TravelTalk - Sept 28 2024

Cleveland is famous for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and its vibrant theatre scene at Playhouse Square, it is a mecca for sports fans and neighbourhoods like Ohio City offer a huge variety of tasty local cuisines and amazing craft beers.  The Museum of Art is world class and Emily tells us why this charming city has a lot to offer those who take the time to explore it.    Ed has visited Cleveland twice this year and has really fallen in love with the place.  Watch out for Ed's Cleveland special on his new TV show - Ed Finn's America coming to Virgin Media TV this October.

Paul Melinis and his team at Travel Marvel River Cruises are very excited to welcome you onboard their brand-new Contemporary River Ships, the TravelMarvel Polaris, Capella and Vega. These stylish vessels have been custom designed specifically for Europe's waterways and feature modern decor as well as a host of cleverly designed spacious common areas.

On Travel Talk today we chat to the very dapper and charasmatic General Manager of the Sonesta Simply Suites, Freddy Hansley.  I meet Freddy in his office at the newly renovated Jersey City Hotel which pretty amazing views of Manhattan.

Ed chats to Emma Kwanin - Global Market Specialist from the Utah Office of Tourism

Travel Talk visited the famous Martinique New York on Broadway Curio Collection by Hilton and chatted with Dan Briks the General Manager. 

When you stay at the Hilton Downtown Cleveland everything is on your doorstep, with the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Playhouse Square, and East 4th Street within a mile. The hotel is connected to the Huntington Convention Centre and has a terrific indoor pool, fitness centre, and a top-floor bar with stunning views of Lake Erie.

Spectacular natural beauty, world-class theatre and fabulous tax-free shopping are just some of the reasons to plan your trip to the beautiful twin cities of Minneapolis-St. Paul. Now fly direct from Dublin to Aer Lingus. Book now and choose from four weekly flights.

The America’s Cup, a sailing event that blends history, fame, fortune, international rivalry, and technology, stands as the world’s premier regatta, offering one of the most significant sports spectacles of our time. In this blog, we will delve into the captivating details of the 2024 America’s Cup, set to unfold in the beautiful city of Barcelona.

People come to Miami just to gaze at it. There’s absolutely no shortage of eye candy, from the art deco facades of South Beach to the colourful murals of the design area and of course the natural beauty of the Florida Keys and the everglades.  Not forgetting of course the crystal clear blue warm waters of the Atlantic lapping at your feet.  We stayed at the Hilton Cabana Miami Beach which has it's own private beach and two pools and was a terrific location - described as a Beachfront resort on Millionaire's Row no less!   Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with direct access to the beach and the nine-mile Miami Beachwalk.

“Venice of America” is more than a humble-brag on Fort Lauderdale’s official city seal. It is this destination’s world-famous sobriquet, a nickname based on the 300 miles of inland waterways that run through Greater Fort Lauderdale, with about 165 of those miles in the city of Fort Lauderdale itself. When locals and visitors call this tropical destination the Venice of America, it’s because these winding ribbons of waterways aren’t just for show. The extra bragging rights come from how Greater Fort Lauderdale makes good use of them, cultivating a water-lover’s lifestyle that you can enjoy year-round under the warm Florida sunshine.

Boston – a historic city – is also one of the most sophisticated in the US, with fine museums, elegant dining, and easy access to the country's most exclusive coastal resorts

Travel Talk was in Hartford, Connecticut this week in the salubrious surroundings of the Delamar Hotel, West Hartford. Ed had the pleasure to chat with hotelier and entrepreneur, Charles Mallory from the Greenwich Hospitality Group. Charles told me that the group is not only redefining luxury but also nurturing the cultural heritage of Connecticut. "My hope is that our hotels and restaurants continue to create exceptional, happy memories for our guests and the local community for years to come,”

On Travel Talk next we chat to Brittany Ferries' General Manager, Hugh Bruton about all the routes from Ireland to France and Spain this year - Ed sailed the route from Rosslare to Bilbao last year and found that it was the perfect way to enjoy a holiday to Spain with your car and a great gateway to discover the Basque Country and Rioja Alavesa - And you can even bring the dog as well. Check out www.brittany-ferries.ie for some great fares and they have great holiday packages.

Basel has always been connected to European culture and, indeed, European history to a far greater extent than the rest of Switzerland, thanks to the Rhine that wends its powerful way through its middle. And the Burghers of Basel have a real thing for water

Kenmare House is a newly refurbished stately residence nestled in the secluded private woodlands of the Killarney National Park. Complete with its own private chapel and magnificent gardens, the property combines historical charm with contemporary comforts for a relaxing and memorable stay.

On Travel Talk this week Ed travelled to London to meet Matt Williams the GM at The Westminster London, a Curio Collection Hotel by Hilton

On Travel Talk today we chat to Domingo Lorenzo Cuyás and Robert Courtney about the St. Patrick's Festival taking place in Lanzarote this March.

From Calgary to Denver, from Dalaman to Minneapolis St Paul,  today on Travel Talk we have exciting new holiday destinations from Ireland in 2024 Exploring a new destination is always so exciting and even easier when its on a direct flight! 

Egypt is home to seven spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where visitors can immerse themselves in ancient cultural legacy protected throughout the ages.

January is the perfect time to make plans for the future, whether that's taking up a new hobby or planning for a special holiday in the coming months. If you're feeling the urge to move your body this year as well as take on a new adventure, why not book an outdoors holiday? Top holiday destinations like Spain, France and Italy will always be popular,  Ed suggests using adventure and the outdoors to see new sides to these countries.  Discover the Caminito del Rei near Malaga, an 8km thrilling hike!  Go Snowshoe Hiking in Switzerland's Stockhorn or Mürren area or plan that exciting adventure to Egypt which we will cover in depth in next weeks programme.

Thrill-Seekers & Family Fun Days There are a host of attractions with full-scale rollercoasters for every age and thrill-seeking adventurer. It is home to one of the largest water parks with a huge wave pool and even an indoor snowy ski slope – I kid you not. What’s more, it is on the doorstep of Newark Airport (less than a 20-minute drive) and very close to Manhattan (less than 20 minutes from the Empire State Building / 15 minutes from Hudson Yards) so tag on an extra day or three, grab the tax-free bargains and spend time having fun in Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, DreamWorks Water Park, Big Snow, Sealife, Legoland Discovery Centre, the Dream Wheel (full-scale Ferris wheel), Angry Birds Mini Golf or The Rink for ice-skating (to name a few). Furthermore, this is indoors so whether it’s snowy or very sunny, inside the temperature is just right.

Frankfurt has been known to get overshadowed by the likes of Berlin and Munich, but don’t be fooled. This city is the centre of it all. Pretty much all roads lead to Frankfurt in Germany (and we mean literally, by the way). Frankfurt is home to the country’s biggest airport, biggest Autobahn interchange and busiest train station. It gets all of the action, all of the time. So many different people pass through Frankfurt every single day, it’s alive here. All of the time. And the energy is reflected in every part of the city; its things to do range from mesmerising museums to enchanting forests, and from food markets to café culture. Frankfurt is a diverse, thriving city, you just have to give it a go. Here are the best things to do in Frankfurt right now.

My recent stay at the Grafton Hotel in Dublin was nothing short of amazing. The hotel's prime location allowed me to immerse myself in the vibrant energy of the city, with iconic landmarks and cultural attractions just a stone's throw away. The culinary experience was a highlight, as the hotel's restaurant offered an array of delectable dishes that tantalised my taste buds. From hearty breakfasts to exquisite dinners, each meal was a gastronomic delight. The atmosphere exuded a perfect blend of sophistication and warmth, creating a welcoming and comfortable ambiance. The stylish setting of the hotel added an extra layer of luxury to my experience, making every moment a true indulgence. The Grafton Hotel Dublin surpassed my expectations, leaving me with cherished memories and a desire to return

The 8th edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World, titled “A tavola con la cucina italiana: il benessere con gusto” (At the Table with Italian Cuisine: Wellbeing with Taste), starts this week

This morning on Travel Talk from 10am we are visiting Tennessee with the director of sales for Tennessee Tourism, Margaret Fuqua - The State of Tennessee has a rich history that goes back centuries and an abundance of rugged nature, with attractions at every turn. The home of Elvis, Dolly, Tina and Taylor Swift it is famous for alcohol as it is for music, Tennessee is the epitome of good times, while its National State Parks and the Great Smoky Mountains are some of the most visited in the United States. Margaret tells us how you can get the most out of this wonderful state. Tennessee Vacation #Tennessee with the Specialists for Tennessee www.platinumtravel.ie

Ed sat down with Chris Cavanaugh the GM of Roost Cleveland and Detroit.  Chris has worked in Hospitality for many years and told Ed all about the MyRoost concept and their vision.

Ed Finn discovers his new favourite US City. Cleveland's 78 square miles are jam-packed with things to do for visitors of all ages and interests. Foodies, theatre goers, adventure-seekers, nature-lovers, sports fanatics and history buffs alike will find plenty of things to enjoy in Cleveland. Cleveland Rocks.

Prague is without doubt one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, however you're not doing the Czech Republic justice if you confine yourself to the Charles Bridge and the world of Kafka. Ed Finn visited Prague and travelled just an hour by train to discover nearby Pilsen and its famous brewery.

If you're Ho Ho Hoping to enjoy some Christmas Markets this year then you've come to the right place. From historic markets to gourmet wonders, embark on a magical journey through Europe’s most festive escapes with paul from Click and Go Holidays.

On Travel Talk today - Be part of Europe’s LARGEST Halloween Festival as the Walled City of Derry welcomes the spirit of Samhain through its historic gates for a festival like no other!  For four nights the worlds of past and present collide to bring you a dazzling street celebration of all things spooky in the official home of Halloween.

Finding the best travel deals is a matter of timing. A lot of people think travel is expensive, but in reality, there are incredible deals happening all the time. These often don’t last too long, and you have to act quickly. That can sometimes be a problem when a deal requires jumping on a plane tomorrow but today we have some price busting last minute offers and early 2024. Italy, Spain, Ireland, Thailand, Cruising in Norway and Thailand.....

CLIA's Managing Director spoke to Ed about all the great Cruise Deals for Cruise Week and about the state of cruising today

Ireland’s Ancient East is one of four unique regional experience destinations in Ireland. This region has exceptional roots; over 5,000 years of history are visible as you travel through its lush green landscapes, with many historical sites of global significance, from the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Brú Na Bóinne/Newgrange to Slane Castle.

Travel Talk sat down with Heather Colache Tourism Account Director at Meet Atlantic City when she visited Dublin recently.

Düsseldorf sets trends. It's the fashion capital of Germany with more than 800 showrooms presenting the latest designer and couture creations – and not just during fashion week. The famous Königsallee, meanwhile, is lined with exclusive boutiques. Shoppers are known to succumb to temptation in the name of fashion here.

Have you ever considered New Jersey for a fantastic holiday? This week on Travel Talk we have Jeff Vasser the executive director from New Jersey Tourism to chat about all the things to do and see in the Garden State.

Franconian Wine Country Exquisite Franconian wines are the claim to fame of the Franconian wine country since the grapes grow especially well in this area where the Main River makes a loop. The winemaking plus a fascinating cultural environment provide something everybody can take pleasure in. Our world-renowned Franconian wines are best enjoyed right here. Aside from the culinary experience, many area winegrowers gladly take you on informative and entertaining tours through their vineyards, wineries, and wine cellars. Wine sampling is of course part of the tradition. You can sip on superb Silvaner, Müller-Thurgau, or a high-quality Bacchus wine. A good meal is the perfect accompaniment for our wine. We especially recommend locally produced asparagus, venison, fish or poultry.

Ed travelled to Hilton London Bankside to meet Hospitality Legend and Roscommon man, James B Clarke. Roof Meadows, Vegan Rooms, London's best breakfast and a warm Irish welcome in one of London's coolest hoods. To plan a trip to the Hilton Hotel Bankside - www.hilton.com

Greece has the longest coastline in Europe and is the southernmost country in Europe. The mainland has rugged mountains, forests, and lakes, but the country is well known for the thousands of islands dotting the blue Aegean Sea to the east, the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and the Ionian Sea to the west. The country is divided into three geographical regions: the mainland, the islands, and Peloponnese, the peninsula south of the mainland. The Pindus mountain range on the mainland contains one of the world's deepest gorges, Vikos Gorge, which plunges 3,600 feet (1,100 meters). Mount Olympus is Greece's highest mountain at 9,570 feet (2,917 meters) above sea level. Ancient Greeks believed it was the home of the gods. Mount Olympus became the first national park in Greece.

Despite being a metropolitan city, it can often get overlooked as a travel spot.  Emily Lauer was this week's guest on Travel Talk and chatted to Ed about  are some of the things that make Cleveland unique and why you should add it to your travel plans.  Now with a direct Aer Lingus flight from Dublin to Cleveland with fares from €245 each way it is opening up some great new options for travellers to this part of the US.

Salamanca, is the first in the Brittany Ferries fleet to be powered by LNG (liquefied natural gas) fuel and is the only direct route to sail from Rosslare to Bilbao  A sister ship to Galicia, launched in 2020.  Salamanca is the greenest ship yet. Its whole design is built around efficiency and lowering emissions, and the first LNG-powered ferry to connect Ireland with mainland Europe.

On Travel Talk today we were joined by special guest Lisa Urias, Director of Tourism for Visit Arizona - Arizona's has an incredible 34 state parks and 22 national parks & monuments and of course the unique Grand Canyon

One of western Germany’s lesser-known cities, pretty little Essen sits between Dusseldorf and Dortmund, and it’s swiftly becoming a much more popular choice for a German relocation. Once an industrial hyper-hub, the place is now a bit better known for being kooky, quirky and creative… with a young population, relatively low rents, and a nice community vibe. If you’re looking for friendly, interesting and not too pricey, you’ve found it. The city is a pretty common new-home choice for young people—loads of students live here, and it’s a good nightlife spot.

We're delighted to announce that Titanic Belfast will reopen on Saturday 4th March with four exciting new themed galleries! The reimagined Titanic Experience introduces 'The Pursuit of Dreams' as a new theme and will use immersive technology combined with the authentic Titanic Story in our refreshed spaces which will be called Never Again; Ballard’s Quest; The Ship of Dreams and The Lasting Legacy. Guests will delve deeper into a reflective journey of the hopes and dreams of those impacted by the iconic ship, giving them the chance to find out more about the lives and stories of the passengers who had dreams of starting a new life in America, as well as those who built the ship in Belfast and those who discovered her wreck. As we prepare to reopen our world-leading attraction, we're excited to now reveal the details of one of the centrepieces of the new experience – an illuminated 7.6m long scale model of RMS Titanic! The new model will be suspended from the ceiling and will fully rotate, taking approximately 90 seconds to complete, promising to provide a true wow-factor for visitors. It is replicated on a 1:35 scale and boasts some of the main features of the iconic ship including the lifeboats, propellers, engine, cranes, bridge, main staircase and chimneys. Fitted with 300 metres of LED lights that are programmed to highlight different areas of the ship in line with the stories being told, the ship is a must-see for visitors. Designed by OPERA Amsterdam, the replica ship is the largest model the company has ever created. It took six months to build and will take a further three weeks to install and programme here at Titanic Belfast.

The iconic Montenotte Hotel is perched in a stunning location overlooking Cork and is one of Ireland’s leading destination hotels and it has won many prestigious awards over the years. Travel Talk met Ray Kelleher the hotel's Director of sales and marketing.

Travel Talk headed to Derry this weekend and met up with Ciaran O' Neill the MD of the Bishop's Gate Hotel -  Ciaran took up the opportunity in 2015 to open a new 32 bedroom Boutique Hotel inside the Historic Derry walls as part of a regeneration project and it successfully opened on the 4th March of 2016.

Killian McLaughlin is a conservationist and the founder of Wild Ireland, a wildlife sanctuary in County Donegal, Ireland. He is known as the “Bearman of Buncrana” for his efforts to rescue and rehabilitate brown bears. Killian has a background in law, but his passion for wildlife conservation led him to pursue his dream of creating a sanctuary for abused animals. He is dedicated to bringing native Irish species back from the brink of extinction and educating the public about the importance of protecting wildlife and the restoration of the Irish ecosystem.

Emerald Star is known as Le Boat in Europe and Canada, but we are all part of the same operation. As Europe & Canada's No. 1 boating holiday company, our 50 years of know-how ensures that you’re in good hands. We know that our continued success depends on giving you the best service, boats and cruising destinations, and we do. We offer the world’s largest fleet of canal boats and the widest choice of beautiful boating holidays in Ireland, Europe & Canada!

Berlin, post-Wall, has been on a mission to transform itself into Europe's go-to spot for creativity and culture. It's a city that caters to everyone, from free-spirited hedonists and trendy hipsters to history buffs and culture vultures. While the buzz often surrounds its vibrant art scenes, inclusive nightlife, and booming start-up culture, Berlin is more than just headlines. Families find it a warm embrace with ample green spaces, glistening lakes, and a generally kid-friendly vibe. Luxury seekers can revel in five-star hotels, Michelin-starred dining, and lavish spas. And for those fascinated by history, Berlin's 20th-century story unfolds at every corner. Beyond the must-see landmarks like UNESCO-protected Museum Island, the iconic Reichstag dome, bustling Alexanderplatz, and historic Checkpoint Charlie, the real magic lies in the city's inner neighborhoods. Prenzlauer Berg, Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, Neukölln, and Schöneberg aren't just names on a map – they're vibrant pockets bursting with local vibes. Wander through these areas, and you'll stumble upon hip bars, unique restaurants, independent boutiques, and quirky museums, adding that extra layer to Berlin's magnetic charm

Nashville itself is Country Music Central, with live music on every street corner, venerable institutions that showcase international stars and a clutch of superb museums and historic recording studios that are open to visitors.

Normandy and Ireland share strong historical, cultural and friendship ties. In an effort to strengthen these links, the 'Normandy Food Tour' will be coming to Ireland in early June visiting Dublin, Kilkenny and New Ross. Michael Dodds gave Ed Finn all the details of the upcoming event at a recent event in the Alliance Française Dublin.

Soak up the Mediterranean aroma and admire the infinity of the sea from our Rooftop Terrace, a space reserved for The Level guests that connects with The Level Lounge. Bask in the Malaga sunshine on a Bali bed while enjoying a drink. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, relax in one of the whirlpool tubs or have fun joining all the organised activities and events.

A sustainable holiday conserves natural resources, strengthens intercultural understanding and supports regional businesses. Many destinations and providers in Destination Germany are committed to this goal and are developing an increasing number of resource-saving offers that are good for the environment as well as for hosts and their guests

Tracy Vaughan from Visit Lauderdale chatted to us on Travel Talk today. Fort Lauderdale and the Lauderdale area is known as the ”Venice of America”. Made up of 31 neighbourhoods, Greater Fort Lauderdale offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors to enjoy, from the area’s thriving arts district, shopping on Las Olas Boulevard, fishing & diving spots galore, to the glitzy marinas lined with super yachts and luxurious five-star hotels. Especially impressive and attractive is the fast track and affordable rail line known as "Bright Line" down the coast of Florida connecting Disney in Orlando to hot spots in Miami and everything in between. This area has miles of sandy beaches, sunshine, great food and shopping plus some amazing culture and nature experiences to offer. For full details check out - www.visitlauderdale.com

On Travel Talk this morning we are joined by Rachel Lewis from South Africa Tourism.

The Croatian Ambassador to Ireland H.E. Mr. Davor Vidiš on Travel Talk

Sharon Wall was one of our guests at Holiday World this week focusing on Croatia, the Pearl of the Adriatic Sharon talked about some wonderful two and three centre options in Croatia, about a wonderful boutique island hopping cruise for only 38 people and how Dubrovnik and Split have lots of direct flights this year from Dublin as well as Croatia Airlines direct service to Zagreb. For all the info and bookings visit www.croatia.ie or call into Sharon in her lovely new Pearse Street Office in Dublin.

The Travel Broker's Clare Dunne on Travel Talk

Travel Talk meets Miro Drašković, director of the Dubrovnik Tourist Board

On Travel Talk this week Ed caught up with Agnia Nast from Visit Estonia at the Marker Hotel where she hosted a dinner followed by a wonderful night at the Ballet - The Estonian Ballet Company (formerly the Kirov) are here in Dublin at the Bord Gais Theatre until January 15th with Tchaikovsky's Swan lake.

On the first Travel Talk of 2023 we were joined by Paul Hackett, President of the Irish Travel Agents Association & CEO of Click&Go who tells us about the hottest places to visit and the top travel trends for for the year ahead.

The Hilton Frankfurt, has completed an extensive renovation over the past 3 years. Marc Snijders, General Manager, who started as a banquet worker in the hotel 25 years ago when it opened tells me how the renovations have transformed the Hilton Frankfurt from a conventional international hotel to a more urban environment with the new design of the 184 deluxe and executive rooms. The Hilton Frankfurt City Centre is urban, chic and homely. It's stylish decor uses earth tones, high-quality fabrics, natural materials and leather armchairs in the rooms.

Christmas markets are absolutely magical and are back with a flurry. The scents of chestnuts roasting, gingerbread baking, and wine mulling waft through the air. The historical cities that play home to them ooze atmosphere and the chilly and sometimes snowy weather is the perfect excuse to embrace that festive spirit. Ed travelled to Nuremberg and Frankfurt recently and thoroughly enjoyed visiting these wonderfully contrasting cities.

Ed visited the opening of the Nuremberg Christmas Markets where he met Marco von Dobschuetz-Dietl, Head of the Markets. First mentioned in 1628, its roots probably go back to the time of Luther, when the tradition of giving children presents at Christmas evolved. Ever since then traditional wares such as handmade Christmas decorations and culinary treats have been offered by the 165 wooden stalls, decorated with red and white canvas. Take a stroll through the festively lighted lanes between the stalls and discover the enchantment of the unique atmosphere and the enticing aroma of gingerbread, mulled wine and grilled sausages to name but a few.

Valencia came to Dublin recently hosting a wonderful Gourmet & tourism evening in the Shelbourne Hotel.  Ed met Juan Antonio Muñoz from Valencia Tourism who told him the many different experiences that this region has to offer the Irish Tourist. Guests had the opportunity to discover different aspects of Region of Valencia, starting with a wine tasting and pairing of Valencian products, followed by a networking cocktail dinner with gastronomic tastings prepared by three Michelin-starred chefs from this Region.

The Travel Expert Sarah Slattery joined us on Travel Talk today with some terrific Black Friday Travel Specials.

Ed enjoyed a lovely break in Dublin staying at the totally refurbished Grafton Hotel.  A modern, art deco stylish hotel located just off Grafton Street in Dublin 2, one of the coolest places to stay in Dublin due to its proximity to all the major attractions in Dublin city.

There is something of an air of extravagance to the idea of being abroad for Christmas, shunning turkey bones and dirty plates for Santa hats on the beach.

El Caminito del Rey (the King’s Little Path) was once considered Spain’s most dangerous hiking trail. The path was even closed for over a decade. But today Caminito del Rey is open and perfectly safe for anyone willing to walk along its 100-meter tall vertical cliffside.

This week on Travel Talk, A Luxury Shopping Experience with The Westin Hotel and Brown Thomas. The Westin has partnered with Brown Thomas offering a very innovative package which includes a luxurious overnight stay and a personalised shopping experience or beauty style consultation.

Halloween revellers will be thrilled to hear that the annual Halloween Carnival parade will make a spooktacular return this year, with the launch today of Derry’s internationally acclaimed Halloween Festival. We chatted with Jacqueline Whoriskey from Derry City Council who tells us that this year we can experience Derry Halloween like never before, "the spirit worlds will come to life across the walled city" , The Halloween parade traditionally involves hundreds of local performers, drawn from schools, clubs and groups right across the City and District, helping it to retain the community spirit that has always been at the heart of Derry’s world class festivities. For all the info visit - https://derryhalloween.com/

The Royal Museum of Fine Arts Antwerp (KMSKA) has opened its doors for the first time in 11 years following a transformative restoration costing more than €100m.  The original building was conceived by its 19th-century architects Jean-Jacques Winders and Frans Van Dyck as a "daylight museum", where "visitors would enjoy a promenade surrounded by stunning artworks as well as the external landscape, witnessed through its multiple lookouts over the city and the inner patios", according to the website of Netherlands-based architects KAAN Architecten, which was chosen for the redesign.

Travel Talk met the Belfast International Arts Festival’s Chief Executive and Artistic Director Richard Wakely who says the 60th edition is an opportunity to take stock and set out a vision for its future.  From October 5 to November 6, over 320 imaginative, inspiring and intriguing events spanning across the artistic disciplines of music, theatre, dance, film, visual arts and discussion will be hosted throughout the city of Belfast for all to engage with and enjoy.

The greenness of Asturias is astounding, especially if you're coming from the parched plains of the Spanish south. You might also argue that the region is a microcosm of Spain as a whole, cramming into its borders everything from snowy mountains to sandy beaches, humble tapas bars to avant-garde restaurants, and from raucous local fiestas to silent valleys where bears and wolves still roam. The community has no fewer than 24 nature reserves, including one parque nacional and three of Spain's largest parques naturales

The Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest and most famous Christmas Markets in the world. In the wooden booths of “the little city of wood and cloth” one finds traditional, often handmade Christmas decorations and sweet treats such as gingerbread and Spekulatius almond cookies.

Dawn Hopper visited Sunshine Radio recently and told us about how ”Her passion for Dutchess Country is what lives at the heart of its story.   Dutchess County delivers the rugged, natural beauty of the Hudson Valley, world-renowned dining, and a storied history of empire builders, visionaries and artists.  Festivals, dining events, fairs, parades and everything in between – Dutchess County has a jam-packed agenda year-round with something for everyone.  

This week Travel Talk took the train from Dublin to Cork.  Do you remember how you saw the train as a child? You would jump for joy as you watched it approaching the platform and when you stepped on board and sat into those giant seats, you felt it could take you anywhere.  I have travelled by rail all over Europe and for me one of the great little pleasures in life is boarding the train from Dublin to Cork.

This week Travel Talk took "Liberties" The Liberties is a traditional neighbourhood, but with a distinctly 21st century outlook – successfully blending the heritage and attractiveness of an historic city quarter, with dynamic enterprise hubs, world-class medical and education centres and a wealth of local shops and services. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a fun packed, foodie Dublin experience. This is the home of iconic brands, evocative place-names, creative energy and engaging architecture; where Old Dublin meets New Dublin.

Maine is home to many mountains and several state parks but there is only one mile-high Katahdin, the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, located in the glorious Baxter State Park. Located right “next door” is the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument.  We were joined on Travel Talk recently by Eric Goodwin the strategic Consultant for Katahdin Tourism.  "These incredible places are right here in the Katahdin Region" 

It's no secret that I'm just wild about Florida. On Travel Talk today, I’m delighted to be speaking with the co-founder of Wild Florida, Sam Haught and Director of Sales, PJ Brown, who are here to tell us all about their amazing Wildlife and Safari Park which is an absolute ‘must do’ when you visit Orlando and Florida.

The Liberties has become Dublin's hottest hood. The Hyatt centric is a great place to stay in the area and I really enjoyed their wonderful hospitality. I chatted with hotel's MD, Declan Curtis, I met Dean William Morton and Freda Doyle from St.Patrick's Cathedral. We called in to see Amy Ryan from Marsh's Library and enjoyed a wonderful afternoon of whiskey tasting and sightseeing at the award winning Pearse Lyons distillery with Bernard and Grant.

Managed by Hodson Bay Group, Hyatt Centric’s inaugural Irish property has 234 rooms, two distinctive F&B facilities and 4,000 sq ft of flexible meeting spaces, and has rapidly established itself as one of Dublin’s most popular haunts for discerning travellers.

DFDS to trial Rosslare-Dunkirk passenger service from 5th August. The new passenger service between Ireland and France will launch from Friday 5th August on the company's Rosslare-Dunkirk route. Passenger travel will be introduced on a trial basis, as an addition to the existing freight service between the two ports. Paint and Prosecco invites you to unleash your creativity - Prosecco in one hand, paintbrush in the other. You'll be guided step by step by a practising artist to create your own masterpiece. But feel free to go off piste! This isn't a serious art class, but a chance for you to drink, paint and create! No experience is needed to take part.

Today on Travel Talk on Sunshine 106.8 on Saturday Live at 10.20am we start our new Discover Dublin series visiting some award winning museums, experiences and great value dining around the city. We start today with one of Dublin's most popular City Centre attractions The Little Museum of Dublin - a little museum with a BIG heart - described as '𝑩𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒎𝒖𝒔𝒆𝒖𝒎 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝑫𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒏’ by @irishtimesnews - The 30 minute sightseeing tour with Marissa was highly entertaining and informative and for music fans they have a great U2 exhibition - We enjoy a great value lunch at Chez Max with plat du jour, a glass of vino and coffee for just €15.90 - The ticket for the Little Museum including the tour is just €10 and €8 for concessions - Visit Dublin Lovin Dublin Saturday Live with Carol Dooley

Today, I’m joined by Tik Tok sensation and luxury hotel expert Marcos Toscani. Marcos is a content creator and founder of @expertoenhoteles.  Hailing from Argentina, he focuses exclusively on luxury hotels worldwide.   Marcos has been named the Meliá TikTok Luxury Expert, the company's first ambassador on TikTok, after also being named "Visit Mexico's" first luxury tourism ambassador in 2020.   His podcast "Hotel Expert" became the most popular podcast about hotels in Spanish only weeks after its launch.

There are few cities around the globe that are as luxurious as London. This is one of the most desirable destinations and somewhere with endless attractions for those that enjoy the finer things in life. If you have 48 hours for a luxury trip to London then here are a few ideas on how to spend your time.

Fancy a luxury overnight escape, or perhaps a family break away? I’ve found 10 great summer hotel deals in Ireland to suit all tastes and budgets. With all the talk of soaring hotel prices, I was challenged to find some great value summer hotel deals in Ireland, I have found some great breaks this summer for couples, friends and families. I have separate posts on family hotel deals, luxury stays and self catering options in the travel deals in Ireland section of my website, but I have hand-picked some of my favourites for you below.

Today on Travel Talk we review a recent trip to Lisbon.   Lisbon deserves all the praise that comes its way. The Portuguese pearl is one of the most popular cities on the planet and has been stealing hearts for centuries.  The city has an unpolished, seductive appearance; an effortless beauty with captivating details such as cobbled designs, tiled façades, and pastel-coloured buildings all blending together to give it a warm atmosphere now lost in so many other cities.  If you are looking for a great value foodie break Lisbon has it all, for culture it's overflowing, for understated style and friendliness it's top class, for golden sandy beaches head over to Costa do Caparica, also a mecca for surfer dudes and digi nomads.  Good value abounds here and I highly recommend the Lisbon Card at only €19.95 a day it takes you everywhere.

New hotel in downtown Lisbon pays tribute to Portugal’s railroad past

Nurnberg is a great place to visit. It has beautiful scenery, great beer, stunning architecture, great food and efficient and great value public transport. Bayreuth just 50 minutes away is synonymous with the famous composer Wagner and the famous Bayreuth Opera festival ... A beautiful place with some great hotels and breweries to visit. https://www.bayreuther-festspiele.de/en/

Europe’s leading low-cost airline had two reasons to celebrate in April. Ryanair celebrated its twentieth anniversary in Spain and presented a report on the contribution of its activities to the economy of the Iberian country, carried out in conjunction with the consultancy firm PwC. It also closed the month with growing operating figures.

Nestled in the northern part of the USA lies a region that’s truly magical, packed with epic vistas and stunning natural beauty. Awe-inspiring outdoor adventure awaits visitors here coupled with an abundance of cultural activities. In The Great American West, you’re bound to experience the unforgettable.

Director in Tourism for the island of Ibiza, Mr. Juan Miguel Costa

Most travellers who visit Ibiza for the first time are surprised by Ibiza’s colours: green, blue and white. The pine-tree covered hills and the coves and beaches with beautiful shades of water explain the first two colours, but what about the white?

Five Tips to Reduce Stress While Traveling. The stress mounts, from packing to navigating an airport and finally making it to your new lodgings.  It certainly isn’t anyone’s intent, but planning and implementing a trip can be a stressful venture for most of us, especially when we don’t plan and organise well.

On Travel Talk this week we come to the end of our three part series visiting New York State, Beyond the Big Apple on an exciting road trip.  I flew with Aer Lingus to Newark onboard the latest A321 Neo aircraft,

I sampled Moonshine at Dutch's Spirits with it's gangster bootlegging history, I took in the majestic Sullivan Catskills visiting the iconic Woodstock location at Bethal Woods, continuing onto Central New York and Cooperstown, home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. 

On Travel Talk this week we begin our three part series visiting New York State, Beyond the Big Apple on an exciting road trip.  I flew with Aer Lingus to Newark onboard the latest A321 Neo aircraft,  picked up my iconic Jeep Wrangler and headed for the beautiful town of Rheinbeck.