Cooking up rugby deals

THOMAS COOK SPORT is about to launch a series of package deals on the Irish market for next year’s British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa.

One of the official licensed operators for the tour, Thomas Cook has huge experience of sports packages across a number of codes, and the presence of numerous travel shops in Ireland is expected to yield the company a sizeable chunk of this business.

When the Lions last toured South Africa in 1997, there were 10,000 supporters. Last time out, three years ago in New Zealand, over 35,000 fans made the trip.

Next year, over 50,000 are expected to descend on South Africa in the hope that the Lions can repeat the 2-1 Test series win achieved in 1997 when Irish players such as Keith Wood and Paul Wallace played starring roles.

The company expects to unveil a range of package holidays within the next couple of months.

* JOHN GALLIGAN TRAVEL (www.jgt.ie) has announced a partnership with the world’s biggest river cruise company — Viking River Cruises — to market the product in Ireland.

There is an extensive range of top quality holidays available on the major rivers of Europe, Russia and China through the new alliance. Check them out online or contact the company on 01-207 6555.

* ABBEY TRAVEL has taken note of the desire by some people to make independent travel arrangements. As such, the company is offering hotel and apartment accommodation only deals to clients. The European Collection brochure is now available and features resorts in France, Spain and Italy. Check it out by phoning 01-804 7100 or on www.abbeytravel.ie.

* FOR the first time in its 31-year history, Keycamp is going Stateside with the launch of four camping sites in the sunshine state of Florida.

The company centres its focus on Orlando (obviously), but has sites in St Petersburg, Naples and the Florida Keys.

Prices start at €80 a night per party for “Kabin” accommodation between the end of June and the start of August. Further information on 021-425 2300 or by visiting www.keycamp.ie.

* IRISH FERRIES has joined with Haven Holidays to launch their Family Holidays and Short Breaks in Britain brochure.

Promising a shipload of savings for the price-conscious holidaymaker, the programme features three, four and seven night family holidays by car to seven of the top holiday parks in Britain.

Those booking early can make big savings. Up to February 29, the companies offer savings of over €400 on selected holidays,

The new brochure is available to download at www.irishferries.com, or from travel agents. Alternatively, customers can contact Irish Ferries at 0818 300 400 for a copy.