Departure Lounge: Bayou-bound for a look at Louisiana's wetlands
Sri Lanka's dazzling scenery, culture and hospitality is matched by its colourful cuisine.
Join Sunway's Flavours of Sri Lanka trip for an eight-night culinary adventure that explores the Indian Ocean island's exciting culinary heritage.
From Colombo's bustling Negombo Fish market, spice gardens, and cookery class in a local kitchens, the itinerary includes visiting a family-run cinnamon estate, cooking hoppers and roti with local chefs and tea tastings in the misty hills of Nuwara Eliya.
8 night private tour departing October7, €2,229, including return flights, half board, tours, and transfers.
Deal of the week
Old town at night, Prague
Online travel agent loveholidays has launched its summer sale, with discounts of up to €500 on selected holidays until midnight on July 6.
Offers cover packages everywhere from European favourites to Dubai and the USA.
From a seven-night stay at the three-star Hotel Merce from €299, departing in August from Cork and a three-night stay at the five-star Grandium Hotel Prague from €289, departing in August from Dublin to a seven-night stay at the three-star Hilton Garden Inn Orlando International Drive North from €819, departing in September from Dublin, there's lots of choice and value.
Taste of New Orleans
We might think of music and bourbon when we consider New Orleans, but the colourful southern US city is surrounded by water and shaded by ancient oaks, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
From bike tours along the scenic Lafitte Greenway to kayaking along the bayou and swamp tours exploring Louisiana's vast wetland ecosystems and wildlife, there's even more to this destination than the colourful culture, architecture, music and cuisine.
Anniversary special
Dungarvan's Park Hotel
To celebrate The Park Hotel Dungarvan's 35th anniversary, the Waterford four-star is offering a €35 discount off online room bookings made between July 4 and 11 as part of a week-long anniversary promotion.
Extensively renovated in recent times, the Flynn Hotel Group property sits on five landscaped acres overlooking the Colligan River.
Just a short walk from Dungarvan and the start of the Waterford Greenway, guests can enjoy the Riverside Health Club with swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and gym.
Italian jazz
Hotel Calimala, Florence
Jazz in Cork may be fun but how about a jazz festival in Florence, Italy?
Firenze Jazz Festival takes place between 2-14 September, as the Renaissance city transforms into an open-air jazz club.
Visitors can expect musical performances by world class musicians echoing through piazzas, courtyards, contemporary art spaces, and rooftop bars.
For comfort, the chic Hotel Calimala beckons with its contemporary styling in two heritage buildings in the city's historic centre.
With eclectic interiors, art-filled rooms, and a panoramic rooftop (complete with live DJ sets), it's the perfect pad. B&B from €300.
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Irish Daily Mirror
an hour ago
- Irish Daily Mirror
Florida's Fort Myers is a little slice of paradise just waiting to be discovered
Nowhere is the spirit of resilience more evident than in Fort Myers, a tourist destination in southwest Florida that has bounced back after the devastation of Hurricane Ian in 2022. The deadly tropical cyclone ripped through the region's spectacular beaches and islands, leaving millions without power and forcing inhabitants to take refuge on their roofs. Hurricane Ian destroyed thousands of standing structures and collapsed the Sanibel Causeway, entrapping those left on the islands for days. But the determined inhabitants of this unique region rebuilt their communities and brought the destination back to its former glory. On a recent trip to this tropical paradise on the Gulf of Mexico (or America, depending on who you ask), we experienced this fighting spirit in our encounters with the local businesspeople. One such local stalwart is Cal Bruno, who runs Bruno's of Brooklyn, an Italian restaurant on First Street in downtown Fort Myers, with his wife Genevieve. Their first restaurant around the corner was badly affected by Hurricane Ian, but they rebuilt the business at their current location. A delightful aspect of Bruno's is the TV monitor in the upstairs dining area, which shows a live stream from the kitchen. Diners can watch Cal and his chefs work away on their exciting Sicilian dishes. Cal, who is on a mission to bring the authentic tastes of Sicily to Florida, explained: 'We are going on a trip to Italy soon to source the perfect type of pasta for our restaurant here in Fort Myers.' Our next stop was Swamp Cat Brew Company, run by Chris Gutierrez and his wife. By his own admission, armed forces veteran Chris is the rarest of breeds: a born and bred Floridian. As we sampled some of the refreshing beers at his pub, he showed us his impressive brewing equipment and explained the process. 'I started out by home brewing when I was stationed in San Diego. Then I moved back home to Florida to start this business,' said Chris. Next day, we got a windswept view of Fort Myers during a boat tour along the impressive Caloosahatchee River. Our guide Renee Shelly, owner of Off the Leash Charters, explained that the river takes its name from the Calusa, a Native American tribe who inhabited the area. Back on dry land, we visited the Arcade Theatre, where Thomas Edison watched movies with his pals Henry Ford and Harvey Firestone. After leaving our luxurious rooms at The Luminary Hotel, we headed south along the Sanibel Causeway to Sanibel Island. As we departed Fort Myers, we passed the winter estates of Edison (Seminole Lodge) and Ford (The Mangoes). According to our driver, Robert, these major attractions have been miraculously left undamaged by countless hurricanes. On the way to our next hotel, Sundial Beach Resort, we stopped at Wickies Lighthouse Restaurant for breakfast and visited the nearby Sanibel Lighthouse. We weren't allowed to climb the lighthouse, but the surrounding beach and park still afforded us some great views of the causeway waterways. Brian, one of the owners of Wickies, explained the restaurant was named after the people who used to light the wicks of the lighthouse in the old days. To avoid the inevitable sunstroke, we boarded our air-conditioned mini-bus and headed north to Captiva. When it came time for the Adventure Sea Kayak Buck Key Tour, our group was excited to finally see some manatees. I watched nervously as each of my companions diligently got into their kayaks and hoped nobody would make me do the same. From a safe distance, I bravely watched as they paddled off toward a hidden bayou. Then I made my way to the nearby 'Tween Waters Island Resort, where I ordered a virgin pina colada and soaked in the swimming pool for two hours. When reunited with the group, they reported they had a great time in the kayaks, but all they saw of the manatees was a rump. Later, when asked what their favourite part of the trip was, each of them said it was the kayaks. After lunch at Doc Ford's Rum Bar, we headed for Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, where the star exhibit is a giant Pacific octopus. We visited the Living Gallery of Aquarians and the Great Hall of Shells, but the highlight for me was the trough full of shellfish. We were invited to wash our hands and touch the tiny creatures. The museum also had a media room where visitors could watch videos of shell experts talking about – you guessed it – shells. As we left, we were each allowed to pick and take away our own seashell from a bowl. Next day, we boarded a Captiva Cruises vessel at McCarthy's Marina and embarked on the Cabbage Key Cruise. To make up for the lack of manatees the previous day, we were treated to a dazzling display of acrobatics along the side of the ship by a pair of dolphins. 'Make as much noise as you can,' the captain advised on the loudspeaker, 'and they'll keep showing off for you'. When we landed at Cabbage Key pier, we headed for a quirky restaurant that inspired singer Jimmy Buffet to write Cheeseburger In Paradise. I ordered the cheeseburger and can report it was one of the best I've ever had. Our host Ray Sarracino explained the restaurant was once owned Mary Roberts Rinehart, a mystery novelist who first coined the phrase 'The butler did it'. The other oddity of the Cabbage Key Inn and Restaurant is the collection of signed dollar bills taped to the walls and ceiling. Ray told us the tradition started when fisherman signed their names on dollar bills and stuck them on the wall so they could come back and drink when they were broke. According to Ray, John F Kennedy, Ernest Hemingway and Jimmy Carter have also added dollar bills. Upon our return to Captiva, we strolled along Andy Rosse Lane and enjoyed a cool dessert at Boop's Ice Cream Parlor and Cafe. While enjoying a refreshing mint-flavoured milkshake, I found myself momentarily delighted about a recent law in the US reversing the ban on plastic straws. Environmental concerns aside, I'd forgotten the sheer joy of using a straw that does not disintegrate after the first drink. That night, during dinner at Old Captiva House, part of the aforementioned 'Tween Waters Island Resort, our host Tony Lapi regaled us with stories from his 50 years at Sanibel-Captiva Beach Resorts. 'I came here when I was 26 and we survived Irma in 2017, Michael in 2018, Lorenzo in 2019 and Ian in 2022,' he said. Sanibel Island and Captiva bore the brunt of Hurricane Ian, he said, but the community survived it and rebuilt. But Tony and the rest of the community want the world to know this awe-inspiring destination is now bigger and better than ever. Home to Over 35,000 Acres of Protected Land Thanks to the Lee County Conservation 20/20 programme, Fort Myers offers travellers access to more than 35,000 acres of untouched preserves, making it a haven for eco-conscious explorers and one of Florida's standout destinations for sustainable, nature-led adventures. Sanibel's Shell Museum – A One-of-a-Kind US Experience Sanibel Island is home to the only museum in the US solely dedicated to shells and the marine creatures that inhabit them. This offbeat gem blends science and art, offering travellers a uniquely immersive look at coastal life not found anywhere else in the country. Visitors will also explore a new art exhibition launched this year, showcasing stunning works that celebrate the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, guests can observe the mesmerising on-site octopus and get hands-on at the museum's two large interactive touch pools, all under the professional guidance of marine life experts. Cape Coral's Canal Network With more miles of canals than Venice in Italy, Cape Coral is quickly becoming a trending 'destination dupe' for waterway lovers, minus the European crowds. This hidden gem is perfect for those seeking the charm of a water-bound escape, but with a laid-back, relaxed vibe. Whether exploring canals by boat, kayaking through peaceful waterways, or simply soaking in the serene views, Cape Coral offers an unparalleled experience – with some incredible chances to spot wildlife, including manatees. One of the Sunniest Cities in the US Averaging 271 days of sunshine annually, Fort Myers is a year-round destination, especially appealing to travellers looking to escape Ireland's grey skies. Whether lounging on pristine beaches, exploring vibrant neighbourhoods, or taking to the waters, Fort Myers offers the perfect sunny retreat. Home to the Largest Undeveloped Mangroves Ecosystem in the US Part of the largest undeveloped mangrove ecosystem in the US, J.N. 'Ding' Darling offers an immersive eco-experience for birdwatchers, nature lovers, and sustainability-focused travellers. Spanning over 7,000 acres, it's considered one of the top bird-watching spots in the world. Join a naturalist on a scenic journey along Wildlife Drive, where expert guidance can help you spot roseate spoonbills, ibis, and many others from among 245 different bird species, along with dozens of mammals, reptiles, and amphibians hidden in plain sight. HOW TO GET THERE: Travellers can fly directly from London to Tampa with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic. Other airlines offer flights from Dublin to Tampa via various US airports. Some might consider this the best option because of the US pre-clearance facility at Dublin Airport. Neither Gatwick nor Heathrow offers this facility. On arrival at Tampa, it's a two-and-a-half hour drive to Fort Myers. WHERE TO STAY: The Luminary - bookable at Price per night: starting rate is $195 (approximately €166) Sundial Beach Resort & Spa - bookable at Price per night: starting rate is $250 (approximately €213) FOR MORE: Check out the Visit Fort Myers website. The Irish Mirror's Crime Writers Michael O'Toole and Paul Healy are writing a new weekly newsletter called Crime Ireland. Click here to sign up and get it delivered to your inbox every week
The Irish Sun
13 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
Ryanair issue new advice as they are set to INCREASE baggage allowance in just weeks in ‘bring more clarity' move
RYANAIR passengers are being warned of a huge new change that is set to come into place in weeks. As 2 Ryanair will make a move which is set to make passengers happy Credit: Getty Images - Getty 2 The airline is due to increase its baggage allowance Credit: Alamy The topic of Ryanair's baggage allowance has always been a contentious subject, with many passengers giving out on But now, the READ MORE IN TRAVEL The But now, European airlines have agreed to adopt a new minimum size for cabin luggage. This means that one of The new measurements allowed on board will soon be 40cm x 30cm x 20cm - which saw an increase from 25cm to 30cm. Most read in News Travel The volume will now be 24 litres. If the airline had adjusted their dimensions in accordance with the new minimum size, Ryanair would have had to cut 10 per cent in volume. At least 18 people injured after fire in Ryanair plane at Majorca airport as passengers abandon jet by clambering over wing This is because the newly announced European minimum bag size is now 40cm x 30cm x 15cm. But now, Ryanair passengers can enjoy a larger limit. It also means that anyone who has bought a Ryanair-compatible cabin bag will still be able to use it. Ourania Georgoutsakou, Ryanair's managing director, said: "This will align A4E members with the decision of member states made last month and bring more clarity to passengers across Europe. "From city-hoppers to family travellers, everyone will benefit from the same clear rule across our members' networks." It comes days after Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary called on EU Commission President, Ryanair said that in the first half of 2025, CEO "It makes no sense and is abundantly unfair on EU passengers and families going on
Irish Examiner
17 hours ago
- Irish Examiner
How has Ryanair changed its cabin baggage rule and will other airlines do it too?
For all but the most seasoned travellers the metal bag sizers used by budget airlines have become an instrument of fear due to the heavy financial penalty incurred if hand baggage is too big to fit. But as the summer holiday season gets under way there is some good news for those who struggle to travel light: Ryanair has announced it is increasing the size of the small 'personal' bag you can take in the cabin for free by 20%. This sounds unusually generous of Ryanair – is it? Yes. But it comes as airlines fall into line behind a new EU guaranteed bag size of 40cm by 30cm by 15cm. The current dimensions of the Ryanair free carry-on limit are 40cm by 25cm by 20cm. It is increasing them to 40cm by 30cm by 20cm. Ryanair trumpets this is 'bigger than the EU standard'. It says the change 'will be implemented over the coming weeks, as our airport bag sizers are adjusted'. The size change represents a 20% increase in volume and means Ryanair will be accepting free bags one-third bigger than the new EU minimum. But that is the only aspect of Ryanair's baggage policy that is changing. If you get it wrong and a gate check reveals the bag is oversized you will pay a fee of £60. A larger cabin bag can be added to a flight booking for £6 to £36 depending on the route but, again, if it is deemed too large at the airport it will cost £75 to stow. Will other airlines change their luggage rules, too? Some won't have do anything. Rival budget airline easyJet, for example, already allows a more generous free underseat bag. Wizz Air's current free bag policy is the same as the one that Ryanair is moving to. The airline association Airlines for Europe (A4E) says its 28 members have started applying the bag dimensions which were agreed by EU transport ministers last month. 'This will bring more clarity to passengers across Europe,' says its managing director, Ourania Georgoutsakou. 'From city-hoppers to family travellers, everyone will benefit from the same clear rule across our members' networks.' Standardising cabin-bag rules has been on the Brussels agenda for years with the decision to settle on a size enabling frequent travellers to buy one piece of luggage that will be accepted by multiple airlines. All A4E airlines will be following the bag rule by the end of the 2025 summer season, it says, adding that 'carriers will continue to permit larger personal items at their discretion'. Aren't hand baggage fees being abolished anyway? Not yet, but they could be. European consumer groups are calling on EU lawmakers to investigate budget airlines for 'exploiting consumers' by charging for hand luggage. In May, BEUC, an umbrella group for 44 consumer organisations, called for Brussels to investigate seven airlines, including Ryanair, easyJet and Wizz Air for this. BEUC director general Agustín Reyna said the airlines were 'ignoring the EU top court who ruled that charging [for] reasonably sized hand baggage is illegal'. The organisation was referring to a EU court of justice ruling in 2014 that said the 'carriage of hand baggage cannot be made subject to a price supplement, provided that it meets reasonable requirements in terms of its weight and dimensions'. In the meantime, Spain has become a battleground for the issue. Last year, its consumer affairs ministry fined five carriers, including Ryanair, a total of €179m (£150m) for charging passengers for hand luggage and seat reservations. Now low-cost carrier Wizz Air is being investigated, too. Will charges be banned? Ryanair's chief executive, Michael O'Leary, says no. He is dismissive of the Spanish effort, recently telling the Guardian the country has a 'mad minister who's decided that as General Franco passed some law 30 years before Spain joined the EU, passengers are free to bring as much baggage as they want.' A Spanish court has now temporarily suspended the fines on three of the airlines (including Ryanair) while the matter is under judicial review, after a legal challenge. To complicate matters further, last month the transport committee of the European parliament voted to give passengers the right to an extra piece of free hand luggage weighing up to 7kg. Under the new rule, travellers could bring one cabin bag measuring up to 100cm (based on the sum of the dimensions) on board their flight, as well a personal bag, at no additional cost. (MEPs also want children under 12 years old to be seated next to their accompanying passenger free of charge.) The proposed law requires approval from 55% of EU member states, but if adopted after the negotiations due to start this month, would extend to all flights within the EU, as well as routes to and from the EU. The airline industry is predictably opposed, stating that the cost of the bag will be folded into overall prices, pushing up fares. 'Europe's airline market is built on choice,' Georgoutsakou says. 'Forcing a mandatory trolley bag strips passengers of that choice and obliges passengers to pay for services they may not want or need. What's next? Mandatory popcorn and drinks as part of your cinema ticket? 'The European parliament should let travellers decide what services they want, what services they pay for and, importantly, what services they don't,' she says.
