Get the real deal

A FRIEND recently asked me if a €500 budget would stretch to a decent weekend away. It will, but of course one has to be careful and plan ahead.

For instance, in Ireland there are a huge number of options throughout the country and Bord Fáilte, as well as any decent travel agent (most of them are), will be able to provide brochures detailing all of the inclusive costs.

It is worth trawling through those brochures because prices can vary significantly and the best value is not always guaranteed from the so-called best hotels.

The Cork and Kerry holiday breaks brochure covers nine months (excluding July to September) and details lots of options. Prices vary and depending on the type of accommodation chosen, one could, in fact, spend a weekend away (at least two nights) for an inclusive price of €200.

I have just returned from Edinburgh and stayed in Channings Hotel. A single room in that Learmouth Gardens residence doesn't come cheap ... approximately €225.

Close enough to Princes Street, the jewel in Edinburgh’s crown, Channings possesses beautiful rooms, a great staff and a friendly atmosphere. But it was ridiculously overpriced.

One could travel to Edinburgh outside of International rugby fixtures for much less. The air fares will be cheaper and the hotels even better priced.

The tourism industry in Scotland, Ireland and Wales (in relation to international rugby) should be indicted for ripping off customers. It doesn’t happen in Rome, London or Paris but it does in Edinburgh, Dublin and Cardiff.

If one ventures to Edinburgh next time when Scotland are playing away, one will find that the prices are well below the levels set for last week.

If that’s not the case, look around, check out the Short Breaks brochures with the local travel agent.

Check out the internet and you’ll find that the Ibis (Edinburgh city centre) will offer rooms at €75 (for up to three people) year round.

There is no surcharge for rugby internationals but, unfortunately, a lot of people have copped on and booked early.

Two nights per couple will cost €150 and Aer Arann Express offer flights from Cork ranging between €140 and €300 per head.

Planning ahead is a wise move to get the cheapest option.

Aer Lingus or British Airways through Dublin, some via London Heathrow, also have good fares from time to time.

It is possible to keep within the €500 budget for two people for a weekend but that’s only really likely to stretch to the travel and accommodation side of the trip.

After that, it’s really up to the individuals concerned as to how much money is spent.

There is a lot to see and do in Edinburgh and it is a city that is not too difficult to negotiate.

Edinburgh Castle is perched at the top of a hill overlooking Princes Street and there is so much more that two days is hardly enough to cram everything in.

Allow for a total spend of €1000, particularly if the weekend stretches to three nights.