Top Trips Japan and Sri Lanka are the latest additions to the top-10 long-haul bookings list according to holiday specialists Travel Counsellors. The online travel agency has revealed that bookings for Japan have increased by 100 per cent this year while bookings are up 40 per cent for Sri Lanka. The 2019 Rugby World Cup and the Olympic and Paralympic Games coming to Tokyo in 2020 are behind the fresh attraction to Japan, while Sri Lanka's soar in popularity is thought to be partly thanks to Lonely Planet, whïch ranked it the top country for travel in 2019. To check out deals to both destinations, visit travelcounsellors.ie.
Stone work The Office of Public Works, Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, have announced a €5 million investment at Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre. A state-of-the-art exhibition at Knowth celebrating the megalithic art at the site, plus an improved interpretation and visitor facilities are set to be installed at Knowth and Newgrange National Monument, respectively. The works have commenced and are due to be completed within six months, with some closures. However, tours to Newgrange and Knowth, commencing from March 28th, will operate as normal with as little disruption as possible. heritageireland.ie
Farm favourites Mallorca welcomes a brand-new destination hotel this May in the Finca Serena estate. It is set within 100 acres of ancient olive groves and lemon trees, cypresses and fields of lavender, and guests are invited to stay in one of 25 rooms and suites, some of which are former outbuildings of the original farm. Three vegetable gardens supply fare at their Restaurant Jacaranda, and there's even an onsite spa, which means you'll not want to leave the soon-to-be-opened paradise. Rates from €350. fincaserenamallorca.com
Power Play Powerscourt Hotel Resort & Spa is inviting guests to Snuggle Up with their latest package from now until March 31th. Enjoy a stay at the five-star with a 20 per cent discount off treatments in their award-winning Espa, a seasonal menu in Sika restaurant and breakfast the following morning from €150 pps. powerscourt.ie