Middle East and beyond
The four flights a week service offers Irish travellers direct access to many of the most popular and fastest growing tourist destinations in the Middle East and beyond. Furthermore, Etihad’s one-stop connection to Sydney is the the fastest way to Australia.
James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ chief executive, says, “Ireland is a significant market for Etihad. We believe the time and economic conditions are right for the Dublin to Abu Dhabi route to become a major success.”
The airline will operate an Airbus A330-200 aircraft on the Dublin route, with 10 first-class seats, 26 business-class seats and 164 seats in economy.
“This is a very exciting time for Irish aviation. The arrival of Etihad Airways to Ireland is a terrific opportunity for Ireland and Irish tourism,” says Transport Minister Noel Dempsey.
Check out flight schedules and prices at www.etihadairways.com. Prices to Abu Dhabi start at €385.
IN a sign of the times, thousands of families can book their summer holiday for next year before even taking off on this year’s break, according to family holiday specialists Falcon Holidays.
The tour operator launched its summer 2008 programme amid rainy conditions and unseasonably cool temperatures and claims to offer holidaymakers a brighter outlook for next summer.
As well as the unpredictable Irish summer weather, the standardisation of school holidays and busy work schedules and lifestyles means many families will be ensuring they plan well ahead to secure their best choice summer holiday for next year.
Falcon will introduce a number of new projects next year, details of which are available on the website. Among the new properties available are holiday villages in Cyprus and Egypt but Falcon also fly from Dublin, Cork, Kerry, Shannon and Knock to a wide range of destinations.
Price information, details or bookings are available from any Falcon Travel outlet nationwide; www.falconholidays.ie; tel Falcon direct on 1850 45 35 45 or see your local travel agent.
THE World Fleadh, comprising of theatre, marquee and outdoor concerts given by the most celebrated Irish traditional and contemporary performers, will be held in Laois next month.
Laois is also hosting an international garden festival that runs until September 23.
The event takes place in Emo Court, and will feature 15 very different contemporary gardens.
Details of both events are available at www.laoistourism.ie or tel (057) 866 4132 for details of accommodation and all the other facilities Laois has to offer for the duration of the events.
