Capturing the essence

ESSENCE OF IRELAND is an attempt, so far a successful one, to create unique speciality holidays against the backdrop of the mountains and seascapes of West Cork and South Kerry which have, without doubt, some of the most beautiful scenery in Ireland.

Owner Bernard Hayes (Bernard Hayes Travel in Cork’s Oliver Plunkett Street) has spent the two years researching and compiling the region’s attractions, blending them into a range of packages which include arts and leisure, crafts, golf, diving, food and personal discovery holidays.

“A Flavour of Ireland” is a food holiday which is much more than a gourmet experience. Guests will participate in demonstrations at the world famous Ballymaloe House, stay in unique accommodation and dine in restaurants both grand and simple, that are united in their dedication to serving the freshest and most naturally flavourful foods.

Visit www.essenceofireland.ie to explore and learn more.

* PANORAMA has added the Bulgarian Black Sea Coast to its range of summer holidays this year.

The second edition brochure also offers free group places, free insurance, thousands of free kids’ places, and an exclusive 5% discount for online bookings at www.panoramaholidays.ie.

Bulgaria is one of the fastest growing package holiday destinations; with a mild climate, clear water and a host of water sports and sightseeing opportunities, including off coast wreck diving, it offers something for everyone. With travel direct from Dublin, Panorama offers starting prices from €329 per person for seven nights.

For further information or to book holidays, call Panorama Holidays on 0818 20 20 20 or log on to www.panoramaholidays.ie.

* JAMES Villa Holidays are offering a further 2007 sale in April, promoting half price holiday accommodation across 25 sun destinations. In addition the company also offers free travel insurance for those booking before the end of this month.

For more information call 1890 943 928 or log onto www.jamesvillas.ie.

* LONDON’S reputation as one of the top gourmet cities of the world has been reinforced with the launch of the new Michelin Guide London 2007 in which 43 of the city’s restaurants have been awarded prestigious Stars.

The city had 36 Michelin Star restaurants in 2005; 40 in 2006; this year four new eateries have been added to the famous list, with only one dropping out.

London now boasts OF being the city with the most stars after Paris, well ahead of culinary competitor New York which is home to 38 Michelin Star establishments.

For those who like eating out, more details on London’s eateries can be found at www.visitlondon.com/eat where a series of theme-based eating guides can be downloaded.