it's simple to plan a weekend around a major performance. Return fares typically range from €140 to €250 , depending on when you book. From Verona Airport, it’s just a 20-minute drive or taxi ride into the city centre, close enough to drop your bags and still make it to aperitivo before the show.

June is Pride Month, a global celebration of LGBTQ+ identity, history, and resilience. What began as a protest has grown into a worldwide movement of visibility, solidarity, and joy. Across cities big and small, Pride takes over the streets with parades, parties, art, and activism. If you’re thinking of traveling this June, here are some of the biggest Pride events around the world - each offering something different. 1. New York City Pride – USA (June 30, 2025) NYC is the birthplace of the modern Pride movement. The first march happened in 1970, a year after the Stonewall Riots. What to expect:  A massive parade down Fifth Avenue, the annual Human Rights Conference, queer art exhibitions, and parties across all five boroughs. Pride Island, NYC Pride’s official music event, draws major acts and thousands of attendees. 2. São Paulo Pride – Brazil (June 22, 2025) It’s the largest Pride parade in the world by sheer numbers - millions line Avenida Paulista each year. What to expect:  Massive, intricate floats playing music,costumes, political messaging, and a truly electric atmosphere. São Paulo’s Pride is deeply political, often focused on LGBTQ+ rights in a country where they remain under threat. 3. Madrid Orgullo (MADO) – Spain (June 28–July 7, 2025) Spain was one of the first countries to legalise same-sex marriage and Madrid Pride is one of Europe’s loudest and proudest. What to expect:  A week of concerts, drag shows, cultural events, and a massive parade that takes over Gran Vía. The Chueca neighborhood becomes the unofficial HQ for parties that go until sunrise. 4. Berlin Pride (Christopher Street Day) – Germany (June 28, 2025) Named after the street where the Stonewall Riots began, Berlin’s CSD is as much about protest as it is about party. What to expect:  A colourful parade with a strong anti-discrimination message, followed by city-wide celebrations. The vibe is very Berlin - a mix of techno and grassroots activism.  5. Toronto Pride – Canada (June 28–30, 2025) One of the most well-organised and inclusive Pride festivals in North America. What to expect:  Family Pride, Trans Pride, the Dyke March, and the iconic main parade on Sunday. The Church-Wellesley Village becomes the centre for parties, performances, and public art. Pride Month is about presence. Around the world, each celebration is a reminder that visibility still matters, and solidarity still changes things.

Summer fashion isn’t just about the perfect sundress or the crisp linen set, it’s the accessories that truly transform your look from simple to standout. Whether you're lounging by the pool or heading to an alfresco dinner, the right details can turn any outfit into a statement. This season, think bold, layered, and unapologetically expressive. Let’s start with layered gold chains , the ultimate summer staple. Whether it’s delicate strands resting against sun-kissed skin or chunky links adding edge to a minimalist dress, gold necklaces bring instant polish. Stack them over swimsuits, linen shirts, or a slip dress for that effortless luxe vibe. Want to add a bit of contrast? Turquoise beads  add a pop of color and a boho edge. Combined with gold, they channel laid-back island energy with a touch of glam. When it comes to wrists, more is more. Stacked multi-colored bracelets , from woven bands to resin bangles, add playfulness and texture. They jingle with every cocktail sip and photograph beautifully against golden hour light. These accessories thrive on variety, so don’t be afraid to mix textures, tones, and origins. Purchase here Earrings are having a major moment this season. Oversized hoops  are back in a big way, gold, silver, tortoiseshell, or embellished, they bring fierce femininity to even the most relaxed looks. Whether you’re in a swimsuit and cover-up or a chic dinner ensemble, hoops draw attention and frame the face beautifully. Pair them with a slicked-back bun or ponytail  to let them shine, plus, it's a practical solution for heat and humidity while looking utterly chic. The beauty of summer accessories is their versatility. A look that starts by the pool can carry you straight to a beachside dinner with just a few tweaks, maybe swap flip-flops for strappy sandals, add a bold lip, and keep those layers of jewelry on display. These pieces tell a story, they show personality, and they give you the freedom to be playful, spontaneous, and stylish, all at once. This summer, think of accessories not as an afterthought but as the foundation of your look. From resort days to rooftop nights, it’s the beads, chains, bangles, and hoops that will have you turning heads. Purchase here

Aer Lingus has unveiled a limited time summer seat and bag sale to destinations across the UK and mainland Europe . Here’s all the info: Aer Lingus is kicking off the summer season with a splash, offering up to 20% off fares & bags to destinations across Europe and the UK. This limited time sale is live now until the 17th of June, for travel from the 1st August to the 22nd October. Whether dreaming of golden beaches or cobblestone city streets, book your late-summer getaway now without breaking the bank. Bask in the Spanish sun with an escape to Tenerife’s volcanic coastlines, the Balearic charm of Palma de Mallorca or the vibrant tapas culture of Malaga . Prefer a city break? Lisbon , Portugal’s sunlit capital, is just a few clicks away. If an Italian summer feels right for you, embrace la dolce vita with a wander through the historic heart of Pisa , or try the world-famous pizza in Naples . For more information and to book flights, visit  aerlingus.com . Offer Details ✍️ 🎁 Offer:  Up to 20% off fares and bags on travel to Europe and the UK (includes Aer Lingus Regional flights operated by Emerald Airlines) 🗓️ Sale dates:  Book before 17th June 🛩️ Travel period:  1st August – 22nd October

Iceland is wild, remote, and unfiltered. And while each season offers something different, August quietly holds the crown as the best time to go. Here’s why. 1. The Weather Hits a Sweet Spot August is as close to “summer” as Iceland gets. Average temperatures range from 10 to 15°C, which may not sound tropical, but in Icelandic terms, it's practically balmy. The wind is less punishing, the rain (usually) more forgiving, and you can explore the outdoors without bundling up like you're headed to the Arctic. What really makes the difference is daylight. Though the midnight sun starts to fade by early August, you’ll still have 16 to 18 hours of daylight - plenty of time to hike, drive, soak in a hot spring, or just sit and take it all in without racing the sunset. 2. Roads Are Open Much of Iceland is only accessible during the summer, especially the Highlands, where there are lava fields, waterfalls, and steaming vents. These areas are only reachable in 4x4 vehicles, and many of the F-roads (unpaved mountain routes) are open for just a few short weeks each year. August is peak access. If you're planning a self-drive adventure, this is the month. The Ring Road is clear, most mountain passes are navigable, and conditions are ideal for road tripping without the white-knuckle driving you’d face in spring or autumn. 3. Nature Shows Off  August is the last full month of Iceland’s short but spectacular summer, and nature makes the most of it. The terrain is impossibly green, rivers are full from glacier melt, and wildflowers still bloom in the countryside. Waterfalls like Skógafoss and Gullfoss are at their most photogenic, and the moss-covered lava fields seem almost unreal. You’ll also find puffins nesting along the cliffs, especially in places like Dyrhólaey and the Westman Islands, but only until late August. Miss this window and you’ll have to wait another year to catch a glimpse of Iceland’s most beloved seabird. 4. Festivals Bring Icelandic Culture to Life August is packed with cultural events. Reykjavik hosts Menningarnótt (Culture Night) in mid-August, a massive celebration of arts, music, food, and fireworks that draws locals from across the country.  Also in August is the quirky and unforgettable Þjóðhátíð in the Westman Islands - a wild, all-night music festival revolving all around tradition, with bonfires and singing. If you want to party with the Icelanders, this is it. 5. Northern Lights In August, Iceland exists in a kind of seasonal limbo, in the best possible way. You still get the endless days and easy access of summer, but by the end of the month, the northern lights can begin to make their first faint appearances, especially in the far north or more remote areas. You might not catch a full display, but there's a chance. It’s the only month where that overlap is possible. If you're thinking about when to go, stop wondering. August is your window. Getting There from Ireland Traveling to Iceland from Ireland is straightforward, especially during the summer. Aer Lingus offers direct flights from Dublin to Reykjavik’s Keflavík International Airport, with flight times just under three hours. In August, multiple weekly departures make it easy to plan a long weekend or a full adventure without complex layovers. Return fares typically range from €160 to €280, depending on how early you book. Once you land, Keflavík is less than an hour from Reykjavik by car or shuttle, putting you in easy reach of the capital.

Abu Dhabi is no longer just a stopover for luxury or business - it’s increasingly making a name for itself as a family-friendly destination. Here’s a look at how each element from theme park visits to beachfront hotels can form the backbone of a well-rounded family holiday in Abu Dhabi! Where to Stay with the Family Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan by Rotana Located along the Corniche beachfront, Khalidiya Palace Rayhaan is a smart pick for families wanting to balance luxury with laid-back fun. The pool area is one of the largest in Abu Dhabi and includes a dedicated kids’ pool. The private beach means you can go from breakfast to beach ball in minutes, and their family-friendly Horizon Restaurant makes mealtimes easy with international favourites and a relaxed setting. Babysitting services are available too - perfect if the adults want a spa hour or evening walk. Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi This one’s all about variety. Connected directly to Abu Dhabi Mall, it has immediate access to shopping, casual eats, and entertainment - ideal for tweens and teens. Families can book interconnecting rooms or opt for suites with extra space, and the shaded kids’ pool, on-site watersports, and selection of global dining options (from seafood to pizzerias) tick plenty of boxes. There’s even a private beach, and for older kids, kayaking and paddleboarding are available right on your doorstep. Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas A showstopper for the final leg of the trip, Saadiyat Rotana is located along the Saadiyat Island shoreline. The resort has a splash park, lazy river, and an Aladdin’s Cave Kids Club with creative workshops, games, and outdoor fun. The expansive beachfront is calm and shallow, ideal for little swimmers, while parents can relax with a drink at Sim Sim Restaurant or Hamilton’s Gastropub, both of which welcome kids with open arms and family menus. Things to Do with the Kids Abu Dhabi often mixes adrenaline with education, giving families the chance to learn, laugh, and let loose together. Yas Island Abu Dhabi’s answer to an entertainment megaplexYas Island is Abu Dhabi’s answer to an entertainment megaplex. This place is a no-brainer for travelling families, with everything from the world’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World to a cartoon come-to-life at Warner Bros. World. Everything here is engineered for excitement! Even Yas Mall, often included as a “shopping stop,” has soft play centres, family restaurants, and VR gaming zones. You can easily spend two or three days here hopping from ride to ride. Qasr Al Watan For a dose of culture, Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace, has interactive exhibits and stunning architecture that older kids and teens will love. It’s history-meets-holograms, with storytelling about the UAE’s founding and traditions. Be sure to catch the evening light show if your timing allows. Saadiyat Island Cultural District While little ones splash around the resort, older children and parents can explore the nearby cultural institutions. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, in particular, is wonderfully family-oriented, with a Children’s Museum, hands-on creative spaces, and a café perfect for post-art snacks. Corniche and Marina Walks Ideal for unwinding between excursions, the Corniche area has beaches, parks, and waterfront cycling paths. Grab an ice cream and enjoy the sea views. It’s safe, clean, and stroller-friendly - especially around late afternoon when the heat lifts. Eating Out with Kids Abu Dhabi is surprisingly easy when it comes to food. Most restaurants cater to children with dedicated menus and flexible dishes. Dino’s at Pearl Rotana is a classic family winner, with pizza, pasta, and staff who don’t blink at a dropped fork or a fussy toddler. At Sim Sim, buffet dining makes everyone happy - even the picky eaters. Flight Connections from Ireland Families can fly direct from Dublin to Abu Dhabi with Etihad Airways , with a comfortable flight time of just under 8 hours. The airline’s inflight entertainment includes a strong kids' section, and family seating options make the long-haul journey that bit more manageable.