Coco Collection is inviting travellers to swap the everyday for turquoise waters, white-sand beaches and unforgettable underwater adventures, with up to 40% off stays at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu in the Maldives. While summer is often considered a quieter season in the Maldives, the destination remains warm and welcoming year-round. Air temperatures typically sit between 25°C and 30°C, while sea temperatures average around 28°C, making it an ideal time for swimming, snorkelling and long, relaxed days by the beach. Set within the beautiful Baa Atoll, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu offers a peaceful island escape surrounded by lush tropical greenery and some of the Maldives’ most striking marine life. The resort is particularly well suited to travellers looking for a more immersive nature-led holiday, combining barefoot luxury with easy access to the region’s vibrant underwater world. For those eager to explore beneath the surface, the resort is home to Coco Dive, where guests can enjoy expert-led diving experiences in one of the Maldives’ most biodiverse marine environments. Whether discovering colourful coral gardens, spotting tropical fish or simply embracing the calm of the Indian Ocean, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu offers a memorable setting for both adventure and relaxation. A seven-night stay at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu starts from approx. €2,840 per Sunset Beach Villa, based on two adults sharing. The offer includes taxes and fees and is based on arrival on Saturday, 1 August, with departure on Saturday, 8 August. The same stay was previously priced from approx. €4,547. Flights and seaplane transfers are not included. For more information or to book, visit www.cococollection.com.

Some friendship groups are happiest sipping rooftop cocktails, others prefer sunrise yoga, festival weekends or foodie adventures planned down to the last reservation. From celebrity-approved wellness retreats in California and beachside luxury in Mexico to ancient pilgrimage trails in Japan and dance-until-dawn nights in Toronto, these summer escapes are made for every kind of girl group. For long-overdue reunions, spontaneous getaways and everything in between, here’s where to go next with your favourite people. Party Turn it up with the girls in Toronto Toronto’s nightlife is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself; a seamless blend of rooftop glamour, underground cool and global culture. Start with skyline views and cocktails at Lavelle, a Heated Rivalry filing location, or BarChef’s avant-garde creations, then dive into live music at iconic venues like The Horseshoe Tavern or Drake Underground. Dance into the early hours at Rebel or slip into the hidden classics like Cold Tea in Kensington Market. From late-night eats in Chinatown to drag shows in Church-Wellesley Village, Toronto offers unforgettable nights for every taste. destinationtoronto.com Wellness For the ultimate celebrity-approved wellness escape, unwind in West Hollywood, USA For girls seeking a self-care escape, West Hollywood offers a wellness scene centred on indulgence, relaxation and Hollywood glamour. Check into glamorous Sunset Marquis, where private villas, lush gardens and treatments at The SPA provide a secluded retreat, or choose the sleek luxury of The West Hollywood EDITION, home to a five-star spa and rooftop pool. Beauty lovers can visit Ole Henriksen Face/Body Spa at Sunset Plaza for its renowned VSOTO Oxygen Facial, loved by celebrities Kris Jenner and Vanessa Hudgens, combining lymphatic drainage and oxygen infusion for a red-carpet-ready glow. visitwesthollywood.com Fly & Flop For the ultimate fly-and-flop destination, head to Los Cabos, Mexico For girls looking to swap busy schedules for sunshine and serenity, Los Cabos offers the ultimate fly-and-flop escape. Check into an oceanfront villa at Viceroy Los Cabos offering a private pool, outdoor terrace and personalised service. Start the day with sunrise yoga overlooking the Sea of Cortez before unwinding at one of the five beachfront pools with a cocktail. For girls keen to explore, join a whale-watching excursion or guided village art walk through the streets of San José del Cabo. Guests can also enjoy a private cinema, rooftop lounge and luxury spa, making it the perfect base for a restorative girls’ getaway. www.visitloscabos.travel Adventure For the ultimate girls’ adventure, walk the sacred trails of the Kumano Kodo, Kii Peninsula, Japan Gather the adventure girlies and swap the city crowds for misty forest trails, cosy ryokan stays and main-character mountain moments on a six-day, five-night escape along Japan’s iconic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Starting at Takijiri-oji and ending at the breathtaking Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine, this journey brings together ancient trails, dreamy rural scenery and just the right amount of “we actually did that” hiking challenge. Along the way, expect traditional Japanese inns, post-walk onsen soaks, forest views and wholesome group moments in some of Japan’s most beautiful countryside from the ridge-top village of Takahara to the famous hot-spring town of Yunomine. visit-kii.com Festivals For the ultimate music filled girls' getaway, experience Budapest during Sziget Festival, Hungary For friendship groups looking to combine culture, city breaks and unforgettable live music, Budapest comes alive during the Sziget Festival from 11–15 August. Set on Óbuda Island in the heart of the Danube, the festival brings together global headliners including Twenty One Pilots, Florence + The Machine, SOMBR and Bring Me The Horizon, alongside art installations, theatre, wellness experiences and cultural programming. Away from the festival, groups can explore Budapest’s historic architecture, thermal baths and vibrant café scene, making it the perfect destination for a summer girls’ trip that blends music, culture and city exploration. visithungary.com Sports & Entertainment Cheer on Denver's newest women's football team in America's ultimate sports city, Denver, USA Denver is quickly becoming a powerhouse for women's sport, led by Denver Summit FC, the city's first NWSL franchise, which made headlines by attracting more than 60,000 fans to its inaugural match and setting a new league attendance record. Combined with the launch of Denver Onyx in the Women's Elite Rugby league and a passionate sports culture that spans eight professional teams, Denver offers a compelling insight into the rapid growth and popularity of women's sport in the USA. Beyond the women's sports story, visitors can also experience the city's thriving professional sports scene, such as the Denver Broncos and Colorado Avalanche. visitdenver.com Food For the ultimate foodie group, get a summer seafood fill in Maine, USA Lobster shacks line the coast and the Maine Oyster Trail runs from point-to-point in this East Coast foodie hotspot. Take the girls on a tour this summer with Nauti Sisters Sea Farm, a hands-on, aquaculture farm and ecotourism company in Yarmouth, owned and operated by three sisters. Take a two-hour boat ride with their all-female crew to the working oyster farm, including an oyster shucking experience. Head up the coast to Saltwater Farm, Lincolnville, for cooking courses using local ingredients, with its own seaside vegetable garden. Classes are designed to instil a readiness to use the day’s harvest, ending with a group dining experience. Visitmaine.com Shopping Shop till you drop in Houston, Texas Houston is the ultimate destination for a girls’ shopping getaway, combining luxury malls with designer outlets and uniquely Texan boutiques. The GC can browse the latest fashion and beauty finds at The Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping centre, before heading to Houston Premium Outlets for bargain designer deals. For a truly Texan experience, design bespoke matching cowboy boots at the Republic Boot Co or take part in a custom hat-making session at its popular hat bar. International visitors can also take advantage of Texas’ TaxFree Shopping, with refunds conveniently processed at four city locations, making every haul feel even sweeter. visithouston.com Outdoors Reconnect in the Rockies, Aspen & Snowmass Village, Colorado With 211 miles of hiking trails, a world-class mountain bike park and daily mountaintop yoga, Aspen and Snowmass Village is the perfect girls’ getaway for reconnecting and rejuvenating friendships. Mornings can begin at the brand-new White Elephant Aspen, which opens its doors on 15 June, before taking the Silver Queen Gondola to the summit of Aspen Mountain for a yoga session at 11,212 feet, complete with breathtaking Rocky Mountain views. Explore scenic trails together, hike through wildflower-filled meadows or for the adrenaline-seeking girls, Snowmass Bike Park offers more than 25 miles of lift-served mountain biking trails, with something for all abilities. aspenchamber.org / gosnowmass.com

Barcelona is calling this summer, with Keith Prowse offering a three-night city break to one of Europe’s most vibrant destinations from €229 per person sharing, based on two adults sharing. Departing on 20 July 2026 and returning on 23 July 2026, this sun-soaked escape offers travellers the chance to experience the warmth, colour and energy of the Catalan capital at the height of summer. Known for its striking architecture, golden beaches, lively neighbourhoods and world-famous food scene, Barcelona is a city that blends culture and coastline with ease. Days can be spent wandering along sunlit boulevards, exploring colourful markets, relaxing by the sea or enjoying tapas in one of the city’s bustling plazas. The package includes return flights and three nights of comfortable accommodation, making it an easy and well-timed getaway for those looking to add a dose of Mediterranean sunshine to their summer plans. With its mix of seaside relaxation, cultural landmarks and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Barcelona remains one of Europe’s most popular city break destinations — and this July offer provides a great-value way to experience it. For more information or to book, contact Keith Prowse on 01 878 3500 or email reservations@keithprowse.ie.

easyJet has launched its new “Drop Everything” flights, helping customers browse and book last-minute flights departing within 48 hours. The new initiative was given a high-profile launch this morning on Capital Breakfast with Jordan North, Chris Stark and Sian Welby, when presenter Siân Welby left the studio mid-broadcast after spotting a last-minute easyJet trip on her phone. Continuing the show via a live mobile link from the back of a London black cab, Welby brought listeners along for the journey as she demonstrated just how quickly a great-value getaway can change the day’s plans. The stunt marked the launch of easyJet’s latest offering, designed to make spontaneous summer travel easier for customers looking to jet off at short notice. From today, easyJet has flights departing from just €55, with the new “Drop Everything” flights tool helping travellers browse a wide range of flights leaving within the next 48 hours. The launch comes as new research from easyJet and easyJet holidays suggests that last-minute travel is becoming increasingly popular among holidaymakers. More than a third of Brits, 35%, say they are opting for a last-minute summer holiday this year, while 73% believe some of the best trips are booked spontaneously. Nearly half of those surveyed, 49%, said they would be ready to pack their bags in under 48 hours for the right getaway. Gen Z travellers are leading the move towards more spontaneous holidays, with 38% saying their best-ever trip was booked less than three weeks before departure. Meanwhile, 69% of Gen Z respondents and 50% of the wider public said they had regretted not taking a last-minute trip when they had the chance. According to the research, the biggest obstacle to spontaneous travel is often the group chat, with a third of Brits missing out on a trip because they could not get friends organised in time. An irresistible last-minute flight or package holiday was named as the top reason people would be encouraged to “drop everything”, cited by 42% of respondents. Other motivating factors included wanting to escape work-week dread, at 25%, and using up remaining annual leave. A further 17% said that the ease of booking a last-minute break would encourage them to take the plunge. When it comes to destination choice, short-haul European favourites remain the most popular options for last-minute breaks, with Spain, Greece, Portugal and Italy highlighted as go-to destinations for easy access, minimal planning and good value. Speaking from her taxi during the broadcast, Siân Welby said the new easyJet feature made last-minute travel feel far more accessible. “I’m working until 10:00 AM, but I’ve just seen the ‘Drop Everything Flights’ that easyJet have launched on their website, which helps everyone find so many tempting options available in the next 48 hours,” she said. “I love family holidays abroad, and this helps make even travelling last-minute so easy — it’s a total gamechanger.” Welby added that, as a new mum, she is “never spontaneous”, but the idea of a last-minute flight and a date with a poolside lounger was enough to tempt her to make a holiday dash. The new “Drop Everything” flights are now available on the easyJet website.

Experience the perfect blend of island luxury and authentic coastal Thailand on this twin-centre escape. Spend five nights on Koh Samui at the stylish SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort, enjoying relaxed beachfront living, vibrant island culture and stunning scenery, before heading to the peaceful shores of Khanom for five nights at Aava Resort & Spa. Combining boutique luxury, unspoilt beaches and unique local experiences, this itinerary offers a wonderfully balanced Thai getaway. Highlights: 10-night twin-centre holiday combining Koh Samui and Khanom Five nights at SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort on one of Koh Samui’s most tranquil beaches Relax in a stylish boutique resort with contemporary design and private pool villa options Enjoy Koh Samui’s mix of beach clubs, temples, night markets and scenic viewpoints Discover hidden beaches and enjoy fresh seafood dining by the ocean Five nights at Aava Resort & Spa on Khanom’s unspoilt mainland coastline Experience a quieter, more authentic side of Thailand away from the crowds Explore traditional fishing villages and long stretches of peaceful sandy beach Opportunity to spot Khanom’s famous pink dolphins Book a Koh Samui and Khanom tour by 30 June 2026 and receive savings of up to €450 pp plus a half day Pink Dolphin Tour at Aava Resort. A 10-night Koh Samui and Khanom trip is priced from €1,959 pp (was €2,409 pp saving €450 pp) based on two sharing a room on a B&B basis, this includes international flights, all airport, ferry and hotel transfers, five nights at SALA Samui Choengmon Beach Resort and five nights at Aava Resort & Spa. To book, visit Koh Samui and Khanom tour.

Embark on a 13-night luxury expedition cruise with Swan Hellenic, sailing from Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, to Halifax, Canada. Beginning in Kangerlussuaq, a former WWII airbase at the head of its namesake fjord. From here, guests sail into the heart of West Greenland, exploring Disko Bay, known as the ‘iceberg capital of the world’, and calling at Qeqertarsuaq, part of a UNESCO-listed region. Highlights include the wilderness of the Torngat Mountains National Park, entirely staffed by Inuit, and Iqaluit. The Towering cliffs at Lady Franklin Island, home to some of the oldest rock formations on Earth, provide an amazing backdrop for wildlife sightings, with opportunities to spot polar bears and caribou along the northern Canadian coast. Further south, the voyage reveals layers of Viking and maritime history, including a visit to L’Anse aux Meadows, the only confirmed Norse settlement in North America, and the fjords of Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland. On board, guests can expect a fully immersive expedition experience, with expert-led lectures, photography workshops and guided kayaking excursions. Days are spent navigating Arctic waters and exploring by Zodiac, while evenings offer the chance to witness the Northern Lights. Enhancing the journey is Swan Hellenic’s SETI Explore Space at Sea programme, featuring a team of distinguished experts including expedition leader Nicki de Souza, conservationist Mark Evans, wildlife specialist Sue Walsh and NASA planetary scientist Cristina Dalle Ore, offering unique insight into both the natural world and the wider universe. A 13-night Greenland to Canada cruise, departing on 17 September 2026, onboard SH Vega, costs €9,000 pp on a Cruise Plus basis in a balcony stateroom (was €13,000, saving €4,000). Price includes return regional flights to the port of embarkations and/or disembarkation, group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port, one-night pre-cruise accommodation, all meals onboard, onboard accommodation in a stateroom selected category, 24-hour room service, selected drinks available 24-hours per day, lecture programmes by Swan Hellenic’s experienced expedition team and guest speakers, one selected shore excursion per port of call and standard Wi-Fi.

An all-inclusive holiday with Tropical Sky offers travellers a simple and cost-effective way to enjoy a dream getaway without worrying about mounting expenses. By combining accommodation, meals, drinks and often a range of activities into one upfront price, holidaymakers can budget with confidence and avoid many of the unexpected costs that can quickly add up while abroad. The popularity of all-inclusive travel continues to grow, with Forbes reporting “luxury all-inclusive resorts are one of the hottest travel trends”. Whether it's a luxury Caribbean escape or a family-friendly beach resort, Tropical Sky's all-inclusive holidays provide exceptional value for money, allowing travellers to relax, indulge and make the most of every moment without constantly checking their spending. Mango Bay is an all-inclusive beachfront resort located on Barbados’ picturesque Platinum Coast, just 45 minutes from the airport and 25 minutes from Bridgetown. Ideal for couples and families alike, the resort offers a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere with oceanfront dining, serving a blend of international and local cuisine. Guests can unwind at the Elements Spa, stay active in the 24-hour gym, and enjoy a hassle-free holiday experience in a prime beachfront setting. Book a trip to Mango Bay before 30 June 2026 and receive savings of up to €500pp for travel between now and 5 January 2027. A seven night stay at Mango Bay is priced from €2,000pp based on two sharing a room on an all-inclusive basis, this includes return flights. For more information, visit www.tropicalsky.co.uk.

This summer, young explorers are invited to step into the world of the Vikings as Waterford Treasures launches its Children’s Viking Tour for Summer 2026. Set in the heart of Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, this lively and interactive experience brings more than 1,000 years of history to life for children and families. From the moment they arrive, children are transformed into Viking adventurers, ready to uncover the stories, sights and secrets of Waterford’s Norse past. The adventure begins at the Viking House, a full-scale reconstruction of a traditional Viking home. Here, each child is welcomed by an expert Viking guide and receives a toy sword to keep as a souvenir of their journey through time. Armed and ready, young warriors set out through Waterford’s atmospheric medieval streets, following in the footsteps of the city’s original settlers. Along the way, they will hear tales of fearless sea voyages, dramatic battles and legendary kings who once ruled from this historic stronghold. A highlight of the tour is the impressive 40-foot replica Viking longboat, while the stories shared beside Reginald's Tower capture the imagination of children and adults alike. Named after the Viking ruler Ragnall, the tower stands as one of Ireland’s most iconic reminders of its Viking heritage. The tour concludes back at the Viking House, where children can discover what everyday life was like for Viking families and gain a hands-on insight into a world of longships, trade and adventure. Running every Saturday and Sunday at 2.00 pm throughout Summer 2026, the Children’s Viking Tour lasts just over 30 minutes, making it an ideal family activity for younger children. Designed for children aged 5 to 12, the experience combines storytelling, exploration and imaginative play, offering a memorable way to learn about Ireland’s fascinating past. Tickets are €9.50 per child, including a toy sword to take home. Adult tickets are €9.50, while children under five go free, with the option to purchase a sword for €2.50. A family ticket for two adults and two children is €35, with additional children charged at €6.50 each. Advance booking is recommended, as each tour is limited to 25 participants. Further information and online booking are available at www.waterfordtreasures.com

Saturday, 4th July 2026 will see the return of The Yoga Picnic, set against the backdrop of Lough Ennell in Co. Westmeath. Taking place on the grounds of Lilliput House, the award-winning event has become one of Ireland’s best-known wellness festivals, bringing together yoga, movement, music, nature and community for a full day by the lake. Founded by sisters Alice and Katy Harrison together with their friend, Mary Gardiner, The Yoga Picnic was created to showcase Ireland’s yoga and wellness community while promoting connection, sustainability, mental wellbeing and mindful living. What began as local grassroots gathering in 2022 has grown into a major wellness event featuring more than 100 classes, talks and experiences led by leading Irish and international facilitators. The 2026 programme includes yoga, meditation, yoga nidra, breathwork, sound healing, ecstatic dance, drumming circles, poetry readings, cacao ceremonies, forest activities, workshops and live music. The festival welcomes everyone, from complete beginners trying yoga for the first time to experienced practitioners looking to deepen their practice. There are also dedicated sessions for children and families throughout the day. Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Yoga also returns to the festival, allowing participants to take their yoga practice onto the water. Suitable for all levels, SUP Yoga focuses on balance, movement and connection with nature while enjoying the calm surroundings of Lough Ennell. This year’s line-up features internationally recognised teachers including Dylan Werner, Tara Judelle and Benita Wolfe from the USA, Manasi Sridhar from India, and UK teachers Michael James Wong, Hannah Barrett, Adam Husler and Holly Husler. Ireland’s yoga community will also be strongly represented with teachers including Lou Horgan, Eithne Kennedy, Sinead Mooney, Mari Kennedy, Michael Ryan and Jack Harrison. Alongside the yoga programme, festival-goers can enjoy a range of additional wellness experiences throughout the day. Astrology talks and readings will feature as part of the 2026 event, while the popular Uisce Spa returns with saunas, ice baths and hot tub experiences overlooking Lough Ennell. The spa area will include wood-fired saunas, ice baths, healing salt rituals and traditional whisking sessions, offering attendees the opportunity to experience hot and cold therapy in a natural lakeside setting. The festival will also feature live music performances throughout the day, culminating in an evening lakeside concert with Jack Harrison and band. Rooted in the belief that yoga is for everyone, The Yoga Picnic continues to provide an inclusive and welcoming space where attendees can step away from busy daily life, spend time outdoors and connect through movement, music and shared experience. Speaking about the event, Katy Harrison said, “The Yoga Picnic was created to bring people together and make wellness accessible to everyone. Whether someone is attending their first yoga class, bringing their children for a family day out, or looking for advanced workshops with international teachers, there is something for everybody at the festival.” Adult day passes are available from €95. Please note that the Uisce Spa and Stand Up Paddleboard Yoga sessions are available at an additional cost. Tickets are available now from The Yoga Picnic or by emailing hello@theyogapicnic.com

As parents look to finalise this summer’s holiday plans and also start thinking about 2027, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has some fantastic family friendly sailings - offering non-stop activities which help to seamlessly blend adventure for all ages, with moments of relaxation without the stress. The best part? They're all at a fantastic pricepoint. Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Dominican Republic Ship: Norwegian Prima (7 Days) Price: Inside rooms from £684 Availability: June 2026 to November 2026 dates (Summertime Spree sailings: 26th July - 2nd August 2026, 9th August - 16th August 2026, 23rd August - 30th August 2026) For those families looking for a tropical escape, this Port Canaveral departure is the ideal choice. Travellers can refresh themselves in the pools of the Damajagua waterfalls in Puerto Plata. While at St. Thomas, guests can explore marine life and meet green sea turtles during a snorkeling excursion at Turtle Cove. Finally, parents can unwind in a private beachfront cabana at Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s exclusive private island, where you will also find the all-new six-acre Great Tides Waterpark which children will be able to explore from the 4th September 2026. This features 19 slides centred around a 170-foot Tidal Tower, including the industry's first inner-tube water coasters (Breakwater Blasters), the highest cliff jumps (Cliffside Cove), and the Caribbean’s only four-person body slide. There will also be a 9,000-square-foot kids’ zone (Splash Cay), an 800-foot Wandering River, a hidden Grotto Bar, and three new food trucks. With so much to keep both parents and children entertained, this isn’t one to miss. Europe: France, Spain, and Portugal Ship: Norwegian Sky (11 Days) Price: Inside rooms from £745 Availability: August 2026 This itinerary allows travellers to dive into the vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere as they sail through a variety of Spanish locales. Departing from Southampton to Paris, guests have the opportunity to explore the Seine, visit the iconic Eiffel Tower, and enjoy renowned French gastronomy. The voyage continues to Lisbon, where a day can be spent discovering gothic cathedrals, charming local neighborhoods, and scenic coastlines. Additionally, the journey features Valencia, Spain’s third-largest city, where guests can marvel at its architectural masterpieces. Mediterranean: Spain & Gibraltar Ship: Norwegian Dawn (7 Days) Price: Inside rooms from £604 Availability: August 2026 This vibrant 7-day sailing delivers a truly unique journey. The adventure begins in Valencia, where a guided city tour takes guests to highlights like the Mercado Central, a hub for gourmet local treats and fresh ingredients - perfect for those craving authentic ceviche. From there, travellers can ascend the Rock of Gibraltar via cable car for breathtaking views or venture into the atmospheric depths of St. Michael’s Cave. Perfect for families looking to enjoy a wide variety of things to do under the warm sunshine. Caribbean: Dominican Republic & St. Thomas Ship: Norwegian Bliss (12 Days) Price: Inside rooms from £1,855 Availability: November 2026 to March 2028 dates (Christmas getaway sailing: from 23rd December to 4th January 2027) For families seeking an extended getaway over the long Christmas holidays, this itinerary is the perfect choice. Guests can explore the 16th-century Fortaleza San Felipe or visit the Amber Museum, home to an extraordinary array of precious Dominican amber. Families can experience strolling through the charming plazas, chapels, and streets of San Juan. Travellers can take in the stunning harbor of Charlotte Amalie on the island of St. Thomas - a location once frequented by pirates that remains full of treasures today. Caribbean: Barbados & St. Thomas Ship: Norwegian Prima (7 Days) Price: Inside rooms from £1,990 Availability: November 2026 to April 2028 (Christmas getaway sailing: from 27th December to 3rd January 2026) This 7-day Caribbean escape is a standout choice for parents looking for some winter sunshine as this itinerary has availability over the Christmas holiday. Guests depart from the colourful San Juan to explore secluded slices of paradise. Travellers then experience the pristine white sands and turquoise waters of Barbados before heading to St. Thomas, where there is the opportunity to lounge on a catamaran or snorkel with green sea turtles and tropical fish at Turtle Cove. This journey through the islands offers a unique narrative at every stop, creating lasting memories of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit for adults and children alike.

Tucked dramatically into a former quarry overlooking the River Suir, one of the most unexpected and evocative features within Mount Congreve Gardens in County Waterford is set to begin a new chapter, as plans are unveiled for the restoration of its historic Chinese Pagoda. Commissioned by Ambrose Congreve in the late 1970s and inspired by his extensive travels throughout Asia, the ornamental pagoda has long stood as a symbol of the curiosity, imagination and international influences that helped shape Mount Congreve into one of the world’s great gardens. Rising unexpectedly from the landscape, the structure became part architectural folly, part viewing point and part storytelling device within a garden celebrated for its sense of discovery. Now, following decades of exposure to the elements, the pagoda is to undergo an ambitious conservation project that aims not only to restore the structure itself, but also to preserve the remarkable story behind its creation and its place within Ireland’s designed landscape heritage. The restoration project will be undertaken by Mount Congreve Gardens in partnership with the Irish Follies Trust, whose expertise in the conservation of historic follies and ornamental garden structures will play a central role in the project. Support and guidance will also come from conservation specialists and the Heritage and Conservation teams of Waterford City and County Council. Originally constructed in timber before later being adapted with fibreglass roof elements during the 1980s, the pagoda has suffered significant deterioration over time. Planned conservation works will focus on stabilising the structure, restoring key architectural features and securing the long-term future of one of Mount Congreve’s most distinctive landmarks. The project forms part of a broader programme of heritage conservation and interpretation taking place across the estate, with increasing emphasis on protecting the many layers of history, craftsmanship and creativity embedded throughout the gardens. Sara Dolan, CEO of Mount Congreve Gardens, said: “The Chinese Pagoda represents Ambrose Congreve’s deep curiosity about the world and his desire to create moments of surprise, beauty and discovery throughout the gardens. It is a unique and much-loved feature of the estate and an important part of Mount Congreve’s evolving story. This restoration is about preserving that vision for future generations while also celebrating the craftsmanship, creativity and international influences that shaped the gardens we see today.” Primrose Wilson of the Irish Follies Trust added: “This is a fascinating and unusual conservation project. Garden follies form an important part of Ireland’s designed landscapes, and the Mount Congreve Pagoda is particularly distinctive in both its setting and design. We are delighted to support Mount Congreve in ensuring the structure is conserved with care, integrity and appropriate expertise.” As part of the conservation process, historic drawings, photographs, and oral histories connected to the pagoda’s construction are now being gathered to help document the structure’s history and inform the restoration approach. The pagoda was originally fabricated in a joinery workshop before being installed on site by Peter Maher, Eamonn Leary and Paul White. Mount Congreve Gardens and the Irish Follies Trust are also using the project as an opportunity to deepen public awareness around the importance of heritage conservation and the protection of Ireland’s historic garden structures. Visitors will be able to follow the restoration journey through new interpretation panels at the pagoda site, digital storytelling initiatives and wider public engagement activity across the estate. Funding applications are currently being explored, including the Built Heritage Investment Scheme and other heritage support programmes, with restoration works anticipated to commence in 2027, subject to approvals and funding. Public fundraising initiatives, including a QR-based donation mechanism, are also expected to form part of the campaign to help secure the future of the landmark structure. For many visitors, the pagoda has long appeared almost as a hidden discovery within the landscape at Mount Congreve — an unexpected glimpse of Asia nestled into the Waterford gardenscape. Its restoration now promises not only to conserve a striking architectural feature, but also to reconnect visitors with the adventurous spirit and global vision that defined Ambrose Congreve’s extraordinary legacy. Mount Congreve Gardens is open daily year-round - see www.mountcongreve.com

This summer, why not try a truly doggy friendly screening of your favourite movie at The Dot Theatre? Inspired to make Dublin a more dog friendly place, @TheDailyCavalier regularly hosts special doggy friendly screenings at the Dot Movie Theatre! These screenings are the perfect opportunity to enjoy a movie with your pooch and make some furry friends while you're at it. The first screening was held in early 2024, and more than 20 dogs and their owners showed up to watch Lady and the Tramp. The 39-seats cinema screen was fully hired out to pet lovers across the capital, and there were even free treats for both human and canine guests – boxes of unsalted, unbuttered popcorn. Since then, several other screenings took place with great success. The dog-friendly screening is described as a place “where dogs and their owners gather to watch a movie or a show in a dog-friendly environment.” When & Where The event always takes place at The Dot Theatre in 6A Pembroke Place in Dublin 2. Additional Information If you're eager to go, organisers ask that each pooch is well-behaved and toilet trained, with owners encouraged to bring a blanket, leash, water bowl, poop bags, and toys if they need them. Treats are also permitted inside, although dog lovers are asked not to feed anyone else’s four-legged friend. “Please bear in mind the temperament of your dog and whether they would be comfortable to visit the cinema with other dogs and watching a doggy/animal themed movie on the big screen,” The Daily Cavalier writes on the event page. “As it is a doggy screening, some barking at the movie is expected. However if your dog is becoming distressed, it may be best to bring them outside away from the movie.” Tickets Tickets are usually €14.00 per human, and dogs go free. You can buy them through eventbrite.ie, under this link, when screening dates become available. Right now, @TheDailyCavalier has no active events on, but keep an eye out - this summer is bound to be full of doggy friendly movie screenings!