As the UK festival season kicks off with news of the ‘rainiest UK summer in 100 years’, it’s not too late to seek out sun-filled festivities in bucket-list locations around the world. From Australia’s biggest light celebration, to jazz in the Colorado Rocky Mountains and pickles in Pittsburgh, below are 13 once-in-a-lifetime events to book now. Uncover the magic of Vivid Sydney 2024 – Sydney, New South Wales ( 24 May – 15 June) Vivid Sydney  has returned to the city, fusing art, innovation, and technology in collaboration with some of the most boundary-pushing artists, thinkers, and musicians of our time. Vivid Sydney is an annual festival of light, music, and ideas, including outdoor immersive light installations and projections across iconic buildings and attractions, performances by local and international musicians, and an ideas exchange forum featuring public talks and debates with leading creative thinkers. Last year’s program included the largest drone show in the Southern Hemisphere and, new for 2023, Vivid Food.  sydney.com Celebrate 45 years of the Aspen Music Festival and School – Aspen, Colorado, USA (26 June – 18 August) Founded back in 1949, the  Aspen Music Festival and School  is viewed as one of the most prestigious classical music festivals in North America, famous for its concerts, musical training programmes and over 400 classical music events and opera performances throughout the year. During the summer, hundreds of events are scheduled over eight-weeks, including orchestra concerts, chamber music, operas and classes, with the 75th year set to feature celebrations on all 53 nights of the season.  aspenchamber.org Dance through the streets at Capitol Hill Block Party – Seattle, Washington, USA (19-21 July) Celebrating Seattle’s coolest neighbourhood,  Capitol Hill Block Party  has 100 local and national acts performing at bars, outdoor stages and restaurants in the area. Known for creating the world’s most influential musicians, such as Nirvana and Pearl Jam, Seattle is the city for music fanatics and Capitol Hill is where the newest and best in the industry can be found. This year’s headliners will include Still Woozy and Kaytranada.  visitseattle.org Discover new sounds at Denver’s Underground Music Showcase – Denver, Colorado, USA (26-28 July) Denver Underground Music Showcase  is the perfect place to experience The Mile High City’s exploding music scene. Denver’s largest, multi-day music festival will once again return to South Broadway and feature over 700 artists from the Colorado region. Expected to draw over 10,000 music lovers every day, the experience is committed to discovery and community whilst also challenging the conventional norms of profit-driven music festivals.  denver.org Celebrate 30 years of Vail Jazz Party – Vail, Colorado, USA (30 August-1 September) Marking its 30th anniversary this Labour Day weekend,  Vail Jazz Party  will return better than ever to acknowledge the founders, instructors, all-stars and musicians who have brought nothing but joy to audiences for 30 years. The Vail Jazz Party features an array of headliners that join together to play in group performances, with multi-artist jam sessions and inspiring multimedia tributes to jazz legends. The festival aims to perpetuate jazz music whilst expanding the audience for the genre by presenting entertaining and educational live performances, and providing jazz education to youth, whilst assisting in the development of aspiring musicians.  colorado.com Tihany’s enchanting Lavender Festival returns to Lake Balaton – Tihany, Hungary (21-30 June) Experience the enchanting Lavender Festival in Tihany, Hungary, as Lake Balaton’s shores transform into a lilac paradise. A day visit during June 21st to 30th is an absolute must. Visitors can immerse themselves in a week-long extravaganza of lavender-themed events, including guided tours and hands-on experiences like harvesting and distillation. Guests can indulge in lavender-infused delights and explore Tihany’s cultural heritage, from the Benedictine Abbey to scenic hikes along peninsular trails.  visithungary.com Immerse in Japanese history and tradition at the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival – Niigata Prefecture, Japan (2-3 August) Nagaoka Fireworks Festival  takes place along the Shinano River near Ote Bridge from 2-3 August. One of the most significant of its kind in Japan, the festival first started as a way to mourn the damage of WWII and look ahead to the reconstruction of the city. Since then, the spectacular yet emotional firework show has become a celebration of the spirit of Japan. During the festival, the streets are also lined with smaller parades and processions which visitors can watch.  japan.travel/en/uk Fly a colourful kite at Washington State International Kite Festival – Long Beach Peninsula, Washington, USA (21-27 August)  Enjoy world-class kite flying and competitions against the epic backdrop of Washington’sLong Beach Peninsula at the week-long  International Kite Festival . Watch as flyers from around the world convene to wow spectators with choreographed movements and kite battles. Attendees will also be able to learn some kite tricks themselves, and design their own kites, with awards for the best creations up for grabs.  stateofwatourism.com Explore American Indian heritage at the Hopi Arts & Cultural Festival – Flagstaff, Arizona, USA (24-25 August) The only festival of its kind in Northern Arizona, the  Hopi Arts & Cultural Festival  showcases a mix of contemporary and traditional artwork created by talented Hopi artists. Visitors can catch traditional Hopi dance performances throughout the day. Organised by the Hopi Arts and Education Association (HAEA), the festival seeks to bridge together the City of Flagstaff and its surrounding communities, with the aim to learn from each other through unity, happiness and stewardship of the earth. The HAEA supports educational and artistic opportunities for the Hopi community.   visitarizona.com Enjoy epic early morning views at the Great Reno Balloon Race – Reno, Nevada, USA (6-8 September)  Since it began in 1982, the Great Reno Balloon Race has grown from just 20 hot air balloons to a world-renowned event featuring nearly 100 balloons lifting off from Rancho San Rafael Regional Park in Reno. Across three days in September, this annual event sees a rainbow of hot air balloons rise above Reno in the early mornings and is visible from vantages all around the city. Many spectators remain in their pyjamas to enjoy the early morning spectacle sitting atop blankets and camp chairs.  travelnevada.com Take in Chile’s charm at Fiestas Patrias (18-19 September) This annual nationwide celebration, held in September, offers a unique glimpse into Chile’s rich heritage through lively music, traditional dances like the cueca, and mouthwatering cuisine such as empanadas and asado. The festival serves as a testament to Chilean pride and unity, with colourful parades and dazzling fireworks honouring the nation’s independence. By participating in the festivities, visitors can connect with the warmth and hospitality of the Chilean people while witnessing firsthand the passion that defines this historic event.  chile.travel/en Test your Taste Buds at Picklesburgh – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA  (18-21 July) Did you know, Americans consume 26 billion pickles a year, which equals nine pounds of pickles per person? Every year, Pittsburgh transforms into the pickle capital of the world to celebrate its annual  Picklesburgh Festival . Travellers have every opportunity to taste the pickle with over 100 vendors tempting visitors with pickle cocktails, pickle beer and even pickle-flavoured ice cream. Activities include pickle juice drinking contests, live music, cooking demonstrations, workshops and demonstrations, and pickle-themed merchandise. Free to attend, the event takes place in Downtown Pittsburgh.  visitpittsburgh.com Taste farm fresh produce at Farm-to-Fork Festival – Sacramento, California, USA (5-21 September)  California’s Capital city celebrates the region’s food and agriculture with the annual  Farm-to-Fork Festival , honouring the people who bring delicious food and drinks to tables across the city every day. This highly anticipated festival, drawing thousands of visitors from across the country, will return to Sacramento’s Capitol Mall combining fresh food, local beers and wines, cooking demonstrations, interactive exhibits, a concert series and more. Farm-to-Fork Festival vendor applications and concert headliners will be announced in the summer.  visitsacramento.com Get sipping at Lodi Grape Festival – Lodi, California, USA (12-15 September) Whilst the city of Lodi in California has become a trendy wine-tasting destination, its family-oriented grape festival has been a beloved tradition since 1937. Originally started to celebrate the grape harvest, this September event invites visitors to sip peppery Zinfandels and sweet Pinot Grigios inside the Grape Pavilion while kids enjoy petting goats and watching turkey races. Be sure to check out the stunning mosaic-style murals made entirely out of grapes.  visitcalifornia.com Celebrate a unique Naples tradition at the annual Stone Crab Festival – Florida’s Paradise Coast – Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades (26-27 October) Join in the celebration of a unique Naples tradition in Florida’s Paradise Coast with the annual  Stone Crab Festival . Taking place at several locations on the  Old Naples Waterfront , the festival kicks off with the ceremonial “Cracking of the Claw” at  Pincher’s  restaurant. Enjoy live music and entertainment, kids’ activities and an abundance of stone crab claws and other seafood throughout the weekend. During the festival, visitors can take advantage of special rates on cruises aboard the  Naples Princess yacht  and Miss Naples sailing catamaran at  Port of Naples Marina . Many hotels, attractions and restaurants will also be offering  special deals  during this time.   paradisecoast.com Relax at the Zen Altitude Festival – Méribel, France  (11-12 July ) Zen Altitude  returns to Méribel in July 2024 for two days of relaxation and well-being in the fresh open air. Choose from outdoor yoga sessions, contemplative walks, dynamic hikes and healthy gourmet cooking workshops. The festival allows visitors to reconnect with nature and unwind in  breath-taking mountain surroundings.  meribel.net/en

With a 40-meter-long ladder stretching 790 meters above the fjord in the Norwegian village of Loen, “Stigull” is one of this summer’s new big attractions in Fjord Norway. “ It looks like people are floating in thin air,” s ays initiator Per Helge Bø. With a 40-meter-long ladder stretching 790 meters above the fjord in the Norwegian village of Loen, “Stigull” is one of this summer’s new big attractions in Fjord Norway. “ It looks like people are floating in thin air,” s ays initiator Per Helge Bø. “Stigull” opened in Loen in Nordfjord on May 31 and is the latest addition to the popular  Via Ferrata  Loen. To reach the 120 steps, you must first climb the initial part of the scenic route towards the top of Mount Hoven. “Stigull is built to make the Via Ferrata facility in Loen more complete, and it is the first of its kind in Norway. With 120 steps and a slope of 45 degrees, this is a long ladder to the sky by international standards. The location offers an incredible view of the fjord landscape,” says Per Helge Bø, the initiator at Loen Active. The renowned Austrian company HZI has built the ladder, which is part of Route 2, located just east of the  Loen Skylift  cable car. The Via Ferrata is connected with both a  zipline  and a suspension bridge, as well as climbing routes of varying difficulty levels. “This is an adventure-filled experience for all climbing enthusiasts. The ladder has a relatively low difficulty level but feels very airy, so the sense of accomplishment is great when climbing this stage. It actually looks like people are floating in thin air,” Bø continues. From the top of Mount Hoven, a fantastic view awaits, as well as a  restaurant  and shop connected to the cable car. “This new installation emphasizes our ongoing commitment to offering unique and exciting experiences in spectacular surroundings. We encourage all adventure seekers to try Stigull and get a truly unique fjord experience,” concludes Bø. Via Ferrata Loen is a spectacular climbing route designed for anyone with moderate physical fitness. It can be undertaken both as a guided tour and as an individual tour without a guide for the experienced. Find more information here:   website .

Northern Lights Escape 6 Days | Travel to Iceland and experience its astounding natural features From EUR €1,990 Gurgling hot springs, majestic waterfalls, volcanoes alive and extinct, Europe’s biggest glacier – Iceland, where adventures a la naturale await. Discover the raw natural beauty of this spectacular Nordic wonderland on a 6-day trip that will have you stalking close to epic glacial sheaths, feeling the icy spray of the Gullfoss waterfall and becoming acquainted with the culture and cuisine of an Arctic island outpost unlike any other. Trip Overview: Summer Pyrenees Family Holiday with teenagers 8 Days | Get off the beaten track on this exciting family holiday in the Pyrenees From EUR €654 Challenge the family to an unforgettable week of adrenaline-fuelled activities with this active Pyrenees trip. From Soldeu, head out around Andorra trying fun new experiences along the way. Get the pulse racing on hiking and cycling adventures, then spend a wet and wild afternoon whitewater rafting. Take advantage of the location and explore nearby hamlets on horseback or go fishing in the local lakes. This is sure to be an inspiring week, enjoying Andorra’s adventure playground as a family. Croatia Sailing Adventure: Split to Dubrovnik 8 Days | Explore Croatia’s stunning coastline from Split to Dubrovnik From EUR €1,458 Become immersed in Croatia’s natural beauty while sailing the stunning Adriatic coast. Mix lazy days of swimming and beach going with time spent exploring medieval fortresses, sitting in lively restaurants, wandering cobbled streets and hiking to ancient ruins. Wind down in the evening and fall asleep onboard the boat, being lulled to sleep by the sound of lapping waves. For more details on offers, go to Best Small Group Tours & Adventure Travel | Intrepid Travel IE

Returning from your holiday can leave your hair feeling like it needs a vacation of its own. From pre-wash to post-wash, these hair care solutions provide the ultimate DIY routine to rescue your locks this summer. After enjoying some well-deserved relaxation on your holiday, you come back feeling rested and glowing. However, the holiday blues can quickly set in if you return to hair that feels frazzled and lacklustre. The post-sun hair struggle is all too common – battling humidity, the aftermath of relentless heat styling, and frequent exposure to chlorine, salt, and UV rays can take a toll on your strands. It’s no surprise if you find your hair robbed of shine, frizzy, and plagued by split ends. Nuxe After-Sun Hair and Body Shampoo This cleansing shampoo resets your holiday hair with its sulphate-free formula, removing salt, chlorine, sand, and sunscreen residue. It leaves your hair soft and hydrated, while Nuxe’s sunshine scent helps keep the post-holiday blues away. Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask This ultra-hydrating mask revitalises frazzled hair in just five minutes. Its rich formula provides deep conditioning for even the thickest and driest locks. Infused with antioxidant-rich argan oil, it nourishes strands, restoring elasticity and shine. Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Oil Rejuvenate brittle locks with this nourishing hair oil. Its omega-rich blend of cassis seed, argan, and jasmine oils penetrates each strand, restoring shine without leaving a greasy residue. The oil’s protective formula strengthens hair, helping it withstand UV rays, pollutants, and heat styling. Kérastase Symbiose Intense Revitalising Mask If sun exposure leaves you with a flaky scalp, try this high-performance hair mask. Applied from root to tip on towel-dried hair, it deeply cleanses and nourishes the scalp while detangling and hydrating the lengths. The result is ultra-shiny hair with a salon-worthy finish Coco & Eve Like a Virgin Hydrating and Detangling Leave-In Conditioner Originating from the sunny climate of Bali, this brand knows how to care for holiday hair. This leave-in conditioner combats frizz and dryness without needing to rinse. Its blend of coconut, avocado oil, and rice protein targets dullness and enhances shine. Divine!

June 2024…//  With longer, brighter days upon us,  IDILIQ Hotels & Resorts  has unveiled spectacular offers to welcome in summer and celebrate World Gin Day and Father’s Day on 8th and 16th June 2024. The group’s resort-based residences in Costa del Sol and Scotland are going all out this June and offer guests the best of both worlds: the independence of self-catering accommodation and the best-in-class hotel facilities, in two of the best Spanish and UK destinations. World Gin Day- 8th June 2024 Gin enthusiasts looking to celebrate World Gin Day need look no further than  Wyndham Duchally Estate  in Scotland, where guests can take part in an immersive distillery experience at the hotel’s onsite distillery. Guided by a knowledgeable in-house distiller, guests are invited to create their own personalised gin to take home and learn about the distilling process from start to finish. To mark World Gin Day, Wyndham Duchally Estate is also offering a  15%  discount on all Gatehouse Gin products from  7th to 9th June . This gives guests the chance to buy the hotel’s signature gin, crafted at the estate’s own distillery with locally sourced botanicals. In Spain,  Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol  is celebrating World Gin Day with the opening of a new Gin Bar on  7th June , on the terrace of the hotel’s Grand Lounge. Remaining open throughout the summer, the Gin Bar offers picturesque views of the San Diego Suites pool and the stunning sea, providing the perfect setting for guests to enjoy a carefully curated selection of gin-based drinks in the sun or unwind with a post-dinner cocktail. Father’s Day- 16th June 2024 With Father’s Day fast approaching, families looking to treat the dads or father figures in their lives and enjoy some much-needed quality time together can take advantage of IDILIQ Hotels & Resorts’ special offers in the UK and Spain. In Scotland,  Wyndham Duchally Estate  will be treating fathers and their families to high tea with a twist on Sunday 16th June. Guests can look forward to pies, mini burgers, and mini fish and chips, accompanied by a pint of beer (or a non-alcoholic alternative). Priced at £27.50 per person, This distinctive take on the classic afternoon tea will be served on an elegant tea stand and complemented by live entertainment, for an extra-special day for all the family. In Spain,  Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol  is offering fathers a generous 50% discount on lunch or dinner for tables of three or four. For larger families, of at least five, dads will dine for free, ensuring a day filled with cherished memories with fathers feeling extra-appreciated.

Banyan Group , an independent, global hospitality company with purpose, introduces a series of in-person retreats designed to foster personal growth and wellbeing. Held at Banyan Group’s hotels and resorts worldwide, each Retreat invites guests to connect with themselves, as they receive tools and guidance to initiate and sustain their wellbeing journey. “As a leader in the wellbeing space, we recognise that transformative wellbeing travel is about purposeful experiences that nourish the mind, body and soul,” said Ho Ren Yung, Senior Vice President of Brand and Commercial at Banyan Group. “At Banyan Group, we are committed to a holistic approach, enriching our guests’ lives by addressing their mental, physical and emotional needs through diverse and immersive experiences. Retreats serve as a kickstarter to a lifelong wellbeing routine, empowering guests to actively engage in their own wellbeing journey.” Retreats join the Group’s robust portfolio of holistic wellbeing programmes, all working in concert to foster a global community of wellbeing enthusiasts, and like-minded individuals who share a commitment to personal growth and fulfilment. By extending the Banyan experience beyond traditional travel, Retreats supports guests on their journey of self-discovery, helping them achieve their desired goals and inspiring lasting transformation. In response to the growing interest in wellbeing holidays among families and friend groups, Banyan Group also offers bespoke Retreat options designed to meet guests’ unique preferences and requirements. The inaugural  “Women’s Retreat: Nature & Self-Growth”  at Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, delivered a transformative experience for women, blending holistic personal empowerment with the serene natural splendour of Bali. As part of the journey, participants engaged in workshops and one-on-one sessions based on the Group’s eight pillars of wellbeing which encompass elements vital to mental, physical and emotional health, ranging from Rest and Nourishment to Groundness, Growth, Connection, Movement, Practice and Mindfulness. For more information about the upcoming Beyond Retreat at  Banyan Tree AlUla  in Saudi Arabia, or  Annual Women’s Retreat 2025 at  Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape , please visit  www.groupbanyan.com/spa-and-wellbeing .

Who doesn’t love Jo Malone? The candles, the scents, the joy of stopping by the kiosk in Dublin airport to spritz on some Wood Sage & Sea Salt or Pomegranate Noir . With so many different fragrances, choosing a favourite or one that suits a particular mood can be challenging. Thankfully, the ‘ Discovery Set, ‘ a collection of five travel-size vials, is now available for €24 at Brown Thomas and Arnotts offering a perfect solution with several options at your fingertips. Everyone has a favourite from this heritage fragrance brand, which now boasts a vast collection. The range includes the lighter, British-inspired Colognes and the deeper, travel-inspired scents of the Cologne Intense line. Rumour has it that Meghan Markle is a long-term fan of Jo Malone London’s fragrances and has previously named Wild Bluebell as one of her daytime signature scents. Meanwhile, the stunning actress Sienna Miller sticks to her British roots by spritzing on the citrusy Lime Basil and Mandarin. The Jo Malone Cologne Discovery Set includes English Pear & Freesia, Peony & Blush Suede, Wood Sage & Sea Salt, the fan-favourite Lime Basil & Mandarin, and the sensual Pomegranate Noir.

Expedia  offers a three-night stay in the heart of Budapest from  £399/ €469 pp . Including three nights at the 4*  Buda Castle Hotel  with return flights from Dublin (based on 2 adults) between 9 – 12 August 2024.   This summer, make Budapest’s street art a highlight of your travel plans. The city’s vibrant murals and sculptures offer a unique and colourful way to explore its culture and creativity. With warm weather perfect for strolling, Budapest’s urban canvas invites you to discover its artistic charm. Budapest is a city where urban art flourishes, transforming its streets into a dynamic open-air gallery. Enormous murals, pop-up sculptures, and eclectic decorations in ruin bars bring vibrant colour and creativity to the cityscape. As you wander through Budapest, you’ll encounter a fascinating blend of history and modern art, with weathered firewalls turned into massive canvases and quirky sculptures appearing seemingly out of nowhere. District VII, Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, is the heart of this street art movement. Once a confined ghetto with a tumultuous history, the district has become one of Budapest’s trendiest neighbourhoods. Here, the most impressive examples of street art are just a short walk from each other. Notable murals include a portrait of Empress Elizabeth, a mural commemorating Hungary’s 1953 football victory, and a Rubik’s Cube mural celebrating its Hungarian inventor, Ernő Rubik. Budapest’s art scene extends beyond murals. László Marton’s Little Princess statue along the Danube and Mihajlo Kolodko’s realistic sculptures, like Kermit the Frog on Szabadság Square, add whimsical touches to the city. At Budapest’s Liszt Ferenc International Airport, a statue of composer Franz Liszt sitting on his suitcase greets travellers with a whimsical air. Exploring District VII offers a unique way to experience Budapest’s culture and creativity. From large-scale murals to hidden sculptures, the city’s street art scene is a testament to its vibrant spirit. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a unique adventure, Budapest’s urban canvas invites you to discover its colourful stories and artistic charm.

What’s the Trend? For many people, summer holidays traditionally meant chasing the sun, revelling in the heat, and basking on sandy beaches. However, with recent years bringing intense, record-breaking temperatures, there’s a shift in travel preferences. Many are now opting for “coolcations” in temperate destinations, which also have the advantage of being less crowded. Listed as a top trend in 2024 by Conde Naste , this trend allows for the exploration of the rich culture of Helsinki to enjoying Estonia’s lush forests and Poland’s beautiful long sandy Baltic beaches, there’s something for everyone. Why Will It Matter in 2024? With 2023 officially the hottest year on record, travellers are reconsidering trips to traditional hotspots like the South of France and Sicily, especially during peak heatwave seasons in July and August. A survey by luxe travel network Virtuoso found that 82% of its clients are considering destinations with more moderate weather in 2024. Intrepid Travel highlights the rising popularity of destinations such as Iceland, Finland, Scotland, and Latvia. “We’re seeing an increase in those holidaying further north,” says Andrea Godfrey of Regent Holidays. “Scandinavia and the Baltics offer a more pared-back style of holiday but have lovely beaches, forests, and lakes for both relaxation and adventure activities.” Cooler temperatures are particularly well-suited for family travel. Top Coolcation Destinations Oslo, Norway Oslo is an ideal coolcation spot for a summer city break. Its proximity to nature parks and a variety of outdoor activities makes it perfect for family-friendly excursions. Visitors can explore museums like the Munch Museum and the Vigeland Museum or take a paddle excursion on the Oslo Fjord. For an overnight adventure, the surrounding forests provide a scenic backdrop. Oslo’s waterfront has been revitalized, offering opportunities for traditional kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and even urban fjord-sauna experiences. Helsinki, Finland Helsinki , the capital of Finland, boasts a rich culture and relaxed vibe. Summer visitors can enjoy al fresco dining, nearby beaches, and islands. Each August, the Suvilahti area of Helsinki hosts the Flow Festival, a three-day music event featuring headliners and up-and-coming local talent. Set in the industrial area near Sörnäinen and the Kallio district, Flow Festival attracts over 80,000 visitors annually, offering interesting lighting, design, and technology displays. Coolcationing is not just a trend but a smart travel choice for 2024, offering a refreshing alternative to sweltering heat and crowded tourist spots.

Zafiro Palace Andratx , a stunning five star hotel in Mallorca, is offering guests a luxurious sailing experience around the Mediterranean this Summer onboard a Mallorcan llaüt. The llaüt is a typical Mallorcan boat, traditionally used for fishing. This summer, embark on a unique experience aboard a 100% electric llaüt with capacity for up to six people, sailing through the waters of Mallorca in a sustainable way: silently and without emissions. An unforgettable and unique experience that will take you to explore the beauty of the southwest coast of Mallorca. It’s the perfect opportunity to bathe in secret coves accessible only by sea and enjoy the gorgeous crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean. The boat also has snorkelling equipment, Stand Up Paddleboards, an Underwater Scooter and a GoPro camera for fun on board. Guests can choose to add a delicious Mallorcan picnic and drinks service throughout the day. The exclusive Sailing Days by Zafiro are available every Friday from June to September 2024. A 4-hour sailing (10am to 2pm) for six people costs €400. There are also full day sailings (10am to 6pm) and sunset sailings (7pm to 9.30pm) available to book via the hotel concierge. Zafiro Palace Andratx is located above Camp de Mar, an area of spectacular natural beauty on the island of Mallorca, surrounded by the mountains of the Sierra de Tramuntana and with views of the sea and the bay, creating an incomparable environment in which to enjoy a dream summer. The hotel has six outdoor and two indoor pools, five restaurants, as well as a full range of facilities and services designed to ensure a stay full of comfort, privacy and exclusivity, including rooms with private pools and whirlpool bathtubs with views of the outdoors. Find out more at zafirohotels.com

Dreaming of a summer getaway? Snatch up a last-minute holiday deal and jet off to your favourite beach destination in no time! Spend your days lounging by the pool, soaking up the sunshine, and enjoying evening meals with loved ones. There’s no better feeling than cocktails by the pool, golden-sand beaches, and the sweet scent of summer air. June holiday deals to Spain and Greece 24-Jun-24, Dublin to Lanzarote,  TUI BLUE Flamingo Beach , 4*, Playa Blanca, AI, 7 nights from €869pps or €2,569 (2+1) 26-Jun-24, Dublin to Kos,  Gaia Palace Hotel , 4*, Mastichari, AI, 7 nights from €1,169pps or €3,239 (2+1) July holiday deals from €619pps 13-Jul-24, Dublin to Rhodes,  Nimar Villagio , 3*, Afandou, SC, 7 nights from €629pps  – 43% OFF 29-Jul-24, Dublin to Corfu,  Esperides Studios & Apartments , 2*, Sidari, SC, 7 nights from €619pps or €1,679 (2+1) 31-Jul-24, Dublin to Ibiza,  Hotel Catalonia Ses Estaques , 4*, Santa Eulalia, HB, 7 nights from €1,109pps Holiday deal from Shannon to Lanzarote 15-Jul-24, Shannon to Lanzarote,  Lanzarote Paradise , 3*, Costa Tequise, SC, 7 nights from €599pps or €1,519 (2+1), €1,989 (2+2) Marella Cruise Deals 16-Jul-24, Dublin to Majorca,  Discover Iberia ,  Marella Discovery 2 , 7 nights from €1,249pps Book online at tuiholidays.ie, visit your local TUI store or travel agent. Prices correct at time of issue.

Coldplay has reduced their carbon emissions by 59% during the first two years of their eco-friendly Music of the Spheres world tour. The ‘Yellow’ hit makers will perform at Croke Park from August 29 to September 2. In 2021, Coldplay pledged to cut tour emissions by at least 50%, implementing eco-initiatives like electricity-generating dancefloors, exercise bike power, bamboo sets, solar panels, reduced air travel, and tree planting for each ticket sold. They have planted seven million trees and diverted 72% of tour waste for recycling and composting. Energy from solar panels, kinetic dancefloors, and power bikes has increased from 15 to 17 kWh per show, powering a smaller stage area and charging stations for the crew. The band also funded two solar-powered devices to remove ocean plastic. MIT’s Environmental Solutions Initiative verified these achievements. Coldplay expressed gratitude to their touring team and fans for contributing to these efforts, noting significant progress but acknowledging more work is needed. A report from July 2023 showed a 47% reduction in emissions. Amid scrutiny of musicians’ environmental impacts, other artists like Massive Attack and Billie Eilish have also committed to greener practices.