Head south east to party

IT’S known as the sunny South East — and not without justification, but there’s more to this corner of Ireland than beaches and a pleasant climate. The South East embraces five counties and four rivers; it’s famous for heritage, vibrant cities and towns and a scenic landscape.

The Spraoi Festival takes place next weekend in Waterford city; it’s an explosion of colour, energy and excitement with the city transformed into a giant performing stage for acts all over the world.

A more relaxed version of entertainment takes place in Kilkenny from August 8 to 17 in the form of the world-renowned Arts Festival. Then it’s on to the Bluegrass Festival in Dunmore East between August 21 and 24 and this event is more than just about the music; the nightly and (sometimes) night-long, parties being a huge attraction.

For more information on the attractions, accommodation and other holidays, log on to www.discoverireland.ie/SouthEast

ALTHOUGH summer is still with us (just about), Irish Ferries is already looking ahead to Christmas with news of an escorted wine mini cruise to France in September.

The run will depart from Rosslare to Roscoff on Thursday, September 11 and arrive back in Rosslare on September 13. Passengers will be escorted by wine expert Martin Moran, who will conduct wine tasting on board and preview some of those that can be bought ashore.

Scheduled to coincide with the Autumn wine sales in France, passengers will spend up to six hours ashore in Roscoff or nearby Morlaix.

The fare, at €99 per adult return and €39 return per child (4-15 years), includes bed in a two-bed en-suite cabin. A car or motorbike can be brought for only €59 return extra when two or more adults travel together. Supplements apply for superior cabins.

Further information at www.irishferries.com, by calling 0818 300 400 (NI [phone]) or through travel agents.

Hurtigruten has launched two new brochures: “Under the Northern Lights” winter voyages 2008/09 and a Preview 2009 brochure for their Norway, Greenland and Spitsbergen voyages.

There are discounts of up to 30% available to people booking a 2009 voyage from the Preview brochure before the end of September this year.

The Northern Lights brochure focuses firmly on unique experiences including snorkeling with killer whales and spotting polar bears! For free copies, call Hurtigruten on 01-6074420.

Those booking before the end of the month are in line for 25% savings with holidayautos.ie.

The company is offering car hire from €13 a day in European holiday destinations; Dubai, USA and South Africa and Australia from €25 a day. Here at home, prices start from €17 a day.

Full details from www.holidayautos.ie